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The world glorifies the CR2 lithium battery used in cameras, golf rangefinders, weapon-mounted lights, EDC flashlights, and security devices.
The term CR2 denotes a standard, cylindrical-type lithium battery. Photo batteries (such as the CR2) are generally of this type. That’s because their compact nature makes them an excellent choice for portable electronic devices.
CR2 lithium batteries are a primary cell. They cannot be recharged.
The shelf life of a CR2 battery depends on the model and the brand. For example, the Energizer brand stresses their batteries more than other manufacturers, ensuring comparative endurance under high strain.
A typical battery lasts between 3 and 10 years. This makes them excellent for standby/emergency devices like panic lights, EDC flashlights, and medical equipment.
Today’s reading will give you a better understanding of the CR2 battery and its rechargeable replacement.
CR2 Battery Chemistry
The CR2 is a 3-volt battery measuring 27mm (length) and 15.6mm (diameter). Its technology consists of lithium, alkaline, and Li-Ion. It has a super-high discharge rate because of the manganese oxide in its positive electrode and the spiral nature of its polar plate.
Additionally, the battery is equipped with a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) safety device to limit current during short circuit conditions.
| Part Number | CR2 |
| Chemical System | Lithium / Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2) |
| Typical Lithium content | 0.28 grams |
| Nominal voltage (Open circuit voltage) | 3.0V |
| Typical capacity | 800mAH (to 2.0volts, rated at 100 ohms at 21℃) |
| Nominal capacity | 850mAH |
| Continuous drain (standard discharge current) | 20mA |
| Dimensions | 15.6 mm (max diameter) 27.0 mm (max height) |
| Typical Weight | 11.0g |
| Typical volume | 5.2 cm3 |
| Temperature range | Discharge: -40℃ to 60℃ Storage: -40℃ to 75℃ |
| Maximum continuous discharge current | 1000 mA continuous (2500 mA pulse) |
| Maximum reverse charge | 2 µA |
CR2 Batteries Cross Reference Chart
CR2 batteries share several properties across several brands: low discharge rates, a nominal voltage of 3V, and a 2V cut-off voltage.
| CR2 Battery Manufacturer | Discharge Current | Cycles (On/Off testing in Secs) | Volts at Room Temperature | Capacity |
| Energizer | Continuous maximum drainage of 1000 mA, with a max pulse of 2500 mA | 400 cycles (3s/7s) 760 cycles (3s/7s) | 1.8V 1.8V | 800 mAh (down to 2V, @21℃), rating of 100 ohms. |
| Panasonic | Continuous drain of 20mA, with a max. pulse of 900 mA | 1000 cycles (3s/27s) | 1.8V | 850 mAh |
| GP2 | Continuous drain of 10mA, with a max. pulse of 900 mA | 900 cycles (3s/27s) | 1.6V | 800 mAh (down to 1.8V, @23℃) |
| Varta | Continuous drain of 20mA, with a max. pulse of 900 mA | 900 cycles (3s/27s) | 1.5V | 850 mAh (down to 2.0V, @25℃) |
Energizer stresses its batteries the most, producing a capacity of 760 mAH using 3s/7s cycles. Such a load makes the battery an excellent option in high-drain devices such as EDC flashlights and cameras.
Panasonic comes with the highest testing cycle.
Rechargeable CR2 Battery Replacement
In some instances, a few letters can be annexed to CR2 to emphasize the brand on the label. Equivalents can be 1CR2, KCR2, DLCR2, etc.
The 15270 (or RCR2) has popularly been nicknamed the “rechargeable CR2”. It is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery packaged as a single prismatic cell and configured in 1-parallel, 1-series fashion.
It has a slightly smaller dimension (15 by 26.6mm) compared to primary CR2 models. It can be charged many times over without a “lazy battery effect.”
Other technical properties include:
- Nominal voltage: 3.7V
- Nominal capacity: 450mAh
- Constant discharge current: Standard: 0.2C, continuous: 1C
- Working temperature: on charge: 0 to 45℃; discharge: -20 to 60℃
- Cell weight: approx. 20g
15270 Chemistries
| Type/Label | Chemistry | Nominal Voltage (per cell) | Charging Voltage | Other Notes |
| IMR 15270 | Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn2O4) | 3.6 to 3.7V | 4.2V | Used for high drain devices (10-20C). Deliver large currents. |
| INR 15270 | Lithium Manganese Nickel (LiNiMnCoO2) | 3.6 to 3.7V | 4.2V | Slightly lower capacities, but still deliver large currents. |
| IFR 15270 | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) | 3.2 to 3.3V | 3.5 to 3.6V | They are the safest. |
| ICR 15270 | Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2) | 3.6 to 3.7V | 4.2V | High capacities, but draw a limited current amount. |
The Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn2O4) and the Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistries are the most common.
The 15270 comes with a built-in Battery Management System (BMS) that protects the battery from overheating and overcharging. Consequently, a “protected” 15270 has a capacity in the range of 400-600 mAh.
Full compatibility between the non-rechargeable CR2 and the 15270 is achieved through a BMS that lowers the output voltage to 3.0V.
Reputationally, rechargeable 15270s last longer, provide value for money and outperform their primary CR2 counterpart.
We Will Provide the Replacement You Need
The CR2 battery is a go-to choice for your devices. Its remarkable shelf life is ideal for your torch, camera, and other portables. Its rechargeable counterpart, the 15270, is tailored to provide a more extended battery service and keep operating costs low.
HBPlus Battery Specialists is here to help you get the ideal CR2 battery you need. You could filter our wide assortment from over 10 manufactures, including Duracell, Panasonic, and Energizer. The product ratings are clear.
The Energizer CR2 Lithium 3V Camera Battery is among our most popular options perfectly fitted for your camera. It’s a “pack of 1”, sold as a single unit.
We have a vast range of other CR2 replacements as well, including the Procell CR2 Lithium (pack of 12) and the Trustfire CR2(15270) 3V Li-ion battery, which is rechargeable.
It takes an average of one day to deliver your order within the Melbourne area. However, should you need goods delivery information for other places, call us today.
CR2 Batteries
View Our CR2 Battery Replacements For Sale
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Energizer 123 the Same As CR2?
No, it’s not.
The Energizer 123 (or the CR123) battery is 34.5mm long compared to the CR2, which is only 27mm in length. This makes them differ; therefore, the CR123 cannot replace the CR2, even though both claim a voltage of 3V.
What Are Some Safety Precautions To Take While Using the CR2 Battery?
- Batteries come with an explosion-resistant construction. However, special instructions need to be considered owing to the explosive nature of lithium metal and organic electrolytes within the product packaging.
- Do not throw the batteries into fire. They’re prone to ignition.
- Do not charge.
- Do not short circuit.
- Do not disassemble.
- Keep batteries away from high temperatures, including direct sunlight. The recommended storage temperature is 30℃. Avoid temperatures above 45℃. Also, temperatures below -40℃ deform the plastic parts and may result in leakage.
- Avoid storing the batteries in high humidity. Storage humidity should not exceed 70% to prevent self-discharge due to corrosion or decrease in insulation.
- Keep batteries out of reach of small children. Consult a physician immediately if a child swallows a battery.
- Do not mix old and new batteries, or batteries of different series.
- Do not connect negative and positive electrodes with a wire. Avoid carrying batteries together with metallic objects such as necklaces, coins, etc.
- Never wash the battery with an ultrasonic wave washer.
- Always adhere to the directions on the pack for safe usage.
What Warnings Should I Consider While Using Lithium Batteries Such As Lithium-Ion 15270?
- Fully charge the battery before initial use
- Charge the battery often, using high-quality chargers. Do not leave it unattended when charging.
- Avoid storing your Li-ion in a fully charged state for extended periods.
- Store it in a cool, dry place away from heat.
- Gently insert a Li-ion battery. Don’t use force.
