CR123A vs CR2 Lithium Batteries – Best Choice for Cameras and Security Devices
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🔋 CR123A vs CR2 Lithium Batteries – Best Choice for Cameras and Security Devices
If you’re using a DSLR, security sensor, or flashlight, chances are you've come across CR123A and CR2 lithium batteries.
They look similar, are both 3V lithium-based, and often used in high-performance devices.
But choosing the wrong one can damage your equipment or lead to poor performance.
This guide breaks down the real-world differences, ideal use cases, and what Indian buyers should know before ordering.
📏 Physical and Technical Specs
Feature |
CR123A |
CR2 |
Voltage |
3V |
3V |
Diameter |
17 mm |
15.6 mm |
Length |
34.5 mm |
27 mm |
Capacity (mAh) |
~1500–1700 mAh |
~700–800 mAh |
Weight |
~16–17 grams |
~11–12 grams |
Chemistry |
Lithium Manganese Dioxide |
Lithium Manganese Dioxide |
Shelf Life |
Up to 10 years |
Up to 10 years |
✅ Key takeaway:
CR123A is larger and has higher capacity.
Devices are not cross-compatible unless specified.
📸 Use Case Comparison – Which Battery is Right for You?
Device Type |
Recommended Battery |
Why? |
DSLR Flash Triggers |
CR123A |
Higher energy = longer cycles |
Smart Home Sensors (e.g., Motion/Smoke) |
CR123A |
Long-lasting, standby reliability |
Compact Film Cameras |
CR2 |
Smaller size fits better |
Laser Pointers |
CR2 |
Compact and lightweight |
Tactical Flashlights |
CR123A |
Higher drain = needs more power |
🔌 Are CR123A and CR2 Interchangeable?
⚠️ No.
Although both are 3V lithium batteries, they differ in:
-
Size & fit – CR123A is longer and wider
-
Capacity – CR123A has nearly double the energy
-
Device design – Most devices only accept one specific type
Always check the battery compartment label or user manual.
🧪 Performance in Indian Climate
Lithium batteries perform extremely well in both hot and cold conditions, making them ideal for:
-
Outdoor security cameras in Maharashtra’s summers
-
Mountain gear in Himachal’s winters
-
Motion sensors in humid monsoons (Bangalore, Kerala)
They offer low self-discharge, so even if unused, they last 5–10 years.
🛒 Trusted CR123A & CR2 Battery Brands in India
Brand |
Available Models |
Avg. Price (Per Unit) |
Buy Now |
Panasonic |
CR123A, CR2 |
₹180–₹240 |
|
Energizer |
CR123A, CR2 |
₹190–₹250 |
✅ Trusted by camera users |
Duracell |
CR123A only |
₹200–₹275 |
✅ Great for flashlights |
Maxell |
CR2 |
₹160–₹210 |
✅ Ideal for vintage cameras |
📦 Available online with 24–48 hour shipping via MyBattery.in
🔋 CR123A vs CR2 – Pros & Cons
Criteria |
CR123A |
CR2 |
✅ Power Output |
Higher |
Moderate |
✅ Runtime |
Longer |
Shorter |
✅ Device Fit |
Larger devices |
Compact gear |
❌ Weight |
Slightly heavier |
Lightweight |
🔄 Availability |
Widely available in India |
Less common, but in stock |
📷 Ideal Use |
Flashlights, sensors, DSLR gear |
Film cameras, pointers |
🧾 Battery Tips for Indian Buyers (2025)
-
Check device manual – Never guess battery type
-
Avoid mixing old & new batteries in dual-cell devices
-
Use fresh stock from reliable sellers – Old lithium cells may degrade
-
Store in cool, dry place – Ideal temp: 15–25°C
-
Don’t recharge unless it’s a rechargeable variant (most CR123A/CR2 are NOT)
❓ FAQ – CR123A vs CR2 Batteries
Q1. Can I replace CR2 with CR123A in my camera?
No — sizes are different and not interchangeable unless your device explicitly supports both.
Q2. Are rechargeable versions available?
Yes, but not for all devices. Use only if your camera/manual mentions Li-ion support like 16340 (CR123A equivalent).
Q3. Which one is better for motion sensors?
CR123A – They last longer, especially in outdoor or high-traffic areas.
Q4. Are these batteries safe to carry on flights?
Yes — lithium photo batteries under 2g lithium content are allowed in carry-on, not in checked baggage. Keep in original packaging.
🏁 Final Verdict – Which One Should You Use?
If You Use… |
Use This Battery |
DSLR camera flash or trigger |
CR123A |
Motion or smoke detector |
CR123A |
Compact analog camera |
CR2 |
Laser pointer or thermal sensor |
CR2 |
Smart sensors (Aqara, Honeywell) |
CR123A |
🎯 CR123A is the more powerful and versatile option, but CR2 remains ideal for smaller devices.
🎯 👉 Order Genuine CR123A & CR2 Batteries Today at MyBattery.in
✔️ Fast Delivery | ✔️ Fresh Stock | ✔️ Expert WhatsApp Support | ✔️ Trusted Brands Only