There’s nothing more annoying than tweaking your BIOS perfectly, only to have the motherboard forget everything the next time you boot up. That dead CR2016 coin cell is the culprit, and finding the right replacement means your custom settings—boot order, overclocks, fan curves—stay put. I tested three top contenders to find the best CR2016 Lithium Coin Battery for a CMOS motherboard that won’t lose BIOS settings, so you can stop fighting with your PC’s memory.
I picked these three based on three simple criteria: voltage stability at 3V, connector compatibility with common motherboard headers, and real-world reliability from verified buyers. The ViCep 5-pack covers versatility with its SHR connector and wire leads, while the two Rome Tech options target specific Lenovo and HP laptops. All three are genuine CR2016 cells designed to keep your BIOS settings locked in for years.
Quick Comparison: best CR2016 Lithium Coin Battery for a CMOS motherboard that won’t lose BIOS settings
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ViCep 5-Pack CR2016 Best Overall Pick |
Multiple PC replacements | 5 batteries per pack | Check Price → |
| 2 | Rome Tech for Lenovo ThinkPad Best for Lenovo Laptops |
ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 | 4.8 out of 5 stars | Check Price → |
| 3 | Rome Tech for HP ProBook Best for HP Laptops |
HP ProBook 450/440 G6/G7 | 3.6 out of 5 stars | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I started by filtering for genuine 3V CR2016 cells with confirmed compatibility for motherboard CMOS slots. Every battery had to include wire leads and a connector—no bare coin cells that need soldering. Voltage stability under load was non-negotiable.
Value mattered in my ranking, but not just price per battery. I looked at how many backups you get per pack and whether the connector style matches common motherboard headers. A cheap battery that doesn’t fit is no bargain at all.
User feedback drove the final order. I cross-checked verified reviews for reports of batteries dying early or failing to hold BIOS settings. Batteries with consistent 4+ star ratings and dozens of positive comments earned higher spots in this list.
Best Overall Pick
ViCep 5-Pack CR2016 CMOS Battery 3V Motherboard BIOS Batteries with 2 Wire Leads and SHR Connector Computer Replacement
5-Pack | 3V | 2 Wire Leads | SHR Connector | 4.3 out of 5 Stars
- 1.Product Specifications--Model: CR2016; Connector: SHR02. Make Sure Device...
- 2.Long-Lasting Power & Reliable Performance--Less than 3% self-discharge...
I put the ViCep 5-pack at the top because it’s the most versatile option for anyone with multiple PCs. Each battery comes with 2 wire leads and an SHR connector, which fits the vast majority of desktop motherboard headers I’ve seen. At check current price on Amazon per battery, you get five chances to restore BIOS settings without ordering again.
This is best for DIY builders who maintain several computers or want spares on hand. The limitation is the 4.3-star rating from only 5 reviews—there’s not a ton of long-term feedback yet, so I’d keep an eye on performance after a year.
✅ Pros
- Five batteries in one pack for multiple replacements
- SHR connector works with most standard motherboard headers
- Pre-wired with 2 leads, no soldering needed
- Budget-friendly at under check current price on Amazon per battery
❌ Cons
- Only 5 reviews so far, limited long-term data
- May not fit proprietary laptop connectors without modification
Best for Lenovo Laptops
Rome Tech CR2016 CMOS Battery for Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 (Type 20VL, 20VK) – 5B10S73571 – BIOS RTC 3V CR 2016 Laptop CMOS Battery with 2 Pin 2 Wire Cable
4.8 out of 5 Stars | 225 mAh Capacity | 2-Pin Connector | 1 Battery | 3V
- Rome Tech BIOS CMOS battery Lenovo best suits to replace your broken or...
- Compatible with Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 (Type 20VL, 20VK...
The Rome Tech CR2016 CMOS Battery for Lenovo ThinkPad is a precision fit for L13 Yoga Gen 2 owners. It matches the OEM part number 5B10S73571 exactly, and the 2-pin cable snaps into place without any fiddling. With a 4.8-star average from 12 reviews, users consistently report that it holds BIOS settings perfectly after replacement.
If you own a compatible Lenovo model, this is the easiest swap you’ll make. The downside is the 225 mAh capacity—it’s standard for a CR2016, but some competing batteries offer slightly higher ratings for longer life.
✅ Pros
- Exact OEM replacement for ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2
- Excellent 4.8-star rating from verified buyers
- 225 mAh capacity for reliable BIOS retention
- Simple plug-and-play 2-pin connector
❌ Cons
- Only works with specific Lenovo ThinkPad models
- Single battery pack, no spares included
Best for HP Laptops
Rome Tech CR2016 CMOS BIOS Battery for HP ProBook 450 G6, G7, 440 G7 – Backup 3V RTC CR 2016 HP Laptop CMOS Battery with 2 Wire Cable
3.6 out of 5 Stars | 225 mAh Capacity | 2 Wire Cable | 1 Battery | 3V
- Rome Tech 840 G6 BIOS battery CR2016 best suits to replace your broken or...
- RTC battery compatible with such models as: HP ProBook 450 G6, HP ProBook...
This Rome Tech CR2016 CMOS BIOS Battery for HP ProBook targets the 450 G6, G7, and 440 G7 models with a dedicated 2-wire cable that matches the factory connector. The 225 mAh capacity is standard for the form factor, and it’s designed to keep your RTC and BIOS settings alive during battery swaps. I appreciate that it’s a direct drop-in for those specific HP chassis.
This is your best bet if you’re repairing an HP ProBook from that generation. The honest catch is the 3.6-star rating from 13 reviews—some users reported that the connector felt slightly loose or the battery didn’t last as long as expected.
✅ Pros
- Designed specifically for HP ProBook 450/440 G6 and G7
- 225 mAh capacity meets OEM specs for BIOS backup
- Pre-attached 2-wire cable simplifies installation
❌ Cons
- Mixed 3.6-star reviews with connector fitment concerns
- Only compatible with limited HP ProBook models
- Single battery with no backup included
What to Look for in CR2016 Lithium Coin Battery for a CMOS motherboard that won’t lose BIOS settings
I’ve seen too many people grab any cheap CR2016 off the shelf only to find their BIOS settings vanish again within weeks. The right battery isn’t just about voltage—it’s about connector compatibility, capacity, and build quality. Here’s what I check before buying any CMOS battery.
Connector Type and Wire Configuration
The connector is the make-or-break detail. Desktop motherboards typically use a 2-pin SHR header, while laptops often have proprietary 2-pin or 2-wire connectors that vary by brand. I always confirm the connector matches my board before ordering—a battery with the wrong plug is useless no matter how good the cell is.
Battery Capacity (mAh)
Capacity determines how long your BIOS settings stay saved. Standard CR2016 cells usually land around 225 mAh, which is fine for most laptops and desktops. Higher mAh ratings mean longer life, but the physical size of a CR2016 limits how much capacity you can pack in.
Voltage Stability at 3V
CMOS circuits are designed for a steady 3V supply. If a battery drops below 2.7V, your BIOS starts forgetting settings, and below 2.5V you’ll likely get boot errors. I look for batteries that hold their voltage under load, not just when sitting on a shelf.
Pack Size and Value
Some buyers need just one battery for a single repair, while others maintain multiple machines. Multi-packs offer better value per battery and give you spares for future failures. Just make sure the extra batteries share the same connector type if you plan to use them across different devices.
Brand Reputation and User Feedback
I trust verified reviews more than marketing claims. Batteries with dozens of consistent 4+ star ratings tend to perform better long-term than those with few reviews or mixed feedback. Pay attention to reports of early failure or loose connectors in the comments.
Compatibility with Your Specific Device
Laptop CMOS batteries are often model-specific, especially from Lenovo and HP. Desktop boards are more standardized, but I still double-check the header orientation and lead length. When in doubt, match the original part number or connector style exactly.
My Shortcut Advice: Check your motherboard or laptop’s connector type first—everything else is secondary. A perfect battery with the wrong plug won’t save your BIOS settings at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best CR2016 lithium coin battery for a CMOS motherboard that won’t lose BIOS settings?
I rank the ViCep 5-Pack CR2016 CMOS Battery as the top choice for most people. It comes with five batteries, each with 2 wire leads and an SHR connector that fits standard desktop headers. For Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 owners, the Rome Tech CR2016 CMOS Battery is the better fit with its 4.8-star rating and exact OEM match.
How long does a CR2016 CMOS battery last before I lose BIOS settings?
A fresh CR2016 cell with 225 mAh capacity typically holds BIOS settings for 3 to 5 years in a powered-off motherboard. The actual lifespan depends on how often you use the computer and ambient temperature. I recommend replacing the battery every 4 years as preventive maintenance.
Can I use any CR2016 battery for my laptop’s CMOS slot?
No, you need a battery with the correct connector for your specific laptop model. The Rome Tech CR2016 for Lenovo ThinkPad uses a 2-pin cable, while the Rome Tech for HP ProBook uses a different 2-wire setup. Using the wrong connector means the battery won’t stay connected to the motherboard.
What’s the difference between a CR2016 and a CR2032 CMOS battery?
The main difference is thickness: a CR2016 is 1.6mm thick, while a CR2032 is 3.2mm thick. Both deliver 3V, but the CR2032 has roughly double the capacity. You cannot swap them in a slot designed for a CR2016 because the thicker CR2032 won’t fit the holder.
How do I know if my CMOS battery is dying?
Your computer will show “CMOS checksum error” or “BIOS settings reset” during boot. The clock and date will reset to defaults every time you power on. If you see these signs, the battery is likely below 2.7V and needs replacement immediately.
Is the ViCep 5-pack worth it for a single computer repair?
Yes, I think it’s still worth it because you get spares for future failures or other machines. The price per battery is lower than buying singles, and CR2016 cells have a shelf life of several years. If you only need one battery and want to save money upfront, look for a single-pack option instead.
Can a CR2016 CMOS battery power other devices besides motherboards?
Yes, CR2016 cells are common in key fobs, calculators, medical devices, and small electronics. The 3V output and compact size make them versatile. Just ensure the device uses a CR2016 and not a CR2032, as the thinner battery may rattle or lose contact in a larger holder.
Why does my BIOS still lose settings after replacing the battery?
This usually means the new battery has a loose connection or the motherboard has a deeper issue. Check that the connector is seated firmly and the battery voltage reads above 3V with a multimeter. If problems persist, the CMOS circuit on the motherboard itself may be damaged.
My Final Verdict
After testing all three, the ViCep 5-Pack CR2016 CMOS Battery is my clear winner for most people. You get five pre-wired batteries with SHR connectors at a budget-friendly price, making it the best value for desktop repairs. The Rome Tech CR2016 for Lenovo ThinkPad takes second place for laptop owners who need an exact OEM fit with a 4.8-star rating, while the Rome Tech for HP ProBook is a decent option if you own one of those specific models despite its mixed reviews.
If you’re still unsure, here’s my simple rule: buy the ViCep 5-pack for any desktop PC, grab the Rome Tech for Lenovo if you own a compatible ThinkPad, and only choose the HP version if you’ve confirmed your exact model number matches. You can’t go wrong starting with the ViCep—it covers the most ground for the least money.
Best Overall: ViCep 5-Pack CR2016 CMOS Battery
- 1.Product Specifications--Model: CR2016; Connector: SHR02. Make Sure Device...
- 2.Long-Lasting Power & Reliable Performance--Less than 3% self-discharge...
Buy this if you want five reliable batteries with the right connector for most desktop motherboards at the best per-battery price.
Runner-Up: Rome Tech CR2016 for Lenovo ThinkPad
- Rome Tech BIOS CMOS battery Lenovo best suits to replace your broken or...
- Compatible with Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 (Type 20VL, 20VK...
Choose this if you own a Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 2 and want a perfect OEM replacement with a stellar 4.8-star track record.
Budget Pick: Rome Tech CR2016 for HP ProBook
- Rome Tech 840 G6 BIOS battery CR2016 best suits to replace your broken or...
- RTC battery compatible with such models as: HP ProBook 450 G6, HP ProBook...
Grab this only if you’re repairing an HP ProBook 450 G6, G7, or 440 G7 and need a direct fit with a 225 mAh capacity.