Lithium Coin Cells (3V) reference
LIR2032
Rechargeable 3.6–3.7V 2032-size cell. Same outline as CR2032 — not the same voltage or capacity.
Voltage
3.6 V
Chemistry
LiIon
Capacity
35–45 mAh
Size
20×3.2 mm
LIR203220 × 3.2 mm
Safety: Do not install LIR2032 in a device that specifies a disposable CR2032. The charged voltage is about 3.6–4.2 V versus 3.0 V for CR2032, and the capacity is much lower. Never charge a primary CR2032 in a LIR2032 charger.
Do not use
Not Compatible- ML2032 — Different rechargeable chemistry; still not a CR2032 substitute
- CR2032 — Primary 3.0 V cell — not interchangeable
Technical data
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| IEC / Common Code | LIR2032 |
| Chemistry | LiIon |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.6 V |
| Capacity | 35–45 mAh |
| Fresh open-circuit voltage | 4.1–4.2 V |
| Typical replace-below | ~3.4 V |
| Typical energy | 0.13–0.16 Wh |
| Cutoff Voltage | ~3 V |
| Dimensions (D × H) | 20 × 3.2 mm |
| Typical Weight | 2.5 g |
| Polarity / Activation | Rechargeable lithium-ion coin cell — only for circuits with a proper charger. |
Typical applications
- DIY wearables with a dedicated charger
- Solar-assisted sensors designed for LIR cells
- Hobby boards that list LIR2032 explicitly
Applications
Replacement Compatibility
Side-by-side comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between rechargeable and non-rechargeable CR2032 batteries?
A CR2032 is a 3.0 V primary Li-MnO2 cell (~220–240 mAh). A LIR2032 is a 3.6–3.7 V rechargeable Li-ion cell (~35–45 mAh). Same outline, different chemistry, voltage, capacity, and safety rules.
Can I use a rechargeable CR2032 in devices that specify a standard CR2032?
No in most consumer devices. The higher voltage can damage electronics, and the lower capacity often dies quickly even if the gadget powers on.
Are rechargeable CR2032 batteries available and how do they compare to disposable ones?
Yes, sold as LIR2032 (and sometimes ML2032). They make sense only in a designed-to-charge product. For key fobs, CMOS, scales, and trackers, a disposable CR2032 lasts longer and is the specified part.
Should I always trust cross-reference charts?
Use this guide as a starting point, then confirm with your device manual or manufacturer. Voltage, chemistry, and physical fit must all match for safe operation.
Related Batteries
Review record and primary sources
Reviewed by PlainBattery Technical Review Desk on 2026-08-25. Checked: model and alias mapping, nominal voltage and chemistry, physical dimensions, capacity range and replacement warnings.
- Lithium Technical Handbook: CR Coin-Type Batteries — Panasonic Energy, 2020 handbook (2020). CR/BR dimensions, nominal voltage, capacity, discharge and temperature characteristics.
Revision record: source citations and field-level review scope added September 11, 2026. See our sources and methodology and corrections policy.
Selection notes
Only buy LIR2032 when the device or schematic lists it and includes charge control. If the manual says CR2032, buy a disposable CR2032.
Last verified Aug 25, 2026. Always confirm voltage, chemistry, and dimensions with the device manufacturer before replacing any battery.