Energizer CR2 Lithium Battery

This is a single Energizer CR2 lithium cell, supplied in its own retail blister. CR2 is a cylindrical 3V format, shorter and fatter than an AA, and the pack confirms the 3V rating. Lithium chemistry is what gives the format its character: it holds a steady voltage as it drains rather than fading away gradually, it copes with cold far better than an alkaline cell of the same size, and it loses very little charge while sitting unused. The pack states a 10 year shelf life, so a spare bought today is still worth having years from now.

The CR2 turns up wherever a device needs 3V from a small body and a willing current: compact film and instant cameras, laser rangefinders and golf scopes, alarm contacts and security sensors, and a number of compact torches and sights. The surest check is the old cell itself, which carries CR2 printed on the wrapper. A CR123 can look similar at a glance but it is a different size and the two are not interchangeable, so it is worth reading the print on the cell you are replacing before you order.

Each blister holds one cell, so the count is simple: you receive a single CR2. The minimum order is 6, sold in multiples of 6, which means the smallest purchase here is six individual cells. That suits anyone who keeps spares with a camera bag or a toolkit rather than buying one at a time, and the long shelf life means the extras are not wasted. A CR2 is a primary cell, so it is used once and replaced rather than recharged. We stock other Energizer lithium cells too, including the CR123 and the CR2032 coin, if the device turns out to take one of those instead.

How many cells do I actually receive?

One cell per listing. The minimum order is 6, sold in multiples of 6, so the smallest purchase is six single cells.

Is a CR2 the same as a CR123?

No. Both are 3V lithium cells but they are different sizes, so one will not substitute for the other in a device.

Can I recharge it?

No. This is a primary lithium cell, which is designed to be used once and then replaced rather than charged back up.

How long will it keep before I use it?

The pack states a 10 year shelf life. Lithium cells lose very little charge in storage, which is why spares stay usable.

Will it work outdoors in cold weather?

Lithium chemistry holds up in low temperatures noticeably better than alkaline, which is one reason cameras and rangefinders use this format.

What voltage does it give?

3V, as printed on the pack. Lithium cells hold that voltage fairly steadily through most of their working life.