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CR123A vs 18650
CR123A and 18650 are not interchangeable. They differ in voltage (3 V vs 3.6 V), diameter (17 mm vs 18 mm), length (34.5 mm vs 65 mm), chemistry (lithium photo battery vs rechargeable lithium-ion cell). The 18650 holds about 2.0× the energy of the CR123A (3,000 mAh vs 1,500 mAh).
| CR123A | 18650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | lithium photo battery | rechargeable lithium-ion cell |
| Voltage | 3 V | 3.6 V |
| Size | 17 mm × 34.5 mm | 18 mm × 65 mm |
| Typical capacity | ≈ 1,500 mAh | ≈ 3,000 mAh |
| Rechargeable | no | yes |
| Other codes | CR17345, DL123A, EL123AP, 123 | INR18650, ICR18650, NCR18650 |
Can I use 18650 instead of CR123A?
No. Rechargeable 3.6 V cell (4.2 V when full): can damage a 3 V device.
Can I use CR123A instead of 18650?
No. 3 V, not rechargeable; 18650 devices expect 3.6 V.
Where each one is used
CR123A: wireless security cameras and alarm sensors; tactical and weapon-mounted flashlights; film cameras; smart-home sensors and smart locks.
18650: high-power flashlights; power banks and laptop battery packs; e-bike and power-tool packs (as cells inside); vape mods.