Coin cell batteries are widely used in compact electronic devices, and among them, the CR1620 stands out as a reliable and commonly used lithium battery. However, users often ask: what battery is equivalent to a CR1620? Whether you're replacing a battery in a key fob, medical device, or motherboard, understanding equivalents is essential for compatibility and performance.
This guide provides a complete, technical, and practical breakdown of CR1620 battery equivalents, including specifications, use cases, and expert selection tips.
What is the CR1620 Battery
CR1620 Specifications
The CR1620 is a lithium manganese dioxide coin cell battery designed for compact, low-power devices. Its naming convention follows IEC standards:
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CR: Lithium manganese dioxide chemistry
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16: Diameter of 16 mm
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20: Thickness of 2.0 mm
Key technical specifications:
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Nominal Voltage: 3V
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Typical Capacity: 70–80 mAh
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Chemistry: Lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO₂)
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Operating Temperature: Typically -20°C to +60°C
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Weight: ~1.2 grams
The CR1620 offers stable voltage output and long shelf life (up to 10 years), making it ideal for intermittent-use electronics.
Detailed Comparison Between CR1616, CR1620, and CR1632
A common confusion arises between CR1616, CR1620, and CR1632 batteries. While they share the same diameter (16 mm), their thickness and capacity differ significantly.
| Model | Thickness | Capacity (Approx.) | Voltage | Interchangeability |
| CR1616 | 1.6 mm | ~50 mAh | 3V | Not ideal substitute |
| CR1620 | 2.0 mm | ~75 mAh | 3V | Standard reference |
| CR1632 | 3.2 mm | ~130 mAh | 3V | Too thick for most slots |
Can They Be Interchanged?
- CR1616 → CR1620: Possible in some cases, but shorter lifespan and potential loose contact
- CR1632 → CR1620: Usually not compatible due to thickness
- CR1620 → Others: Only if the device allows physical tolerance
Practical Example
If a car key fob is designed for CR1620:
- Using CR1616 may cause intermittent contact
- Using CR1632 may prevent the compartment from closing
Thus, even though voltage is identical, physical dimensions are critical.
Learn More: Cr2025 Battery vs Cr2032
Everyday Applications Using CR1620 Lithium Coin Cells
CR1620 batteries are widely adopted across industries due to their compact size and reliable performance. Common applications include:
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Car key fobs and remote entry systems: Provides consistent voltage for signal transmission.
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Medical devices: Used in glucometers, thermometers, and wearable sensors.
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CMOS batteries in motherboards: Maintains BIOS settings and system clock.
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Wearable electronics: Fitness trackers and compact smart devices.
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Small consumer electronics: Calculators, digital thermometers, and LED lights.
Because of these diverse applications, finding a proper CR1620 battery equivalent is crucial when the original model is unavailable.
The Complete CR1620 Battery Equivalent Reference Table
Key Takeaway
Although CR1620 is the IEC-standard designation, different manufacturers apply their own proprietary naming conventions to identical cells. For example, Duracell uses "DL" as a prefix, while Energizer uses "ECR." Despite the different labels, these batteries share the same dimensions, voltage, and chemistry — making them direct equivalents.
When searching for replacements, users often encounter different naming conventions depending on manufacturers. Below is a comprehensive reference table of reliable CR1620 equivalents.
| Battery Model | Manufacturer/Brand | Chemistry | Voltage | Notes |
| CR1620 | IEC Standard | Lithium | 3V | Original standard model |
| DL1620 | Duracell | Lithium | 3V | Direct equivalent |
| ECR1620 | Energizer | Lithium | 3V | Fully compatible |
| BR1620 | Panasonic | Lithium (Poly-carbon monofluoride) | 3V | Better for high-temperature environments |
| KCR1620 | KTS | Lithium | 3V | Equivalent model |
| LM1620 | Various brands | Lithium | 3V | Generic equivalent |
| 1620 | Generic | Lithium | 3V | Often labeled without prefix |
Essential Factors When Choosing Your Battery Equivalent
Not all equivalents perform identically under different conditions. Selecting the right replacement depends on your specific application.
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Operating Environment
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Standard indoor use: CR1620, DL1620, or ECR1620 work perfectly
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Extreme temperatures or industrial settings: BR1620 performs better due to its stable chemistry
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Power Consumption
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Low-drain devices (e.g., clocks, remotes): Standard CR1620 equivalents are sufficient
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High-drain or pulse applications: Choose high-quality branded cells like Duracell or Energizer
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Shelf Life Requirements
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Lithium coin cells generally offer long shelf life, but premium brands provide better reliability over time
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Manufacturer Reliability
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Trusted brands ensure:
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Stable voltage output
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Leak resistance
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Consistent performance
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Sourcing Authentic Battery Equivalents and Electronic Components
Once you know which equivalent to use, the next challenge is ensuring you're buying a genuine product. The market is flooded with counterfeit coin cell batteries that mimic brand names but fail to deliver consistent voltage or safe operation. This is where working with a verified distributor makes a measurable difference.
Why Partner with Vigor Components for Component Distribution
As one of the global top electronic component distributors, Vigor Components provides a reliable sourcing channel for both standard and hard-to-find electronic parts.
Key advantages include:
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Extensive global supply network ensuring availability of CR1620 and equivalents
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Strict quality control to prevent counterfeit components
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Support for bulk procurement across industries
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Expertise in semiconductors and power components, not just batteries
Whether you are sourcing coin cell batteries or complex electronic components, Vigor Components offers a dependable procurement solution. You can explore available inventory and sourcing options at: https://www.vigorcomp.com/products.html