Battery 1632 Substitute Guide
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Battery 1632 Substitute Guide

Gus Edwards
2023-03-03

Looking for a CR1632 battery substitute? This guide covers compatible alternatives and what to consider when replacing your 1632 battery...

The CR1632 is a 3V lithium coin cell battery with 16mm diameter and 3.2mm thickness. When you can't find a CR1632, knowing your substitution options can save the day.

CR1632 Specifications

  • Voltage: 3V nominal
  • Diameter: 16mm
  • Thickness: 3.2mm
  • Capacity: Approximately 140mAh
  • Chemistry: Lithium Manganese Dioxide

Possible Substitutes

CR1620: Same 16mm diameter but only 2.0mm thick. It will fit but may have loose contact issues. Capacity is lower at about 80mAh, meaning shorter battery life.

CR1616: Same diameter, 1.6mm thick. Even more likely to have contact problems due to the significant thickness difference. Only 55mAh capacity.

Two CR1616 stacked: Theoretically possible but creates 3.2mm thickness at 6V—dangerous for 3V devices. Never do this.

What About CR2032?

CR2032 is often suggested but it's 20mm in diameter versus the CR1632's 16mm. It won't fit in most CR1632 compartments unless there's extra space.

Best Practices for Substitution

  1. Check device tolerance: Some devices have spring contacts that accommodate slight thickness variations
  2. Consider capacity needs: Lower capacity batteries need more frequent replacement
  3. Temporary only: Use substitutes only until you find the correct battery
  4. Never force fit: If it doesn't fit easily, don't use it

Where to Find CR1632

CR1632 batteries are less common than CR2032 but available at electronics stores, online retailers, and some pharmacies. Buying in bulk online is often the most economical option.

Alternative Naming

CR1632 may also be labeled as: DL1632 (Duracell), ECR1632 (Energizer), BR1632 (Panasonic), or KECR1632. All are interchangeable with standard CR1632.

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