CR2025 vs CR2016: Are They Interchangeable

Choosing the right battery for your devices often means understanding the differences between similar types. The CR2016 and CR2025 are both lithium coin cells used in various small electronics. While they share some similarities, like a diameter of 20 mm and a voltage of 3 volts, they differ in thickness and capacity. This guide will help you understand these differences and choose the best battery for your needs.

Introduction to CR2025 

Definition

The CR2025 is a non-rechargeable lithium coin cell battery characterized by its 20mm diameter and 2.5mm thickness. This battery delivers a nominal voltage of 3 volts and typically offers a capacity ranging from 160mAh to 170mAh, depending on the manufacturer. The CR2025 is known for its high energy density and stable voltage output, making it suitable for applications requiring prolonged power sources.

It is commonly used in devices such as complex remote controls, sophisticated calculators, medical equipment like blood pressure monitors and digital thermometers, and smart wearable devices. The CR2025's larger size compared to other coin cells enables it to provide extended battery life and reliable performance in high-demand applications.

Dimensions

The CR2025 lithium coin cell measures 20mm in diameter and 2.5mm in height.

Features

• Chemical System: Lithium / Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2)
• Designation: ANSI / NEDA-5003LC, IEC-CR2025
• Nominal Voltage: 3.0 Volts
• Typical Capacity: 170 mAh (discharged to 2.0 volts, rated at 15K ohms at 21°C)
• Typical Weight: 2.6 grams (0.08 oz.)
• Typical Volume: 0.8 cubic centimeters (0.05 cubic inches)
• Maximum Reverse Charge: 1 microampere
• Energy Density: 176 milliwatt-hours per gram, 616 milliwatt-hours per cubic centimeter
• Typical Lithium Content: 0.078 grams (0.0028 oz.)
• Operating Temperature Range: -30°C to 60°C
• Self Discharge Rate: Approximately 1% per year
• Dimensions: Diameter: 20mm, Thickness: 2.5mm
• Common Uses: Car remote keys, calculators, small toys, digital thermometers, some types of watches

Application

Car Remote Keys: The CR2025 battery is commonly used in key fobs for vehicles, providing reliable power for remote locking and unlocking.

Calculators: Many small electronic calculators use CR2025 batteries due to their compact size and stable voltage output.

Small Toys: Various battery-operated toys utilize CR2025 cells to power their functions, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Digital Thermometers: These batteries are ideal for digital thermometers, providing the necessary power for accurate temperature readings.

Watches: Some types of wristwatches and small clocks depend on CR2025 batteries for their compact form factor and steady power supply.

Fitness Devices: Fitness trackers and pedometers often use CR2025 batteries due to their longevity and reliability.

Medical Devices: Certain medical devices like glucose monitors and heart rate monitors can be powered by CR2025 batteries, ensuring they function correctly over long periods.

Electronic Dictionaries and Translators: These compact electronic devices benefit from the CR2025's consistent voltage and extended life.

Portable Lights: Small LED lights and keychain flashlights often rely on CR2025 batteries for their power source.

Security Devices: Security sensors and alarms can use CR2025 batteries to ensure they remain operational for extended durations.

Introduction to CR2016

Definition

The CR2016 is a non-rechargeable lithium coin cell battery with a diameter of 20mm and a thickness of 1.6mm. It operates at a nominal voltage of 3 volts and typically has a capacity of around 90mAh. This compact battery is favored for its high energy density and stable voltage output, making it ideal for devices with lower power requirements.

The CR2016 is widely used in applications such as wristwatches, small electronic toys, glucose monitors, and various medical devices including portable thermometers. Its thin profile makes it suitable for compact devices and situations where space is limited. The CR2016 also finds application in smart home devices and wearable technology, providing reliable power in a variety of settings.

Dimensions

The CR2016 lithium coin cell measures 20mm in diameter and 1.6mm in height.

Features

• Chemical System: Lithium / Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2)
• Designation: ANSI / NEDA-5000LC, IEC-CR2016
• Nominal Voltage: 3.0 Volts
• Typical Capacity: 100 mAh (discharged to 2.0 volts, rated at 30K ohms at 21°C)
• Typical Weight: 1.9 grams (0.07 oz.)
• Typical Volume: 0.5 cubic centimeters (0.03 cubic inches)
• Maximum Reverse Charge: 1 microampere
• Energy Density: 122 milliwatt-hours per gram, 464 milliwatt-hours per cubic centimeter
• Typical Lithium Content: 0.036 grams (0.0013 oz.)
• Operating Temperature Range: -30°C to 60°C
• Self Discharge Rate: Approximately 1% per year
• Dimensions: Diameter: 20mm, Thickness: 1.6mm
• Common Uses: Watches, small toys, glucose monitors, some computer motherboards

Application

Watches: The CR2016 battery is frequently used in wristwatches, providing a slim profile and reliable power for accurate timekeeping.

Small Toys: Many small, battery-operated toys use CR2016 cells for their compact size and steady power supply.

Glucose Monitors: These medical devices often utilize CR2016 batteries to ensure accurate readings and dependable performance.

Computer Motherboards: Some motherboards use CR2016 batteries to maintain the real-time clock (RTC) and BIOS settings when the main power is off.

Remote Controls: Compact remote controls for devices like car alarms and garage doors can be powered by CR2016 batteries.

Calculators: Electronic calculators benefit from the CR2016's small size and stable voltage output.

Fitness Devices: Fitness trackers and pedometers may use CR2016 batteries to provide the necessary power for their functions.

Digital Thermometers: These batteries are suitable for digital thermometers, offering a reliable power source for accurate temperature measurements.

LED Lights: Small LED lights, including keychain flashlights, often rely on CR2016 batteries for their compact form factor and long-lasting power.

Electronic Dictionaries and Translators: These devices can use CR2016 batteries to ensure they function correctly and have a long operational life.

CR2025 vs CR2016:Similarities

CR2016 and CR2025 batteries share several key similarities:

Naming Scheme: Both batteries follow the same naming convention where "CR" indicates they are lithium manganese dioxide cells, and the numbers represent their dimensions. Specifically, the first two digits signify a diameter of 20 mm, while the last two digits indicate thickness, with the CR2016 being 1.6 mm thick and the CR2025 being 2.5 mm thick.

Voltage: Both batteries have a nominal voltage of 3 volts, making them suitable for devices that require a stable 3V power source.

Diameter: Both the CR2016 and CR2025 batteries have a diameter of 20 mm.

Chemical Composition: Both types of batteries use lithium manganese dioxide (Li/MnO2) as their chemical system, ensuring similar electrochemical properties.

Common Uses: Both batteries are used in a variety of small electronic devices, such as automotive remote key fobs, laser pens, children's toys, and other compact gadgets.

These similarities make CR2016 and CR2025 batteries compatible in terms of voltage and diameter, although their different thicknesses and capacities impact their interchangeability.

CR2025 vs CR2016: What are Differences

The CR2025 and CR2016 are both lithium coin batteries with a nominal voltage of 3V, but they differ in several key aspects. The CR2025 is thicker and has a higher capacity compared to the CR2016, which results in longer battery life for the CR2025. These differences in thickness and capacity affect their suitability for various applications. The CR2025, being thicker, can store more energy and is often used in devices requiring higher power, while the CR2016, being thinner, is suited for low-power devices.

Are CR2016 and CR2025 batteries Interchangeable

No, CR2016 and CR2025 batteries are not interchangeable.

The main reason is that the CR2025 battery is thicker, with a thickness of 2.5 mm compared to the CR2016's 1.6 mm. This size difference means the CR2025 may not fit into a device designed for the CR2016. Additionally, the CR2025 has a higher capacity of around 165-170 mAh, while the CR2016 typically provides about 90 mAh. Consequently, using a CR2016 in place of a CR2025 could lead to shorter battery life and potential performance issues in devices that require the higher capacity of the CR2025. Always refer to the device's specifications to ensure compatibility and proper operation.

How to Choose Between CR2025 vs CR2016

When selecting between the CR2025 and CR2016 lithium coin batteries, consider the following factors to ensure the best choice for your needs:

Device Power Requirements:

• CR2025: Opt for this battery if your device requires a higher capacity or longer battery life. Its 170 mAh capacity makes it suitable for devices with moderate to high energy demands.
• CR2016: Choose this battery for devices with lower power requirements. With a capacity of 100 mAh, it is ideal for devices that consume less energy.

Battery Compartment Size:

• CR2025: This battery is thicker (2.5 mm) and is compatible with devices that have space for a larger battery. Ensure the device's battery compartment can accommodate this thickness.
• CR2016: Being thinner (1.6 mm), this battery fits in devices with smaller or more compact battery compartments. Verify that the compartment can accommodate the thinner profile.

Application:

• CR2025: Commonly used in car remote keys, pocket calculators, small toys, digital thermometers, and some types of watches. Ideal for applications requiring higher energy density.
• CR2016: Frequently used in watches, small toys, glucose monitors, and computer motherboards. Suitable for applications where space is a constraint and energy demand is lower.

Battery Life:

• CR2025: Offers a longer operational life due to its higher capacity. For example, it lasts approximately 33 hours in a device that consumes 5mA.
• CR2016: Provides a shorter battery life compared to the CR2025. For the same 5mA consumption, it lasts about 18 hours.

Cost and Availability:

CR2025 and CR2016: Both batteries are widely available and cost-effective. Consider the cost and availability of each type in your region when making a decision.

Rechargeability:

Both CR2025 and CR2016 batteries are non-rechargeable. Ensure you select the appropriate type based on your device’s requirements, as neither is designed for recharging.

Datasheet PDF

Download CR2025 datasheet>>

Download CR2016 datasheet>>

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CR2016 and CR2025 batteries are not interchangeable due to their differences in thickness and capacity. The CR2025 offers a higher capacity and longer battery life, making it suitable for high-demand devices, while the CR2016’s thinner profile is ideal for smaller, low-power devices. Understanding these differences will help you select the right battery for your specific applications.

Further Reading:

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