Button Cell Size Guide: Reading CR Numbers

Button cell model numbers encode their size. In the CR series, the first two digits give the diameter in millimetres and the last two digits give the thickness in tenths of a millimetre. CR2032 is therefore 20 mm in diameter and 3.2 mm thick. CR2025 is 20 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm thick. CR2016 is 20 mm in diameter and 1.6 mm thick. All three share a diameter, but they are not interchangeable: a holder designed for a 3.2 mm cell will not close properly on a 1.6 mm cell, and a holder designed for a 1.6 mm cell cannot accept a 3.2 mm cell at all.

The same logic applies across the full CR range, from CR927 at 9.5 by 2.7 mm up to CR3032 at 30.0 by 3.2 mm. Larger diameter generally means higher capacity, and greater thickness also means higher capacity, but the exact relationship is model-specific and should be read from the table, not guessed from the number alone. Other button cell models in the source catalogue include CR927, CR1216, CR1220, CR1225, CR1616, CR1620, CR1632, CR2050, CR2320, CR2325, CR2330, CR2430 and CR3032.

Important note from the source catalogue table: capacity, size and weight for button cells are stated to be subject to the final datasheet, and must be confirmed before mass production. This guide preserves that note. When ordering button cells, confirm the model number, the thickness, whether tabs or leads are required, and the quantity. Minimum order value is USD $500, according to the company FAQ, and samples are available.

Related pages: Button Cell Batteries, CR2032, CR2025, CR2016.