Lead-Acid (AGM / Gel / Flooded) vs. Lithium-Ion (NCA)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Lead-Acid is the oldest rechargeable battery chemistry (invented 1859), delivering 2.0V per cell (12V nominal in standard 6-cell monoblocs). Despite low gravimetric energy density (30–50 Wh/kg), its unmatched surge current delivery (hundreds of cold cranking amps), low production cost, and 99% recycling rate make it the universal standard for automotive starting/ignition (SLI) and industrial UPS systems.
Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2 / NCA) provides among the highest gravimetric energy densities (250–280 Wh/kg) of liquid-electrolyte lithium-ion systems. Operating at 3.6V nominal, NCA offers high power delivery and long lifespan, making it the chemistry chosen by Panasonic and Tesla for high-performance 18650 and 21700 EV cylindrical cell packs.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nominal Cell Voltage
|
2.00 (12.00 V 6-Cell Pack) V | 3.60 V |
|
Gravimetric Energy Density
|
30 – 50 Wh/kg | 250 – 280 Wh/kg |
|
Volumetric Energy Density
|
60 – 100 Wh/L | 650 – 750 Wh/L |
|
Cycle Life (to 80% Capacity)
|
300 – 1,000 (Deep Cycle AGM) Cycles | 1,000 – 1,500 Cycles |
|
Thermal Runaway Threshold
|
> 200 °C | ~150 °C |
|
Operating Temperature Range
|
-20 to +50 °C | -20 to +60 °C |
|
Self-Discharge Rate
|
3 – 5% / Month | 1 – 2% / Month |
|
Primary Anode Material
|
Porous Sponge Lead (Pb) | Synthetic Graphite / Silicon-doped Carbon |
|
Primary Cathode Material
|
Lead Dioxide (PbO2) in Sulfuric Acid Electrolyte (H2SO4) | Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2) |