So here I go
throwing another wrench into the mix.
Built-in
batteries are more "convenient" with their onboard USB charging, but are not necessarily more safe. Built-in
batteries are LiPo chemistry, which is not a safer chemistry -- if something goes wrong, they can burst into flames or explode. They depend upon the processor's protection circuitry to guard against a hard short. The processor's protection circuitry is designed to protect the processor, not the battery.
istick 50 watt exploded | E-Cigarette Forum
Plus, all rechargeable batteries have a limited life expectancy -- about 250 - 300 charge cycles. If you use an mod that uses an internal battery, you can't replace it. When the battery dies, you have to buy a new mod.
External batteries, like 18650's, are a safer chemistry. They are IMR or INR chemistry, which may vent gas but are not likely to flame or explode when something goes wrong. If you use a mod that uses replaceable external batteries, when the battery dies from old age, you simply replace with another battery for about $6, not the entire mod. Safer and more economical in the long run.
Battery Basics for Mods: The Definative Battery Guide for Vaping
- A popular and essential read to understand which batteries are safe to use in mechanical and regulated mods. Includes a frequently updated list of recommended safe-chemistry, high-drain batteries with their specifications.
Deeper Understanding of Mod Batteries Part 1
- For those who want to learn the differences between IMR, IMR/hybrid, ICR, and LiPo batteries. What do those numbers and letters on batteries mean? What's an amp rating and why is it more important than the mAh rating when choosing a battery for vaping?