Flat Round Batteries vs. Coin Cell Batteries: What’s the Difference

Batteries come in various shapes and sizes, designed to power everything from small devices to large machinery. Among the many types of batteries, flat round batteries and coin cell batteries are commonly used in electronic devices. However, people often confuse the two. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between flat round batteries and coin cell batteries, their unique characteristics, and where they are typically used.

Part 1. What are flat round batteries?

Flat round batteries are small, disc-shaped batteries commonly used in electronic devices that require compact and long-lasting power sources. These batteries are flat and circular, typically measuring between 5mm and 40mm in diameter, and they usually come in various chemistries, such as lithium, alkaline, or silver oxide.

Characteristics of flat round batteries

• Compact size: Their flat design makes them ideal for devices with limited space.
• Long shelf life: These batteries can last a long time without losing charge, which is crucial for devices that aren’t used frequently.
• Varied chemistries: Depending on the application, flat round batteries can come in different chemistries, allowing for a balance between cost, power, and longevity.

Common uses for flat round batteries

• Watches
• Hearing aids
• Remote controls
• Calculators
• Key fobs

These batteries are chosen for their ability to provide consistent power to low-energy devices over extended periods.

Part 2. What are coin cell batteries?

Coin cell batteries are also small, flat, and round. Still, they are typically smaller and have a more standardized size than flat round batteries. Most coin cell batteries are lithium-based, which gives them a higher energy density and longer shelf life. They are a specific type of flat round battery with characteristics that set them apart from other types of similar batteries.

Characteristics of coin cell batteries

• Compact and lightweight: Coin cell batteries are designed to fit into small spaces, making them ideal for portable devices.
• Higher voltage: Many coin cell batteries, especially lithium ones, have a higher voltage compared to other flat round batteries, making them suitable for devices that need a bit more power.
• Standardized sizes: Coin cell batteries are manufactured in standardized sizes, which makes them easy to replace and find.

Common uses for coin cell batteries

• Watches (predominantly analogue watches)
• Hearing aids
• Fitness trackers
• Cameras (such as those in some digital cameras)
• Toys (such as remote-controlled vehicles)

Part 3. Key differences between flat round batteries and coin cell batteries

While flat round and coin cell batteries share similar shapes and are often used in small electronic devices, key differences set them apart. Here’s a breakdown:

Size and shape

While both batteries are flat and round, coin cell batteries are typically smaller and thinner than many other flat round batteries. Coin cell batteries often range from 10mm to 30mm in diameter. In contrast, flat round batteries can be larger, depending on the application.

Chemistry

Coin cell batteries are often made with lithium, providing higher energy density, a longer shelf life, and a higher voltage (typically 3V). On the other hand, flat round batteries can be made from various chemistries, such as alkaline, silver oxide, or zinc-carbon, each offering different energy capacities and costs.

Voltage

Coin cell batteries generally have higher voltage (typically 3V for lithium-based types) than other flat round batteries, which usually have voltages ranging from 1.5V to 3V, depending on the chemistry.

Shelf life and capacity

Due to their high-quality materials and design, coin cells usually have a longer shelf life than flat round batteries. Coin cell batteries also tend to have a higher capacity, meaning they can deliver consistent power over a longer period before needing replacement.

Part 4. When to use flat round batteries?

Flat round batteries are ideal for devices that don’t require a lot of power but need to function reliably over time. They are an excellent choice for low-energy devices such as:

• Remote controls: Especially for devices that are not in use constantly.
• Calculators: Devices that are occasionally used but must operate for long periods.
• Toys: For children’s toys that use low power, such as sound-producing or flashing light toys.

A flat round battery can be a great option if a device does not need a high energy output but must be small and light.

Part 5. When to use coin cell batteries?

Coin cell batteries are used in applications where consistent, long-lasting power is needed in a small form factor. Common applications include:

• Watches: Especially in wristwatches that require a compact power source.
• Fitness trackers: Devices that continuously monitor health data with minimal power consumption.
• Medical devices: Such as hearing aids and glucose meters, where reliability is crucial.

Coin cells are also perfect for devices that require higher voltage and energy density in a compact size.

Part 6. How to properly store flat round and coin cell batteries?

Proper storage of batteries is essential to ensure that they perform optimally and have a long shelf life. Here are some tips for storing flat round and coin cell batteries:

• Please keep them in a cool, dry place: Heat and humidity can cause the batteries to degrade.
• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures: Storing batteries at room temperature is ideal.
• Please keep them in their original packaging: This prevents the terminals from short-circuiting or discharging prematurely.
• Store separately from metal objects: Metal objects can cause the terminals to short-circuit, leading to leakage or damage.

Part 7. How to dispose of flat round and coin cell batteries?

Improper disposal of batteries can harm the environment. Here’s how to safely dispose of flat round and coin cell batteries:

• Recycle: Many electronics stores offer battery recycling services.
• Use designated disposal bins: Some local recycling centres have bins for used batteries.
• Never throw in the trash: Disposing of batteries in the trash can lead to leakage and environmental damage.

Part 8. Can flat round and coin cell batteries be used interchangeably?

Flat round and coin cell batteries should not be used interchangeably, even though they may appear similar. The primary reason is that their voltage, size, and chemistry may differ. Using the wrong type of battery can damage the device or cause it to malfunction.

Part 9. How long do flat round and coin cell batteries last?

The lifespan of a flat round or coin cell battery depends on the type of battery and how the device is used. On average:

• Coin cell batteries last 1-3 years, depending on the application and usage.
• Flat round batteries can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the chemistry and device.

Replacing your batteries when they show signs of weakening is essential to avoid device failure.

Part 10. How to extend the lifespan of your flat round or coin cell battery?

To extend the life of your flat round or coin cell battery, here are a few tips:

• Turn off the device when not in use: This prevents unnecessary battery drain.
• Use devices with energy-saving features: Many modern devices have settings to extend battery life.
• Avoid excessive exposure to heat: Storing devices in hot conditions can shorten battery life.

Part 11. FAQs

Henry

Battery Industry Content Writer

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