If you are searching for CR2 vs CR123A, you are likely trying to answer one critical question:

Can these two 3V lithium batteries be used interchangeably—and which one delivers better performance for your device?

Although CR2 batteries and CR123A 3V lithium batteries share the same voltage and lithium chemistry, they are not the same battery. Differences in physical size, energy capacity, discharge behavior, and application design make correct selection essential.

This guide provides a technical yet practical comparison of CR123 vs CR123A, CR2 lithium battery options, real-world use cases (cameras, flashlights, security devices), and how to choose the correct battery without risking performance loss or device damage.

What Does “CR” Mean in CR2 and CR123A Batteries?

Both CR2 and CR123A are standardized lithium batteries defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

  • C = Lithium chemistry

  • R = Round (cylindrical) battery

  • Numbers = Battery size code

  • “A” in CR123A is optional and often omitted

Technically, CR123 vs CR123A and CR123A vs CR123 refer to the same battery type.

Both batteries use Lithium Manganese Dioxide (LiMnO₂) chemistry, known for:

  • High energy density

  • Stable 3V output

  • Low self-discharge (~5% per month)

  • Long shelf life (up to 20 years in proper storage)

CR123 vs CR123A — Are They the Same Battery?

Yes.
CR123 vs CR123A is purely a naming difference.

  • CR123

  • CR123A

  • DL123A

  • EL123A

All refer to a CR123A 3V lithium battery with the same dimensions and voltage.

What Is a CR123A 3V Lithium Battery?

A CR123A 3V lithium battery is designed for high-drain and high-reliability devices that require consistent power output over long periods.

CR123A Technical Specifications

  • Voltage: 3V

  • Capacity: 1300–1700mAh

  • Diameter: 17 mm

  • Height: 34.5 mm

  • Weight: ~17 g

  • Chemistry: LiMnO₂

  • Operating temperature: –20°C to 60°C

Because of its higher capacity and strong current delivery, 3V CR123A lithium batteries are commonly used in:

  • Tactical and high-lumen flashlights

  • Security and alarm systems

  • Smoke detectors

  • Medical equipment

  • Camera battery CR123A applications

  • Outdoor and cold-weather electronics

For users prioritizing reliability, leak resistance, and long shelf life, _CR123A 3V lithium battery_ from Bevigor offers stable output and professional-grade performance.

What Is a CR2 Lithium Battery?

A CR2 lithium battery delivers the same 3V output in a smaller, lighter form factor, making it ideal for compact electronics.

CR2 Battery Specifications

  • Voltage: 3V

  • Capacity: 600–900mAh

  • Diameter: 15.6 mm

  • Height: 27 mm

  • Weight: ~11 g

  • Chemistry: LiMnO₂

Typical applications include:

  • Compact digital cameras

  • Laser rangefinders

  • Medical instruments

  • Motion sensors

  • Memory backup systems

If your device requires a CR2 3V lithium battery, using a correctly sized battery is critical.
Reliable options like _CR2 lithium battery_ from Bevigor are engineered specifically for camera and sensor applications.

CR2 vs CR123A: Key Differences Explained

1. Physical Size & Compatibility

The most important difference is size.

Battery Diameter Height
CR2 15.6 mm 27 mm
CR123A 17 mm 34.5 mm

Because of this:

  • A CR123A will not fit in CR2 devices

  • A CR2 cannot replace a CR123A

Despite identical voltage, they are not interchangeable.

2. Capacity & Runtime

Bevigor Product Voltage Capacity Primary Use
CR2 Lithium Battery 3V 900 mAh Cameras, sensors
CR123A 3V Lithium Battery 3V 1500 mAh Flashlights, security

Capacity directly impacts how long a device runs.

  • CR2 battery: 600–900mAh

  • CR123A battery: 1300–1700mAh

On average, CR123A batteries provide up to 60% more energy than CR2 batteries.

This makes 3V CR123A lithium batteries better suited for:

  • Continuous-use devices

  • High-drain electronics

  • Emergency and safety equipment

3. Power Output & Current Draw

CR123A batteries support higher current draw, which matters for:

  • Brightness in flashlights

  • Faster camera flash recycling

  • Stable voltage under load

This is why many professionals prefer heavy CR123A battery designs for tactical and outdoor use.

4. Weight & Device Design

CR2 batteries are lighter and shorter, making them ideal when:

  • Space is limited

  • Weight reduction matters

  • Device housings are compact

CR2 vs CR123A: Similarities You Should Know

Despite their differences, both batteries share:

  • 3V nominal voltage

  • Lithium chemistry (LiMnO₂)

  • Non-rechargeable design

  • Long shelf life

  • Low self-discharge rate

This makes both suitable for long-term storage and emergency kits.

CR123A Battery Equivalent: What Can Replace CR123A?

A CR123A battery equivalent must match:

  • 3V lithium output

  • Same physical size

  • Same chemistry

Common equivalents include:

  • DL123A

  • EL123A

  • CR17345

For dependable performance, many users now select _best CR123A battery_ options from Bevigor, especially when long shelf life and leak protection are priorities.

CR2 Battery Equivalent: What Can Replace CR2?

CR2 batteries have fewer true equivalents due to their unique size.

Always verify:

  • “CR2” marking

  • 3V lithium chemistry

  • Exact dimensions

Avoid “near-fit” substitutes—they often cause contact instability.

Which Is Better: CR2 or CR123A?

Application / Device Type CR2 Battery CR123A Battery
Compact Digital Cameras ✅ Very Common ⚠️ Occasionally
DSLR / Flash Units ❌ Rare ✅ Common
Tactical Flashlights ❌ No ✅ Ideal
High-Lumen LED Flashlights ❌ No ✅ Recommended
Trail Cameras ⚠️ Limited ✅ Very Common
Security Sensors ✅ Common ✅ Common
Smoke Detectors ❌ Rare ✅ Common
Medical Devices ✅ Common ✅ Common
Laser Rangefinders ✅ Common ⚠️ Sometimes
Optics & Sights ⚠️ Limited ✅ Very Common
Emergency Equipment ⚠️ Limited ✅ Preferred
Cold Weather Use ⚠️ Acceptable ✅ Excellent

There is no universally better battery.

Choose CR123A if:

  • Your device requires higher power

  • You need longer runtime

  • Cold-weather performance matters

Choose CR2 if:

  • Your device is compact

  • Battery compartment size is limited

  • Lower weight is required

While brands like CR123A Energizer battery or Duracell are commonly referenced, many users now prefer Bevigor for its balance of performance, consistency, and value.

Best CR123A Battery for Cameras, Flashlights & Security Devices

When selecting the best CR123A battery, look for:

  • Stable voltage under load

  • Leak-resistant construction

  • Long storage life

  • Cold-temperature reliability

For demanding applications, _camera battery CR123A_ from Bevigor is engineered to deliver dependable performance across professional and consumer devices.

Buying CR123A & CR2 Batteries in Bulk (Wholesale & B2B)

For integrators, distributors, and large-volume users, Bevigor provides bulk solutions:

Need Help Choosing Between CR2 and CR123A?

If you’re unsure which battery your device requires, Bevigor’s support team can help confirm compatibility and application fit.

👉 https://bevigor.com/pages/contact-us

Final Verdict: CR2 vs CR123A

Understanding CR2 vs CR123A is about matching battery design to device requirements.

Both are reliable 3V lithium batteries, but differences in size and power output make correct selection essential. By choosing the right battery—and a trusted brand like Bevigor—you ensure longer runtime, safer operation, and consistent performance across all applications.

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