The CR1616 is a small, 3-volt lithium coin battery often used in watches, car remotes, calculators, fitness trackers, and medical devices. It’s thin, lightweight, and reliable, making it perfect for electronics that need steady power without frequent replacement. This article outlines the main specifications, safe usage guidelines, storage tips, and recommendations for selecting the correct CR1616 for your device.
CR1616 Overview
A CR1616 battery is a compact, non-rechargeable lithium coin cell designed for small electronic devices that require stable and long-lasting power. With a diameter of 16 mm and a thickness of 1.6 mm, its “1616” designation reflects its dimensions. This battery delivers a nominal voltage of 3 volts with a capacity of 50–60 mAh, making it best for low-drain applications where reliability is required. Devices such as wristwatches, calculators, car key fobs, medical sensors, and fitness trackers rely on CR1616 batteries due to their slim profile and dependable performance. Thanks to lithium chemistry, these cells offer consistent output, excellent shelf life, and enhanced resistance to leakage, ensuring durability and safety in everyday use.
CR1616 Technical Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemistry | Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO₂) |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.0 V |
| Size Code | CR1616 |
| Dimensions | 16 mm diameter × 1.6 mm height |
| Capacity | 50–60 mAh (brand/model dependent) |
| Weight | \~1.1–1.3 g |
| Type | Primary (non-rechargeable) |
CR1616 Operating and Storage Conditions
| Condition | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | –20 °C to +60 °C |
| Extended Range | Some brands: –30 °C to +70 °C / up to +85 °C |
| Storage Temperature | –10 °C to +45 °C recommended |
| Shelf Life | 8–10 years in sealed packaging |
CR1616 Battery Equivalents and Cross References
| Code | Brand/Notes | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DL1616 | Duracell | Same size/voltage as CR1616 |
| ECR1616 | Energizer | Equivalent CR type |
| BR1616 | Panasonic, others | Different chemistry (CFx variant) |
| LM1616 | Maxell | Direct replacement |
| KCR1616 | Kodak | Equivalent replacement |
|5021LC, 280-209, L11, L28 | Catalog codes|Used in industry listings/catalogs |
Comparison: CR1616 vs. BR1616
• CR1616 and BR1616 batteries share the same dimensions (16 × 1.6 mm) and nominal 3V output, but they are built with different chemistries, which affects their performance and ideal applications. Picking the correct type is basic for both device safety and efficiency.
• CR1616 (Lithium Manganese Dioxide, Li/MnO₂): Best suited for high pulse loads such as car key fobs, RF transmitters, watches with alarms, and fitness trackers. Provides stronger current bursts, making it the go-to option for most consumer electronics.
CR1616 Different Applications
Watches and Timepieces
CR1616 batteries are commonly used in slim wristwatches and digital timepieces due to their compact size and long-lasting reliability. They provide a stable voltage that ensures accurate timekeeping without frequent replacements.
Car Key Fobs and Remote Controls
Many car remotes, garage door openers, and RF transmitters rely on CR1616 cells. Their ability to handle quick, high-pulse loads makes them best suited for reliable remote activation.
Calculators and Small Electronics
CR1616 batteries power lightweight electronics like calculators, small toys, and compact handheld devices, where low-drain, long-lasting energy is needed.
Fitness Trackers and Wearables
Due to their thin profile and dependable performance, CR1616 cells are used in fitness trackers, step counters, and wearable sensors that need compact power sources.
Medical Devices
Some portable medical devices, such as glucose meters or monitoring sensors, integrate CR1616 batteries to ensure accurate, stable operation without frequent replacement.
Backup Power for Memory and RTC
Certain devices use CR1616 cells as a backup power source for memory retention or real-time clocks (RTC), ensuring stored data is not lost during power interruptions.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
• Turn off the device or safely remove it from the circuit before starting.
• Take note of the “+” polarity marking on the old battery to ensure correct orientation later.
• Inspect and clean the battery compartment using a dry, lint-free cloth; avoid liquids or solvents that could damage electronics.
• Insert the new CR1616 coin cell with the positive “+” side facing up, matching the original orientation.
• Reassemble the device carefully and power it on to confirm proper operation.
• For car key fobs or smart remotes, check if re-pairing with the vehicle is required after replacement.
Safety Precautions While Using CR1616 Batteries
Keep Out of Reach of Children
CR1616 coin cells are small and pose a choking hazard. Accidental ingestion can cause serious internal burns, so always store them safely away from children and pets.
Avoid Short-Circuiting
Do not carry CR1616 batteries loose in your pocket or with metal objects, as this can cause short circuits, overheating, or fire.
Insert with Correct Polarity
Always align the + (positive) and – (negative) sides according to the device markings. Incorrect insertion may damage the device or cause battery leakage.
Do Not Recharge
CR1616 is a non-rechargeable lithium coin cell. Attempting to recharge it may lead to leakage, overheating, or explosion.
Prevent Overheating and Fire
Never expose CR1616 batteries to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or fire. Heat can cause them to rupture or explode.
Avoid Mixing Old and New Batteries
Do not use CR1616 cells of different brands, ages, or charge levels together. This imbalance can lead to leakage, reduced performance, or safety risks.
Handle Leaks with Care
If a CR1616 battery leaks, avoid direct skin or eye contact with the electrolyte. Wash immediately with water and seek medical help if irritation occurs.
Dispose Properly
Do not throw CR1616 cells into regular trash or fire. Recycle them according to local regulations at a designated battery disposal facility.
Shelf Life and Proper Storage of CR1616 Batteries
8–10 Years Shelf Life
A CR1616 lithium coin cell has a shelf life of 8 to 10 years, depending on the brand and manufacturing quality. This long lifespan is due to its stable lithium chemistry and hermetically sealed casing, which helps minimize energy loss during storage.
Low Self-Discharge Rate
CR1616 batteries discharge very slowly when not in use, about 1–2% per year at room temperature (20–25°C). This means they can remain reliable for years if kept under the right conditions, making them best for backup power in devices like watches, car remotes, and medical instruments.
Store in Original Packaging
Always store CR1616 batteries in their sealed blister packaging until needed. The packaging protects them from moisture, static electricity, and accidental short-circuits that could reduce their effectiveness.
Avoid Heat, Humidity, and Sunlight
Extreme temperatures and moisture can shorten battery life or cause leaks. Keep CR1616 cells in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heaters, or humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms.
Bulk Storage & Stock Rotation
For businesses or heavy users storing large quantities, use the FEFO method (First-Expire, First-Out). This ensures older batteries are used before newer ones, preventing waste and ensuring devices always run on the freshest possible cells.
Choosing the Right CR1616 Battery
Trusted Brands
Stick with reliable names like Panasonic, Duracell, Energizer, Maxell, Sony, Renata, or GP for consistent performance. These brands offer better safety, longer shelf life, and more stable output.
Check Date Codes
Avoid expired or near-expiry stock. Fresh batteries guarantee the longest usable life in your devices.
Sealed Packaging
Buy only sealed blister packs to prevent moisture, damage, or short circuits. Loose packaging may indicate tampering or poor storage.
Certifications
For bulk or international shipping, ensure the batteries comply with the RoHS and UN38.3 standards. Certified products reduce risks during transport and ensure regulatory approval.
Conclusion
The CR1616 is a compact 3V lithium coin cell widely used in small electronics. With stable output, long shelf life, and reliable performance, it supports devices like watches, key fobs, calculators, wearables, and medical sensors. Proper storage, correct handling, and safe disposal ensure both longevity and safety in everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the difference between CR1616 and CR2032?
CR1616 is 16×1.6 mm with 50–60 mAh capacity. CR2032 is 20×3.2 mm with 200–240 mAh. They are not interchangeable due to size.
Q2. Can CR1616 batteries work in extreme temperatures?
Yes. They operate from –20 °C to +60 °C. Some brands extend the range to –30 °C and +85 °C.
Q3. Why do some devices need BR1616 instead of CR1616?
BR1616 offers stable, long-term power for memory backup and clocks, while CR1616 handles high-pulse loads better.
Q4. Is CR1616 safe for medical devices?
Yes, when sourced from trusted brands. Medical-grade cells ensure reliability and safety.
Q5. How can I tell if my CR1616 battery is low?
Common signs are dim displays, weak remote signals, slow response, or device shutdown.
Q6. What are the risks of fake CR1616 batteries?
Counterfeits may leak, overheat, or fail early. Always buy sealed, certified products from trusted brands.