A quick search for batteries to power smaller devices will most commonly yield the CR2025 vs. CR2032 batteries.
They are reliable power sources with long shelf life and may last more than six months under regular use.
Moreover, the two are similar in design and applications. You may find it hard to differentiate the batteries without paying closer attention.
But are they the same battery? Do they use the same technology? What makes them different?
In today’s article, we answer most questions you have while looking at CR2025 vs. CR2032 batteries. Read on.
Table of Contents
- What Is a CR2025 Battery?
- What Is a CR2032 Battery?
- CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Technical Specifications
- CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Differences
- CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Similar Features
- CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Applications
- Can I Use a CR2025 Battery Instead of a CR2032?
- Factors to Consider When Using CR2032 Instead Of CR2025
- FAQs
- Final Remarks
What Is a CR2025 Battery?
(A computer mechanic holding a CR2025 battery)
A CR2025 non-rechargeable battery is a lithium coin cell with 20mm in diameter and 2.5mm in thickness.
Generally, the “CR” in CR2025 denotes lithium manganese dioxide chemistry. The battery features significantly in tiny electronic devices that need a long-lasting power source.
Such include watches and certain medical equipment in hospitals.
Furthermore, the CR2025 battery provides consistent power for a long time. It supplies 3 volts and a capacity of around 160 milliampere-hours (mAh).
Moreover, you can use it as an alternative to coin cell battery types with comparable sizes, like the CR2016 and CR2032.
What Is a CR2032 Battery?
(CR2032 image)
A CR2032 non-rechargeable battery is a lithium coin cell with a diameter of 20 mm and 3.2 mm, respectively. Surprisingly, it’s very much similar to the CR2025 battery, other than it is thicker and has a greater nominal capacity.
Additionally, it is compact with a higher capacity than most other batteries of similar size. Consequently, it has a broader range of applications in devices that need longer-lasting batteries.
CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Technical Specifications
| Features | CR2025 | CR2032 |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.0 V | 3.0 V |
| Capacity | 160 mAh | 220 mAh |
| Operating Temperature | -30℃ to 70℃ | –20℃ to +85℃ |
| Discharge Current | 0.2 mA | 0.2 mA |
| Diameter | 20 mm | 20 mm |
| Height | 2.5 mm | 3.2 mm |
CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Differences
(Watch using CR2025 and CR2032 batteries)
Although the CR2025 and CR2032 batteries have close ties, they’re still different in certain aspects. Check out some differences that you need to consider when purchasing either.
Capacity
The CR2025 battery is smaller than the CR2032 battery and has a lesser capacity of around 160mAh. Comparatively, the CR2032 battery has a capacity of around 220mAh.
Thickness
The CR2032 battery is thicker than the CR2025 battery. Surprisingly, it has a thickness of 3.2mm and would likely not fit into a CR2025’s battery compartment.
Conversely, the CR2025 has a smaller thickness of 2.5 mm. Similarly, it wouldn’t fit and sits lower in a CR2032 battery compartment.
Usage
Generally, you can use both batteries interchangeably to power your smaller electronic devices. However, the difference comes when you want to use them in power-consuming devices.
In such a case, we primarily use the CR2032 in applications that draw current for longer.
CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Similar Features
Generally, the CR2025 and CR2032 batteries appear similar at face value. Additionally, the two batteries offer 3V to power devices. Furthermore, their battery composition is Lithium which offers a high energy density and long shelf life.
Notably, the batteries share a diameter of 20mm. Surprisingly, both batteries have a long life span and can serve you for 5 to 10 years.
CR2025 and CR2032 Batteries: Applications
CR2025 Applications
The CR2025 and the CR2032 batteries have many applications across the electronics world. We generally use them to power small electronic devices that need consistent power. Here are some areas in which you can use the CR2025 batteries.
- Powering automotive devices and features like keyless entry fobs
- Internet of Things (IoT) to power sensors and tracking devices
- Medical apparatus like thermometers
- Electronic price tags
- Home electrical appliances
- Electrical toys
CR2025 vs. CR2032 Batteries: CR2032 Applications
(An electronic motherboard)
The CR2032 batteries’ ability to deliver 3V consistently makes them ideal for most small devices. More so for devices relying on non-rechargeable power sources.
Most users employ them in applications requiring a longer life than the CR2025 battery.
Here are some areas that use the battery.
- Electronic motherboards
- Banking-card readers
- Car remote controls
- Electrical toys
- Medical devices
Can I Use a CR2025 Battery Instead of a CR2032?
Yes, you can use the CR2025 battery instead of the CR2032. Surprisingly, both batteries have the same diameter and thus will fit into the other’s compartment.
However, the CR2025 has a smaller capacity, meaning you’ll have to replace it more often. Additionally, the differences in thickness mean that the batteries may not touch the device contacts.
Unfortunately, a CR2025 battery is small and not designed to touch a CR2032 battery compartment contacts.
Consequently, the connection will be loose, and your device may malfunction. Remember, you must use the correct battery size as the manufacturer recommends.
If you’re in doubt, consult the user’s manual or the manufacturer for advice.
Factors to Consider When Using CR2032 Instead Of CR2025
(Different types of batteries)
If you’re considering replacing the CR2025 with a CR2032 battery, ensure both deliver the nominal 3 volts. Additionally, ensure the replacement provides a similar 0.2mA current to power your device correctly.
Lastly, consider the current drawing and task at hand. In other words, the CR2032 has greater current capacity and lasts longer than the CR2025. If you want a longer-lasting battery, then go for the CR2032.
FAQs
Are CR2025 and CR2032 the same?
No! The CR2025 and the CR2032 are not the same batteries. First, the CR2025 is smaller, with a diameter of 20mm and a thickness of 25mm.
Surprisingly, the CR2032 is bigger, with a 20mm diameter and a 32mm thickness. Additionally, the CR2025 batteries have a capacity of 170 to 190 milliampere-hours (mAh). Conversely, the CR2032 batteries last longer with a capacity of 220 to 240 mAh.
Are CR2025 and CR2032 batteries interchangeable?
Yes! Even though the batteries have different thicknesses and capacities. The CR2032 battery is thicker than the CR2025, meaning the latter may not fit properly in the compartment. Consequently, it will fail to power your device since it may not be in connection with the battery contacts. However, replacing a CR2025 battery with a CR2032 battery will put additional pressure on the contacts. Such will ultimately damage your device.
How Long Do CR2025 Batteries Last?
The lifespan of a CR2025 battery depends on its usage and storage conditions. But generally, these batteries last anywhere from 4 to 6 months while under normal usage.
The more you use the battery or, the higher the current draw, the less it lasts. Surprisingly, a more power-intensive device will drain a CR2025 battery faster than a less power-intensive one.
Which battery between CR2025 and CR2032 lasts longer?
Theoretically, the CR2032 battery should last longer than a CR2025 battery. Generally, the CR2032 battery has a higher capacity and lasts longer when you power a device.
However, you should note that the lifespan of either battery depends on its usage. If you use a CR2032 more, expect it to last less than the CR2025.
Final Remarks
Most battery manufacturers make CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. Therefore, some features may vary slightly from one battery to the other. These include the nominal capacity and, to a lesser extent, the current discharge.
Moreover, if you’re replacing a battery, ensure that you stick with the one recommended by the manufacturer. Surprisingly, you may damage your device if you fail to follow the instructions.
Lastly, comment below, and we’ll reply as soon as possible.