Which Rechargeable Battery is Better for Smart Bicycle Lock?
Smart bicycle locks have become an essential feature in shared bike systems worldwide. With GPS tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and remote unlocking capabilities, these locks rely heavily on stable and long-lasting power sources. Selecting the right rechargeable battery not only ensures reliability and user safety but also minimizes maintenance and battery replacement costs.
As a rechargeable battery factory manufacturer with over 12 years of experience, HIMAX ELECTRONICS specializes in designing custom Li-ion and LiPo battery packs for smart bike locks and other IoT applications. In this article, we explore which battery is better for smart bicycle locks and why our 18650 Li-ion and LiPo battery solutions are the most popular options in the market.
Why Smart Bicycle Locks Require Rechargeable Batteries
Smart locks integrated with GPS, GSM, and Bluetooth modules consume much more energy than traditional mechanical locks. Therefore, these systems require:
- Rechargeable battery packs
- High cycle life
- Stable output voltage
- Compact size
- Safety certifications
Using primary (non-rechargeable) batteries leads to frequent replacements, higher labor costs, and service interruptions. That’s why lithium-based rechargeable batteries are now the industry standard.
Li-ion vs. LiPo: Which Is Better?
Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Batteries
Li-ion batteries, especially the 18650 cylindrical cells, are one of the most widely used power sources for smart locks.
Advantages of Li-ion Batteries
- High energy density
- Long cycle life (500–1000+ cycles)
- Stable voltage output
- Robust and cost-effective
At HIMAX, our most commonly used configurations for smart locks include:
| Battery Model | Voltage (V) | Capacity (mAh) | Configuration | Application |
| 18650 1S1P | 3.7V | 3400mAh | 1 cell | Basic GPS lock |
| 18650 1S6P | 3.7V | 21,000mAh | 6 parallel | Extended usage |
| 18650 2S1P | 7.4V | 3400mAh | 2 series | Dual-cell GPS/GSM lock |
These battery packs are highly customizable with PCM/BMS protection circuits, thermistors, and waterproof enclosures.
Lithium-Polymer (LiPo) Batteries
LiPo batteries are an excellent alternative when space and form factor are major constraints. Their soft packaging allows flexible shapes and sizes.
Advantages of LiPo Batteries
- Ultra-thin and lightweight
- Flexible dimensions
- High discharge rate options
- Customizable shapes
| Battery Model | Voltage (V) | Capacity (mAh) | Size (mm) | Application |
| 403040 LiPo | 3.7V | 800mAh | 4.0×30×40 | Compact smart lock |
| 503450 LiPo | 3.7V | 1200mAh | 5.0×34×50 | Mid-size GPS lock |
| Custom LiPo pack | 3.7–7.4V | 1000–5000mAh | Based on request | Advanced GPS + IoT |
While LiPo batteries have slightly lower cycle life compared to 18650 Li-ion batteries, their space efficiency makes them ideal for ultra-compact lock designs.
Why Choose HIMAX as Your Battery Supplier?
As a battery factory manufacturer in Shenzhen, China, HIMAX has been focusing on custom battery pack design and production for over 12 years. Our engineering team has delivered battery solutions to global leaders in the shared mobility and IoT sectors.
What Sets Us Apart
Factory-direct supply for cost advantage
Customized battery solutions for smart locks
Certified cells: UN38.3, IEC62133, MSDS, CE, RoHS
Quick prototype & mass production support
Advanced production lines with automatic welding and aging equipment
We ensure each battery pack is equipped with reliable protection circuits for overcharge, over-discharge, short circuit, and over-current.
Recommendation – Best Battery for Smart Bicycle Locks
| Application Level | Recommended Battery | Voltage | Capacity | Key Benefit |
| Basic GPS tracking | 18650 1S1P | 3.7V | 3400mAh | Compact, affordable |
| Mid-range GPS + GSM | 18650 2S1P | 7.4V | 3400mAh | Dual voltage output |
| Long-lasting usage | 18650 1S6P | 3.7V | 21Ah | Extended runtime |
| Ultra-compact lock | LiPo 403040 | 3.7V | 800mAh | Small and light |
| Flexible shape | Custom LiPo Pack | 3.7–7.4V | 1000–5000mAh | Shape-based custom fit |
Conclusion
When selecting a battery for smart bicycle locks, Li-ion 18650 battery packs are the most reliable and cost-effective solution for standard applications. However, LiPo batteries are ideal for space-restricted designs. HIMAX ELECTRONICS, as a trusted battery factory manufacturer with 12 years of expertise, offers both options tailored to your specific project.
Need help designing a custom battery for your smart lock system?
Contact us to get professional support and fast prototyping from HIMAX!
