CR2016 Battery vs CR2032: Which Battery Is Better for You?

In this blog, we will dive deep into CR2016 vs CR2032 batteries, helping you choose the right one for your needs.

What does CR2016 Mean?

CR2016 is a type of lithium coin battery.  These are little, round batteries that are utilized in a variety of everyday products.

• CR stands for the battery's chemistry, which in this case is Lithium Manganese Dioxide (LiMnO2).
• 20 refers to the battery's diameter in millimeters (20mm).
• 16 is the thickness of the battery in millimeters (1.6mm).

So, CR2016 refers to a 3V lithium coin battery that is 20mm in diameter and 1.6mm thick.

What is a CR2032 Battery?

The CR2032 Battery, like the CR2016, is a 3-volt lithium button battery with a 20-millimeter diameter.  However, its main distinguishing feature is its thickness, which is 3.2 millimeters, double that of a CR2016 battery.

What are CR2016 Batteries Used for?

The CR2016's compact size and dependable power make it a viable choice for a variety of devices, including:

• Key fobs and car remotes: Key fobs and car remotes use CR2016 batteries to deliver signals that unlock doors and activate security measures.
• Calculators: Many compact calculators rely on CR2016 batteries for extended functioning.
• Watches: Some digital watches and fitness trackers use CR2016 batteries to keep you on time.
• Hearing aids: Certain hearing aids rely on CR2016 batteries to operate discreetly and reliably.
• Medical devices: Medical gadgets like glucose monitors and thermometers may use CR2016 batteries.
• Gaming devices: Wireless controllers for certain game consoles may use CR2016 batteries.
• Motherboard memory backup: The CMOS battery on a computer motherboard frequently uses a CR2016 battery to save BIOS settings even when the machine is turned down.

What are CR2032 Batteries Used for?

Because of their enhanced capacity, CR2032 batteries are appropriate for devices that have higher power needs or those requiring a longer lifespan. Here are some typical applications:

• Larger devices: CR2032 batteries can power slightly larger gadgets than CR2016 cells, such as noise-canceling headphones or larger key fobs.
• High-drain devices: Devices with higher power consumption, such as laser pointers or digital cameras, may benefit from the CR2032's enhanced capacity.
• Long-lasting applications: The greater capacity of a CR2032 can be useful when a device must operate for extended periods without being replaced.
• Medical equipment: Some medical gadgets that require continuous operation may use CR2032 batteries to increase their life.

How to Install CR2016 Battery?

Tools you might need:

• Small screwdriver (for certain compartments)
• Tweezers (optional, to remove the old battery)

Steps:

1. Identify the compartment: Find the battery compartment on your smartphone. It may be secured by a screw or a latch. For more specific instructions, consult the device's manual.
2. Open the compartment: Carefully unscrew the compartment, or pry open a fastening mechanism with your fingernail or a small tool.
3. Remove the old battery (if applicable): If there is an old battery, gently pry it out with your fingernail or tweezers. Avoid harming the contacts.
4. Prepare a new battery: Make sure the new CR2016 battery is at room temperature and clear of debris.
5. Orient the battery correctly: Above all, pay attention to the positive (+) and negative (-) symbols on the battery. When inserted, the positive side normally faces upward. Double-check your device's handbook for confirmation.
6. Insert the new battery: Carefully insert the CR2016 battery into the container, ensuring that the positive side matches the positive indication.
7. Close the compartment: Secure the chamber with a screw or a latch.

How to Install CR2032 Battery?

The installation of a CR2032 battery is fairly similar to that of a CR2016.  Follow the instructions outlined above, being sure to match the positive (+) and negative (-) signs on the battery to the corresponding symbols in the device's compartment.  However, due to the CR2032's greater thickness, make sure the battery compartment has adequate capacity to handle it without generating pressure or bulging.

How to Test CR2016 Battery?

If your device's CR2016 battery isn't working properly, it's time to test it. Here's a simple approach for utilizing a multimeter:

1. Set the multimeter: Set your multimeter to DC voltage mode with a range of 1.5 to 3 volts (most multimeters include a 2-volt setting).
2. Touch the probes: Carefully touch one multimeter probe to the battery's positive (+) terminal and the other to the negative (-) terminal.
3. Read the voltage: The multimeter's voltage reading should be between about 3 volts (when fresh) and 2.8 volts (still usable). A reading substantially lower than 2.8 volts indicates that the battery has to be replaced.

How to Test a CR2032 Battery?

You may test a CR2032 battery using the same technique as you would a CR2016 battery. 

CR2016 Battery vs CR2032

While both CR2016 and CR2032 batteries share the same voltage (3V) and diameter (20mm), their size difference is crucial. Here's a table summarizing the key distinctions:

Video related to CR2016 Battery vs CR2032

How Long do CR2016 Batteries Last?

The lifespan of a CR2016 battery is dependent on various factors, including:

• Device Drain: The device's power consumption from the battery has a significant impact on its longevity. Devices with low power demands will drain the battery more slowly than those with high power usage.
• Usage Frequency: The more often you use a device, the faster the battery drains. A car remote that is used regularly will require more battery changes than a calculator that is only used infrequently.
• Battery Quality: Using high-quality batteries from respected brands might provide a longer lifespan than generic or lower-quality ones.
• Age and Storage: Batteries have a shelf life, and their capacity decreases over time. Proper storage in cool, dry conditions extends battery life.

While it is difficult to specify a precise period, CR2016 batteries often survive several months to a year or more in low-drain applications.  Devices with a high drain or that are used frequently may require more frequent replacement.

How Long do CR2032 Batteries Last?

A CR2032 battery's lifespan, like that of a CR2016 cell, is determined by several factors, including device drain, usage frequency, brand quality, and storage conditions.  However, due to its higher capacity, CR2032 batteries often have a longer lifespan than CR2016 cells in identical usage conditions.  CR2032 batteries can last from a year to several years in low-drain devices.

How to Store CR2032 Batteries?

To guarantee maximum performance and longevity, store both CR2016 and CR2032 batteries properly:

• Cool and Dry Place: Keep them somewhere cold and dry. Avoid severe heat and cold.
• Original Packaging: Keep unused batteries in their original package if possible. This helps to avoid inadvertent short circuits and protects the contacts.
• Non-Conductive Container: If you don't have the original packing, keep them in a non-conductive container to prevent short circuits. A plastic bag is unsuitable.

Where are CR2016 Batteries Used?

• Watches: CR2016s are well-suited for powering digital and analog Watches.
• Calculators: Many handheld calculators use CR2016s to perform constant computations.
• Remote Controls: CR2016s are used for low-power operation in a variety of remote controls, including TVs and stereos.
• Greeting Cards with Sound or Lights: CR2016s are widely used in interactive greeting cards with music or flashing lights.
• Toys: Some electronic toys may use CR2016 batteries to power features like sound effects.
• Medical Devices: Certain medical devices, such as glucose monitors, may use CR2016s due to their small size and dependable power.
• Computer Motherboards (CMOS Battery): While less common, some computer motherboards employ a CR2016 battery (also known as a CMOS battery) to store BIOS settings when the machine is turned off.

Where are CR2032 Batteries Used?

• Computer motherboards (CMOS batteries): This is a common application for CR2032 batteries. They supply backup power to a computer motherboard's CMOS chip, allowing crucial settings such as the date and time to be retained even when the machine is shut down.
• Car Key Fobs: Like CR2016s, many car key fobs use CR2032s to power the keyless entry system.
• Remote Controls: Because of their long battery life, CR2032s can be used to power remote controls for TVs, stereos, and other devices.
• Fitness Trackers and Pedometers: Fitness trackers and pedometers frequently use CR2032 batteries because of their tiny size and ability to deliver extended power.
• Garage Door Openers: Similar to automotive key fobs, CR2032s can be used to transmit signals for opening and closing garage doors.
• Security Systems: Some security system components, such as keypads or motion detectors, may employ CR2032s for low-power operation.

Conclusion

When deciding between a CR2016 and a CR2032 battery, keep these three things in mind: device requirements, power needs, and space constraints. Understanding the fundamental distinctions between CR2016 and CR2032 batteries allows you to make more informed judgments about the best power source for your devices.