
Key Highlights
- CR2025 and CR2032 batteries are both 3V lithium coin cells commonly used in small devices.
- The main difference between them is their thickness and capacity. CR2025 is 2.5mm thick and has about 160mAh. CR2032 is thicker at 3.2mm and has around 220mAh.
- CR2032 battery has a higher capacity. It is suitable for devices that need more power, like medical devices and car key fobs.
- CR2025 battery is smaller and works better in slim devices like digital watches.
- When choosing between the two, consider the device's battery compartment size and required lifespan.
- Buy batteries from reputable sellers, like Pkcell, to avoid counterfeit products and ensure optimal performance and safety.
Introduction
Lithium batteries are essential for many electronic devices. Among them, button batteries (also known as button batteries) are commonly used in small devices such as car key fobs, electronic watches, hearing aids, etc. Understanding the differences between types of button batteries is crucial for consumers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance in their devices. CR2025 and CR2032 are two types of coin cell batteries that people often use. They may look similar, but there are key differences in size, capacity, and lifespan. This article will detail the differences between CR2025 and CR2032 to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Basic Overview of Lithium Battery CR2025 and CR2032
CR2025 and CR2032 batteries are both non-rechargeable lithium coin cells and come from the 'CR' series. Lithium coin cell batteries are usually designated with a CR followed by a set of numbers. The letter C stands for Lithium Manganese Dioxide. The R lets you know that the battery is round in shape. The next four digits indicate the size, the first two indicate the diameter and the last two indicate the height. All the batteries that have this chemical substance in their batteries can use the abbreviation CR.
What is a CR2032 Battery?

CR2032 3v battery is a popular type of primary lithium button cell or "coin" battery that is not rechargeable. They have a power of 3 volts and a fairly large energy capacity, depending on the manufacturer's specifications. CR2032s have a long life, good charge capacity, and stable discharge. These characteristics make them ideal for a variety of electronic devices. You can find them in car keys, security systems, remote controls, and more. CR2032s can also be fitted with connector tabs, allowing the battery to be mounted almost anywhere it is needed.
What is a CR2025 Battery?

The coin battery CR2025 is also a popular type of lithium button cell or "coin cell" battery that is not rechargeable. This battery has a diameter of 20 mm and a thickness of 2.5 mm, making this slim size ideal for devices with limited space. The CR 2025 batteries provide a stable voltage during use, which make them ideal for devices that require stable performance. The use scenarios and applications of the CR2025 battery are similar to those of the CR2032.
What are the Similarities Between CR2032 and CR2025 Batteries?
Features
- Type: Both are Non-rechargeable lithium battery
- Voltage: Both have a nominal voltage of 3V.
- Chemical Composition: Both use lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2).
- Diameter: Both have a diameter of 20mm.
- Operating Temperature Range: Both exhibit a comparable temperature operating range from -30 to 60 degrees Celsius.
- Shelf Life: Their shelf life remains consistent under identical storage conditions.
- Applications: Both can be used in similar devices, such as calculators, watches, computer motherboards, and some medical devices.
Benefits
- Environmental friendly, Lightweight
- High density of energy
- Low self-discharge (less than 1% of its power each year)
- Low internal resistance
- No memory effect
- Free of mercury
- Safety assurance: No fire, No explosion, No leakage
Key Difference: CR2025 versus CR2032 Battery
When choosing between the CR2032 and CR2025 batteries, understanding their key differences is essential for optimal performance. Let's examine the differences between these two common button-cell batteries.
Dimensions
Feature | CR2025 | CR2032 |
---|---|---|
Thickness | 2.5mm | 3.2mm |
Diameter | 20mm | 20mm |
Weight | 2.4g | 3g |
The most noticeable difference between the CR2025 and CR2032 is their thickness. The CR2025 is 2.5 mm thick, while the CR2032 is slightly thicker at 3.2mm. Both batteries have the same 20mm diameter, but the CR2032 lithium battery is slightly heavier than the CR2025. Devices with limited space may require the thinner button battery CR2025, while those with more room might be able to accommodate the CR2032.
Capacity and Battery Life
Feature | CR2025 | CR2032 |
---|---|---|
Capacity | 150-160 mAh | 210-220 mAh |
Battery Life | Shorter lifespan | Longer lifespan |
Another significant difference lies in these batteries' capacity and battery service life. The CR 2032 typically has a capacity of around 220mAh, while the CR 2025 has a slightly lower capacity of about 160mAh. Due to its higher capacity, the CR2032 is likely to outlast the CR2025 in most devices.
Performance
CR2032 can withstand a higher continuous discharge current compared to CR2025.
CR2025
Item | Condition | Test Temperature | Characteristic | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Open circuit voltage | No load | 23°C±3°C | 3.05–3.45V | |
3.05–3.45V | ||||
Load voltage | 15kΩ, after 5s | 23°C±3°C | 3.00–3.45V | |
3.00–3.45V | ||||
Discharge Capacity | Continually discharge at 15kΩ resistance to cut-off voltage 2.0V | 23°C±3°C | Normal | 630h |
The lowest | 560h |
CR2032
Item | Condition | Test Temperature | Characteristic | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Open circuit voltage | No load | 23°C±3°C | 3.05–3.45V | |
3.05–3.45V | ||||
Load voltage | 15 kΩ, after 5s | 23°C±3°C | 3.00–3.45V | |
3.00–3.45V | ||||
Discharge Capacity | Continually discharge at 15kΩ resistance to cut-off voltage 2.0V | 23°C±3°C | Normal | 1100h |
The lowest | 1000h |
Performance in Devices
While both batteries are suitable for low-power devices, the CR2032 3V battery performs better in applications that require consistent power over a more extended period. Because of its larger capacity, devices like car smart keys, electronic watches, security equipment, thermometers, electronic Labels, air sensors, blood glucose meters, alarms often prefer the CR2032. However, the CR2025 3V battery may be used in simpler devices like water meters, calculators, hearing aids, key fobs, and toys, where less power is needed.
Cost and Availability
The CR2025 and CR2032 are both widely available and relatively inexpensive. However, the CR2032 lithium battery is more commonly found in stores due to its broader use in various devices. The cost difference is minimal, with the CR2032 typically being slightly more expensive due to its higher capacity.
Selecting the correct battery for your device involves considering these distinctions to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Pros and Cons: CR2025 vs CR2032
The benefits of CR 2025 Battery
- Thinner and More Compact: The CR2025's 2.5mm thickness makes it ideal for devices with limited space.
- Lower Price: This makes them a cost-effective option for devices that do not require long battery life or high power.
- Sufficient for Low-Power Devices: The 3V coin battery CR2025 is perfect for low-power devices such as basic watches, key fobs, or toys. It provides adequate power without needing the larger, more expensive CR2032 battery.
- Wide Availability: CR 2025 batteries are commonly found in stores, and many devices that require button batteries are designed to use this size.
The limitations of CR 2025 Battery
- Shorter Battery Life: The CR2025's lifespan is shorter than that of the CR2032 due to its smaller capacity (160mAh).
- Not Ideal for High-Power Devices: It won't provide consistent performance over long periods, making it less reliable for more power-hungry applications.
- Limited Use in Certain Devices: While it fits many devices, devices requiring more power and longer battery life may not function as effectively with a CR2025 battery.
The benefits of CR 2032 Battery
- Longer Battery Life: The CR2032, with its larger capacity of 220mAh, lasts longer than the CR2025.
- Better for High-Power Devices: The CR 2032 battery performs better in devices that require a steady and higher energy output. It is commonly used in car key fobs, medical devices, and fitness trackers, providing reliable and long-lasting power.
- More Power for Extended Use: Due to its higher capacity, the CR 2032 lithium battery is suitable for devices that require extended battery life between replacements.
- Commonly Available: CR2032 batteries are also widely available. It’s easier to find replacements, and they are readily stocked in most stores.
The limitations of CR 2032 Battery
- Thicker Size: At 3.2mm, the CR2032 is thicker than the CR2025, which means it may not fit all devices.
- Slightly Higher Cost: The CR2032 lithium 3v coin battery tends to be more expensive than the CR2025, though the price difference is generally small. This can be a factor to consider if you're on a budget.
- May Be Overkill for Low-Power Devices: While the CR2032 3v button battery offers superior battery life, it may not be necessary for devices that don't require much power.
Should I Choose A CR2025 or CR2032 Battery for My Devices?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to batteries. Your choice will depend on your specific needs. Consider the following factors when deciding between CR2025 and CR2032:
- Device Requirements: Look at your device's manual to find the right type of battery. This is important for it to work well.
- Size Constraints: Consider the size of the battery compartment. If your device has limited space, the CR2025 battery is the better choice. The CR2032 is better for devices with more room.
- Power Consumption: Check how much power your device needs. If it is used a lot, use CR2032 batteries. The CR2025 is suitable for devices that don't need long-lasting power.
- Power Needs: The CR2032 battery is preferable for devices requiring consistent or higher power, such as fitness trackers or advanced remotes. The CR2025 lithium battery is better for low-energy devices like basic watches or calculators.
- Cost and Availability: The CR2025 is typically cheaper, making it a more cost-effective option for low-power devices. However, the CR2032 coin cell battery is often more widely available and suitable for devices with higher energy demands.


Quick Tips:
- Use CR2025 battery for Slim devices with low power needs, such as small toys, key fobs, and calculators.
- Use CR2032 battery for Devices that require more power and longer battery life, such as fitness trackers, car key fobs with extra functions, or medical devices.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the right battery for your specific needs, preventing unnecessary battery replacements and ensuring optimal device performance. Always check the device's manual or battery compartment to ensure compatibility before choosing.
Conclusion
When you need to choose between CR2025 and CR2032 batteries, it's important to know their similarities and differences. The CR2025 battery is a cost-effective choice for smaller, low-power devices. At the same time, the CR2032 button cell battery offers longer battery life and is better for high-power devices. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your device's size, power needs, and battery life expectations. If you are unsure which battery is right for your device, ask our expert to help you. For trustworthy battery options and more information, feel free to contact us now.
Why Choose Pkcell?
Pkcell started in 1998. It is a top battery maker in China. They produce safe, reliable, and high-quality batteries. People recognize them for their great and new power solutions. The company has a large factory that is 28,000 square meters. A team of over 50 people works on research and development there. Their high-quality batteries have been sold to customers in over 100 countries.
Pkcell cares about the quality of their products and how they are made. They follow ethical and sustainable practices. They follow strict quality checks and use safe ways to make their products. When you choose Pkcell, you get batteries that work well and meet high environmental standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CR2025 and CR2032 interchangeable?
While they are similar in size, they are not entirely interchangeable. If your device requires explicitly a CR2032 battery, using a CR2025 battery may result in improper fit or reduced performance. Always verify the battery type your device needs to avoid issues with fit or performance.
Tip: If you only have a CR 2025 and need to use it in a device designed for a CR 2032, you can make a quick fix. Fold a small piece of aluminum foil (or another metal) to fill the extra 0.7mm gap. Place it on the positive (+) side of the CR 2025, then close the battery compartment to hold everything in place. Ensure the foil makes good contact with the battery and the spring to avoid any intermittent power. While this is not the best solution, it can work to keep your device running in an emergency.
Are there any safety tips when using CR2032 and CR2025 batteries?
Store CR2025 and CR2032 batteries in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture. Never try to recharge them, as they can overheat or leak. Avoid short circuits by keeping the battery ends away from metal. Do not mix old and new batteries or different brands. Keep the battery safe from physical damage, and check for leaks or swelling regularly. Keep these batteries out of reach of children and pets to avoid choking hazards. Always dispose of used batteries properly by recycling them through local programs.
Post time: Feb-17-2025