CR2032 vs DL2032 Battery Review

If you've seen both CR2032 and DL2032 batteries and wondered about the difference, you're not alone. The short answer: they are the same battery with different naming conventions.

Understanding Battery Naming

CR2032 follows the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standard naming system where: C = Lithium chemistry, R = Round shape, 20 = 20mm diameter, 32 = 3.2mm thickness.

DL2032 is Duracell's proprietary naming convention for the same battery. The 'DL' prefix is Duracell's brand identifier for lithium coin cells.

Are They Interchangeable?

Yes, completely. Both batteries have identical specifications: 3V nominal voltage, 20mm diameter, 3.2mm thickness, and approximately 220mAh capacity. You can use either in any device requiring a 2032 battery.

Other Brand Names

Various manufacturers use different prefixes: ECR2032 (Energizer), BR2032 (Panasonic, slightly different chemistry), LM2032 (various brands). All 2032 variants are interchangeable except BR2032, which uses a different lithium chemistry with lower discharge rate but longer shelf life.

Quality Differences

While specifications are identical, quality can vary between manufacturers. Premium brands like Duracell, Energizer, and Panasonic typically offer better quality control and longer shelf life. Generic batteries may have shorter lifespan or inconsistent performance.

Where to Use 2032 Batteries

Common applications include: computer motherboard CMOS backup, car key fobs, watches, calculators, fitness devices, medical equipment, and various small electronics.

Buying Tips

Check the expiration date before purchasing. Lithium coin cells have a 10-year shelf life when stored properly. Buy from reputable sources to avoid counterfeit batteries, which are common with popular sizes like CR2032.