Guide to CR1620 Battery Performance and Comparisons

A CR1620 battery is a small coin cell battery used in devices like watches, calculators, and keyless entry systems. The "CR" stands for lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO2) chemistry. The "1620" indicates the battery's size: 16 mm in diameter and 2.0 mm in height. The CR1620 battery is an important part of modern small electronics for its design and strong performance. This article looks at the details of the CR1620 battery, such as its size, thickness, voltage, and capacity, to understand why it is a top choice for reliable and long-lasting devices. It also compares the CR1620 with other batteries like VL1620, BR1620, LiR1620, ML1620, CR1616, and CR1632 to show its unique advantages. Through technical evaluations and comparisons, this article explains why the CR1620 is a great fit for enhancing the functionality and efficiency of various electronic devices.

Catalog

Figure 1: CR1620 Battery

Features and Specifications of CR1620 Battery

• Diameter: 16.0 mm

• Thickness: 2.0 mm

• Voltage: 3 volts

• Capacity: About 70 mAh, but it can differ a bit based on the maker and the exact battery type.

• Chemistry: Lithium/Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2), a popular choice for coin cell batteries because it's stable and offers a consistent voltage.

Figure 2: CR1620 Battery Diameter

Voltage, Capacity, Discharge Rate and Shelf Life of CR1620 Battery

Characteristic	Details
Voltage
Standard Voltage	3 volts (nominal), standard for lithium coin cells using lithium as the anode
Operating Voltage Range	Starts at 3.2 volts when fully charged, drops to around 2 volts as the battery depletes
Capacity
Nominal Capacity	70 to 100 milliampere-hours (mAh)
Factors Affecting Capacity	Discharge current, energy demands of the device, operating temperature, and battery age
Discharge Rate
Standard Discharge Current	Discharge current is around 0.1 mA
Pulse Discharge	For devices needing short bursts of higher power, such as RF transmissions in fobs, the battery can handle pulse discharges at higher currents, often reaching a few milliamperes.
Shelf Life	Up to 10 years

Chemical Composition of CR1620 Battery

Cathode (Positive Electrode)

Material: Manganese dioxide (MnO2)

Function: Accepts electrons during discharge, acting as the oxidizing agent.

Characteristics: Provides stable voltage and high energy density.

Anode (Negative Electrode)

Material: Lithium metal (Li)

Function: Donates electrons during discharge, acting as the reducing agent.

Characteristics: Lightweight with high electrochemical potential and contributing to the battery's high energy density.

Electrolyte

Material: Organic solvent with dissolved lithium salt, such as lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) in propylene carbonate (PC) and 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME).

Function: Facilitates lithium ion movement between the cathode and anode during charge and discharge.

Characteristics: Maintains ionic conductivity and stability across a wide temperature range.

Separator

Material: Microporous polyethylene or polypropylene film.

Function: Prevents direct contact between the anode and cathode to avoid short circuits while allowing ion flow.

Characteristics: Doesn't react chemically and strong enough to handle inside pressures.

Housing

Material: Stainless steel.

Function: Encases the internal components, providing structural integrity and external protection.

Characteristics: Corrosion-resistant and durable.

Figure 3: 2Chemical Composition of CR1620 Battery

Comparison with Similar Batteries: VL1620, BR1620, LiR1620 and ML1620

Figure 4: CR1620 Battery

VL1620 vs. CR1620

The VL1620 battery can be used in place of the CR1620 battery because they both have the same voltage.

Feature	CR1620	VL1620
Chemistry	Lithium manganese dioxide	Lithium vanadium pentoxide
Voltage	3 volts	3 volts
Capacity	70 to 80 mAh	20 to 30 mAh
Rechargeability	Non-rechargeable	Rechargeable
Applications	Watches, calculators, small electronic devices	Backup power for memory, real-time clocks in electronics
Cost and Availability	Easier to find and cheaper due to disposable nature	Less commonly found, specific applications and rechargeable design
Shelf Life and Stability	10 years or more. Very stable under a wide range of environmental conditions	5 to 10 years (depends on manufacturer and storage conditions). Good stability under normal usage conditions

BR1620 vs. CR1620

Feature	CR1620	BR1620
Chemistry	Lithium manganese dioxide	Carbon monofluoride lithium
Voltage	3 volts	3 volts, may work at slightly lower voltage
Capacity	70 to 80 mAh	65 to 70 mAh, depends on maker and model
Rechargeability	Non-rechargeable	Non-rechargeable or one-time use
Operating Temperature	Works in varied, but slightly narrower, temperatures	Works in wider and extreme temperatures
Cost and Availability	Cheaper, used more often. Easier to find in stores and online	A bit more expensive, used less often. Harder to find, sold by special shops or online
Shelf Life and Stability	Higher energy and stable in many conditions	More stable over its life, especially in heat

LiR1620 vs. CR1620

Figure 5: LiR1620 Battery

Chemistry

CR1620: This is a non-rechargeable lithium manganese dioxide (Li/MnO2) battery. It provides stable voltage and has a high energy density, usually around 3 volts.

LiR1620: This is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It also offers 3 volts but can be recharged multiple times.

Performance and Voltage

CR1620: It delivers a consistent 3 volts until it’s almost empty. The voltage stays steady throughout the battery’s life until it drops suddenly when it's nearly used up.

LiR1620: It provides about 3 volts. However, the voltage might vary slightly depending on the charge level since it’s rechargeable.

Capacity and Longevity

CR1620: These batteries have a higher initial capacity, around 70 to 100 milliampere-hours (mAh).

LiR1620: The capacity is lower, around 40 to 70 mAh, but the ability to recharge extends its useful life.

Rechargeability and Self-Discharge Rates

CR1620: Not rechargeable and must be replaced once it’s used up. Very low, losing only about 1% per year, making it good for long-term use without frequent replacements.

LiR1620: Can be recharged up to 500 times, good for devices that are used a lot and where changing batteries often is inconvenient. Loses about 2-3% of its charge per month, though battery technology improvements help reduce this for long-term storage.

Cost

CR1620: Cheaper per unit but might cost more over time due to frequent replacements.

LiR1620: More expensive but can be cheaper in the long run if used in devices that need frequent battery changes and recharging.

Applications

CR1620: Great for devices needing long shelf life and stable voltage with low power use over a long time, like watches, calculators, and memory backup systems.

LiR1620: Great for devices that are used often and can be easily recharged, such as Bluetooth trackers, small medical devices, and wearable electronics.

ML1620 vs. CR1620

Chemistry

ML1620: The "ML" indicates it is made of manganese and lithium. Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO₂)

CR1620: The "CR" means it uses lithium manganese dioxide. Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO₂)

Voltage

Both ML1620 and CR1620 batteries have a nominal voltage of about 3 volts.

Capacity

CR1620: These batteries have a capacity of 70 to 100 milliamp hours (mAh).

ML1620: Rechargeable batteries like these have a lower capacity because the recharge mechanism takes up space.

Rechargeability

ML1620: Can be recharged many times.

CR1620: Designed for single-use and cannot be recharged.

Lifespan and Performance

CR1620: Has a longer single-use life with stable output over time.

ML1620: Can be recharged but may have reduced capacity after many recharges.

Discharge Rate

CR1620: Ideal for low-drain devices and maintaining stable voltage for a long time. Not suitable for high-drain situations.

ML1620: Can handle higher discharge rates better than non-rechargeable ones and delivering higher bursts of power when required. Suitable for devices with varying power needs.

Comparison of Close Alternatives: CR1616 and CR1632

Figure 6: CR1616 Battery

CR1616 vs. CR1620

Battery Type	Diameter (mm)	Thickness (mm)	Capacity (mAh)
CR1616	16	1.6	50-55
CR1620	16	2.0	70-100

Firstly, the CR1620 is thicker than the CR1616, providing more internal volume. This extra volume allows the CR1620 to have a higher capacity than the CR1616.

In terms of battery capacity, CR1620 battery has a higher capacity than the CR1616 battery. This means the CR1620 can last longer and keep devices like digital watches and car keys powered for a longer time.

In terms of voltage, both batteries provide 3 volts. The main difference is how long they last because of their capacity.

In terms of size fit, both batteries have the same diameter, but the CR1620 is thicker. Devices made for the thinner CR1616 might not fit the thicker CR1620. Using a CR1616 in a device made for a CR1620 might make the battery fit loosely.

CR1632 vs. CR1620

Feature	CR1632	CR1620
Diameter	16 mm	16 mm
Thickness	3.2 mm	2.0 mm
Voltage	3 volts	3 volts
Capacity	130-140 mAh	70-78 mAh

Devices designed for a CR1620 may not accommodate the thicker CR1632 and can cause the battery compartment to not close properly or put stress on internal components. Using a CR1620 in a slot designed for a CR1632 might result in a loose fit, leading to unreliable connections and intermittent power issues.

The CR1632 battery has a bigger capacity, making it good for devices that need more power and last longer like high-end digital watches or fitness trackers. The CR1620 battery is a bit thinner and is used in small devices where space is tight like slim remote controls or compact medical devices.

Due to the size differences, it’s important to use the battery specified by the device manufacturer. Using a CR1620 in a device designed for a CR1632 can cause poor contact and unreliable power. Using a CR1632 in a device meant for a CR1620 can cause mechanical strain or prevent the battery compartment from closing properly.

Figure 7: CR1632 Battery

CR1620 Battery Safety Issues

The primary danger of CR1620 batteries is swallowing them. Their small size and shiny appearance attract children and pets. Ingesting these batteries can cause serious injuries or even death. The battery’s electrical charge can cause a chemical reaction that burns through body tissues leading to severe internal injuries within hours.

To reduce risks, manufacturers and regulators have developed safer packaging. Some packages have dual-release mechanisms or need extra strength or coordination to open and making them difficult for young children to access.

Conclusion

The CR1620 battery is a great example of advanced design and practical use in small electronic devices. It offers steady voltage, high energy, and long shelf life, showing its quality and versatility in many uses. Comparing it with batteries like the VL1620, BR1620, LiR1620, ML1620, CR1616, and CR1632 highlights its cost-effectiveness, availability, and non-rechargeable nature, making it a reliable choice for both buyers and manufacturers. As technology grows, the CR1620 proves the importance of dependable power sources in portable electronics, emphasizing how detailed battery comparisons help guide consumer decisions and technological progress.

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ]

1. Can I replace a CR1620 battery with a CR1632?

No, you cannot replace a CR1620 battery with a CR1632. Although both are 3V lithium coin cells, the CR1632 is thicker (3.2 mm) compared to the CR1620 (2.0 mm). This difference in thickness could prevent the battery compartment from closing properly, and there might be issues with electrical contact.

2. Is CR1620 the same as CR2032?

No, the CR1620 and CR2032 batteries are not interchangeable. The CR2032 battery is both wider and thicker (20 mm in diameter and 3.2 mm thick) compared to the CR1620 (16 mm in diameter and 2.0 mm thick). Their physical dimensions differ, meaning they cannot be used interchangeably without modification or risk of damage to the device.

3. Is CR1616 the same as CR1620?

No, the CR1616 and CR1620 are not the same. While both batteries have the same diameter of 16 mm, they differ in thickness: the CR1616 is 1.6 mm thick, and the CR1620 is 2.0 mm thick. This small difference in size changes how they fit in devices, so they can't be swapped with each other.

4. Is a CR1620 battery the same as CR2016?

No, a CR1620 battery is not the same as a CR2016. Even though both batteries are 20 mm wide, the CR1620 is 2.0 mm thick, and the CR2016 is 1.6 mm thick. Because of their different thicknesses, they might not fit properly in devices that need an exact size.

5. What devices use the 1620 battery?

The CR1620 battery is often used in small electronic devices that need a compact and long-lasting power source. It is commonly found in calculators, car and garage remote controls, digital thermometers, heart rate monitors, small toys, and portable gadgets. Its small size is perfect for devices that need a thin battery to save space and still work reliably.