RFQ/BOM 0 Registrazione / Registrati

Seleziona la tua posizione

CR2 vs CR123: Is a CR2 Battery the Same As a CR123

gennaio 17, 2024

977

cr2 vs cr123.png


Choosing the right battery for your electronic devices is crucial for optimal performance. In the realm of lithium batteries, CR2 and CR123 are two common types that often come into consideration. Understanding the differences between these batteries is essential for ensuring compatibility with your devices. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between CR2 and CR123 batteries, examining factors such as size, energy capacity, and applications to help you make informed decisions about which battery best suits your needs.


Overview of CR2 Battery

CR2 Battery.png


CR2 batteries, powered by lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) chemistry, boast a remarkable energy density, making them well-suited for compact and high-performance electronic devices.


Taking on a cylindrical form with standardized dimensions, CR2 batteries present a sleek design, measuring approximately 15.6 mm in diameter and 27 mm in height.


Maintaining a nominal voltage of 3 volts throughout the majority of their lifespan, CR2 batteries ensure a consistent and reliable power supply for electronic devices.


Designed for one-time use, CR2 batteries are single-use and non-rechargeable. Attempts to recharge them could result in leakage, overheating, or other safety hazards.


In terms of applications, CR2 batteries find themselves powering an array of devices, including digital cameras, flashlights, laser pointers, certain medical devices, security systems, and select home automation devices.


Highlighted advantages of CR2 batteries include their high energy density, making them a reliable power source, their relatively lightweight and compact nature, and an extended shelf life, ensuring potency over time.


Overview of CR123 Battery

CR123 Battery.png


The CR123 battery, a lithium-powered innovation, relies on lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) chemistry. This specific chemical composition endows CR123 batteries with a high energy density, rendering them well-suited for applications requiring compact yet powerful energy sources.


These batteries adopt a cylindrical form, adhering to standardized dimensions of approximately 17 mm in diameter and 34.5 mm in height.


Maintaining a nominal voltage of 3 volts, CR123 batteries offer a consistent power output, a critical factor for effectively fueling a diverse range of electronic devices.


Much like their CR2 counterparts, CR123 batteries are designed to be single-use or non-rechargeable. Attempts to recharge them may pose safety risks such as leakage or overheating.


These batteries find application in a variety of devices, including high-performance flashlights, digital cameras, smoke detectors, medical equipment, security systems, and tactical gear. Their versatility and reliability make them a popular choice for powering an array of electronic devices across different industries.


CR2 vs CR123: Capacity

The capacity difference between CR2 and CR123 batteries is notable, measured in milliamperes (mAH). CR2 batteries typically have a capacity ranging from 600 to 900mAH, while CR123 batteries have a higher capacity ranging from 700 to 1700mAH. This means that CR123 batteries have a greater energy storage capacity compared to CR2 batteries.


As a result, CR123 batteries are generally capable of providing power for a longer duration than CR2 batteries before needing to be recharged or replaced. It's important to consider the capacity of the battery when choosing the appropriate type for a device, especially in applications where longer-lasting power is crucial. 


CR2 Battery vs CR123: Specifications

Feature

CR2 Battery

CR123 Battery

Size

Diameter: 15.6 mm Height: 27 mm

Diameter: 17 mm Height: 34.5 mm

Voltage

3V

3V

Chemistry

Lithium Manganese

Lithium Manganese

Capacity

Generally lower

Generally higher

Rated Capacity

Approximately 700-1000mAh

Approximately 1300-1700mAh

Typical Uses

Cameras, rangefinders, laser pointers

Flashlights, cameras, electronic devices

Operating Temperature Range

-20°C to 60°C

-20°C to 60°C

Weight

Approximately 11 grams

Approximately 17 grams

Common Brands

Duracell, Energizer

Duracell, Energizer, SureFire

Price

Generally more affordable

Generally more expensive


CR2 vs CR123 Battery: Dimensions / Sizes

Characteristic

CR2 Battery

CR123 Battery

Diameter

15.1mm

16mm

Height

26.7mm

35mm


cr2 vs cr123.png


CR2 vs CR123 Battery: Equivalents


CR2 Battery Equivalents

cr2 equivalent.png


CR123 Battery Equivalents

cr123 equivalent.png


CR2 vs CR123 Battery: Similarities

Both CR2 and CR123 batteries share commonalities in terms of their voltage (3 volts), lithium chemistry, and being non-rechargeable. Additionally, they exhibit a lower discharge rate, with an average 5% monthly loss in charge, contributing to an extended run time compared to batteries of comparable size. 

CR2 vs CR123 Similarities.png

CR123 vs. CR2: Which Is Better?

The comparison between CR123 batteries and CR2 batteries often favors the CR123 due to its larger size and higher energy capacity. CR123 batteries are considered superior because, on average, they have 60% more power than CR2 batteries. Additionally, CR123 batteries offer significantly higher current draw, providing devices with extra power and, in the case of flashlights, resulting in a brighter light output.


However, the choice between CR123 and CR2 batteries depends on the specific requirements of the device. If a device is designed to use smaller batteries, such as CR2, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal performance. While CR123 batteries may offer more power, their larger size may make them unsuitable for devices that are designed to accommodate CR2 batteries. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the compatibility and specifications of the device in question.


CR2 vs CR123: Are They Interchangeable


While CR2 and CR123 batteries share the same voltage and both belong to the category of lithium batteries, they cannot be used interchangeably. The primary reason for this is the difference in size. CR2 batteries are smaller, measuring approximately 15.6 mm in diameter and 27 mm in height, whereas CR123A batteries are slightly larger, with dimensions of around 17 mm in diameter and 34.5 mm in height. Due to these size variations, CR2 batteries may not fit properly in devices designed for CR123A batteries, and attempting to use them interchangeably could result in a poor fit or potential damage to the device. 


Are CR2 and CR123A the Same

The CR2 battery is distinct from the CR123A battery, differing in size with the CR2 being slightly shorter. Measuring about 15.6 mm in diameter and 27 mm in height, CR2 batteries may not fit properly in applications designed for the larger CR123A batteries, which measure approximately 17 mm in diameter and 34.5 mm in height. Due to these physical discrepancies, CR2 batteries are not interchangeable with CR123A batteries in devices specifically designed for the latter. 


Final Words

The choice between CR2 and CR123 batteries hinges on the specific requirements of your electronic devices. While CR123 batteries generally offer a higher energy capacity and current draw, making them suitable for applications requiring more power, CR2 batteries are preferred for devices with smaller compartments. Whether it's powering a flashlight, camera, or other electronic gadget, understanding the nuances of CR2 and CR123 batteries empowers you to make informed decisions based on the size, power, and compatibility needs of your devices.