The lithium-ion microbattery comprises a positive electrode having a first Li+ ion storage capacity and a first thickness made from a first lithium insertion material, an electrolyte and a negative electrode having a second storage capacity and a second thickness made from a second insertion material. The thicknesses are such that the ratio of the first storage capacity over the second storage capacity is greater than or equal to 10 and lower than or equal to 1000. During the first charging of the micro-battery, the Li+ ions are inserted in the negative electrode and completely saturate the second insertion material. When initial charging is continued, they form a metallic lithium layer between the electrolyte and the lithium-saturated negative electrode by electroplating. During the subsequent charging and discharging cycles, only the metallic lithium layer participates in transfer of lithium ions.