CR2032 VS DL2032 VS CR2025 Comparison Guide
2024-01-24 17831

In contemporary electronic apparatus, the pivotal function of energy storage devices, particularly in the micro-battery domain, cannot be overstated. Micro-batteries such as CR2032, DL2032, and CR2025 occupy noteworthy positions within this sphere. Despite their diminutive stature, they assume an indispensable role across an array of devices. This exposition aims to explore the distinctive attributes, applications, and pivotal distinctions inherent in these energy repositories. From their fundamental composition to their exclusive spectrum of uses, we shall cultivate a profound comprehension of these ubiquitous yet frequently underestimated miniature power reservoirs.

The CR2032 stands as a ubiquitous lithium-ion battery, serving as the primary energy reservoir for an array of devices. It adopts the form of a non-rechargeable 'coin,' leveraging lithium with manganese dioxide playing the role of the cathode and lithium serving as the anode. This petite powerhouse boasts a svelte thickness of 3.2 millimeters and a diameter stretching to 20 millimeters, a dimensionality overtly articulated by its nomenclature. Sporting a nominal voltage of 3V and an average capacity ranging between 220-240mAh, this battery variety finds itself deeply embedded in diverse gadgets such as timepieces, PDAs, circuitry heartbeats, vehicular access tokens, medical implements, and optical focalizers.

Computer motherboards, car key fobs, watches, calculators, PDAs, electronic notepads, garage door openers, toys, games, doorbells, pet collars, LED lights, sporting goods, pedometers, calorie counters, stopwatches, and medical devices are all applications that require the CR2032 battery.

The DL2032 is a specialized rechargeable battery, nearly identical to the CR2032 battery. The numbers on the battery indicate that it shares the same dimensions — a diameter of 20 millimeters and a thickness of 3.2 millimeters. 'CR' is the IEC prefix for lithium coin batteries, while 'DL' is the prefix used by Duracell, a world leader in alkaline batteries, as well as in rechargeable and smart power systems. Essentially, the DL2032 battery is a CR2032 battery manufactured by Duracell. The 'DL' designation is primarily used by brands like Duracell or Panasonic to differentiate their products from generic brands. Such branded batteries can be found in retail stores, especially those associated with branded products, and are exclusively sold as specific branded batteries.

The Duracell DL2032, a 3V lithium battery, is meticulously engineered to protract the operational lifespan of 3V devices, delivering substantial power precisely when required. Tailored for applications demanding precision, these batteries of the 2032 type find compatibility with calculators, watches, medical instruments, assorted electronics, and various petite electronic gadgets. Geared towards pivotal electronic devices, this battery instills confidence in many users, vouched for its consistent and enduring power supply. Each package conveniently includes a pair of these dependable batteries.

The CR2025, a ubiquitous coin lithium battery, shares a parallel usage profile with the CR2032, finding application in comparable quantities and scenarios. This non-rechargeable (primary) lithium coin, often referred to as a 'button' battery, boasts dimensions of 20 millimeters in diameter and 2.5 millimeters in thickness. Diverging from its CR2032 counterpart, the CR2025 proves particularly adept for devices constrained by limited installation space. Nevertheless, in analogous applications, the CR2025's lower capacity (measured in mAh) translates to a marginally abbreviated operational lifespan compared to the CR2032.

CR2025 batteries are widely used in a variety of devices and applications, similar to the CR2032 battery. These applications include computer motherboards, car key fobs, watches, calculators, PDAs, electronic notepads, garage door openers, toys, games, doorbells, pet collars, LED lights, sports equipment, pedometers, calorie counters, stopwatches, and medical devices. As mentioned before, CR2025 batteries are more suitable than CR2032 batteries for use in devices with limited battery compartment space.

CR2032 Dimensional Model

DL2032 Dimensional Model

CR2025 Dimensional Model

	DL2032	CR2032	CR2025
Battery Size	2032	2032	2025
Brand	Duracell	Panasonic	FDK America
Chemistry	Lithium/Manganese Dioxide (Single Use)	Lithium Manganese Dioxide	Lithium Coin
Voltage	3V	3V	3V
Capacity	225 mAh	225mAh	170mAh
Diameter	0.8" (20mm)	0.8" (20mm)	0.79
Height	0.13" (3.2mm)	0.13" (3.2mm)	2.5 mm
Weight	4.5g	3.1g	2.5g
Minimum Operating Temperature	-20°C	-30°C	0°C
Maximum Operating Temperature	+60°C	+60°C	+60°C
Continuous Drain Current	0.19 mA	0.19 mA	0.19 mA

The CR2032 and DL2032 batteries are essentially the same, both with a diameter of 20 mm and a thickness of 3.2 mm. Both types of batteries have a nominal voltage of 3 volts and a typical capacity of about 220-240 mAh. Visually, they appear almost identical, with the primary difference being their manufacturers. 'CR' is a generic name for lithium-ion batteries, while 'DL' is a special name used by the battery manufacturer Duracell. Therefore, they can be used interchangeably.

Although both types of batteries are ideal for low-power applications and suitable for devices requiring long-term, low-power consumption, the DL2032 produced by Duracell has a slightly higher density and is designed for a higher discharge rate than the CR2032 battery. The DL2032 battery provides a constant energy supply during continuous discharge, surpassing the limitations of the CR2032 battery.

CR2025 and CR2032 batteries look very similar, but they have subtle differences in specifications. The difference between CR2025 and CR2032 is that CR2032 can provide 225mAh with a thickness of 3.2mm, while CR2025 can only provide 160mAh with a thickness of 2.5mm. The thickness significantly impacts the energy storage. That said, you should opt for CR2032, as they offer a much longer lifespan than other batteries of similar sizes.

CR2025 and CR2032 can be interchangeably used in the battery compartment, as long as either of them fits with minimal impact. However, due to the difference in battery capacity, the lifespan of CR2032 will be slightly longer than that of CR2025. If you have no choice but to use a CR2025 battery in a device, a useful tip is to fold some aluminum foil and place it on top of the extra 0.7mm open space. Ensure good contact by closing the device to secure the foil in place. Otherwise, there's a risk of intermittent connection between the spring contact and the battery, which could lead to issues.

The DL2032 and CR2025 batteries, though similar in function as 3-volt lithium coin or button cells, are distinct in their manufacturing origins. Duracell is the manufacturer behind the DL2032, while FDK America takes credit for producing the CR2025. A closer look reveals their differences lie primarily in their diameter, capacity, and operational temperature ranges. The DL2032 boasts a higher capacity of 225mAh compared to the 170mAh offered by the CR2025. Additionally, the DL2032 outperforms in colder climates, maintaining functionality at temperatures as low as -20°C, whereas the CR2025 is limited to a minimum operational temperature of 0°C. These variations in specifications are critical, making the two batteries non-interchangeable in devices requiring specific energy needs and temperature resilience.

In synopsis, notwithstanding the visual resemblance among CR2032, DL2032, and CR2025 batteries, their distinctions manifest in specifications, applications, and interchangeability. Grasping these disparities becomes pivotal for the accurate selection and utilization of these batteries. Each battery variant boasts distinctive merits and constraints, be it in relation to temperature extremities, battery capacitance, or the specific energy prerequisites of a given device. Consequently, when electing a battery, it becomes imperative to contemplate the explicit prerequisites and operational milieu of the device, ensuring the apt choice of the most fitting battery variant. Such discerning deliberation not only fine-tunes device efficacy but also extends the longevity of the battery. Through this meticulous thought process, we not only assure the efficient operation of our devices but also acquire a more profound insight into the intricate technology underpinning these commonplace artifacts.