Benefits of Lithium-ion Batteries versus NiMH Batteries
Author: Sabrina Whetham
Lithium-ion batteries are both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries in which lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode during discharge and back when charging. They are also the most common batteries used in consumer electronics. Nickel-metal hydride batteries or (NiMH) are a type of rechargeable battery that uses a hydrogen-absorbing alloy for the negative electrode instead of cadmium. This type of battery is similar to the lithium battery however it loses its charge more quickly. These two types of batteries have different advantages that are good for you to be aware of when choosing which is more beneficial for your device.
There are many benefits to both types of batteries but let’s first take a look at the benefit of lithium batteries. Li-ion batteries have a much lower self-discharge rate, and more charge/discharge cycles. The self-discharge rate is constant during the life of the battery. They provide greater energy density by weight and volume and provide a greater number of shots per WH. They have a wide variety of shapes and sizes that fit the devices they power, and they are much lighter. They also have a high open circuit voltage in comparison to other batteries; this is beneficial because it increases the amount of power that can be transferred at a lower current. They also are more environmentally friendly because there is no free lithium metal.
Secondly let’s take a look at the benefits of Nickel-metal hydride batteries. NiHM batteries can be substituted for disposable AA cells if it goes dead and needs recharging. They have a longer shelf life and have a faster charge; however this usually reduces the battery life. They will always be available, and they are used by multiple devices. They also are not pricy and you can buy them from common stores like Walmart.
There are many differences between these two types of batteries and their uses are different, however it is all based on why you want to use them and what for. If you need them for something like a laptop you will need a li-ion battery, whereas if you need a battery for a television controller the use is very different.
Overall, when looking into batteries it is important to know the different advantages and uses in order to get the best type of battery. It is also important to be aware of where you are buying them, the prices involved and how to properly recycle them in order to be environmentally friendly. 

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5604166