Button cell batteries are used in everyday applications, from watches and toys to medical devices and car remote controls. Consequently, they are in high demand and practically ubiquitous. As global market demands for electronic product performance and environmental friendliness continue to rise, consumers are choosing button cell batteries not just for price, but also for durability, safety, and compatibility. 

As one of China's oldest battery brands, Tiger Head Battery has been exporting to over 90 countries and regions since 1928, relying on consistent quality and a wide selection of models, with annual sales exceeding 6 billion units. In this article, we'll thoroughly analyze the differences between alkaline and lithium button cell batteries and help you choose the most suitable button cell battery type in 2025.

What is a Button Cell Battery?

Button cell batteries, also known as "coin cell batteries," are compact, coin-shaped batteries commonly used in low-power or space-constrained electronic devices.

Typical Features:

• Voltage Range: 1.5V (alkaline) or 3V (lithium).
• Small Size: Diameter typically 5-25 mm, thickness 1-6 mm.
• Wide Applications: Toys, calculators, remote controls, medical devices, sensors, etc.

Of all button cell battery types, the most common are alkaline and lithium button cell batteries.

Tiger Head Button Cell Batteries Overview

Tiger Head Battery currently offers two core series:

Whether you're looking for cost-effectiveness or require a long-term, stable power supply, Tiger Head has a solution.

Alkaline Button Cell Battery

Models

• LR41
• LR626

Key Features

• Voltage: 1.5V, suitable for low-power devices
• Environmental: 0% mercury content, safer and greener
• Advantages: Affordable and easy to buy

Applications

• Watches
• Calculators
• Toys
• LED Gadgets

Alkaline button cell batteries are an ideal choice for users on a budget and in environments where battery life is less critical.

Lithium Button Cell Batteries

Common Models

• CR2016
• CR2025
• CR2032

Key Features

• Voltage: 3V, provides more powerful energy
• Stable performance: Suitable for a wide temperature range
• Leak-proof design: Increased safety and reliability
• Environmentally friendly: 0% mercury, compliant with RoHS and CE international standards

Applications

• Medical devices (glucose meters, thermometers)
• Smart devices (Bluetooth headsets, fitness trackers)
• Car remote controls
• Security equipment and sensors

If you need a high-performance, long-life power solution, lithium button cell batteries are the right choice.

Alkaline vs Lithium Button Cell Batteries: How to Choose

Summary

If you prioritize cost efficiency and low-drain devices, go for Alkaline button cell battery.

If you need high performance and reliability, especially for critical devices, choose lithium button cell batteries.

What to Consider When Wholesaleing Button Cell Batteries

For distributors, choosing the right button cell battery supplier not only affects purchase costs but also directly impacts subsequent sales and customer satisfaction. During the wholesale process, focus on the following:

Complete Product Range

When wholesale, prioritize suppliers that offer both alkaline and lithium button cell batteries. This allows them to meet the needs of low-power devices while also catering to the higher-performance markets of medical devices, car keys, and smart devices. A diverse product line helps distributors reach diverse customer groups.

Brand Reputation

 Choosing a well-known brand with a long-standing market reputation, such as Tiger Head Battery, can effectively reduce after-sales risks. Established brands often have multiple certifications and a strong international presence, making it easier for distributors to quickly expand into the market.

Quality and Compliance

Confirm whether the product meets environmental and safety standards, such as mercury-free (0% Mercury), RoHS standards, CE certification, or other international certifications. Compliance is essential for market entry, especially in regions like Europe and the United States, where import regulations are stringent.

Performance Stability

Lithium button cell batteries are generally suitable for high-energy devices, offering stable output and excellent temperature resistance. Alkaline button cell batteries, on the other hand, are more suitable for everyday consumer electronics. Wholesalers can conduct sample testing before purchasing in bulk to avoid widespread after-sales issues.

Packaging and Storage

Wholesale packaging must not only ensure safe transportation but also clearly label the voltage, model, production date, and expiration date. Good packaging enhances retail display and facilitates warehousing and logistics management.

Market Demand Matching

Demand for button cell battery types varies significantly across regions. For example, alkaline button cell batteries such as LR41 and LR626 are in high demand in the toy and watch markets, while lithium batteries such as CR2032 and CR2025 are more popular in automobiles and smart devices. Distributors should flexibly adjust their purchase ratios based on market research.

Practical Advice for Distributors

Avoid mixing different button cell battery models when wholesale to avoid customer complaints.Store in a dry, room-temperature environment, avoiding high temperatures and humidity. Remind retailers to pay attention to safety publicity, especially to prevent children from accidentally swallowing small batteries.

Why choose Tiger Head Battery?

• Century-old brand heritage: Manufacturing experience since 1928
• Global Sales: 6 billion batteries sold annually, exported to over 90 countries.
• High Quality Guarantee: Compliant with international standards such as RoHS and CE.
• Complete Model Range: Covers all major button cell battery types.

In the increasingly competitive global market of 2025, Tiger Head Battery remains a trusted choice.

FAQ

Q1: What is the typical lifespan of a button cell battery?

A1: Alkaline batteries are used for low-power devices for 1-2 years, medium-power devices for 6-12 months, and high-power devices for several weeks. Lithium batteries are used for car keys for almost 3 years, smart homes for 12-18 months, and medical devices for 6-12 months.

Q2: How do I determine which type of button cell battery to choose?

A2: Alkaline is suitable for low-power devices (watches, calculators), while lithium is recommended for high-power or critical equipment (medical devices, car keys).

Q3: Are Tiger Head Battery's button cell batteries environmentally friendly?

A3: Yes, all Tiger Head Battery products contain 0% mercury and meet international environmental standards.

Q4: Are CR2032 and LR41 batteries interchangeable?

A4: No. CR2032 is a lithium button cell battery (3V), while LR41 is an alkaline battery (1.5V), with different voltages and sizes.

Q5: Does Tiger Head offer wholesale services?

A5: Yes, Tiger Head Battery supports global wholesale, suitable for both resellers and corporations. Tiger Head has great market influence in the world as its products are exported to more than 90+ countries and regions in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, America and so on..

Conclusion

In 2025, choosing the right type of button cell battery is crucial. Alkaline button cell batteries are suitable for cost-effective, low-power devices, while lithium button cell batteries are ideal for high-performance applications. As a globally renowned brand, Tiger Head Battery offers a full range of button cell battery solutions to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses.

Want to learn more or get a wholesale quote? Contact Tiger Head Battery today to ensure your devices receive long-lasting, reliable power.