Comparison between supercapacitor and battery

Supercapacitors are different from batteries and may be superior to batteries in some applications. Sometimes it is better to combine the two, combining the power characteristics of the capacitor with the high energy storage of the battery.

The supercapacitor can be charged to any potential within its rated voltage range and can be completely discharged. However, the battery is limited by its own chemical reaction and can only work in a narrow voltage range. If it is over-discharged, it may cause permanent damage.

The state of charge (SOC) and voltage of supercapacitors constitute a simple function, while the state of charge of batteries includes various complex transformations.

Supercapacitors can store more energy than traditional capacitors with the same volume, and batteries can store more energy than supercapacitors with the same volume. In some applications where power determines the size of energy storage devices, supercapacitors are a better way.

Supercapacitors can transmit energy pulses repeatedly without any adverse effects. On the contrary, if the battery repeatedly emits high-power pulses, its life will be greatly reduced.

Supercapacitors can be charged quickly, but the battery will be damaged.

Supercapacitors can be repeatedly cycled for hundreds of thousands of times, while battery life is only a few hundred cycles.