16340 Rechargeable Battery and Its Equivalents

A 16340 rechargeable battery is a lithium-ion cell with a diameter of 16mm and a height of 34mm, often used in flashlights, lasers, and electronics. Its equivalents include CR123A (non-rechargeable) and RCR123A (rechargeable). These batteries offer 3.7V output, 500–800mAh capacity, and compatibility with devices requiring compact, high-power energy sources. Always check device specifications before substitution.

How to Prevent Lithium-Ion Battery Fires and Explosions

How Does a 16340 Battery Compare to CR123A?

16340 batteries are rechargeable lithium-ion cells (3.7V), while CR123A are non-rechargeable lithium primaries (3V). Voltage mismatch can damage devices designed for CR123A. Rechargeable 16340s cost more upfront but save long-term. Capacity ranges from 500–800mAh (16340) vs. 1,500mAh (CR123A). Use 16340 only in devices supporting higher voltage or with voltage regulators.

Feature	16340	CR123A
Rechargeable	Yes	No
Voltage	3.7V	3V
Cycle Life	300-500	Single-use

What Are the Key Specifications of a 16340 Battery?

Standard specs include 16mm diameter, 34mm height, 3.7V nominal voltage, and 500–800mAh capacity. Charging voltage is 4.2V, with discharge rates up to 2C. Weight averages 18–22g. Protected versions include circuits for overcharge/discharge prevention. Operating temperatures range from -20°C to 60°C. Cycle life spans 300–500 charges at 80% capacity retention.

Which Devices Commonly Use 16340 Batteries?

High-end flashlights (e.g., Olight, Fenix), laser pointers, vaping devices, security systems, and medical equipment use 16340s. They power devices requiring compact size and high output. Specialty cameras, tactical gear, and emergency beacons also utilize them. Always verify compatibility—some devices require specific protected/unprotected configurations.

In medical applications, 16340 batteries are favored for portable diagnostic tools like otoscopes and pulse oximeters due to their stable voltage output. Tactical flashlights used by law enforcement often rely on these cells for their balance of runtime and brightness. Recent advancements have seen 16340s integrated into compact drone controllers and wireless security cameras, where their rechargeable nature reduces maintenance frequency. Industrial users should note that devices with high peak current demands (over 2A) require batteries with unprotected designs to avoid circuit tripping.

Why Choose Rechargeable 16340 Over Disposable Alternatives?

Rechargeable 16340s reduce long-term costs and environmental waste. A single 16340 replaces 300+ disposable CR123As over its lifespan. They provide consistent voltage output until depletion, unlike primaries that gradually decline. Modern 16340s support fast charging (1–2 hours) and have protection circuits for safety. Ideal for high-drain, frequent-use applications.

How to Safely Charge and Maintain 16340 Batteries?

Use a quality lithium-ion charger with overcharge protection. Avoid charging above 4.2V or discharging below 2.5V. Store at 3.6–3.8V for long periods. Never expose to temperatures above 60°C. Inspect for damage monthly. Replace if capacity drops below 80%. Keep contacts clean with isopropyl alcohol. Use protective cases during transport.

For optimal performance, rotate batteries in multi-cell devices to ensure even wear. When storing longer than three months, partial charge (40-60%) minimizes degradation. Avoid stacking batteries loosely in drawers—metal contact can cause short circuits. In extreme cold environments below -10°C, temporarily warm batteries in pockets before use to maintain efficiency. Advanced users can monitor internal resistance monthly; increases beyond 150mΩ indicate replacement is due.

What Are the Environmental Impacts of 16340 Batteries?

Rechargeable 16340s reduce landfill waste by 95% compared to disposables. Lithium-ion recycling recovers cobalt, nickel, and lithium—key for eco-sustainability. Improper disposal risks soil/water contamination. Always recycle through certified centers. Carbon footprint per cycle is 3g CO2 vs. 48g for CR123A production. Energy-efficient charging further lowers environmental impact.

“The 16340 is revolutionizing portable power. Its balance of size and output makes it indispensable in medical and tactical fields. Future iterations may hit 1,000mAh while maintaining safety. Always prioritize cells with UL certification—counterfeit batteries cause 23% of device failures we see.” — Senior Engineer, Power Solutions Inc.

16340 rechargeable batteries offer a potent mix of compact design and reliable power. Understanding their specs, equivalents, and maintenance ensures optimal performance across devices. As lithium-ion tech advances, these cells will remain critical for energy-intensive portable applications. Always pair them with quality chargers and adhere to safety protocols for maximum longevity.

FAQ

Can I Use 16340 in Any CR123A Device?

Only if the device supports 3.7V input. Most CR123A devices require 3V—using 16340 may cause overheating. Check manufacturer guidelines first.

How Long Does a 16340 Battery Last Per Charge?

Runtime depends on device power draw. A 700mAh 16340 lasts 1 hour in a 7W flashlight. Low-power devices (e.g., sensors) can run 2–3 weeks.

Are All 16340 Batteries Protected?

No—some omit protection circuits for size or cost. Prioritize protected versions unless your device has built-in voltage regulation.