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Not equivalent

CR2012 vs CR2016

The physical envelopes differ (20 × 1.2 mm versus 20 × 1.6 mm). Do not force, stack or infer equivalence from a shared diameter or code pattern.

Not equivalent

The physical envelopes differ (20 × 1.2 mm versus 20 × 1.6 mm). Do not force, stack or infer equivalence from a shared diameter or code pattern.

Top profile · Ø 20 mm
Side profile · 1.2 mm high
Original proportional profiles. Scale is consistent within this diagram; screen size is not a physical ruler.
Top profile · Ø 20 mm
Side profile · 1.6 mm high
Original proportional profiles. Scale is consistent within this diagram; screen size is not a physical ruler.
FieldCR2012CR2016
Dimensions20 × 1.2 mm20 × 1.6 mm
Voltage3 V nominal3 V nominal
ChemistryLithium manganese dioxideLithium manganese dioxide
DrainLow continuous drain; pulse performance is product-specificLow continuous drain; pulse performance is product-specific
RechargeableNo — primary cell; do not recharge.No — primary cell; do not recharge.

Direct answer

CR2012 and CR2016 share 20 mm diameter, 3 V nominal voltage and lithium manganese-dioxide chemistry. Their heights are 1.2 mm and 1.6 mm, so the 0.4 mm physical difference prevents an exact-size verdict.

Both are 20 mm in diameter; heights are 1.2 mm and 1.6 mm. The physical envelopes differ (20 × 1.2 mm versus 20 × 1.6 mm). Do not force, stack or infer equivalence from a shared diameter or code pattern.

Do not infer acceptability from fit alone. The device maker’s complete code and current instructions remain authoritative.

Why these codes are confused

CR2012 and CR2016 share part of their dimensions, naming pattern or retail context. The table separates the four fields that a one-line cross-reference can hide.

When the alternative may be acceptable

Only when the device or battery manufacturer explicitly permits the alternative after accounting for size, nominal voltage, chemistry and drain behaviour. Otherwise use the specified family. Never stack cells or modify a compartment to compensate for a height difference.