Emphasizing the key differences between CR2 and CR123 batteries

In order to select the appropriate source of power supply, it is highly important to understand the parameters of a battery such as its energy capacity and dimensions as well. In this article, we will discuss the key differences, features, and fundamentals of the CR2 and CR123 batteries.

key differences between CR2 and CR123 batteries:

Since we have a quick take on highlighting the comparative factors, now let us explore the overview of a CR2 Battery and a CR123 Battery.

What is a CR2 Battery?

A CR2 battery is a small, cylindrical lithium battery with a flat top about 27 mm (1.06 inches) in length and 15.6 mm (0.61 inches) in diameter, commonly used in various electronic devices, especially in older film and some digital cameras.

Duracell CR2 battery

Types of CR2 Battery

1.  Primary CR2 Batteries (Non-Rechargeable)

● Most commonly used

● Use Lithium Manganese Dioxide (LiMnO2)

● 3V nominal voltage

● High energy density, long shelf life (5–10 years)

● Used in cameras, flashlights, laser pointers, etc.

● Examples: Energizer CR2, Duracell CR2, Panasonic CR2

2. Rechargeable CR2 Batteries

● Less common than primary CR2

● Use lithium-ion or lithium-ion polymer

● Usually slightly different voltage (around 3.6-3.7V nominal)

● Designed to be recharged multiple times (up to hundreds of cycles)

● Often marketed as "rechargeable CR2" or “Li-ion CR2”

3. High-Capacity CR2 Batteries

● Primary CR2 batteries with higher mAh ratings (850mAh or more)

● Offer longer usage times per charge/discharge cycle

● Slightly larger capacity but same size and voltage

● Ideal for devices with higher power consumption

4. Low Self-Discharge CR2 Batteries

● Specially designed to hold charge longer when not in use

● Useful for security sensors and emergency devices.

Description of a CR2 Battery’s Chemical Composition

● Cathode (Positive Electrode): Lithium Manganese Dioxide (LiMnO₂) acts as a stable and high-energy cathode material.

● Anode (Negative Electrode): Lithium metal acts as the anode and is highly reactive, giving the battery its high energy density.

● Electrolyte: Typically, an organic solvent containing a lithium salt (like lithium perchlorate or lithium hexafluorophosphate), which allows lithium ions to move between the cathode and anode during discharge and charge (if rechargeable).

Chemical Reaction of a CR2 Battery

1. At the Anode (Negative Electrode):

● Lithium metal at the anode gives up electrons and becomes lithium ions.

● Lithium metal oxidizes (loses electrons) and releases lithium ions into the electrolyte.

● Chemical Reaction: Li (solid) → Li⁺ + e⁻

2. At the Cathode (Positive Electrode):

● Lithium ions travel through the electrolyte to the cathode.

● At the cathode, MnO₂ reacts with lithium ions and electrons to form LiMnO₂.

● Chemical Reaction: Li (solid) → MnO₂​ + Li⁺ + e⁻ → LiMnO₂​

Equivalent Batteries to CR2

● CR2, DLCR2, ELCR2, and CR17345 are essentially considered as the CR2 battery equivalent because of the same size and voltage (3V typical) and can be used interchangeably.

● Rechargeable KCR2 batteries may look similar but have slightly different voltages (~3.6V).

● CR123A batteries are not the same size as CR2 but share similar chemistry and voltage.

● CR1/3N batteries are smaller in comparison to CR2 but have similar voltage.

Panasonic CR-2PE/BN CR2 battery

Advantages of CR2 Battery

● It is very compact yet has a lot of power which makes it ideal for small devices.

● The battery delivers steady 3V power for most of its time discharging.

● Long Shelf Life: Can retain charge for 5 to 10 years when stored properly.

● The lightweight and sensitive design enables it to be held easily and placed in small devices.

● Cold and Hot Temperatures: It maintains its original function in both chilly and hot conditions.

● Holds onto the charge for a long period without use, making devices turn on with full power.

Disadvantages of CR2 Battery

● Non-Rechargeable: Most CR2 batteries are primary (single-use).

● Higher Cost: Lithium chemistry makes them more expensive than standard alkaline batteries.

● Limited Current Capability: Not suitable for very high-drain devices.

● Disposal Concerns: Lithium batteries require proper disposal or recycling to prevent environmental harm.

● Voltage Sensitivity: Devices must be designed for 3V lithium batteries, as voltage differs from alkaline alternatives.

What Applications are Found for CR2 Battery

● Cameras - Some digital cameras and, in particular, old film cameras are great examples.

● Laser Pointers - Laser pointers use small sources of power to operate.

● Flashlights - Due to its strong performance and capacity for long life, CR2 is popular among flashlights and hunting lights.

● Security Systems - Motion detectors, wireless sensors and alarms for security systems usually use CR2 batteries owing to their long-lasting power and dependability.

● Electronic Toys and Gadgets - 3V electronic gadgets or toys are housed here.

● Medical Devices – Common examples are glucose meters and pulse oximeters, both of which depend on CR2 batteries for dependability and tiny size.

● Portable Electronics: Handheld meters and measuring instruments

Pricing and Availability of CR2 Batteries

CR2 Batteries can be purchased from the website of unikeyic Electronics. 3V Lithium manganese oxide CR2 battery (P/N: CR-2PA/1B) is available for a price of $8.77. CR2 Industrial Button battery (P/N: CR-2PE/BN) is available for a price of $1.29.

What is a CR123 Battery?

CR123 battery is a small single-use battery with lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) as its chemical makeup. It is almost as big as a CR2 battery, but lasts longer (it is in the 1400–1600 mAh of power range). There’s size difference as you can’t swap a CR123 for CR2. Another name for CR123 or CR123A is just one naming convention and the same battery.

Coast industrial CR123 battery

Types of CR123 Batteries

1. Primary (Non-Rechargeable) CR123:

Standard lithium manganese dioxide batteries (3V). Most common type used in cameras, flashlights, and security devices. Long shelf life (~10 years). Widely used in tactical, security, and photography.

Examples: Duracell CR123A, Energizer CR123A, Panasonic CR123A, SureFire CR123A

2. Rechargeable CR123 (RCR123 / 16340):

Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, typically 3.6-3.7V nominal voltage (higher than primary). Must ensure device compatibility due to voltage difference. For frequent use and eco-conscious users.

Examples: Nitecore RCR123A, Olight RCR123A, Keeppower 16340

3. High Capacity CR123:

Primary or rechargeable versions with enhanced mAh ratings for longer runtimes.

4. Low Self-Discharge CR123:

Specially designed to retain charge longer when stored, ideal for backup or emergency devices.

Chemical Composition of CR123 Battery

● Cathode (Positive Electrode): Lithium Manganese Dioxide (LiMnO₂)

● Anode (Negative Electrode): Lithium metal (Li)

● Electrolyte: Organic solvent containing lithium salt (e.g., Lithium Perchlorate or Lithium Hexafluorophosphate)

● Separator: Porous material to keep electrodes apart but allow ionic flow

Chemical Reaction Inside a CR123 Battery

1. At the Anode (Negative Electrode): Oxidation Reaction

● Lithium metal releases electrons and lithium ions.

● Chemical Reaction: Li (solid) → Li⁺ + e⁻

2. At the Cathode (Positive Electrode): Reduction Reaction

● Lithium ions react with Manganese Dioxide and electrons to form Lithium Manganese Dioxide.

● Chemical Reaction: Li (solid) → MnO₂​ + Li⁺ + e⁻ → LiMnO₂​

Advantages of CR123 Battery

● Delivers a lot of energy in a compact package which is ideal for high-performance gadgets.

● Usually, the power output at 3V is maintained until the battery wears out.

● Long Shelf Life: Can keep long-term, so ideal for electronic equipment you want to use in the future.

● It can operate over very wide temperatures, for example between -20°C and +60°C.

● Easy to Carry: Reduced size makes sure that even small bags do not lose any storage space.

● Highly Dependable in Devices with Higher Power: Useful for powering flashlights and security cameras that need much energy.

Cons of CR123 Battery

● Non-Rechargeable: Most CR123 batteries are primary cells, so they need replacing when drained.

● Higher Cost: Generally, more expensive than alkaline or some other lithium batteries.

● Voltage Difference: Rechargeable CR123 (RCR123) batteries have higher voltage (~3.6-3.7V) which can damage devices not designed for them.

● Environmental Concerns: Must be disposed of properly due to lithium content; not environmentally friendly if discarded improperly.

● Size Limitation: Larger than some other batteries, so not suitable for very small devices.

What Applications are Found for CR123 Battery

● Tactical, police and outdoor flashlights apply CR123 batteries due to their strong lights and lasting performance.

● Security systems, including wireless cameras, motion detectors and alarms, usually have CR123 batteries for a long and strong lifespan.

● Many digital cameras, including professional and regular user ones, depend on CR123 batteries to power their camera flashes for high-energy flashes.

● Medical devices such as glucose meters or pulse oximeters sometimes get their energy from CR123 cells because they are small and strong enough.

● Remote sensors, smart home devices and similar electronics have long and stable operating voltages because of their rechargeable batteries.

● Night vision devices, weapon-mounted lights and various pieces of tactical or military equipment are usually powered by CR123 batteries.

● Handheld meters, laser sights and electronic devices that require a small but powerful battery are included in portable electronics.

Panasonic CR-123PE-BN CR123A battery

Pricing and Availability of CR123 Batteries

CR123 Batteries can be purchased from the website of Unikeyic Electronics. CR123A Industrial Lithium 3V Battery (P/N: CR-123PE/BN) is available for a price of $1.07 and (P/N: CR-123AL/1BP) is available for a price of $2.77.

Recommended articles related to this topic:

Highlighting the key differences, similarities, and applications of LR44 and 357 batteries