What are the differences between LIR2032 and CR 2032 button battery?

A CR2032 battery is a non-rechargeable (primary) lithium coin or “button” cell battery that is 20mm in diameter x 3.2mm in thickness. The CR2032 battery has a voltage of 3 volts and a capacity of up to 240mAh, depending on manufacturer specifications. The CR2032 is the most commonly used lithium coin cell battery.

The LIR (lithium-ion rechargeable) coin cell, also known as a button cell, is the most miniature, least expensive lithium-ion battery format. Rated at 3.7V, LIR coin cell voltages may be up to three times higher than traditional lithium metal batteries like Cd-Ni or MH-Ni types. The LIR2032 has a nominal voltage of 3.6 to 3.7 volts when fully charged. The “2032″ ” refers to its standard size, with a diameter of 20mm and a height of 3.2mm, the same size as non-rechargeable CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries.

LIR2032 and CR2032 batteries are coin-cell batteries with the same physical size and shape (20mm in diameter and 3.2mm in height), making them compatible regarding form factor. However, they have significant differences in terms of chemistry, voltage, rechargeability, and usage:

1. Chemistry:

• LIR2032: LIR stands for “Lithium Ion Rechargeable.” LIR2032 batteries use lithium-ion chemistry, which means they are rechargeable. They contain a lithium cobalt oxide or similar lithium-ion chemistry in their positive electrode (cathode) and lithium in the negative electrode (anode). These batteries can be recharged and reused multiple times.
• CR2032: CR stands for “Lithium Manganese Dioxide.” CR2032 batteries are non-rechargeable and use primary lithium chemistry, specifically lithium manganese dioxide. They are single-use and cannot be recharged.

2. Voltage:

• LIR2032: When fully charged, LIR2032 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.6 to 3.7 volts, which remains relatively constant during discharge.
• CR2032: When new, CR2032 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3 volts. This voltage gradually decreases as they are used and should be replaced once their voltage drops significantly.

3. Button cell battery

• LIR2032: LIR2032 batteries are rechargeable and can be recharged using a compatible charger. They are designed for applications where the battery can be charged and reused multiple times.
• CR2032: CR2032 batteries are non-rechargeable and meant to be used once and disposed of when their capacity is depleted.

4. Usage/ Applications:

• LIR2032: LIR2032 batteries are suitable for devices or applications that require a rechargeable power source, such as certain types of wireless computer peripherals (e.g., keyboards and mice) and small electronic gadgets. They are not as commonly used as CR2032 batteries in consumer electronics.
• CR2032: CR2032 batteries are commonly used in various consumer electronic devices, including remote controls, watches, calculators, key fobs, medical devices, and other small electronic gadgets. They are widely available as single-use, disposable batteries.

The primary difference between LIR2032 and CR2032 batteries lies in their chemistry and rechargeability. LIR2032 batteries are rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, while CR2032 batteries are non-rechargeable primary lithium batteries. Using the appropriate battery type for your device is essential to ensure proper performance and safety.

FAQ – LIR2032 vs CR2032 Common Questions