Most portable systems today use lithium-ion battery types for their main power batteries. CR2032 and DL2032 both are lithium manganese dioxide batteries with a distinct coin-shaped design. Small and lightweight, these batteries integrate directly into electronic circuits and are used in a wide range of devices, including cameras, computer motherboards, watches, calculators, PDAs, toys, pet collars, sporting goods, and more. You cannot tell one apart from the other because CR2032 and DL2032 batteries look just the same. Both are 3-volt lithium coin cells with almost the same specifications but with some minor differences. We break down the difference between CR2032 and DL2032 in this article.

CR2032

The CR2032 is a common lithium-ion cell battery used in a variety of devices as their main power source. It’s a non-rechargeable coin-cell battery that utilizes lithium chemistry – manganese dioxide is the positive electrode and lithium is the negative cathode. It’s a lightweight miniature battery with a 3.2mm thickness and a diameter of 20mm, which the battery notation clearly suggests. These batteries provide a nominal voltage of 3 volts and have a typical capacity of around 220-240 mAh.

CR2032 batteries are commonly used in a wide range of devices, including watches, PDAs, motherboards, car keys, medical devices, laser pens, etc. Compared to other batteries, a CR2032 cell produces more efficient and stable power, while keeping the voltage relatively stable during the discharge cycle, making them suitable for low-power devices.

DL2032

The DL2032 is a specialized-application battery that is almost identical to the CR2032 battery. The number on the battery suggests that it has the same dimensions – 20mm diameter and a thickness of 3.2mm. While CR is the IEC prefix for lithium-ion coin batteries, DL is the prefix used by Duracell, the world’s leading manufacturer of alkaline batteries, and rechargeable and smart power systems.

The DL2032 battery is basically a CR2032 cell manufactured by Duracell. The DL designation is mainly used by brands like Duracell or sometimes, Panasonic to differentiate their products from generic brands. Such branded batteries can be found in retail stores, particularly those associated with branded products, and sell only specific brand batteries.

Difference between CR2032 and DL2032

Maker

– When it comes to lithium-ion coin batteries, it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for to make sure you have the right fit and voltage. This is the case with CR2032 and DL2032 battery cells; they both look exactly the same. The main difference lies in their maker. CR is a generic designation for lithium-ion batteries, whereas DL is a special designation used by battery maker Duracell. DL is the prefix used by Duracell to differentiate its products from generic CR batteries.

Size and Voltage

– Both CR2032 and DL2032 are basically the same, with a diameter of 20mm and a thickness of 3.2mm. Both batteries provide a nominal voltage of 3 volts with a typical capacity of around 220-240 mAh. The voltage capacity of DL2032 batteries is relatively smaller, but the difference is only marginal. The voltage remains relatively stable which makes them ideal for devices that require a constant power source.

Shelf Life

– With remarkable power-conserving properties, both batteries exhibit a longer shelf-life, typically up to 10 years. Both batteries are ideal for low-power applications, making them suitable for devices that require low power over an extended period of time. DL2032, however, being made by Duracell, has a slightly higher density and rate of discharge than CR2032 cells. DL2032 battery maintains a constant supply of power under the continuous drain, surpassing the limitations of CR2032 batteries.

Availability and Cost

– CR2032 batteries are generic batteries widely available in almost all electronics stores, convenience stores, departmental stores, or online. They are low-cost batteries, so cost-effective. DL2032 batteries, on the other hand, are branded batteries made by battery giant Duracell and can be found in branded retail stores. Because of the branding, DL2032 batteries can be slightly more expensive than the generic CR ones.

CR2032 vs. DL2032: Comparison Chart

Summary

While both CR2032 and DL2032 are lithium-ion batteries with almost the same dimensions and specifications, the difference lies in the brand. CR2032 batteries are generic batteries used in a variety of devices. They are lightweight miniature batteries with a 3.2mm thickness and a diameter of 20mm. DL2032 batteries have the exact same dimensions and voltage capacity, but the DL prefix is specifically used by the battery maker Duracell to differentiate their batteries from generic CR ones.

FAQs

Are DL2032 and CR2032 interchangeable?

Yes, both batteries are interchangeable as they have the exact same numbers on their notations. This means a DL2032 battery can be used in place of a CR2032 battery and vice-versa. The dimensions are the same, but the brand is different.

What is DL2032 battery?

DL2032 is basically a CR2032 battery made by battery maker Duracell. DL is a special designation used by Duracell to differentiate its batteries from generic CR2032 batteries.

Are all CR2032 batteries the same?

No, all CR2032 batteries are not the same. While they may have the same physical dimensions and voltage capacity, they may have different brands, voltage capacity, and overall performance. The dimensions can vary based on the cell designation.

What does CR stand for on a battery?

CR is just a generic name for all lithium-ion coin-shaped batteries – C means it’s a lithium manganese dioxide battery and R means it is round in shape.

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