Comparing CR123A Non-Rechargeable and 16340 Rechargeable Batteries

CR123A vs 16340 Batteries: Power Solutions Compared

16340 (a.k.a. RCR123A, "Rechargeable CR123") shares the same footprint as CR123A but delivers a higher voltage and unlimited re-use potential.
Read on to decide which chemistry fits your device best.

⚡ The #1 Mistake: Understanding Voltage

The most critical factor when comparing CR123A vs 16340 batteries is voltage. A rechargeable 16340 peaks at 4.2 V—about 40% higher than a 3.0 V primary CR123A. Using a 16340 in equipment built strictly for 3.0 V can permanently damage the electronics.

⚡ Physical fit does NOT equal electrical compatibility.

CR123A

3.0 V

Lithium Primary

16340

3.7 V

Rechargeable Li-ion

Up to 4.2 V fully charged

⚠️ Always confirm Li-ion compatibility before installing a 16340.

Voltage Comparison
Device Max
3.0 V
CR123A
3.0 V
16340
4.2 V

⭐ Choosing the Right Battery

CR123A (Disposable)

  • •Emergency equipment & survival kits
  • •Devices with strict 3 V limit / no Li-ion option
  • •10-year shelf-life; zero self-discharge
RECOMMENDED

Protected 16340 (Rechargeable)

  • •Saves up to $245 per 100 uses
  • •Higher sustained output for high-drain devices
  • •⚔️ Advanced Safety Electronic Protection

➕ Never mix primary and rechargeable cells, or cells at different charge levels, in the same device-especially where two CR123-size batteries are used in series.

⚔️ Advanced Safety Electronic Protection

⚔️

Over-Charge Cut-Off

Stops at 4.2 V to prevent overcharging.

⚔️

Over-Discharge Guard

Shuts down at ~2.5 V to preserve cell health.

⚔️

Short-Circuit Safety

Instant cut-off during electrical faults.

Orbtronic Safety Advantage
⚔️
Advanced Safety
⚡
High Output
Built into every Orbtronic 16340 cell

⚙️ Performance Comparison

Single-Use Capacity (mAh)

1500
CR123A
920
16340

⭐ 16340 runs at a higher voltage, so its watt-hours are closer to CR123A than the mAh numbers suggest.

Cost Efficiency (≈100 uses)

$250
CR123A
$5
16340

⚡ One protected 16340 can replace 500+ disposables.

Key Insight: If your device supports Li-ion, switching to protected 16340 batteries slashes costs and waste without sacrificing performance.

Ready for Smarter Power?

Pair your device with Orbtronic protected 16340 cells and a quality CC/CV battery charger for peak safety, performance and savings.

Shop 16340 Batteries
⚔️Advanced Safety Protection
⚡920 mAh High Capacity
⭐500+ Charge Cycles

Final Recommendations

⭐Choose CR123A When…

  • Device explicitly forbids Li-ion
  • Sits in storage most of the time
  • Maximum 10-year shelf readiness required

⚡Choose 16340 When…

  • Your manual lists "RCR123A / 16340" compatibility
  • You need frequent, high-performance, steady output power
  • You own a smart Li-ion charger (CC/CV 4.2 V)
Jul 31, 2025 Orbie

Recent Posts