Not CR2032 but something else
Rechargeable CR2032, does that exist?
It has not yet been proven whether the use of rechargeable button cells is more sustainable in the short term. You will also have to buy a special charger and that also takes energy and raw materials to make. Another point to note is that rechargeable batteries sometimes have a shorter lifespan, so you may have to replace the battery after 9-10 months. But it does give you a better feeling if you don’t have to keep throwing button cells in the battery box.
- Rechargeable button cell: LIR2032
- Button cell charger
Rechargeable button cell: LIR2032
For the AirTag you need a CR2032 button cell battery. Ordinary CR2032 button cells often have a Lithium battery (e.g. manganese dioxide, Li-MnO2) and a voltage of 3 Volts. You can read more about it in our article about replacing AirTag batteries. Apple recommends not using button cells with a bitter coating, but does not give negative advice about the use of rechargeable batteries.
If you are looking for a rechargeable variant, it is best to look for LIR2032. This is the rechargeable Lithium-Ion variant. Such a button cell lasts about 400 charging cycles, something that is more than enough for an AirTag. They cost around 2 euros each, but you can find better (and worse) deals too.
They are available in two versions:
- LIR2032: normal capacity 35 mAh, voltage 3.6 Volt
- LIR2032H: high capacity 70 mAh, voltage 3.7 Volt
You can find rechargeable button cell batteries at various stores:
- View at Bol.com
- View at Amazon
Button cell charger
You need a charger to charge the button cells. If you want to be done in one go, you can purchase this package with charger and 4 rechargeable button cells. Charging takes place at a maximum voltage of 4.2 Volts and the capacity of these button cells is extra high. Make sure you insert the button cells properly:
Cheaper button cell chargers are also available and cost a few euros. They are often USB sticks that you can plug into a simple USB charger:
- View at Amazon
- View at Conrad
Tips for rechargeable button cells
If you leave the button cells unused for a long time, it is best to ensure that they are 40%-60% charged and that they are recharged every three months, even when you are not using them.
There is no need to buy a double set of button cells to ensure you have enough in stock when they run out. AirTag batteries never run out all at the same time and while you have changed one you can recharge the other. The next day you will have a full button cell battery that you can use in another AirTag. The capacity of these batteries is so low that they are fully charged in no time.
When purchasing your rechargeable button cells, make sure you choose the variant without soldering tabs, as in the photo below. These are intended for other applications.
Don’t you dare put a rechargeable button cell in your expensive AirTag? Nowadays there are also cheaper AirTag alternatives that also work with a button cell.
