A battery pack is a collection of cells electrically connected in an array enclosed inside a housing of some kind with a connector and a circuit board attached. If you were to take a battery pack apart, you would find inside a collection of single cells connected together. A cell is a single electrochemical unit, which when connected to other cells, forms the battery pack. 

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s best to consult an expert on how to navigate the battery market. Followings are our top tips for buying quality battery packs.

1. Always use cells and batteries from well-known reputable firms. Battery companies with certified battery packs (UL, IEC, PSE, ATEX, etc.) typically have higher build qualities. Very inexpensive cells and batteries purchased on the internet from companies with no certifications are problematic and can result in a catastrophic event.  

2. Be aware that counterfeit batteries exist all over the internet, and many are of very poor quality.

3. Always use components suited to the intended application. Connectors designed to function for low currents should not be used for high current applications. 

4. Use a hard case enclosure. Hard case enclosed battery packs are generally more robust and resilient and maintain more consistent ‘form and fit’ characteristics.

5. For rechargeable battery packs, always choose a high-quality charging system that is correctly matched to the battery type. A low-quality or mismatched charging system can lead to as many problems as low-quality cells.

6. Do not be in a rush to have your product designed and made. High-quality designs take time.

7. Always leave time in your schedule for testing and validation. Untested, unvalidated battery packs inevitably lead to customer returns and complaints.