LG M50T 21700 (5000mAh)
5000mAh in a compact 21700 format: the LG M50T targets maximum runtime for DIY packs, e-bikes and long-duration flashlights.
Characteristics
- Format: 21700 (INR21700-M50T)
- Capacity: 5000 mAh
- Continuous discharge: About 7.3A
- Nominal voltage: 3.63V (lithium-ion)
- 5000mAh in 21700, made by LG Energy Solution
Detailed overview: LG INR21700-M50T 5000mAh lithium battery
The LG M50T (full reference INR21700-M50T) is a cylindrical lithium-ion cell in the 21700 format, larger than the classic 18650 (0.83 in / 21mm diameter versus 0.7 in / 18mm, for a broadly similar length of about 2.76 in / 70mm), which allows more active material and therefore more capacity within a reasonable footprint. The M50T offers a typical capacity of 5000mAh, with a guaranteed minimum of about 4850mAh according to the manufacturer's datasheet.
This cell clearly favors runtime over instant power: its maximum continuous discharge current sits around 7.3A, placing it among energy-focused 21700 cells rather than high-power ones. Its nominal voltage is 3.63V, with a maximum charge voltage of 4.2V, standard for a lithium-ion cell, and it weighs about 2.4 oz (68g).
It is typically found in DIY battery packs built by hobbyists, e-bikes and e-scooters where every mAh counts towards range, very long-runtime flashlights and certain portable tools. The 21700 format allows an equivalent-capacity pack to be built with fewer cells than 18650, simplifying assembly and wiring.
One point is worth flagging for the informed buyer: LG's M50 family exists in several very close variants depending on the terminal (Button Top for the M50T, Flat Top for the M50LT) and manufacturing batch, with slight differences in rated capacity. It is recommended to check the exact reference received before fitting it into a cell holder or pack. As with any bare unprotected lithium cell, it is also intended for experienced users, capable of handling, transporting and recharging it safely with a charger suited to 21700 cells. Availability at US retailers has also been inconsistent lately, so stock is worth double-checking before ordering.
Our tester's review: Pierre Freysinger
We built the M50T into a test pack for a folding e-bike, a typical use case for this high-capacity 21700 format. First finding: the 5000mAh rating holds up in real use, with noticeably better range than an equivalent pack in classic 18650 cells, using fewer cells thanks to the larger format. The continuous discharge current (around 7.3A) stays modest compared to power-oriented 21700 cells like the Molicel P42A: the M50T is clearly built for runtime, not current spikes. One honest caveat: this cell circulates under several closely related variants (M50, button-top M50T, flat-top M50LT) depending on batch and retailer, with slight differences in rated capacity (4850 to 5000mAh); it is worth double-checking the exact variant received before fitting it into a cell holder. Availability can also vary a lot between retailers, and at the time of writing it is temporarily out of stock even at our regular US source. For a pack where runtime is the priority, it remains an excellent choice in the 21700 format.
Frequently asked questions: LG INR21700-M50T 5000mAh lithium battery
Yes. LG Chem's battery business was transferred to its subsidiary LG Energy Solution in 2020, but cylindrical cells like the M50T continue to be manufactured and sold under the LG name at specialist retailers.
Both share the same base cell (about 5000mAh, 7.3A). The M50T has a raised positive terminal (Button Top) while the M50LT has a flat terminal (Flat Top) and a slightly longer cycle life. The choice depends on the intended cell holder.
These are two very similar high-capacity 21700 cells (5000mAh each). The Samsung 50E has a somewhat higher continuous discharge current (about 9.8A versus 7.3A for the M50T), an advantage for more power-demanding uses.
It is found in DIY battery packs, e-bikes and e-scooters, very long-runtime flashlights and certain portable tools, wherever runtime matters more than current spikes.
Other products in the "21700 batteries" category
Keeppower 21700 5000mAh
$22.06
A high-capacity 21700 cell from a brand known for its built-in protection circuits: the Keeppower 5000mAh targets powerful flashlights and DIY packs.
Klarus 21GT-50 5000mAh
$19.95 (4)
The 21GT-50 is Klarus's high-capacity 21700 battery: 5000mAh, 15A continuous discharge and a built-in protection circuit for the most demanding flashlights and devices.
Molicel P42A 21700 (4200mAh)
$5.99 (11)
The 21700 sibling of the 18650 benchmark: 4200mAh and 45A continuous, built for cordless tools, ultra-powerful flashlights and demanding electronics.
Nitecore NL2160 21700 (6000mAh)
$26.95 (1)
The Nitecore NL2160 pushes the 21700 format to 6000 mAh: a record capacity to power demanding flashlights, packs and devices for longer.
Published on 05/09/2026