Is a 16340 the same as a CR123A?

Same physical size, different chemistry. A 16340 is a rechargeable Li-ion cell; a CR123A is a single-use lithium primary. Some lights take either, many do not. Only swap where the product page lists both cells, and never try to recharge a CR123A.

Are 16340 cells easy to find in Canada?

Not off the shelf at most hardware or grocery stores, where you are more likely to see CR123A than 16340. Buy a Fenix spare with your light and keep it topped up. If you want fuel you can pick up almost anywhere, a light that runs on AA is the more practical choice.

Which 16340 light suits everyday carry?

The E18R V2.0 is the pocket pick: 1,200 lumens, a magnetic tail for hands-free use and a two-way clip, in a body 67 mm long. For hands-free work under a sink or on a dark trail, the HM50R V2.0 headlamp weighs 78 g with its battery and comes off the band to use as a flashlight.

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Fenix 16340 (CR123A size) Flashlights

The 16340 is the same size as a CR123A, and the lights built on it are tiny: the E18R V2.0 weighs 56 g with its battery. This is a short list. If none of these fits, the 18350 page offers a slightly longer cell with more capacity, and the built-in battery page covers keychain-size lights.

What a 16340 gives up

Capacity is the trade. The Fenix 16340 cells used here are 700mAh and 800mAh, about a fifth of a large 18650. The E18R V2.0 reaches 1,200 lumens, but Fenix rates its turbo runtime at 30 minutes, so most of your use will be on high and medium. That is fine for a light that rides on a keyring or in a vest pocket and works in short bursts: reading a meter, finding the right key, checking a tire at the side of the road. If you expect long stretches of light, a 16340 is the wrong tool.

CR123A as backup fuel

Because a 16340 is CR123A size, some 16340 lights also take a CR123A lithium primary, and Fenix lists it on the product page where that is allowed. It is a good emergency option: CR123A stores for years and handles cold better than alkaline. The HM50R V2.0 headlamp ships with its own rechargeable cell, charges by USB-C and detaches to work as a small flashlight, a simple pick for a winter car kit or a pack lid. Spare 16340 cells are on our batteries page.

Fenix E18R V2.0

Ultra-Compact High-Performance Edc Flashlight

Max output

1,200 lm

Max distance

146 m

Output modes

^CAD$88.95

An ultra-compact 1,200-lumen EDC flashlight with a 146-meter beam and a magnetic base.

Fenix HM53R

Multi-Function Lightweight Headlamp

Max output

1,200 lm

Max distance

158 m

Output modes

^CAD$104.95

A 102-gram 1,200-lumen headlamp with magnetic tail-cap, body clip, and 135-hour runtime.

Fenix GL22

Red Laser Tactical Light

Max output

750 lm

Max distance

180 m

Output modes

^CAD$164.95

A 750-lumen pistol-mounted flashlight with a 180-meter beam and integrated red laser sight.

Fenix HM50R V2.0

Rechargeable Multipurpose Headlamp

Max output

700 lm

Max distance

115 m

Output modes

^CAD$81.95

A 700-lumen rechargeable headlamp with a detachable head that doubles as a mini flashlight.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 16340 the same as a CR123A?: Same physical size, different chemistry. A 16340 is a rechargeable Li-ion cell; a CR123A is a single-use lithium primary. Some lights take either, many do not. Only swap where the product page lists both cells, and never try to recharge a CR123A.
Are 16340 cells easy to find in Canada?: Not off the shelf at most hardware or grocery stores, where you are more likely to see CR123A than 16340. Buy a Fenix spare with your light and keep it topped up. If you want fuel you can pick up almost anywhere, a light that runs on AA is the more practical choice.
Which 16340 light suits everyday carry?: The E18R V2.0 is the pocket pick: 1,200 lumens, a magnetic tail for hands-free use and a two-way clip, in a body 67 mm long. For hands-free work under a sink or on a dark trail, the HM50R V2.0 headlamp weighs 78 g with its battery and comes off the band to use as a flashlight.