Last updated on April 2nd, 2024 at 11:03 am
CR2016 and CR2032 are primary coin-cell batteries widely used in many household products and miniature electronics. Both have a nominal voltage of 3V and operate in a similar temperature range (-30°C to +60°C). But are they equivalent? This article will help you in clearing the CR2016 vs CR2032 doubt.
Table of Contents
CR2016 vs CR2032 – Differences?
CR2016 and CR2032 are different in terms of their battery capacity, size, and weight. For easy representation, the differences are listed in the table below.
| Characteristics | CR2016 | CR2032 |
| Capacity | 75 mAh | 210 mAh |
| Thickness | 1.6 millimeters | 3.2 millimeters |
| Weight | 1.7 g | 2.9 g |
From the above table, we can conclude the following three points:
- The CR2032 has a capacity of 210 mAh, while the capacity of the CR2016 is just 75 mAh. So for the same current demand, the CR2032 can last for up to 3 hours more than the CR2016.
- The thickness of CR2016 is 1.6 mm, while CR2032 is 3.2 mm thick. With some adjustments, you can use a CR2016 as a replacement for CR2032. But the reverse may not be true.
- The weight of CR2032 is almost double compared to CR2016. The average weight of CR2016 is 1.7 grams whereas the average weight of CR2032 is 2.9 grams.
Can you replace CR2016 with CR2032?
Even though the chemistry and nominal voltage of both CR2016 and CR2032 are the same, they can not be used as a replacement for each other. But with some adjustments, it is possible.
CR2016 is thinner as compared to CR2032. By attaching an aluminum piece to the battery’s positive terminal, we can increase its thickness. In this way, the CR2016 may fit inside the CR2032 battery compartment. But always ensure that the battery is inserted properly in the socket.
On the other hand, a CR2032 may not fit inside the CR2016’s battery compartment, as it is almost double its size. So, a CR2032 may not be replaced with a CR2016.
The CR2016 and CR2032 have different capacities, and thus differences in performance may arise. The CR2016 won’t provide you with as much power as the CR2032, and some devices won’t work at all.
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CR2016 vs CR2032 – Similar Features & Applications
Both coin cell batteries have a similar chemical composition. The nominal voltage, shape, diameter, and operating temperature range are also the same for these batteries.
| Characteristics | CR2016 & CR2032 |
| Chemistry | Lithium Manganese Dioxide |
| Shape | Round, Flat |
| Diameter | 20 millimeters |
| Nominal voltage | 3 V |
| Operating temperature | -30°C to +60°C |
| Rechargeable | Not rechargeable |
The CR2016 battery has a shorter lifespan, and they are found in devices like watches and calculators that don’t draw a lot of power. The CR2016 battery can typically withstand the low power consumption of such items and provide months, if not years, of operation. Conversely, CR2032 batteries are used in products including PC motherboards, car remote controls, bank card readers, and toys.
Conclusion – CR2016 vs CR2032
CR2016 and CR2032 have the same diameter (20mm) but different thicknesses. Even if they have the same nominal voltage (3V), due to differences in their capacities, and thickness they must not be used as a replacement for each other.
