The CR2032 battery is a compact, 3V lithium coin cell widely used in everyday electronics, from car key fobs and calculators to small embedded systems. Known for its long shelf life and stable output, the CR2032 battery is a reliable power source for low-drain devices. It is part of the coin cell family and is one of the most common types of button cell batteries on the market.
Table of Contents
- CR2032 Battery Overview and Key Specifications
- Where Are CR2032 Batteries Used?
- CR2032 in Electronics and Hobby Projects
- CR2032 Battery Holders: Options and Considerations
- Tips for CR2032 Battery
- Did You Know About CR2032 Battery?
- Why Does a CR2032 Battery Output 3V?
- How Do CR2032 Batteries Differ From 1.5V Lithium Cells Like AA or AAA?
- Frequently Asked Questions About CR2032 Battery
- Conclusion
CR2032 Battery Overview and Key Specifications
The CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery belongs to the coin cell battery group and is standardized in size and chemistry. Here’s a quick look at its key specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm |
| Voltage | 3V |
| Chemistry | Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li-MnO₂) |
| Capacity | ~220 mAh |
| Type | Non-rechargeable |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +60°C |
The “CR” prefix stands for lithium manganese dioxide chemistry, and the numbers indicate its size: 20 mm in diameter and 3.2 mm in height. Capacity and operating temperatures may vary slightly between different manufacturers.
Where Are CR2032 Batteries Used?
CR2032 batteries are found in a wide variety of day-to-day devices, including:
- Computer motherboard CMOS memory
- Car key fobs and garage door openers
- Digital thermometers and blood glucose meters
- Wristwatches and fitness trackers
- Digital weighing scales
- Remote controls
These batteries offer stable voltage over their discharge life, making them ideal for memory retention and timekeeping functions.
CR2032 in Electronics and Hobby Projects
In electronics prototyping and DIY projects, the CR2032 coin cell battery is a popular power source for:
- RTC (Real-Time Clock) modules
- Low-power sensors and microcontroller boards
- Wearable electronics
- LED blinkers and flashers
- Wireless devices (e.g., 433MHz transmitters)
When paired with an appropriate CR2032 battery holder, the battery becomes easy to integrate into breadboard setups, custom PCBs, or 3D-printed enclosures.
CR2032 Battery Holders: Options and Considerations
Using the right battery holder is key for secure electrical contact and convenient replacement. Common holder types include:
- Through-hole holders – great for PCBs
- Surface-mount holders – used in compact boards
- Plastic clip-on holders – ideal for breadboard use
- Enclosed battery clips – with polarity protection
When designing circuits, ensure the holder is compatible with a CR2032 button cell battery and includes proper labeling for polarity to avoid accidental damage.
The following images show the front and back views of a through-hole CR2032 battery holder and battery.
Tips for CR2032 Battery
- Check polarity before inserting the battery into a holder or device.
- Avoid short circuits by keeping unused batteries in their original packaging.
- Store in a cool, dry place to preserve shelf life (often over 8 years).
- Use quality brands like the Panasonic CR2032 3V battery for reliable performance.
- For long-term projects, test for voltage under load to ensure stable output.
Did You Know About CR2032 Battery?
- The CR2032 coin battery is one of the most commonly counterfeited batteries—stick with reputable suppliers.
- CR2032 is not rechargeable—charging it can cause leakage or explosion.
- Some fitness trackers and smartwatches are designed with molded CR2032 compartments, making DIY replacements tricky.
- Two CR2032 batteries in series can be used to power small 6V devices in emergency applications.
Why Does a CR2032 Battery Output 3V?
It’s a common misconception that a CR2032 battery must contain two 1.5V cells to achieve its 3V output. In reality, the CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery is a single-cell battery, and the 3V comes from its internal lithium-based chemistry, not from stacked cells.
The Chemistry Behind the Voltage
The CR2032 coin cell battery uses lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO₂) chemistry. Here’s how it works:
- Anode (negative): Lithium metal
- Cathode (positive): Manganese dioxide (MnO₂)
- Electrolyte: Organic lithium salt solution (e.g., lithium perchlorate in propylene carbonate)
- Nominal Voltage: ~3.0V per cell
The 3V output results from the electrochemical potential difference between lithium and manganese dioxide. Lithium has a highly negative standard electrode potential (~ -3.04 V), and when paired with a positive cathode like MnO₂, the reaction naturally generates about 3 volts.
Not Like Alkaline Batteries
For comparison, alkaline button cell batteries (such as LR44) use zinc–manganese dioxide chemistry, which only provides about 1.5V per cell. These are entirely different in construction and performance compared to CR2032 button cell batteries.
Summary
So, the Panasonic CR2032 3V battery and other similar coin batteries don’t rely on multiple cells — they produce 3V from a single lithium chemistry reaction, making them compact and efficient for both everyday and electronic applications.
How Do CR2032 Batteries Differ From 1.5V Lithium Cells Like AA or AAA?
While the CR2032 coin cell battery delivers 3V from a single lithium-based chemical reaction, AA and AAA lithium batteries—such as the Energizer Ultimate Lithium—provide only 1.5V despite also using lithium chemistry. This difference comes down to cell design and chemistry type.
Chemistry Comparison
- CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery:
- Chemistry: Lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO₂)
- Nominal Voltage: 3.0V
- Design: Coin cell, compact, low current draw
- AA/AAA lithium 1.5V battery:
- Chemistry: Lithium iron disulfide (Li-FeS₂)
- Nominal Voltage: 1.5V
- Design: Cylindrical, designed to replace alkaline batteries in high-drain devices
The difference in voltage stems from the electrochemical potential of the specific chemistry used. Lithium iron disulfide produces a lower voltage than lithium manganese dioxide but excels in higher current output, wider temperature range, and longer shelf life—ideal for flashlights, cameras, and high-drain devices.
Application Suitability
- Use CR2032 coin cell batteries in:
- RTC (Real-Time Clock) modules
- CMOS batteries in computers
- Calculators, watches, and small embedded systems
- Use 1.5V lithium AA/AAA cells in:
- Digital cameras
- Portable electronics
- Toys and remotes
Summary
Despite both being “lithium batteries,” a CR2032 button cell battery and a 1.5V lithium AA or AAA differ in voltage, chemistry, and use case. Each is optimized for different applications—compact vs. high-drain.
Frequently Asked Questions About CR2032 Battery
What does CR2032 mean?
“CR” denotes lithium manganese dioxide chemistry. “2032” means the battery is 20 mm in diameter and 3.2 mm thick.
Can I recharge a CR2032 battery?
No. A CR2032 button cell battery is non-rechargeable. Recharging it can lead to dangerous outcomes like leaks or explosions.
What’s the difference between a coin battery and a button cell?
They are often used interchangeably. Technically, a coin battery is larger and flatter, while button cells are typically smaller. The CR2032 falls into both categories.
How long does a CR2032 battery last?
Depending on the device and load, a CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery can last 1 to 10 years. It has a low self-discharge rate of about 1% per year.
Can I replace a CR2025 with a CR2032?
Sometimes. Both are 20 mm in diameter, but the CR2032 is thicker (3.2 mm). It may not fit all CR2025 compartments due to space constraints.
Conclusion
The CR2032 battery is a versatile, compact power source suitable for both everyday gadgets and electronics projects. Its standardized size, long shelf life, and stable voltage make it a go-to option for low-drain applications. Whether you’re building a circuit or replacing a battery in your remote, understanding the CR2032 helps ensure you get the right fit and performance for your needs.
For other button cell batteries, see out button battery guide which includes other types and sizes of these small batteries.