Coin cell batteries, also known as button batteries, are more common than you’d think. They’re a major part of essential daily items such as watches, key fobs, and other typically small electronics. They’re also a crucial part of many kinds of firearm accessories. Some of the most common are digital optics, lights, and lasers. Just about any small tactical electronic is likely powered by a cell battery like the CR2032. As times change, guns are equally powered by electricity as well as gunpowder, so it is worth getting familiar with that side of things.

The CR2032 battery is one of the most common types of cell batteries in accessories generally but especially in the tactical world. But what exactly is a CR2032 battery? Let’s start with how it’s named:

C represents the chemical makeup, that being Chromium. This material is known for its durability and long lifetime. R simply stands for round, the battery’s shape. 20 stands for the diameter of the battery in millimeters. 32 stands for the height of the battery in millimeters, technically being 3.2mm (found by dividing the number by 10).

Most button batteries are named in a similar way to this one, with each having slightly different specifications. You can find other specifications through the International Electrotechnical Commission.

CR2032 Specifications

The CR2032 battery is a kind of lithium-ion battery common in many specialty firearm brands as well as common commercial brands such as Duracell, Energizer, and Sony. Lithium batteries are a much better option for tactical needs due to their higher durability and strength. Another impressive feature of these batteries is their ability to stand up to temperature. It can handle temperature ranges between -4 and 140 degrees.

The capacity, meaning the amount of energy stored, ranges from 230 to 1400 milliamperes depending on the specific brand and variation. The voltage rating of these batteries can range between 3-3.7, however, 3 is the most common. The shelf life is impressive at up to 10 years if stored well, although service years are another story. When it comes to service years, it largely depends on what the battery is being used on. Something smaller like a keyfob or remote using a CR2032 battery will last up to 4-5 years, while a larger or heavily used electronic is more likely to have a service life of only 1-2 years.

CR2032 Recharging and Replacement

There are two kinds of batteries when it comes to recharging: primary and secondary. Primary means that it is not able to recharge, while secondary means you can. It’s important to know the difference and understand that it isn’t something that can be ignored. Trying to recharge a non-rechargeable battery can lead to dangerous effects like an explosion or a fire hazard.

Typically, CR2032 button batteries are primary, however, there are some on the market that are secondary. It’s not always hard to tell the difference. One way you can find out is simply by reading the manual of the gear you’re working with. You can also find out by looking at the battery; most button batteries will have an engraving saying you can or can’t recharge, but if it doesn’t say then I’d assume you can’t.

Rechargeable versions have plenty of benefits. But that doesn’t mean you can put rechargeable batteries in a device that doesn’t call for it; doing so can cause damage to the device or make it a hazard. When applicable, CR2032 batteries can be recharged up to around 500 times depending on the brand and can save a lot of money and time in turn. To recharge you do need a specialty charger on top of the fact that these batteries are only meant to be recharged after being completely depleted of power first, which can be inconvenient if you don’t have a second set pre-charged on-hand when it dies. Other recharging specifications should be consulted through the product manual because of the variations there can be.

When it comes to replacing dead batteries, rechargeable or not, it should be done with care. If the product in question uses brand-specific button batteries, it’s best to stick to that brand if possible unless the manual says otherwise. Luckily, many do suggest other batteries that are compatible. If replacing with a new kind of button battery, stick to the well-known, reputable brands to avoid any issues. Especially in expensive equipment batteries aren’t the place to cheap-out. Luckily, most CR2032 button batteries are extremely affordable.

CR2032 Use

The CR2032 battery is a great option for most tactical equipment which explains why it’s so common. It has a decent lifespan for most equipment on top of being very affordable to replace one at a time or in bulk. It’s even common to find custom 3D-printed cases to hold a few of these batteries and take them on the go, making it even easier to upkeep equipment on the go. Some versions are even mountable to some kinds of equipment and firearms.

 

Looking for CR2032 batteries for sale? Here ya go!

 

Where to Find CR2032 Batteries For Sale

• • Gun.Deals ($$$ compare)
  • Primary Arms
  • Palmetto State Armory

 

Check out our reviews of some of the best CR2032 powered optics:

• Holosun 407c X2 Reflex Sight
• Gideon Optics Omega Red Dot
• Primary Arms SLx Micro Prism