CR2016 vs CR2032

There is a difference between AA batteries and button cells in that button cells have a larger diameter and a thinner thickness. The small, button-like appearance of these batteries makes them commonly called button batteries. Batteries are classified according to their shape, which includes cylindrical, square, and special shapes.

Typically, button batteries come in two types: rechargeable and non rechargeable. Rechargeable options include the battery series LIR (3.6V lithium-ion) and ML (3.7V lithium-ion). In addition to rechargeable batteries, non-rechargeable options are alkaline zinc-manganese button batteries (LR and SR series) and lithium-manganese button batteries (CR series).

Electronic watches, computer motherboards, toys, and gifts commonly use these battery models. In electronic watches and electronic dictionaries, CR2016 and SR44 are frequently used, along with CR2025 which is also employed in electronic dictionaries. The purpose of this article is to clarify the distinctions between CR2016 and CR2032, which is often a point of contention among consumers.

What is CR2016?

What is CR2016?

In watches, calculators, key fobs, and various medical devices, the CR2016 battery is a type of lithium coin cell battery. An important characteristic of this battery is its name: "CR" stands for lithium-manganese dioxide, a type of battery that is known for its long shelf life and for its stable performance. The battery has a diameter of 20 mm and a thickness of 1.6 mm, represented by the numbers "20" and "16".

In most cases, these batteries have a three-volt capacity and a 90mAh capacity, making them ideal for devices that require continuous power but are small in size. With its long-lasting performance and a wide range of temperature capabilities, the CR2016 is ideally suited to low-drain devices. In power-hungry applications, the CR2016 isn't going to last as long as batteries with similar capacities, such as the thicker CR2032.

What is CR2032?

What is CR2032?

There are many portable electronic devices that use the CR2032 lithium battery, which comes in the form of a small coin. "2032" in its name refers to its 20 mm diameter and 3.2 mm thickness (20 mm diameter, 3.2 mm thickness). The CR2032 is suitable for devices that require consistent, low power output for long periods of time and operates at a nominal voltage of 3 volts. In a watch, calculator, key fob, fitness tracker, and motherboard, this type of battery maintains system memory.

The CR2032 is one of the best batteries because its low self-discharge rate allows it to maintain a charge for years. Despite its lithium chemistry, its reliability is ensured both in everyday consumer electronics and specialized industrial devices due to its ability to function at a wide range of temperatures. CR2032 batteries remain a popular choice for small, low-power electronic gadgets because they are widely available and affordable.

CR2016 vs CR2032: Differences

In detail, the following can be seen as the key differences between CR2016 batteries and CR2032 batteries:

Size and Thickness

It is their thickness that distinguishes the CR2016 from the CR2022. In spite of the CR2016's 20mm diameter, it is thinner than the CR2032, which has a thickness of 3.2mm. As a result, their capacities and applications are affected by this size difference. Devices requiring a slimmer battery, such as the CR2016, use the thinner CR2032, whereas larger power sources can handle the thicker CR2032.

Capacity

As a result of its thicker design, the CR2032 has a higher capacity. CR2016 batteries typically have 90 mAh capacity, while CR2032 batteries usually have around 220-240 mAh. Therefore, the CR2032 is better suited for devices that have a long battery life or higher energy consumption, like computer motherboards or medical devices. Low-power applications like thin watches and remote controls are better suited to the CR2016.

Power and Voltage

Both the CR2016 and CR2032 are operated at 3 volts, making them interchangeable with respect to voltage requirements. Despite the difference in capacity, the CR2032 is able to deliver this voltage longer, which is crucial for devices that require continuous power. With a higher power demand, the CR2032 is more likely to be used, while with a lower power demand and a shorter battery life, the CR2016 can be used.

Price and Availability

It is possible to buy both CR2016 and CR2032 batteries at relatively low costs. CR2032 batteries are, however, slightly more expensive than CR2016 batteries due to their higher capacity and broader application range. These batteries are both very affordable despite their price difference, and their long shelf life (up to 10 years) makes them ideal for electronic devices that require a long shelf life. Users can easily find replacement batteries for their specific needs due to the availability of both batteries.

Applications

CR2016

Watches

Slim, low-power watches commonly use the CR2016 battery, particularly analog and digital ones that need a compact, small power source. CR2016's slim profile (1.6 mm) enables it to easily fit into modern wrist watch cases without adding too much bulk. For a long time, the watch maintains accurate time thanks to the battery's stable 3-volt output. As a result of its lower capacity, the CR2016 is best suited for watches without alarms or backlights, which are not power-intensive devices. In addition to its long shelf life, it provides reliable performance for years before having to be replaced in timepieces.

Key Fobs

CR2016 batteries are also commonly used for remote controls and car key fobs. Small key fobs, used for locking and unlocking car doors, starting engines by remote control, or activating alarms, require an efficient and compact power source. These small electronics perfectly match the CR2016's thin profile and reliable power. Wireless signals can be sent with just enough energy without quickly draining the battery. In spite of the low power consumption of key fobs, the CR2016 can ensure reliable performance for months or even years, depending on their use frequency.

Calculators

In addition to handheld calculators, the CR2016 is widely used in slim, portable models. CR2016's lower capacity makes it suitable for long-term use, since these devices generally have low power demands. To function properly during key calculations, calculators require a reliable power source, regardless of whether they are used by students or professionals. With the CR2016, calculators can be slim and lightweight without sacrificing energy efficiency. Unlike other devices, it doesn't require frequent battery replacements, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.

CR2032

Computer Motherboards (CMOS Battery)

Computer motherboards often use the CR2032 battery as a CMOS battery. CMOS memory, which in turn is responsible for storing BIOS settings, system time, and hardware configurations, is powered by this battery. This application benefits from a CR2032 battery's high capacity and long life, which allows system settings to be maintained over time without being replaced frequently. Computers can be started up quickly and accurately because of the 3V output, which ensures stable performance. In laptops and desktops alike, the CR2032 is commonly used because of its durability and reliability.

Car Key Fobs and Remotes

Other common applications of the CR2032 battery include car keys and remote controls. A coin-cell battery powers remote lock, unlock, and start key fobs. In spite of frequent usage, the CR2032 battery has a large amount of energy capacity and is compact. In everyday applications, such as unlocking car doors or controlling garage door openers remotely, it is reliable for its ability to provide consistent power for signal transmission. Its long lifespan makes it a favorite among car owners who don't need to replace their batteries as often and enjoy uninterrupted performance.

Medical Devices (Glucose Monitors, Thermometers)

The CR2032 is also widely used with glucose monitors and temperature monitors in medical devices. In order to ensure accurate readings and high performance, these devices need reliable and consistent power. This battery provides a continuous and reliable power source to these critical applications due to its stable output of 3V and high energy density. The CR2032 battery, for example, ensures that glucose monitors can provide accurate and consistent readings without repetitive battery replacement. Similarly, digital thermometers can be calibrated at any time due to the CR2032's consistent voltage and long shelf life.

Wrapping Up

The key differences between the CR2016, CR2032, and CR5056 batteries lie in their thickness, capacity, and applications, although both batteries have the same voltage and diameter. Watches and calculators benefit from the thinner, low-power CR2016, since it is thinner and has a lower capacity. The CR2032, on the other hand, is more suitable for device groups that require longer-lasting power, such as medical devices and computer motherboards. A device's power requirements and space constraints ultimately determine whether you should use the CR2016 or the CR2032. The CR2032 provides a higher level of energy for popular applications, whereas the CR2016 is ideally suited for smaller devices.