# Sodium-ion batteries lag lithium in energy density but may outperform in cold

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/sodium-vs-lithium-ion-batteries-whats-the-difference-between-them/
- Published: 2026-11-14T15:45:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-14T16:12:42+00:00
- Original publisher: Engadget
- Original article: https://www.engadget.com/2311394/sodium-vs-lithium-ion-batteries-differences-compared/
- Topics: Gadgets

## Key points

- Sodium-ion batteries store less energy for their weight.
- They perform better in extreme cold and may be more stable.
- They may complement lithium-ion in grid storage and specialist uses.

## Summary

Sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries store energy in similar ways, but use different ions. Sodium-ion cells are less energy-dense, limiting their appeal where weight and size matter, though they could suit cold-weather vehicles and stationary grid storage.

Sodium-ion batteries provide about 175 watt-hours per kilogram, compared with 205 for lithium iron phosphate and 255 for lithium NMC. They retain around 90 per cent capacity at minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit and may pose a lower risk of thermal runaway. Sodium is abundant, but production remains limited, supply chains are still developing, and some battery components also face sourcing challenges. Companies including CATL and General Motors are pursuing commercial production, but lithium has an established manufacturing lead.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.