Replacing the battery in your Apple AirTag trackers is a breeze – as long as you use the right battery type. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting the longest life and best performance from your AirTag.
What Type of Battery Does the AirTag Use?

The Apple AirTag uses a standard coin-style CR2032 lithium battery. CR2032 refers to:
- C – Lithium chemistry
- R – Round shape
- 20 – 20mm diameter
- 32 – 3.2mm thickness
Any CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell battery will work, as long as it meets Apple’s specifications:
Voltage: 3V
Capacity: At least 204mAh
Temperature range: -20°C to 60°C
Batteries with higher capacity, like 240mAh, will provide even longer battery life.
Lithium coin batteries are often used in small electronics like key fobs, watches, and calculators. They provide a steady voltage in a tiny package.
How Long Does the AirTag Battery Last?
The AirTag battery is designed to last around 1 year with typical use before needing replacement. However, actual battery life can vary depending on these factors:
- Frequency of use – Frequently triggering the AirTag speaker to play a sound drains the battery faster. Using Precision Finding also uses more energy.
- Extreme temperatures – Very cold or hot temps can decrease battery performance, as covered in this ONN Bluetooth tracker review.
- Battery capacity – Higher capacity batteries, like 240mAh, last longer. Lower capacity batteries run out faster.
- Battery brand – Quality and rated capacity can vary slightly between brands. Stick to major brands for best longevity.
Apple has removed the battery level indicator in iOS updates, so you’ll need to rely on the low battery notification to know when to swap the battery.
When Should I Replace the AirTag Battery?
Don’t wait until your AirTag stops working to replace the battery!
You’ll get a notification when the CR2032 battery runs low. Immediately replace it to avoid any tracking interruptions.
The notification will appear on your paired iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch saying that the “AirTag Battery is Low.”
Tap the notification to launch the Find My app and it will guide you through replacing your AirTag battery.

If you don’t get the notification for some reason, these signs indicate it’s time for a new battery:
- AirTag stops making sounds when triggered
- Takes longer to appear in the Find My app
- Reduced Bluetooth signal and Precision Finding performance
Check AirTags periodically to ensure the battery won’t die at an inopportune time.
How to Replace the AirTag Battery
Changing the battery in an AirTag only takes seconds and requires no tools. Just follow these simple steps:
- Press down firmly on the stainless steel side of the AirTag with two fingers.
- While pressing down, twist the stainless steel counterclockwise until it unlocks from the plastic base.
- Lift off the stainless steel cover. This reveals the CR2032 coin cell battery.
- Gently pry out the old battery and properly dispose of it.
- Insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive side facing up.
- Align the three tabs on the stainless steel cover with slots on the white plastic base.
- Press the cover down and turn clockwise until it clicks into place.

That’s it! Your AirTag will play a sound when the new battery connects successfully.
If it doesn’t make a sound or struggles to connect to your device, the battery may be installed upside down. Just repeat the steps to reinstall it correctly.
What AirTag Batteries Should I Avoid?
While any CR2032 lithium coin cell battery will work, Apple does recommend avoiding these types of batteries:
Batteries with bitterant coatings – These coatings are designed to deter swallowing by having a bitter taste. They can interfere with the battery’s contacts connecting properly in the AirTag, as discussed in this review of the Zen Lyfe SwiftFinder smart tag.
No-name generic batteries – For maximum lifespan and reliability, stick with batteries from reputable brands like Energizer, Panasonic, or Duracell, rather than generic batteries according to this guide to designer AirTag wallets.
Rechargeable CR2032 batteries – AirTags are designed for disposable lithium coin cell batteries and don’t support rechargeables.
Batteries below 204mAh capacity – Lower capacity batteries won’t provide as much uptime before needing replacement.
As long as you choose a quality CR2032 lithium battery from a leading brand, your AirTag will operate reliably for years.
What Are the Best AirTag Battery Brands?
These top battery brands consistently offer reliable performance and longevity:
Energizer

- Ultra long shelf life – Holds charge up to 10 years in storage
- Durable construction withstands temperature extremes
- Tight seals prevent leaks
- Mercury free and made in the USA
Panasonic

- Very low self-discharge – Maintains charge for up to 8 years
- High quality Japanese manufacturing
- Ideal voltage and capacity for AirTags
- Green and mercury free
Duracell

- Leakproof design with protective seals
- Guaranteed 10 year shelf life
- Made in the USA following strict quality controls
- Child safety packaging helps prevent accidental swallowing
Sony

- Excellent moisture resistance
- Retains 85% of capacity after 2 years idle
- Reaches full voltage quickly for strong instant power
How Much Does an AirTag Battery Cost?
Replacement CR2032 coin cell batteries are very inexpensive. Buying in bulk yields the lowest per battery price.
- Single batteries range from $1 – $2 each
- 4-5 packs cost around $6 – $10
- Bulk packs of 10, 20 or more are under $1 per battery
For maximum value, buy a multi-pack of 10-20 batteries from a reputable brand so you always have spares on hand.
With typical use, plan on replacing the battery in each AirTag about once per year.
FAQ About AirTag Batteries
How do I know when to change the battery in my AirTag?
You’ll get a notification on your iPhone when the battery runs low. Immediately replace it to avoid any tracking interruptions.
Can I use rechargeable batteries in an AirTag?
No, AirTags are designed exclusively for disposable CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries. Don’t use rechargeable batteries.
What temperature range do AirTag batteries need to support?
Apple specifies that the batteries must function from -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F). Quality lithium cells from major brands meet this requirement.
Can I use a different type of coin cell battery like CR2025 or CR2330?
Only use CR2032 batteries specifically. Other sizes may not make proper contact or fit securely in the AirTag casing.
How long do lithium coin cell batteries last in storage?
When stored properly at room temperature, quality CR2032 batteries retain around 90% of their capacity for up to 10 years.
Can I use AirTag batteries from third party manufacturers?
For best results, stick with batteries from major brands like Energizer, Panasonic, Duracell, or Sony. Avoid no-name generic batteries.
Key Takeaways on AirTag Batteries
- AirTags use common CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries available anywhere batteries are sold.
- Plan on replacing batteries about once yearly to keep your AirTags tracking properly.
- Look for batteries with at least 204mAh capacity from trusted brands for optimal lifespan and reliability.
- Avoid batteries with bitterant coatings or low quality generic cells for the best experience.
- Buy CR2032 batteries in multi-packs of 10-20 for cost savings and convenience.
- Properly dispose of old batteries and keep new ones out of reach of children.
Knowing the right batteries to use and when to swap them out is crucial to keeping your AirTags working their best. Follow this guide and your item trackers will stay powered up and ready to find your stuff.