I've read that these guys (and probably others) all get their cells from Keeppower. Is this correct? I'm specifically referring to the NCR18650 3100mah version. If yes, would that mean that they are all the same as far as protection circuits/quality are concerned? If they ARE the same, then the Orbtronic is a no brainer, right????
Still , just depends ...
Everything is built to a price :
Wrapping material , protection circuit ... QC , if any ?
Im testing a no name Panasonic 3100 with protection circuit right now ... [ came yesterday ] , available from many sources including flea bay .
Thing is , there is still plenty of room to make a shoddy product ...
old4570, with all due respect (your reviews are extraordinary good) you are wrong this time.
Everything should be build to the right price, and quality I would say.
The real question is: why some of these 18650 batteries are overpriced?
It will take some time before people realize why they are paying $20 for AW, Redilast...
Some companies are willing to go with very low profit margin just to get into this game.
Once people realize how good are new generations of 3100mAh protected cells price might go up with demand, but asking more than $20 for one 3100mAh cell is IMHO clearly disrespecting their own customers.
Steve P. - you are on the right path. Take a look at HKJs 18650 battery comparator page.
Compare AW to Keeppower , and no further comments needed. Test do not lie.
Everybody interested in 18650 cells should have this page bookmarked:
http://lygte-info.dk/review/batteries2012/Common18650comparator.php
If you live in US - Orbtronic is no-brainer indeed, but for people from EU Intl-outdoors cells seem to be better choice (due to free shipping when buying 3 or more)