The Difference Between CR2016 and CR2032 Button Batteries

Although CR2032 and CR2016 batteries are common coin-type batteries with similar appearance and the same voltage, they have obvious differences in power capacity and size. Below we will learn about the differences between them in terms of parameter characteristics, applications and characteristics.

Ⅰ. CR2016 overview

CR represents the international IEC number of button lithium manganese battery, 20 represents the diameter of this battery is 20mm, and 16 represents the thickness of this battery is 1.6mm. CR2016 is a small round lithium button battery composed of lithium/manganese dioxide (Li/MnO2). It can be conveniently installed on gadgets such as car key fobs, clocks, calculators, and other similar gadgets.

The battery's distinguishing feature is its 80 milliamp-hour (mAh) capacity, which provides reliable energy for long periods of time. The battery is packaged in a convenient tray format for easy handling and installation, ensuring a worry-free experience for the end user. The way it is terminated is one of its key attributes, facilitating safe and efficient connections within electronic devices by utilizing pressure contacts. Furthermore, its output voltage is stable at 3 volts suitable for powering various gadgets and appliances. At the same time, the battery has an operating temperature range of -30°C to 60°C, can work stably in medium-low and medium-temperature environments, and has strong adaptability.

Replacement and equivalent：

• BR2016

• CR2032

• DL2016

• ECR2016

• ECR2016

• KCR2016

• SBT11

Ⅱ. CR2032 overview

CR2032 is a tiny battery produced by Panasonic Semiconductor that features efficient energy storage and reliable performance. The width of this battery is 20mm and the height is only 3.2mm. Its lightweight size is one of its major advantages. It weighs 2.9 g and can be easily carried, providing users with a convenient experience. The battery has a capacity of up to 225mAh, which does not cause excessive weight and ensures battery life. Judging from the characteristics of the battery, its excellent energy storage capacity allows it to continuously supply power under any conditions and provide stable power supply for various electronic devices.

Replacement and equivalent：

• BR2032

• DL2032

• ECR2032

• LIR2032

Ⅲ. Parameters of CR2016 and CR2032

1. The weight of CR2032 is almost twice that of CR2016. The average weight of CR2016 is 1.6 grams, while the average weight of CR2032 is 2.9 grams.

2. CR2016 has a capacity of only 80 mAh, while CR2032 has a capacity of 225 mAh. Therefore, for the same current demand, the CR2032 can last up to 3 hours longer than the CR2016.

3. The thickness of CR2016 is 1.6 mm, while the thickness of CR2032 is 3.2 mm. In special cases, we can use CR2016 instead of CR2032.

Ⅳ. Similarities and differences between CR2016 and CR2032

1. Similarities

(1) Diameter

The battery diameter of both models is 20 mm.

(2) Voltage

They are disposable lithium-manganese batteries with a rated voltage of 3.0V and a terminal voltage of 2.0V, so they cannot be charged and are thrown away after use.

(3) Storage method

Lithium-manganese button batteries are stored in an ideal environment such as sealing, normal temperature, and no water, which can extend the service life of the battery.

(4) Materials

They are all lithium manganese batteries. The positive electrode material is manganese dioxide with good chemical stability, and the negative electrode material is lithium metal. Electrolyte is the main component of lithium battery electrolyte, including ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, propylene carbonate and lithium perchlorate, also known as button lithium battery.

2. Differences

(1) Thickness

The thickness of CR2016 battery is 1.6mm, and the thickness of CR2032 battery is 3.2 mm. Therefore the latter is twice as thick as the former.

(2) Different capacities

The CR2032 has a rated capacity of 225 mAh, while the CR2016 has a capacity of up to 80 mAh.

Ⅴ. Temperature characteristics of CR2016 and CR2032

Ⅵ. Application of CR2016 and CR2032

1. Application of CR2016 

Due to its long service life and high energy density, it has wide applications in many fields. The battery price of CR2016 is also relatively low, so it is popular among consumers. The main applications of CR2016 batteries include the following aspects.

• Electric toys

• Medical equipment

• Digital watch

• Alarm system

• Small PDA equipment

• Heart rate monitor

• Computer motherboard, memory card, CMOS memory backup

2. Application of CR2032

• Electric toys

• Electronic scale

• Calculator

• GPS device

• Computer storage

• Various remote controls

• Electronic watches and health monitoring equipment (electronic watches, health monitoring bracelets)

Ⅶ. Features of CR2016 and CR2032

1. Features of CR2016

(1) Excellent discharge characteristics

We don't need to discharge this type of battery before charging it, which is why it discharges so well. It can be used in a variety of functions and in a variety of situations, thus accounting for their diverse discharge characteristics. This battery is mainly used in digital devices, but can also be used in many other ways. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in cell phones, laptops, digital cameras and video recorders. The battery has high energy density and excellent discharge characteristics.

(2) High energy density

High energy density is an important feature of CR2016 batteries. Under high load conditions, the battery life can reach about 2 hours. This battery can last up to 2 days with moderate use.

(3) Long-term reliability

CR2016 battery uses high-quality materials and sophisticated manufacturing processes to ensure good performance during use. For example, its negative electrode material uses a high-capacity material that can provide higher energy density and longer use time. In addition, the CR2016 battery also has a self-protection mechanism that can automatically shut down the battery in the event of overcharge, overdischarge, overheating, etc. to protect the safety of the battery and equipment. This also provides an important guarantee for its high reliability.

2. Features of CR2032

(1) Environmental protection

It does not contain harmful substances such as mercury, lead, nickel, etc., and fully meets environmental protection requirements.

(2) Easy to use

The CR2032 battery is very easy to install and replace. We only need to unscrew the battery box cover and put the new battery in the positive direction.

(3) Long shelf life

CR2032 batteries have a long life and can generally be stored for more than 10 years. This means we can buy them in advance and not worry about their expiry date.

(4) Low self-discharge rate

These batteries have a low self-discharge rate, which means they retain a charge for long periods of time when not in use. This makes them suitable for devices that may sit idle for long periods of time, such as remote controls or watches.

Ⅷ. Precautions about button batteries

• Do not add solder directly to the battery;

• Correctly connect the "+"/"-" polarity of the battery;

• Batteries should be stored in well-ventilated, dry, and cool conditions;

• Do not mix unpackaged batteries to avoid mechanical damage and/or mutual short circuits.

In summary, while CR2016 and CR2032 batteries have similar appearances, there are significant differences in size and capacity. The selection of CR2016 and CR2032 batteries depends on the specific application and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do CR2016 batteries last?

This pack includes four lithium coin batteries that have a nominal voltage of 3 volts and can last for up to eight years. Just keep in mind that this is the batteries' shelf life, so a battery installed in a device will likely need to be replaced within that eight-year window.

2. Are all CR2032 batteries lithium?

A CR2032 battery is a non-rechargeable (primary) lithium coin or “button” cell battery that is 20mm diameter x 3.2mm thickness. The CR2032 battery has a voltage of 3 volts and a capacity of up to 240mAh, depending on manufacturer specifications. The CR2032 is the most common lithium coin cell battery currently used.

3. Is there a battery replacement for CR2032?

CR2032 is a type of lithium battery that has been used in many electronic devices such as watches, calculators, and hearing aids. CR2025 is another alternative option to replace your CR2032 as it is also a coin-cell battery and has a slightly higher capacity.

4. To which device can I use a CR2032 battery?

CR2032 batteries are widely used in various devices such as calculators, watches, hearing aids, LED lights, calorie counters, car key fobs, and some children’s toys.

5. Is CR2016 the same size as CR2032?

A CR2032 has a diameter of 20mm (0.787in) and a thickness of 3.2mm (0.126in), while a CR2016 has the same diameter (20mm) but only half the thickness, only 1.6 mm (0.063 inches).