CR123A battery reference
The CR123A is a 3 V lithium primary (non-rechargeable) cell. It is roughly half the length of an 18650, and two CR123A cells stacked physically fit the same space as one 18650 — but they are not electrically interchangeable.
Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| IEC designation | CR17345 |
| Common names | CR123A, CR123, 123A, DL123A, EL123A |
| Diameter | 17.0 mm |
| Length | 34.5 mm |
| Nominal voltage | 3.0 V |
| Capacity | 1400–1550 mAh |
| Chemistry | Lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO2) |
| Rechargeable? | No (standard); RCR123A is a rechargeable equivalent (3.0 or 3.7 V) |
| Operating temperature | −40 °C to +60 °C (excellent cold performance) |
| Shelf life | 10–12 years |
Common devices
- 35mm film cameras with built-in flash
- Tactical and compact flashlights
- Security alarm sensors and control panels
- Medical devices
- Some smoke detectors
- Gun-mounted laser sights and lights
2×CR123A vs 1×18650 — the common question
Many flashlights and battery compartments that accept two CR123A cells are also compatible with one 18650 cell — the physical dimensions are almost identical. However:
- 2×CR123A = 6.0 V combined; 1×18650 = 3.6–4.2 V. These are not the same voltage.
- Flashlights marketed as “CR123A/18650 compatible” have circuitry designed to accept both voltage ranges. Do not assume any device is compatible — check the manufacturer specification.
- Using 18650 in a device rated only for 2×CR123A (6 V) could damage the device or cause a safety risk.
RCR123A (rechargeable CR123A)
The RCR123A is a rechargeable Li-ion cell in the same physical form factor. It operates at 3.0 V or 3.7 V depending on the variant. Check device compatibility before using RCR123A in place of CR123A — voltage differences affect device performance and safety.