CR chemistry
CR coin cells commonly use lithium manganese dioxide and are widely used in remotes, sensors and memory backup.
BR chemistry
BR cells use lithium carbon monofluoride and can be selected for different temperature or long-term low-drain behavior.
Replacement rule
Matching dimensions and nominal voltage do not erase the chemistry difference. Follow the device documentation or an explicit manufacturer cross-reference.
This guide narrows a battery decision but does not override the device manufacturer’s current manual or safety instructions.
Sources
- International Electrotechnical Commission — IEC 60086-2-2:2026 — Physical and electrical specifications of lithium batteries
Standardized primary-lithium dimensions and electrical specification context.
- Energizer — Lithium Coin Handbook and Application Manual
Lithium/manganese-dioxide coin chemistry, voltage, capacity, drain and application behavior.
- Duracell — Battery chemistry technical bulletins
Alkaline, lithium-manganese-dioxide, zinc-air and silver-oxide chemistry behavior.