Today, the primary power source for most portable systems is the lithium-ion battery type. CR2032 and DL2032 share the commonality of being lithium manganese dioxide batteries, featuring a distinctive coin-shaped design. Compact and lightweight, these batteries seamlessly integrate into electronic circuits and find applications in various devices such as cameras, computer motherboards, watches, calculators, PDAs, toys, pet collars, sporting goods, and more. Distinguishing between CR2032 and DL2032 is challenging as they exhibit identical appearances. Both are 3-volt lithium coin cells, boasting nearly identical specifications but with subtle differences. This article delves into the nuances that set CR2032 and DL2032 apart.
What is CR2032?
The CR2032 serves as a prevalent lithium-ion cell battery, serving as the primary power source for numerous devices. This non-rechargeable coin-cell battery employs lithium chemistry, featuring manganese dioxide as the positive electrode and lithium as the negative cathode. With a slender 3.2mm thickness and a 20mm diameter, as indicated by its notation, it qualifies as a lightweight miniature battery. Operating at a nominal voltage of 3 volts, these batteries typically offer a capacity ranging from 220 to 240 mAh.
Widely employed in diverse devices like watches, PDAs, motherboards, car keys, medical devices, and laser pens, the CR2032 stands out for its efficient and stable power output. It maintains relatively stable voltage levels throughout the discharge cycle, making it particularly suitable for low-power devices when compared to alternative battery options.
What is DL2032?
The DL2032 stands out as a specialized-application battery that closely mirrors the CR2032 counterpart. Marked with the same dimensions—20mm in diameter and a 3.2mm thickness—the numerical notation on the battery indicates identical sizing. While CR serves as the IEC prefix for lithium-ion coin batteries, DL is the prefix specifically utilized by Duracell, a prominent global manufacturer of alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries, and smart power systems.
Essentially, the DL2032 battery is a Duracell-manufactured version of the CR2032 cell. The DL designation is primarily employed by brands such as Duracell, and occasionally Panasonic, to distinguish their products from generic or unbranded counterparts. Branded batteries like DL2032 can typically be found in retail establishments, particularly those associated with specific brands, which exclusively stock and sell batteries of the respective brand.
Distinguishing CR2032 from DL2032
Manufacturer Distinction:
When dealing with lithium-ion coin batteries, it’s crucial to precisely identify your needs to ensure the correct fit and voltage. This holds true for CR2032 and DL2032 battery cells, as their appearances are indistinguishable. The primary contrast lies in their manufacturer. CR is a generic label for lithium-ion batteries, while DL is a specific designation employed by the battery manufacturer Duracell. DL serves as Duracell’s prefix to distinguish its products from generic CR batteries.
Size and Voltage:
In terms of size, both CR2032 and DL2032 share identical dimensions, boasting a 20mm diameter and a 3.2mm thickness. Both batteries deliver a nominal voltage of 3 volts, accompanied by a typical capacity ranging from 220-240 mAh. While DL2032 batteries may have a slightly smaller voltage capacity, the difference is marginal. The consistent voltage output makes them well-suited for devices that demand a stable and continuous power source.
Shelf Life:
Demonstrating impressive power conservation, both batteries boast an extended shelf life, typically reaching up to 10 years. Ideal for low-power applications, they cater to devices requiring sustained low-power consumption over an extended duration. Notably, the DL2032, crafted by Duracell, exhibits a slightly higher density and discharge rate compared to CR2032 cells. This enables the DL2032 battery to maintain a consistent power supply even under continuous drain conditions, surpassing the limitations of CR2032 batteries.
Availability and Cost:
CR2032 batteries, being generic, enjoy wide availability in electronics stores, convenience stores, departmental stores, and online platforms. Renowned for their cost-effectiveness, they present a budget-friendly option. In contrast, DL2032 batteries, as branded products by battery giant Duracell, are typically found in specialized retail outlets. The branding contributes to a slightly higher cost compared to the generic CR2032 batteries.
Comparing DL and CR Batteries
The sole difference between CR and DL batteries lies in their manufacturers. CR, similar to widely recognized designations like AA and AAA, is essentially a generic label used by most battery manufacturers. In contrast, Duracell employs the DL designation for their batteries.
The primary motive behind transitioning from a generic to a unique designation is likely to establish a distinct identity for their product in the market. Duracell, with its larger battery capacity, aims to differentiate its offering from competitors and leverage its reputable brand name. This becomes especially pertinent in the context of batteries designed for low-power devices expected to endure for months, if not years.
However, this shift introduces a degree of confusion, as consumers often seek an identical match when replacing batteries. Notwithstanding, DL and CR batteries can be used interchangeably, provided the numerical notations after the letters match. For instance, a DL2032 battery can seamlessly replace a CR2032 battery and vice versa.
Summary
While CR2032 and DL2032 share almost identical dimensions and specifications as lithium-ion batteries, the defining difference lies in the brand. CR2032 serves as a generic and versatile option for various devices, featuring a lightweight miniature design with a 3.2mm thickness and a 20mm diameter. On the other hand, DL2032, with the same dimensions and voltage capacity, is specifically branded by Duracell. This branding sets it apart and, as a result, DL2032 batteries may be marginally more expensive than their generic CR counterparts.
FAQs
1. Are DL2032 and CR2032 interchangeable?
Yes, both batteries are interchangeable since they share the same numerical notations. This implies that a DL2032 battery can substitute a CR2032 battery and vice versa. Although the dimensions are identical, it’s important to note the difference in brand.
2. What is a DL2032 battery?
The DL2032 is essentially a CR2032 battery manufactured by Duracell. The DL designation is a special identifier used by Duracell to distinguish its batteries from generic CR2032 batteries.
3. Are all CR2032 batteries the same?
No, not all CR2032 batteries are identical. Despite sharing similar physical dimensions and voltage capacities, they may differ in brand, voltage, and overall performance. Variations can occur based on the specific cell designation.
4. What does CR stand for on a battery?
CR is a generic term for all lithium-ion coin-shaped batteries. The “C” indicates it’s a lithium manganese dioxide battery, and the “R” signifies its round shape.
