LR44 Batteries (Category Guide)

LR44 batteries are compact 1.5 V alkaline button cells sized 11.6 mm × 5.4 mm (IEC: LR1154). They are common in calculators, toys, laser pointers, digital thermometers, and small measuring tools. Use this guide to choose the right variant, understand equivalents, and get safe, long-lasting results.

Quick Specs

• Chemistry: Alkaline (LR44)
• Nominal Voltage: 1.5 V (fresh cells typically ~1.55 V)
• Typical Capacity: ~110–150 mAh (at low drain to 0.9 V)
• Size: 11.6 mm diameter × 5.4 mm height (IEC code: LR1154)
• Operating Range: about -10°C to +60°C (alkaline)
• Common brand codes: LR44, A76 (Duracell), AG13 (generic), L1154, G13

How to Choose the Right Cell

Select by chemistry and use case. LR44 (alkaline) and SR44/357 (silver oxide) are the same size but behave differently.

Option	Also labeled	Best for	Pros	Trade-offs
LR44 (alkaline)	LR1154, A76, AG13	Toys, calculators, laser pointers, basic instruments	Low cost, widely available	Voltage drops more as it discharges; shorter life in precision/high-drain devices
SR44 (silver oxide)	SR1154, 357/303	Watches, medical devices, cameras, precision meters	Flatter voltage, longer runtime, better low-temp performance	Higher price

• Choose LR44 for budget-friendly power in low/medium-drain devices used intermittently.
• Choose SR44/357 when steady voltage or long life matters (timers, watches, medical/photography gear).
• For emergency kits or cold environments, prefer silver oxide for stability and storage longevity.

Compatibility and Equivalents

• Direct size equivalents (alkaline): LR44, A76, AG13, L1154, G13.
• Silver-oxide same size: SR44, SR44W, 357/303 (longer-lasting; check device requirements).
• Sometimes specified alternatives: Some devices accept two LR44 in series or one CR1/3N (3 V lithium). Follow the device manual.

Do not substitute these without explicit device approval:

• LIR44 (rechargeable lithium-ion) ~3.6–3.7 V — too high for 1.5 V designs.
• PR44/Size 675 (zinc-air hearing aid) ~1.4 V with air holes — not sealed for general electronics.

Typical Runtime Estimates

Actual life varies by brand, temperature, and load, but these ranges help plan replacements:

• Calculator or digital calipers: ~6–24 months (light daily use)
• Digital thermometer: ~6–18 months
• Toy/novelty LED: ~5–20 hours of active use
• Laser pointer: ~30–60 minutes of cumulative on-time

Silver-oxide cells typically extend these runtimes and maintain brighter LEDs/steadier readings near end-of-life.

Storage and Handling

• Shelf life: ~3–5 years (alkaline) when stored cool and dry; silver oxide can be longer.
• Keep in original packaging; avoid loose contact with coins/keys that can short the cell.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze; avoid heat, humidity, and direct sun.
• Replace all cells in a device at the same time; never mix old and new or different chemistries.

Safety

• Button cells pose a severe ingestion hazard. Keep away from children and pets. If swallowed, seek immediate medical help or contact Poison Control.
• Do not recharge, crush, or incinerate. Risk of leakage or rupture.
• If a device leaks, wear gloves, remove cells, and clean contacts per manufacturer guidance before installing new ones.
• Recycle used batteries through local collection programs; do not dispose in fire.

Buying Tips

• Match chemistry to the device (LR44 vs SR44/357) for expected performance.
• Check date codes; choose fresh stock for maximum shelf life.
• Bulk packs lower cost per cell; sealed multi-packs reduce risk of shorting in storage.
• For leak-sensitive devices, consider reputable brands or silver-oxide variants.

FAQ

Are LR44 and A76 the same?

Yes. A76 is a common brand code for the same alkaline size as LR44 (also sold as AG13/L1154).

Is a 357 battery the same as LR44?

They are the same size, but 357 is silver oxide (SR44). It lasts longer and holds voltage steadier than LR44. Use it when the device specifies SR44/357 or needs stable voltage.

Can I use rechargeable LIR44 in place of LR44?

No. LIR44 is a 3.6–3.7 V lithium-ion cell and can damage 1.5 V devices unless explicitly supported.

How can I tell if my LR44 is weak?

Measure under a small load (e.g., ~1 kΩ resistor). If it drops near or below ~1.2 V, it is near end-of-life. Many devices will also dim or show low-battery warnings.

Why does my watch drain LR44 quickly?

Many watches are designed for silver oxide cells (SR44/357) due to their flat discharge curve. Switching to SR44/357 typically improves life and accuracy.