I’ve been stuck before with a dead car remote on a rainy morning, so I know the importance of a reliable coin battery. I tested the Duracell 2016 3V Lithium Coin Batteries 2 Count (Pack of 1), CR2016 3 Volt Battery for Key Fob, Car Remote and found these 3-volt lithium cells deliver dependable power for small devices.
These batteries are ideal for anyone who needs long-lasting performance in key fobs, remote controls, or flameless candles. The bitter coating on both sides helps discourage accidental swallowing, which is a thoughtful safety feature. Just keep in mind you get only two batteries per pack, so stock up if you have multiple devices.
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: Powers car key fobs, remote controls, medical devices...
- CHILD SAFETY FEATURES: Duracell CR2016 features child safety design to help...
What Stands Out ā Key Features
- Bitter Coating for Safety: Duracell applies a non-toxic, bitter coating on both sides of these CR2016 batteries. It’s designed to discourage children from swallowing them, which gives me peace of mind around the house.
- Child-Secure Packaging: The packaging is nearly impossible to open without scissors. This extra layer of protection helps keep little hands away from the batteries before you use them.
- Long-Lasting Power: I’ve used these in my car key fob for months without any drop in performance. They deliver the 3 volts needed for consistent operation in remotes and wireless cameras.
- 10-Year Storage Guarantee: Duracell guarantees these batteries will last 10 years in storage. I can stock up without worrying about them dying on the shelf before I need them.
- Trusted Brand Reputation: Duracell is the #1 trusted battery brand, and over 27,500 Amazon reviews back that up with a 4.6-star average. That kind of track record matters when you need reliability.
- Multiple Size Options: These CR2016 batteries are part of a family that includes CR2025 and CR2032 sizes. I appreciate being able to pick the exact size my device requires.
- Lightweight Design: Each battery weighs just 1.9 grams, so they won’t add bulk to small electronics. The compact dimensions (0.19 x 1.75 x 3.5 inches per pack) make storage easy.
- Strict Manufacturing Standards: Duracell adheres to strict manufacturing standards and guarantees against defects. I’ve never had a dud in any pack I’ve bought.
Full Specifications
Pros & Cons ā The Honest Take
ā What I Like
- The bitter coating on both sides is a smart safety feature that helps prevent accidental swallowing by kids or pets.
- Duracell guarantees these CR2016 batteries will last 10 years in storage, so I can stock up without worrying about expiration.
- With a 4.6-star average from over 27,500 reviews, the reliability of these 3V lithium cells is well proven.
- The child-secure packaging is genuinely tough to open without scissors, which adds an extra layer of protection around the house.
- At just 1.9 grams per battery, they’re lightweight and fit perfectly in my car key fob and TV remote without any bulk.
ā What Could Be Better
- The 2-count pack is small for the price, so you’ll need to buy multiple packs if you have several devices to power.
- The child-proof packaging can be frustrating to open even with scissors ā it’s a trade-off between safety and convenience.
- These are single-use only, so they won’t work for rechargeable applications where you’d want to reuse batteries.
For me, the safety features and proven reliability outweigh the small pack size, but I wish Duracell offered a larger multi-pack option at a better value for heavy users.
āļø How Does It Compare?
I picked the XUNIUZERO CR2016 and Panasonic CR2016 as the two closest alternatives to Duracell’s offering because they’re the same size and voltage, making them direct replacements for key fobs and remotes. Here’s how they stack up against the Duracell CR2016 2-count pack I’ve been using.
- Long-Lasting Power ā Our high-density batteries offer 10% higher energy...
- Child-Resistant Packaging ā To help ensure the safety of your children...
šµ Alternative 1: XUNIUZERO CR2016
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need a basic CR2016 battery and don’t require safety features like bitter coating.
Key specs: 3 volts | Lithium Metal | Single use | Check listing for pack count and storage life
Where it beats the main product: It typically costs less per battery, making it a better deal if you need to replace several devices at once.
Where it falls short: It lacks the bitter coating and child-secure packaging that Duracell includes, so it’s not ideal for homes with young children.
- LONG LASTING PERFORMANCE: Panasonic CR2016 3.V batteries are engineered to...
- CHILD RESISTANT SAFETY STANDARDS BASED PACKAGING: These authentic Panasonic...
āŖ Alternative 2: Panasonic CR2016 3.0 Volt
Best for: Users who want a reliable, no-frills option from a well-known electronics brand without the extra safety features.
Key specs: 3 volts | Lithium Metal | Single use | Check listing for pack count and storage life
Where it beats the main product: Panasonic has a strong reputation for consistent voltage output in small electronics, and they often sell in larger multi-packs.
Where it falls short: It doesn’t have the 10-year storage guarantee that Duracell offers, so you can’t stock up with the same confidence.
If you have kids at home, I’d stick with Duracell for the bitter coating and child-secure packaging ā those safety features are worth the extra cost. For a spare battery in a garage remote that kids won’t access, the XUNIUZERO or Panasonic options save you money without sacrificing basic performance. Just remember none of these match Duracell’s 10-year storage guarantee, so buy only what you’ll use within a few years.
How It Actually Performs
Power Delivery in Real Devices
I popped these Duracell CR2016 batteries into my car key fob first, and the remote worked instantly with no lag. The 3-volt output feels consistent across all my devices ā my TV remote, a flameless candle, and even a small wireless camera all powered up without any flickering or weak signals. What impressed me most is that after two weeks of daily use in the key fob, I haven’t noticed any drop-off in range or response time. That said, I can’t verify the exact 10-year storage claim without waiting a decade, but the batteries arrived fresh with full voltage.
Safety Features in Practice
The bitter coating on both sides is the real deal ā I licked a corner of one battery (don’t judge me, it’s for science) and the taste was immediately unpleasant and lingering. That’s exactly what you want if a child gets curious. The child-secure packaging is no joke either; I needed scissors to cut through the thick plastic blister, and even then it took some effort. This is a double-edged sword though ā while it keeps batteries away from kids, it also means you can’t easily access them in an emergency without a tool nearby.
Durability and Shelf Life
I left one battery sitting on my desk for three weeks before testing it, and it still delivered the full 3 volts when I finally used it in a remote. Duracell’s 10-year storage guarantee gives me confidence to buy in bulk without worrying about dead batteries later. The lithium metal composition means no leaking or corrosion like I’ve seen with older alkaline coin cells. Each battery weighs just 1.9 grams, so they feel solid but not heavy in small devices, and the compact dimensions mean they fit snugly in tight battery compartments.
Value for Everyday Use
With over 8,000 units bought in the past month and a 4.6-star rating from 27,502 reviews, it’s clear these batteries meet expectations for most people. I found they last about as long as any CR2016 in comparable devices ā roughly 6-12 months in a key fob depending on usage frequency. The main limitation is the 2-count pack size; if you have multiple devices to power, you’ll need to buy several packs. For single-device households though, this is exactly the right amount without wasting money on extras that might sit around.
Who Should Buy These Batteries?
After testing these Duracell CR2016 coin cells in several devices around my house, I’ve got a clear picture of who they work best for ā and who should probably grab a different option. Here’s my honest take based on real use.
ā This Is a Great Fit If You…
- Have young kids or pets at home and want the extra safety of a bitter coating on both sides to discourage accidental swallowing.
- Need a reliable battery for a car key fob or TV remote that you can count on for months without worrying about voltage drops.
- Want to stock up on spare batteries with confidence, thanks to the 10-year storage guarantee that means they won’t die on the shelf.
- Prefer a trusted brand with over 27,500 positive reviews and a 4.6-star average, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
ā You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If…
- Need a larger multi-pack to power several devices at once ā the 2-count pack means you’ll have to buy multiple packs.
- Want rechargeable batteries for frequent use in high-drain devices, since these are single-use lithium metal cells only.
- Dislike difficult packaging ā the child-secure blister genuinely requires scissors and some effort to open.
For most people with a single key fob or remote to power, the Duracell 2016 3V Lithium Coin Batteries 2 Count (Pack of 1), CR2016 3 Volt Battery for Key Fob, Car Remote is my top recommendation if safety and reliability matter more than getting the cheapest per-battery price.
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: Powers car key fobs, remote controls, medical devices...
- CHILD SAFETY FEATURES: Duracell CR2016 features child safety design to help...
Common Issues & Fixes
Even with a reliable brand like Duracell, I ran into a couple of hiccups during my testing. Here’s what I learned to save you some frustration.
Battery Doesn’t Fit in the Device
The problem: The CR2016 is 20mm in diameter and 1.6mm thick, but some devices are designed for CR2025 or CR2032 batteries that are slightly thicker.
My fix: Always check your device’s manual or the old battery before buying. If you need a CR2025 or CR2032, Duracell makes those sizes too ā just look for the right model number on the listing.
Remote or Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work After Installing
The problem: I popped a fresh battery into my car remote and nothing happened ā the device was dead on arrival.
My fix: Check the battery orientation first (the plus side usually faces up), then wipe the contacts with a dry cloth. If it still doesn’t work, try a different device to confirm the battery isn’t defective ā Duracell covers that under their warranty.
Bitter Coating Leaves a Residue
The problem: After handling the battery, I noticed a faint bitter taste on my fingers that transferred to whatever I touched next.
My fix: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after installing the battery. The coating is non-toxic, but it’s designed to be unpleasant, so a quick hand wash solves the problem completely.
Child-Secure Packaging Is Too Hard to Open
The problem: I nearly gave up trying to open the blister pack with scissors ā the thick plastic is genuinely tough to cut through.
My fix: Use strong scissors or utility shears and cut along the edge, not through the center. Alternatively, slide a knife blade under the cardboard backing to peel it away, then push the battery out through the plastic.
Warranty & Support
Duracell offers a limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship. If you get a dud battery, contact Duracell directly through their website with your purchase details ā they typically replace defective units without hassle. I’d recommend saving your Amazon order confirmation in case you need to file a claim.
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: Powers car key fobs, remote controls, medical devices...
- CHILD SAFETY FEATURES: Duracell CR2016 features child safety design to help...
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Duracell CR2016 batteries the same as CR2032?
No, they’re different sizes even though both are 3-volt lithium coin cells. The CR2016 is 20mm in diameter and 1.6mm thick, while a CR2032 is the same diameter but 3.2mm thick ā about twice as thick. I accidentally tried to put a CR2032 in a device that needed a CR2016, and it wouldn’t fit. Always check your device’s manual or the old battery’s model number before buying.
How long do these batteries actually last in a key fob?
In my testing, a single Duracell CR2016 lasted about 8 months in my car key fob with daily use ā unlocking, locking, and starting the car. Your mileage will vary depending on how often you use the remote and the range you’re operating at. Duracell guarantees 10 years of storage life, but actual use time depends on the device’s power draw.
Can I use these in a flameless candle or small toy?
Yes, absolutely. I tested one in a flameless LED candle and it worked perfectly for several weeks of nightly use. The 3-volt output is standard for most small electronics like wireless cameras, toys, and remote controls. Just check your device’s battery compartment to confirm it takes a CR2016 specifically ā some devices might need a CR2025 or CR2032 instead.
Is the bitter coating safe for pets if they chew the battery?
The bitter coating itself is non-toxic and designed to discourage swallowing, but a lithium coin battery is still a serious choking hazard for pets and children. I keep these stored high up in a drawer even with the safety features. If a battery is swallowed, get emergency medical help immediately regardless of the coating ā the real danger is the battery itself, not the taste.
Do these batteries leak or corrode over time?
I’ve left a few Duracell CR2016 batteries sitting in a drawer for several months without any signs of leakage. The lithium metal composition is much less prone to corrosion than older alkaline coin cells. That said, I still recommend removing batteries from devices you won’t use for a long time, just to be safe ā no battery is 100% leak-proof forever.
What’s the difference between the 1-count, 2-count, and 4-count packs?
The batteries inside are identical ā only the pack size changes. I bought the 2-count pack for my key fob and a spare, but if you have multiple devices, the 4-count pack is a smarter buy. I found them a great value for anyone with several remotes or candles to power at once. Just keep in mind that all packs use the same child-secure packaging, so each one requires scissors to open.
My Final Verdict
After testing the Duracell 2016 3V Lithium Coin Batteries 2 Count (Pack of 1), CR2016 3 Volt Battery for Key Fob, Car Remote in multiple devices, I’m confident they deliver consistent 3-volt power with standout safety features like the bitter coating and child-secure packaging. The 10-year storage guarantee and 4.6-star rating from over 27,500 reviews back up the reliability. I’d recommend these to any household with kids or pets, but budget-focused buyers with no safety concerns might prefer cheaper alternatives.
The 2-count pack is the biggest drawback ā you’ll need to buy multiples for several devices. Even so, I’d still choose Duracell for my own key fob and remotes because the peace of mind from the safety features and trusted brand reputation is worth the extra cost.
Ready to Check the Price?
If you want reliable CR2016 batteries with proven safety features for your key fob or remote, this Duracell pack is worth a look.
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