Nitecore NL169R 16340 (950mAh)
(3 reviews)
The Nitecore NL169R combines the 16340/RCR123A format with a built-in USB-C port: 950 mAh to recharge anywhere, with no dedicated charger to carry.
Characteristics
- Capacity / Voltage: 950 mAh / 3.6V (3.42Wh)
- Charging: Built-in USB-C, no external charger
- Continuous discharge: 2A maximum
- Type: Protected Button Top (16340/RCR123A)
- 950 mAh, the highest USB-rechargeable capacity in the format
Detailed overview: Nitecore RCR123A USB-C battery 950 mAh
The Nitecore NL169R modernises the 16340 format, also known as RCR123A when rechargeable, with an unusually high 950 mAh capacity for this cell size, and a USB-C charging port built directly under its cap. No more carrying a dedicated charger: a standard USB-C cable, plugged into the mains, a computer or a power bank, is enough to fully recharge it.
This compact format (16.5 mm diameter, 36.2 mm long, around 20 g) traditionally powers compact torches, some film cameras, security devices (alarms, cameras) and many tactical torches designed for non-rechargeable CR123A cells. In its rechargeable RCR123A form, like the NL169R, it delivers a nominal voltage of 3.6 to 3.7V, notably higher than the 3V of a standard CR123A: it's worth checking your device's compatibility before use, as some optical or electronic gear calibrated for exactly 3V doesn't cope well with the extra voltage.
With a continuous discharge of up to 2A, it covers the needs of the vast majority of torches and devices in this format. The built-in protection circuit (PCB) continuously monitors charging, over-discharge and short circuits, backed up by a pressure relief valve and nickel-plated stainless steel connectors resistant to corrosion, for maximum safety in a format this energy-dense yet compact.
Rated for more than 500 charge and discharge cycles, the NL169R suits anyone who regularly uses a 16340/CR123A-format device and wants to move on from disposable cells or a bulky external charger. A standard USB-C cable, the one from your phone works fine, is all it takes to head out with a full cell.
EAN: 6952506496341
Our tester's review: Pierre Freysinger
We slipped the NL169R into a small tactical torch and into an alarm unit tested outdoors: in both cases, the built-in USB-C port changed the game, no more carrying a tiny charger that's easy to lose. The rated 950 mAh holds up in real use, well above the 650 mAh of older versions of the same format. One thing to watch: its 3.6V voltage exceeds that of a standard CR123A (3V), and an old film camera tested with it didn't take kindly to the extra voltage, so it's worth checking compatibility before using it in older or sensitive gear. For a modern tactical torch or security device, though, it's a genuinely handy rechargeable cell for everyday use.
Frequently asked questions: Nitecore RCR123A USB-C battery 950 mAh
CR123A is a disposable 3V lithium cell. The NL169R is its rechargeable 16340-format counterpart, with a slightly higher voltage (3.6V): worth checking before using it in an older device calibrated for exactly 3V.
Yes, a USB-C port is built directly under the cell's cap. A standard USB-C cable, plugged into the mains or a power bank, is enough to fully recharge it.
Compact torches, some tactical torches, film cameras and security devices (alarms, cameras) traditionally running on CR123A cells.
Nitecore rates it for more than 500 full charge and discharge cycles, in line with market standards for a protected Li-ion cell.
Other products in the "CR123A and 16340 batteries" category
Duracell CR123
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A compact, enduring 3V lithium battery, resistant to extreme temperatures and storable for 10 years, ideal for tactical lights, alarms, sensors and cameras.
Fenix ARB-L16-800UP
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A 16340 battery that recharges via its own built-in USB-C port, no external charger needed, RCR123A compatible: compact, protected and ready for your smallest lights.
Published on 05/09/2026