In the modern age of ultracompact and portable electronics, there has never been greater demand for powerful, compact batteries. From car remote key fobs to digital thermometers and fitness trackers, small devices depend on highly efficient energy sources that can provide stable power over a period of time without having to enlarge them. Of the most reliable options on the market, the CR2016 3V lithium coin cell battery is renowned for its reliability, efficiency, and enduring performance.
If you want to know why the CR2016 battery is so widely used — or you simply want to know how to keep your devices performing at their best — this in-depth guide has all you need to know: from its construction and performance features to real-world application tips and side-by-side comparisons with other coin cells.
What is a CR2016 Battery?
Sealed Energy’s CR2016 is a 3-volt lithium coin cell battery, whose name conforms to the international standard for describing its size and chemistry. The “CR” prefix reflects that it employs lithium manganese dioxide chemistry — an established combination which provides high energy density and outstanding stability. Due to this small size, the CR2016 is best suited for devices where available space is minimal but stable voltage and reliable battery life are paramount.
Key Features of CR2016 Lithium Battery
The thing that stands out with the CR2016 compared to traditional alkaline or zinc-based batteries is its high energy density, stable voltage, and extended shelf life. Below are some of the key characteristics:
1. 3V Power Output
In contrast to most small alkaline batteries, which have a voltage of just 1.5 volts, the CR2016 measures a complete 3 volts. This increased voltage makes it well-suited for powering today’s electronic circuits, which demand more stable and predictable energy.
2. Compact Size
Its diameter of 20mm and thickness of 1.6mm make the CR2016 an ideal fit for ultra-thin devices. It’s a crowd-favorite in devices where larger batteries such as AAAs or AAs are just not feasible.
3. Long Shelf Life
Lithium chemistry provides a shelf life of 8–10 years, which allows you to store CR2016 batteries for years without losing much power. This makes them ideal for emergency devices or equipment not used frequently.
4. Stable Performance
The CR2016 provides a consistent voltage output throughout its discharge cycle, which guarantees your devices operate predictably from beginning to end — no unexpected power dips or variable performance.
5. Wide Temperature Range
Lithium coin cells such as the CR2016 function well over a wide temperature range (normally -20°C to +60°C) and, as such, are well adapted to use in both indoor and outdoor situations.
Typical Uses of the CR2016 Battery
The CR2016 is highly versatile and, as such, is a popular battery used in hundreds of small electronic devices. Some of the most typical uses include:
1. Car Key Fobs
One of the most ubiquitous applications of the CR2016 is in car key fobs. Its miniature size slides into thin remotes with ease, delivering prolonged power for remote locking, unlocking, and trunk release.
2. Watches and Fitness Trackers
From digital watches to heart monitors and fitness trackers, the CR2016 delivers dependable power to units requiring constant energy over long periods of time.
3. Calculators and Medical Devices
Scientific calculators, glucose meters, and electronic thermometers tend to rely on the constant voltage of CR2016 cells for proper readings and reliable use.
4. Small LEDs and Toys
Small LED lights, laser pointers, and small electronic toys utilize CR2016 batteries to provide efficient performance without the need for large power sources.
5. Computer Motherboards (CMOS Battery)
In certain computer motherboards, CR2016 batteries are employed as backup CMOS batteries to retain BIOS settings when the system is switched off.