Batteries are the main component to provide power to different electronic devices. There are many types of batteries used but CR123 and CR123A are very commonly used type in many devices. These two batteries coms some differences that are explained here and you will know which one is better. so let’s get started with CR123 vs CR123A Batteries
Introduction to CR123 vs CR123A Batteries
Batteries are considered as the main source of work for electronic derives making sure that they continue their work. CR123 and CR123A batteries are types non rechargeable batteries and offer different features and applications.
Understanding Battery Types
What are CR123 Batteries?
CR123 batteries have cylinder-like shapes and they are also known as 16340 batteries. They are mostly used in different devices such as cameras, medical devices flashlights, etc. CR123 batteries are mostly used since they provide high energy density, stable operation, and regular power at the output.
CR2 battery is powered through lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) chemistry, has good energy density, and provdies compact and high-operation devices.
Their cylindrical shape makes CR2 batteries sleek layout and come with dimensions of 15.6 mm in diameter and 27 mm in height. For maintaining normal voltage 3 in their working life CR2 batteries make sure constants and reliable power supply for devices.
These batteries are non-rechargeable and are used for one time. If anyone tries to recharge these batteries will cause overheating.
These batteries are the main part of digital cameras, flashlights laser points, etc.
What are CR123A Batteries?
CR123A battery is similar to CR123 batteries in size and shape but these two batteries cannot be interchanged. CR123A battery comes with large power and capacity that make them best for high-power devices like tactical flashlights, and security systems for projects that need high-power.
CR123 battery is a lithium power battery based on (LiMnO2) chemistry. These features of the chemical composition of these batteries help to have a high energy density and make them the best power energy sources.
It is cylindrical shape comes with dimensions of 17 mm diameter and 34.5 mm height. These batteries has a constant power supply that is the main factor for effectively fueling different devices.
Like CR2 batteries CR123 batteries are made to use for one time. They are not used for recharging purpose..
Technical Specifications
Chemistry and Composition
These two batteries have lithium-based chemistry that offers different benefits such as less weight and high energy density. Their cathode is made of different materials CR123 uses lithium iron disulfide that provides good operation in high drain conditions
Voltage and Capacity
The capacity difference between CR2 and CR123 is measured in milliamperes (mAH). CR2 batteries come with a capacity value of 600 to 900mAH, and CR123 battery has a high capacity from 700 to 1700mAH. That shows the CR123 battery stores more energy than the CR2 battery. As a result CR12 3 has features of power to deliver for a longer time than the CR2 battery for replacement.
Shelf Life and Discharge Rate
These batteries also have shelf life and are easily discarded time with less time. CR123a has less self-discharge
Applications
Photography Equipment
CR123 batteries are used for photography devices like cameras and flash. It has the value of volts that is used in photography devices like digital cameras and flashes due to their stable voltage output and reliable function. For handling the high frame rates shots or unprofessional
Flashlights and Tactical Gear
Tactical flashlights are used in law enforcement and military use often needed CR123A batteries for their good function in high-intensity situations.
Security Systems
For home base security systems and outdoor surveillance cameras, CR123A batteries are mostly used, provide the longer working and function without any interruption
Performance Comparison
Energy Density
CR123A batteries have high energy density which means they can store large energy in small packaging providing long-lasting power.
Temperature Extremes
These two batteries work in high-temperature conditions but CR123A can be operated in low temperatures that is its plus point
CR2 vs CR123 Battery: Dimensions / Sizes
Characteristic | CR2 Battery | CR123 Battery |
Diameter | 15.1mm | 16mm |
Height | 26.7mm | 35mm |
Cost-Effectiveness
Initial Investment
CR123A batteries are more expensive than CR123 batteries. However, their longer working life and higher capacity can cover this cost in a longer duration
Longevity and Replacement Frequency
CR123A batteries work for longer-duration high-drain devices and minimize the frequency of replacements than to CR123 batteries.
Environmental Impact
Disposable vs. Rechargeable Options
These two are non-rechargeable and cause a high effect due to the disposal of used batteries.
Recycling and Disposal
it is good to recycle used batteries to minimize their environmental effects. Different standard offers battery recycling process, making them easily dispose of them
CR123 Vs CR123A- Detailed Comparison
Features | CR123 Battery |
CR123A Battery
|
Chemistry and Composition | Lithium | Lithium |
Voltage | 3 volts | 3.2 volts |
Capacity | Less capacity |
High Capacity
|
Shelf Life | Longer operation life |
it also has a long life
|
Self-Discharge Rate | Less |
it also has less
|
Applications | Digital cameras, it is part of flashlights |
Tactical gear is employed in security systems
|
High-Drain Devices Performance | Moderate | Good |
Energy Density | Moderate | High |
Extreme Temperatures working | Good | Better |
Leakage Resistance | It has leakage resistance |
it also has leakage resistance
|
I Cost | Low |
Little higher
|
Longevity | Shorter working life |
Longer working life
|
Rechargeable | No | No |
Environmental effects | Not rechargeable, it also needed proper disposal |
Not rechargeable, required accurate disposal
|
CR123 and CR123a Name Meaning
According to them, these two batteries look the same. The main difference between the name sis letter manufacturer preference. Some manufacturers are called CR123 and some CR123A. The letter A at the end of the name CR123A is a reference that explains that the battery is 2/3 the size of standard A size battery
The starting two letters in the name CR for lithium. R is round which means the battery has a cylinder structure 123 number is the battery size. that means the battery is 2/3 the standard length of a battery
So, if you use a battery CR123 or CR123A, it can be thought that it is a similar type of battery.
CR123 & CR123A Batteries
feature | CR123 | CR123A |
Dimensions | 17 x 34.5 millimeters | 17 x 34 |
Voltage | 3 Volts | 3 Volts |
Charging voltage | 1.2 Volts | 1.5 Volts |
Peak output | 3.6 A | 4.2 A |
Working life | 2 to5 years |
3- to6 years
|
Cost | 5 to10 dollars |
5 to10 dollars
|
Compatibility | many devices like toys etc |
different devices
|
Are CR123 and CR123A batteries the Same?
These two batteries are similar. The basic difference is the manufacturer’s presence for their names. A in the battery is 2/4 size of standard size A battery
Are CR123 And CR123a Interchangeable?
These two batteries can be interchangeable. They have similar sizes and the same volts so we can use them for one another. The basic difference between them is their charging voltsCR123A charged with 1.5 volts and CR123 with 1.2 volts. That means the output of CR123A is higher than CR123 output volts. But there is not a certain difference in their operation. For some devices that need high output, the CR123A battery can provide high operation.
How Do I Know If My Batteries Need To Be Replaced?
- The device not working. it is very basic that you have to change the battery of your device not working.
- The device gets on but not working. The device is on but not working accurately as your torch is on but has low light changes the battery
- The batteries are corroded. Replaced the corroded or leaking battery. Leaking batteries can damage the devices they are using and corroded batteries cause electrical issues
- Old battery The operating life of the battery is two to five years if they are older than that change it.
CR123A Features and Benefits
- High energy density: Their high energy density features ensure that they offer high power in small structures. So used for camera and flashlights.
- Long lifespan: These batteries can work for 2 to 5 years.
- Different applications: it can be used in different devices, like flashlights, medical devices, cameras, and more.
- Good performance: They can be operated in different conditions like extreme temperatures and high-drain applications. So they used in-demand projects.
- Safe and stable: They are safe and reliable, making them best for devices that are used in sensitive conditions
CR123A Applications
- Flashlights: It is the main part of flashlights
- Cameras: it used in cames to provide high power during their working
- Medical devices Different medical devices such as otoscopes, stethoscopes, and blood pressure monitors use these devices. they are reliable and can have power output in different applications.
- Tools: it is also part of different tools like power tools, laser pointers, and drills. Since they can provide a high power for a shorter duration,
- Other devices: These batteries are also used in different devices like radios GPS devices, and electronic cigarettes.
CR2 Battery Equivalents
CR123A Equivalents
- 16340: The 16340 battery is a lithium-ion battery that is the same size and voltage as the CR123A battery. It can be used as a replacement for CR123A batteries in some devices. However, it is significant to note that 16340 are rechargeable while CR123A batteries are non-rechargeable
- DL123: it is a lithium manganese dioxide battery that has the same size and voltage as the CR123A battery. it is also used interchangeably in CR123A batteries in most devices.
- EL123A: it is a lithium manganese dioxide battery that comes with a similar size and voltage as a CR123A battery. It can be replaced with CR123A batteries
- CR17335: The CR17335 battery is a lithium thionyl chloride battery which is the same size and voltage as the CR123A battery. It can be interchanged with CR123A batteries. However, it is good to note that CR17335 batteries are not as common as CR123A batteries, so they can be difficult to get
What is another name for a CR123A battery?
It also called EL123A, DL123A, RL123A, batteries
Why are CR123 batteries so expensive?
As their demand is low then other types of common batteries make their production cost higher. With that CR123 batteries also come with special materials like lithium which is high cost.
What is a substitute for a CR123A battery?
16650 Rechargeable Orbtronic protected battery is best as a replacement of 2 x CR123A.
At what voltage is a CR123 battery dead?
~3.0V is dead voltage for CR123A.
What does CR stand for in battery?
It stands for Chromium
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FAQS
What is best CR123 vs CR123A?
There is no certain difference between them, They have the same size and voltage and are used as replacements. The main difference is that the CR123A battery is charged at a higher voltage than the CR123. That is not a big difference
Can I use CR123 for CR123A?
Yes, we can use CR123 for CR123A. These two are the same size and volts so can be used as replacements in different devices. Some device has structure to work for CR123A so must check before using which device used to work for that battery
How long does a CR123A last?
The working life of the CR123A battery varies based on the device it is used in and the power it uses. However, in general, a CR123A battery can work for some hours to some days.
Why use CR123 batteries?
CR123 batteries are used in differnt devices, like flashlights, cameras, and medical devices. They are best because they have high voltage and longer life. CR123 batteries are also smaller and lightweight, so used in portable devices
Do CR123 batteries leak?
CR123 batteries are not designed to leak. But if damage or break can leak. If the CR123 battery leaks good to dispose of it from causing damage.
Is a CR123 battery rechargeable?
There are rechargeable CR123 batteries, but they are not as common as non-rechargeable CR123 batteries. Rechargeable CR123 batteries provide lower voltage than non-rechargeable CR123 batteries, so they can not be best for all devices.
How many volts is a 123 battery?
A 123 battery is a 3-volt battery.
How long do CR123A batteries take to charge?
Charging time is based on the charger used for the battery. Though, in general, CR123A batteries can be completely charged in a few hours.
What is the alternative to CR123 batteries?
There are some alternatives to CR123 batteries. Some are 18650 batteries, AA batteries, and AAA batteries. 18650 batteries are a larger size than CR123 batteries, but they offer high voltage and longer life. AA and AAA batteries are smaller in size than CR123 batteries, but they have lower voltage and a small working life
What is CR123 also called?
CR123 batteries are also called 3V Lithium, DL123A, and 3V Lithium Photo Battery.
What Duracell is equivalent to CR123?
The Duracell equivalent to CR123 is CR123.
What is the alternative name for CR123A?
The other name for CR123A is DL123.
Are CR123 And CR123a The Same?
yes in their features aspect they are almost batteries the basic difference is the letter A in their name and their temperature is also different.
Is CR123A the same as CR2?
CR2 battery is not like the CR123A battery. Since CR2 battery has less operating life than CR123A battery and is not used in some devices tha need CR123A battery.
Can you use a 123 battery in a 123a?
There is no certain difference between CR123 and CR123a batteries. They come with the same size just different since CR123A is a commonly used name.
CR123 and CR123A batteries are often interchangeable, but slight differences in voltage and chemistry can impact device performance. Considering your device’s specifications is key—CR123As are newer and usually more consistent in output, offering a slight edge in reliability for high-drain gadgets. Always double-check compatibility to power up without a hitch!