CR2025 vs CR2016: What’s the difference & Can you swap them?
Home Decor 101
Posted by:
carson-rutz
Jun 4, 2025
Thickness is the main difference between CR2025 vs CR2016 coin batteries, leading to a range of small differences that can affect how well they work in your device. Take a quick look at the coin battery comparison chart of CR2025 vs CR2016:
CR2025 and CR2016 batteries are compact, 3-volt lithium coin cells, which are commonly used in small electronic devices like watches, key fobs, calculators, and remote controls.
CR2025 battery
CR2025 is a type of lithium coin cell battery, widely favoured for various electronic devices due to its small design and consistent performance. For more details, CR2025 batteries measure 20 millimeters across and have a thickness of 2.5 millimeters. With a nominal voltage of 3 volts, it delivers a stable power source over extended periods.
Its compact size and consistent performance make it ideal for portable electronics where space is limited and reliable energy is essential. Common CR2025 battery uses are watches, digital calculators, handheld remotes, car key fobs, and other compact electronic devices. For example, they are used in remotes for LED table lamps, where small size and reliable power are essential.
This is what a cr2025 battery looks like (source: mouser electronics)
Features:
Classification: Lithium Coin Battery
Chemical System: Lithium / Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO₂)
Model Designation: ANSI/NEDA 5003LC, IEC CR2025
Nominal Voltage: 3.0 Volts
Typical Capacity: 170 mAh (to 2.0 volts) (Rated at 15K ohms at 21°C)
Typical Weight: 2.6 grams (0.08 oz)
Typical Volume: 0.8 cm³ (0.05 in³)
Maximum Reverse Charge Current: 1 microampere
Energy Density: 176 mWh/g and 616 mWh/cm³
Typical Lithium Content: 0.078 grams (0.0028 oz)
Operating Temperature Range: -30°C to 60°C
Self-Discharge Rate: Approximately 1% per year
CR2016 battery
Similar to CR2025, the CR2016 battery is also a lithium coin cell, which is well-known for its compact size, reliable performance, and versatility across a range of electronic devices. However, CR2016 is different from CR2025 in thickness, which affects its capacity and usage duration. Measuring approximately 20 millimeters in diameter and just 1.6 millimeters thick, it provides a stable 3-volt power supply.
CR2016 is ideal for compact gadgets like wristwatches, calculators, remote controls, key fobs, and children’s toys. Beyond traditional electronics, it serves a crucial role in medical equipment such as portable thermometers and glucose monitors, as well as in personal digital assistants (PDAs), where data retention is maintained even during power loss.
Chemical System: Lithium / Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO₂)
Model Designation: ANSI/NEDA 5000LC, IEC CR2016
Nominal Voltage: 3.0 Volts
Typical Capacity: 100 mAh (to 2.0 volts) (Rated at 30K ohms at 21°0)
Typical Weight: 1.9 grams (0.07 oz)
Typical Volume: 0.5 cm³ (0.03 in³)
Maximum Reverse Charge Current: 1 microampere
Energy Density: 122 mWh/g and 464 mWh/cm³
Typical Lithium Content: 0.036 grams (0.0013 oz)
Operating Temperature Range: -30°C to 60°C
Self-Discharge Rate: Approximately 1% per year
5 Similarities between CR2025 and CR2016
As can be seen, CR2025 vs CR2016 have many things in common, which makes them quite hard to distinguish. Here are some similarities you should know:
Naming Scheme
CR2016 and CR2025 batteries follow the same naming convention, which is "CR" standing for lithium manganese dioxide, the chemical makeup of both batteries. And the numbers following indicate lithium coin cell battery sizes. So, you can understand that “20” refers to a 20 mm diameter, while the last two digits show the thickness, 1.6 mm for the CR2016 and 2.5 mm for the CR2025.
The names cr2016 and cr2025 indicate lithium coin batteries (source: mouser electronics)
Voltage
CR2025 vs CR2016 voltage has a nominal voltage of 3 volts, making them suitable for devices that need a steady 3V power supply. Typical applications are led lights remotes, watches, key fobs, calculators, digital thermometers, fitness trackers, and computer motherboards for CMOS memory. They are also ideal for powering artistic and handcrafted designs, such as decorative resin lights, where space is limited and low power consumption is required.
A voltage of 3. 0 volts provides stable and reliable power in compact devices (sources: temu and hirosart)
Diameter
Both CR2025 vs CR2016 have the same 20 mm diameter, which affects how long each battery lasts and how they fit in certain devices.
Both cr2025 and cr2016 batteries have the same diameter of 20 millimeters, but different in thicknesses (source: blikai electronic)
Rechargeability
Both CR2025 and CR2016 batteries are non-rechargeable lithium coin cells, designed for single-use only. Using them in a charger or attempting to recharge them can be dangerous and may damage the battery or the device.
Both cr2025 and cr2016 should not be recharged (source: ariat technology)
Chemical Composition
Both batteries share the same lithium manganese dioxide (Li/MnO2) chemistry, giving them similar performance and stability. Compared to alkaline batteries such as AA and AAA (1.5V), Li/MnO₂ batteries provide a higher energy density, a longer shelf life, and a stable 3.0V output, making them ideal for compact and high-performance devices.
Lithium manganese dioxide (li/mno₂) is ideal for compact, non-rechargeable batteries like cr2025 and cr2016 (source: amazon and ovaga)
8 Differences between CR2025 and CR2016
Despite appearing similar, there are 8 key differences between CR2025 and CR2016 that can impact how well they function in specific devices.
Thickness
The CR2025 battery is thicker at 2.5 mm and is suitable for devices that have room for a larger battery. In contrast, the CR2016 is thinner at 1.6 mm, making it ideal for devices with smaller or tighter battery slots. It's important to check that your device’s battery compartment can fit this thickness.
The cr2025 is 2. 5mm thick, while the cr2016 is 1. 6mm thick (source: ufine blog and amazon)
Weight
The CR2025 battery weighs approximately 2.6 grams (0.08 oz.), making it slightly heavier than the CR2016, which weighs around 1.9 grams (0.07 oz.). This difference in weight is primarily due to the CR2025's greater thickness and higher energy capacity. While the weight difference is minimal, it can be a factor in ultra-light or size-sensitive electronic devices.
The cr2025 typically weighs 2. 6 grams, while the cr2016 weighs around 1. 9 grams (source: communica)
Capacity
The CR2025 has a capacity of about 170mAh, meaning it can deliver more energy and last longer than the thinner CR2016, which typically holds around 100mAh. As a result, devices using CR2025 batteries may run longer compared to those powered by CR2016 batteries.
The cr2025 has a typical capacity of 170mah, while the cr2016 offers about 100mah (source: communica)
Price
Because CR2025 batteries offer a higher energy capacity than CR2016 batteries, they are generally slightly more expensive. However, when deciding which battery provides better value, it’s important to consider how much power your device needs and how long the battery is expected to last. Choosing the right battery depends not just on price, but on how well it meets the performance and lifespan needs of your specific device.
Prices, which are taken from amazon in quarter 1/2025 show that cr2025 batteries are commonly more expensive than cr2016 (source: amazon)
Duration
The CR2025 battery delivers a longer usage time thanks to its higher capacity, lasting around 33 hours in a device that draws 5mA of current. In comparison, the CR2016 battery has a shorter lifespan, running for about 18 hours under the same power consumption. This difference makes the CR2025 more suitable for devices that require longer continuous operation.
The cr2025 typically lasts longer than the cr2016 (source: bitfoic electronic)
Applications
The CR2025 battery is widely used in compact electronic devices due to its reliable 3V power output and long battery life. It is commonly found in car remote keys, providing consistent energy for locking and unlocking functions. Devices such as calculators, digital thermometers, wristwatches, and fitness trackers benefit from their stable performance and slim design. Medical tools, including glucose meters and heart rate monitors, also rely on CR2025 batteries for dependable, long-term energy. Additionally, this battery powers toys, LED keychain flashlights, security sensors, and electronic dictionaries, supporting uninterrupted use in low-drain devices.
The cr2025 is used in car remotes, thermometers, and fitness trackers for its high capacity and steady 3v power (source: lisleapex)
The CR2016 battery is widely used in small electronic devices thanks to its slim profile and steady 3V power output. It is ideal for wristwatches, offering compact and reliable energy for accurate timekeeping. Devices like small toys, digital thermometers, and fitness trackers also benefit from its lightweight and consistent performance.
In medical tools such as glucose monitors, CR2016 ensures precise, dependable readings, while computer motherboards use it to maintain BIOS settings. Additionally, it powers compact remotes, calculators, LED keychain lights, electronic dictionaries, and translators, supporting long-lasting operation in low-drain gadgets.
The cr2016 battery is commonly used in compact devices due to its slim size and reliable 3v power (source: naccon. En. Made-in-china)
Energy Density
The CR2025 battery has a higher energy density, providing 176 milliwatt-hours per gram and 616 milliwatt-hours per cubic centimeter. In comparison, the CR2016 delivers 122 milliwatt-hours per gram and 464 milliwatt-hours per cubic centimeter. This means the CR2025 can store and supply more energy relative to its size and weight, making it more efficient for high-demand devices.
The cr2025 has a higher energy density than the cr2016 (source: mouser electronic)
Compatibility
Both batteries can be used in a wide range of devices since they share the same voltage and diameter. However, the choice between CR2025 and CR2016 depends on factors like how long the battery needs to last, how much power the device requires, and how much space is available in the battery compartment.
The sizes of cr2025 vs cr2016 influence the compatibility of these two types of battery (source: buyabattery)
In general, CR2025 offers longer battery life and higher capacity, making it ideal for power-hungry applications, whereas the slimmer CR2016 fits better in tight spaces and lighter devices.
Are CR2025 and CR2016 Interchangeable?
Using CR2016 instead of CR2025 or vice versa is a popular consideration among many people who are coming to choose batteries to replace. CR2025 and CR2016 batteries are not fully interchangeable. Here are the reasons:
Using a CR2025 in place of a CR2016: Sometimes possible, but only if the battery compartment can accommodate the extra 0.9 mm thickness. For tight spaces, the thicker CR2025 may not fit orcould damage the device.
Using a CR2016 in place of a CR2025: Using a CR2025 battery in a device designed for a CR2016 can be problematic, as its extra thickness may prevent proper fitting. This can lead to physical damage to the battery compartment, contacts, or the cover.
Potential problems due to an incompatible battery:
While both have similar voltage and diameter, due to their differences in thickness and capacity, interchange using CR2025 vs CR2016 can lead to some potential issues, such as:
Device damage: Improper fit may loosen electrical connections, which can cause the device to overheat or, in severe cases, start a fire.
Performance degradation: Devices might perform poorly, with reduced operating time or even total malfunction.
Safety hazards: In severe situations, using the wrong battery can lead to leakage or explosion, creating significant safety hazards.
Factors to Consider to Choose The Right Battery
When selecting between CR2025 and CR2016 batteries, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance, safety, and compatibility.
Device Compatibility: Not all batteries are suitable for every device, so it's essential to choose one that matches the required type, voltage, capacity, and size. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure proper fit and safe, efficient performance.
Performance Requirements: Different devices require different battery features, so it's important to consider factors such as temperature tolerance, energy density, self-discharge rate, shelf life, recharge cycle (for rechargeable types), and durability, all affect battery performance and reliability.
Termination Options: Some batteries use different connection types, such as button terminals or snap connectors. It's important to ensure the battery has the correct terminal style for your device to prevent improper connection or damage to the device.
Maintenance Requirements: While primary batteries need minimal care, rechargeable ones require proper charging and storage to maintain performance and extend lifespan.
Application-Specific Needs: Certain applications require specific types of batteries to work properly. For example, medical devices often use lithium batteries for their reliability, power tools need high-drain batteries with long life cycles, and smartwatches depend on compact batteries with high energy density.
Safety and Certifications: Look for features like overcharge protection, thermal stability, and leak-proof design, and check for certifications such as IEC, UL, or UN38.3 to ensure the battery meets safety and performance standards. These certifications indicate the battery is tested, reliable, and safe for use in your device.
Brand Reputation: Choosing a well-known and trusted brand like Pkcell can help ensure better performance and safety. Reputable brands are more likely to meet quality standards and offer reliable, longer-lasting batteries.
Price and Quantity: Think about how many batteries you need and their cost. Buying in bulk can save money if you use them regularly. Although high-quality batteries may cost more at first, they last longer and need fewer replacements, saving you money over time.
Disposal and Environmental Impact: Batteries may contain harmful chemicals, so proper disposal is essential. Choose brands that offer eco-friendly options or recyclable packaging to reduce environmental impact. Always dispose of batteries correctly by using recycling programs or designated collection points.
Transportation: Certain types of batteries have specific regulations for transportation and shipping. Before shipping or carrying batteries, especially on a plane, make sure to check the airline and transport rules.
CR2025 vs CR2016 - Which one should you choose?
When deciding between the CR2025 vs CR2016 batteries, consider the device's thickness, required duration, and your budget. The CR2025 offers a longer lifespan and higher capacity but is thicker, while the CR2016 is thinner and more affordable but has a shorter duration.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendation for battery type to ensure optimal performance and device protection. Before purchasing a replacement, check the battery size, capacity, and your device's instructions.
Final Thought
CR2025 vs CR2016 coin cell batteries may look nearly identical, but in comparison, factors like battery thickness and capacity play an important role in maintaining performance and longevity. CR2025 vs CR2016 are both 3-volt lithium batteries commonly used in remotes, key fobs, and watches. Choosing the right one can help ensure your device runs smoothly and make a difference in battery life. Hope this article will help you distinguish one from the other, and how to pick the best option for your device.
While both 3V lithium coin batteries, the main difference between CR2025 vs CR2016 lies in their thickness and capacity. CR2025 is longer-lasting with a thickness of 2.5mm and 170mAh, while CR2016 is 1.6mm thick with 100mAh.