LR44 vs CR2032: Which Button Battery Do You Need?

Have you been left trying to revive a dead device without success, yet searching for the ideal battery to revive it? This knowledge about true distinctions between LR44 and CR2032 can help you in saving time, money, and headache. It is the ultimate guide for understanding these batteries, their functionalities, applicability, and how to choose one.

LR44 Battery: Features and Uses

Size and Shape Specifications

The LR44 coin battery measures approximately 11.6mm in diameter by 5.4mm in height. Its small size makes it more appropriate for any small electronic equipment.

Voltage and Capacity

LR44 batteries typically provide a power of 1.5 volts and have a capacity of about 150mAh. Thus, they possess battery voltage-and-capacity features that lend themselves to extraordinarily prolonged power discharge from low-drain devices.

Typical Devices Using LR44

LR44 batteries can be found in many small electronic devices, including:

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Widely available and relatively inexpensive

Suitable for a variety of small devices

Long shelf life when stored properly

Cons:

Lower capacity compared to some other button cell batteries

May need more frequent replacement in high-drain devices

CR2032 Battery: Characteristics and Applications

Physical Dimensions

The right-wing coin-shaped lithium battery may work with a coin, with a diameter of 20mm and a thickness of 3.2mm. The size is comparatively larger than an LR44; therefore, more power lasts longer.

Power Output and Lifespan

The CR2032 battery features a nominal voltage of 3 V and an average capacity of about 225 mAh, giving it a longer functional lifespan ranging between two to five years depending on usage. They provide a steady power output, making them ideal for devices that require consistent performance over extended periods.

Popular Devices Requiring CR2032

CR2032 batteries can be found in many common electronic devices, including:

Advantages and Disadvantages

CR2032 batteries have several advantages over LR44 batteries. Notably, they’re constructed to outlive LR44 batteries over time while offering more constant power supply than ever. They’re also generally capable of holding more power and are much more widely available than the LR44.

Comparing LR44 and CR2032

Size Differences and Interchangeability

LR44 batteries are sized differently than CR2032 batteries and are generally not interchangeable with them. Most LR44 batteries measure 11.6mm in diameter by 5.4mm tall while most CR2032 batteries stand approximately 20 mm tall by 3.2mm thick – it would be wise to check all measurements of your potential replacement before trying it in your CR2032 battery as they will probably not fit.

Power and Longevity

Each battery offers 3 volts, but with differing capacities and operating lifespans. For instance, the CR2032 typically holds around 225mAh while its counterpart from LR44 has only 150mAh compared with the former’s capacity being 150mAh. Therefore, the CR2032 runs longer in the same power-consuming devices. However, the LR44’s alkaline chemistry can provide a higher initial voltage, making it suitable for devices that require a quick burst of power.

Cost Considerations

In general, LR44 batteries tend to be cheaper than CR2032 batteries. However, the price gap is usually closed with the longer life the CR2032 offers in many applications. With respect to costs, you should also take into consideration how frequently you must replace the battery in your particular device.

Environmental Impact

Both CR2032 and LR44 batteries are made from materials that can contaminate the environment in various ways if not disposed of properly, with CR2032 containing lithium and thus considered to be the one whose recycling should be prioritized. Most places have established recycling programs for button cell batteries; it is advised that either battery not be discarded in the trash with general waste. Although generally considered less dangerous, their disposal remains essential.

Conclusion

Selecting the proper button battery is critical to both its performance and longevity. While both LR44 and CR2032 batteries may look similar, their specific uses vary considerably and cannot be interchanged; typically used in small devices like wristwatches, calculators, medical equipment such as pacemakers etc while larger items typically utilize CR2032 such as key fobs, fitness trackers or computer motherboards.

Depending on the specifications of your device together with the voltage and size, select your battery of choice. Check the device manual or manufacturer’s suggestion to be assured of compatibility. By understanding what sets LR44 and CR2032 apart, it becomes much simpler to select one as the more suitable choice to keep devices functioning for longer.