Maxell CR2032 3V Lithium Coin Cell

The Maxell CR2032 is a widely used 3V lithium coin cell for compact electronics that need long, stable power. It is a non‑rechargeable (primary) Li‑MnO2 cell with a typical capacity around 220 mAh.

At a glance

• Size: 20 mm diameter x 3.2 mm height (IEC: CR2032)
• Chemistry: Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li‑MnO2)
• Nominal voltage: 3 V
• Typical capacity: ~220 mAh (at low drain, to 2.0 V cutoff)
• Operating temperature: −20°C to +60°C
• Shelf life: up to 10 years when stored unopened at room temperature
• Not rechargeable; single‑use only

When to choose this battery

Use if

• Your device specifically calls for CR2032 (e.g., car key fobs, bike computers, kitchen scales, heart‑rate chest straps, remote controls, PC CMOS/BIOS backup, small sensors).
• You need longer runtime than thinner 20 mm cells (CR2025/CR2016).
• The device is low‑to‑moderate drain and used intermittently or in standby.

Avoid if

• Your device requires a different size (CR2025 or CR2016) or a rechargeable battery.
• The product is high‑drain/continuous transmit where rechargeable Li‑ion is recommended.
• You’re powering most hearing aids (these typically use zinc‑air sizes 10/13/312/675, not CR2032).

Typical runtimes (real‑world examples)

Actual life depends on device current draw, temperature, and usage. These ranges are common for healthy devices:

Device	Estimated life
Car key fob/remote	1–3 years
PC CMOS/BIOS backup	3–7 years
Bike computer/heart‑rate strap	6–12 months
Kitchen scale/remote thermometer	1–2 years
LED puck light (intermittent)	3–12 months

Compatibility and equivalents

Size and fit

CR2032 is thicker than CR2025 and CR2016. Devices designed for CR2032 typically require its 3.2 mm thickness for proper contact and capacity. Do not stack thinner cells to substitute a CR2032—this is unsafe.

Cross‑reference codes

• IEC: CR2032
• Common equivalents: DL2032, ECR2032, KCR2032, 5004LC (check device manual for allowed equivalents)

CR2032 vs CR2025 vs CR2016

Type	Size (mm)	Typical capacity	Notes
CR2016	20 x 1.6	80–100 mAh	Very thin, shortest runtime
CR2025	20 x 2.5	150–170 mAh	Mid‑thickness, common in slim remotes
CR2032	20 x 3.2	200–240 mAh	Longest runtime among 20 mm cells

Replacement steps (2–5 minutes)

1. Power off the device if possible. Have a non‑metallic spudger or small screwdriver ready.
2. Open the battery cover; note orientation/polarity (+ usually faces up).
3. Remove the old cell without shorting the contacts.
4. Insert a new Maxell CR2032 with the same polarity. Do not touch both faces with metal tools.
5. Close the cover and test the device. Re‑pair key fobs or reset time if required.

Storage and recycling

• Store in original packaging, cool and dry, away from metal objects to prevent shorting.
• Avoid freezing or high heat. Room temperature storage preserves shelf life.
• Recycle at battery collection points; tape the battery faces before disposal to prevent short circuits.

Safety notes

• Button/coin cells are a serious ingestion hazard. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• If swallowed or inserted into the nose/ears, seek immediate medical attention—do not wait.
• Do not recharge, crush, puncture, or incinerate.

FAQ

Is a CR2032 rechargeable?

No. CR2032 is a primary lithium cell. Do not attempt to recharge it. Rechargeable look‑alikes are labeled LIR2032 and require specific chargers and devices.

Can I use a CR2025 in place of a CR2032?

Only if the device explicitly allows it. A CR2025 is thinner and has less capacity; it may make poor contact or deliver shorter life. Never stack two thinner cells to match thickness.

How long will a CR2032 last in a computer motherboard?

Typically 3–7 years, depending on the board’s standby current, temperature, and storage time before installation.

Are different brands of CR2032 interchangeable?

Yes, if they meet the CR2032 spec. Performance can vary by capacity and quality control, but the size and voltage are standardized. Always buy from reputable sources to avoid counterfeits.

What devices commonly use CR2032?

Car remotes, bike computers, heart‑rate straps, bathroom/kitchen scales, small remotes, digital thermometers, and PC CMOS/RTC backup.