What is a LR44 Battery?
The LR44 is a widely used alkaline button cell battery, renowned for its dependable performance and compact dimensions. It typically has a nominal voltage of 1.5 volts and a capacity that ranges from 100 to 150 mAh. It is approximately 2 grams in weight and has a diameter of 11.6 mm and a height of 5.4 mm. The LR44 is frequently used in a diverse array of devices, such as watches, calculators, toys, digital thermometers, laser projectors, and remote controllers. Its primary advantages include an extended expiration life of 2-5 years, cost-effectiveness, and versatility across a variety of devices. Alternatives, including AG13, A76, and 357, are frequently substituted for the LR44. Nevertheless, silver oxide batteries, such as the SR44, offer a slightly higher voltage and superior efficacy in low temperatures. As a reliable electronic components distributor, Ersa Electronics will provide variety of battery products for your inquiry.
Primary Features of LR44 Battery
The LR44 battery is a popular alkaline button cell battery known for its versatility and reliability in various electronic applications. Here are the primary features:
1. Voltage and Capacity
Nominal Voltage: 1.5 volts, which is standard for many small electronic devices.
Capacity: Typically ranges from 110 mAh to 150 mAh, depending on the specific model and manufacturer.
2. Physical Dimensions
Diameter: 11.6 mm
Height: 5.4 mm
This compact size makes it suitable for a wide range of devices.
3. Shelf Life
Longevity: The shelf life is approximately 2 to 5 years, depending on storage conditions. This ensures that the battery remains usable for an extended period when not in active use.
4. Chemistry
Type: Alkaline battery, utilizing a chemical reaction between zinc and manganese dioxide to generate electrical energy.
Variants include other chemistries like silver oxide (SR44) and zinc-air (PR44), which may offer different performance characteristics.
5. Operating Temperature Range
Range: Typically operates effectively between -10°C to 60°C, allowing it to function in various environmental conditions.
6. Common Applications
Widely used in devices such as:
- Watches
- Calculators
- Remote controls
- Medical devices (e.g., hearing aids)
- Toys and games
7. Compatibility
The LR44 battery is compatible with numerous devices, making it a common choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.
8. Low Discharge Rate
Designed for low-drain devices, the LR44 battery maintains its charge over time, making it ideal for applications where power consumption is minimal.
LR44 Battery Equivalent
The LR44 battery is a widely used alkaline button cell battery, and several other batteries can serve as its equivalents. Below are the common equivalents for the LR44 battery, along with their characteristics:
Common Equivalents
- SR44
Type: Silver oxide battery
Voltage: 1.55V
Capacity: Approximately 150-200 mAh
Notes: Provides a flatter discharge curve and better performance in low-drain applications compared to the LR44.
- AG13
Type: Alkaline battery
Voltage: 1.5V
Capacity: Approximately 110-160 mAh
Notes: Commonly marketed as an alternative to LR44; suitable for various small devices.
- A76
Type: Alkaline battery
Voltage: 1.5V
Capacity: Similar to AG13
Notes: Often used interchangeably with LR44 in devices like watches and calculators.
- 357
Type: Silver oxide battery
Voltage: 1.55V
Capacity: Comparable to SR44
Notes: Excellent for devices requiring stable voltage over time.
- 303
Type: Silver oxide battery
Voltage: 1.55V
Capacity: Similar to 357 and SR44
Notes: Used in watches and cameras; offers better longevity than alkaline alternatives.
- L1154 / LR1154
Type: Alkaline battery
Voltage: 1.5V
Capacity: Approximately 110-160 mAh
Notes: Interchangeable with LR44; often found in various consumer electronics.
- 154
Type: Alkaline battery
Voltage: 1.5V
Notes: Another designation for batteries that can replace the LR44.
When selecting a replacement for an LR44 battery, consider the specific requirements of your device regarding voltage stability and capacity needs. Silver oxide batteries like the SR44 or 357 are often recommended for applications requiring consistent power output, while alkaline alternatives like AG13 and A76 are widely available and suitable for many everyday devices .
LR44 Battery Applications
The LR44 battery is a versatile alkaline button cell battery widely used in various electronic devices due to its compact size and reliable performance. Here are some common applications:
Medical Devices
Examples: Glucose meters, hearing aids, digital thermometers.
Reason: High capacity and reliability make it ideal for medical equipment that requires precise measurements and continuous use.
Remote Controls
Examples: TV remote controls, audio system remotes.
Reason: Its long life and stable energy output ensure the durability and reliability of remote control devices.
Toys and Small Electronic Equipment
Examples: Electronic games, remote-controlled cars, musical toys.
Reason: Compact size and dependable power make it suitable for various entertainment devices.
LED Small Lamps and Handheld Lamps
Examples: LED flashlights, small portable lights.
Reason: Provides sufficient power for bright illumination while maintaining a long operational life.
Watches and Clocks
Examples: Analog watches, digital watches, wall clocks.
Reason: Compact design with a long shelf life makes it perfect for timekeeping devices.
Calculators
Examples: Pocket calculators, scientific calculators.
Reason: Reliable power source that enables long-term operation of calculating devices.
Cameras
Examples: Compact cameras, digital cameras.
Reason: Powers the camera functions and flash reliably.
Key Fobs and Keychain Lights
Examples: Car key fobs, keychain LED lights.
Reason: Provides consistent power for transmitting signals or illuminating small LEDs.
Small Electronics
Examples: Digital scales, laser pointers, timers.
Reason: Versatility and stable voltage output make it suitable for powering various small gadgets.
Audio Equipment
Examples: Mini speakers, personal music players, voice recorders.
Reason: Stable power output is crucial for maintaining audio quality in portable devices.
Pros of Using LR44 Battery
The LR44 battery is a popular choice for many electronic devices due to its numerous advantages. Here are some key benefits of using the LR44 battery:
Compact Size:
The LR44 battery has a small form factor (11.6 mm in diameter and 5.4 mm in height), making it ideal for use in compact devices such as watches, calculators, and remote controls.
Cost-Effective:
It is relatively inexpensive compared to other battery types, providing a good balance between price and performance, which makes it accessible for consumers and manufacturers alike.
Stable Voltage Output:
The LR44 offers a nominal voltage of 1.5V, ensuring consistent power delivery throughout its discharge cycle, which is essential for the reliable operation of electronic devices.
Environmentally Friendly:
Unlike some other battery types, the LR44 does not contain toxic materials like mercury or cadmium, making it safer for the environment and easier to dispose of responsibly.
Long Shelf Life:
With a shelf life of 2 to 5 years, the LR44 battery can be stored for extended periods without significant loss of charge, making it convenient for users who may not need to replace batteries frequently.
High Energy Density:
The LR44 provides a good amount of energy relative to its size, allowing it to power devices effectively without needing frequent replacements.
Versatile Applications:
This battery type is widely used in various applications including medical devices (like glucose meters and hearing aids), toys, remote controls, LED lights, and small electronics, showcasing its versatility.
Reliable Performance in Various Conditions:
The LR44 performs well across a range of temperatures (-20°C to 54°C), making it suitable for diverse environments and applications.
Good Leakage Resistance:
The design of the LR44 battery includes features that enhance its resistance to leakage, ensuring safe operation and longevity.
Easy Availability:
LR44 batteries are widely available in retail stores and online, making them easy to purchase in bulk or as needed.
Are 357 Batteries the same as LR44?
The LR44 and 357 batteries are often compared due to their similar sizes and applications, but they have key differences. The LR44 is an alkaline battery with a nominal voltage of 1.5V and a capacity of around 120 mAh, making it suitable for devices with lower energy demands. In contrast, the 357 is a silver oxide battery with a slightly higher voltage of 1.55V and a larger capacity of about 150 mAh, which provides better performance, especially in high-drain devices.
The LR44 has a steady voltage drop during its discharge cycle, while the 357 maintains a stable voltage until it is nearly depleted, making it ideal for precision instruments. Additionally, the 357 has a wider operating temperature range (-28°C to 55°C) compared to the LR44 (-10°C to 60°C). While both batteries are interchangeable in many applications, the 357 is generally preferred for devices that require stable voltage and higher capacity.
FAQs About LR44 Battery Equivalent
1. What are the common equivalents for the LR44 battery?
Common equivalents for the LR44 battery include SR44, AG13, A76, 357, 303, L1154, and LR1154. These batteries share similar dimensions and voltage characteristics, making them interchangeable in many applications.
2. How does the SR44 battery differ from the LR44?
The SR44 is a silver oxide battery that typically offers a higher capacity (around 150-200 mAh) and a flatter discharge curve compared to the LR44, which is an alkaline battery with a capacity of about 110-160 mAh. The SR44 also has a nominal voltage of 1.55V, providing more stable performance in low-drain applications.
3. Can I use a 357 battery as a replacement for an LR44?
Yes, the 357 battery is equivalent to the LR44 and can be used as a direct replacement. Both batteries have the same physical dimensions and voltage (1.5V), but the 357 is a silver oxide battery, which may offer better performance in certain devices.
4. Are AG13 and A76 batteries interchangeable with LR44?
Yes, both AG13 and A76 batteries are often marketed as alternatives to the LR44. They have similar dimensions and voltage but may differ slightly in performance due to their chemical composition.
5. What are the advantages of using silver oxide batteries like SR44 or 357 over alkaline LR44 batteries?
Silver oxide batteries generally provide better performance in terms of stable voltage output, longer shelf life, and higher capacity compared to alkaline batteries like the LR44. This makes them particularly suitable for devices that require consistent power over extended periods.
6. Are there any differences in dimensions between LR44 and its equivalents?
No, all equivalent batteries such as SR44, AG13, A76, 357, and L1154 share the same physical dimensions of approximately 11.6 mm in diameter and 5.4 mm in height, making them compatible with devices designed for LR44 batteries.
7. Can I replace an LR44 battery with a lithium battery?
While lithium batteries like the 1/3N lithium battery can be used in some cases (e.g., when two LR44 batteries are needed), they operate at 3V and may not be suitable for all devices that require an LR44. Always check device specifications before substituting different battery types.
8. What should I consider when choosing an equivalent for an LR44 battery?
When selecting an equivalent for an LR44, consider factors such as voltage stability, capacity requirements, device compatibility, and whether the application is high-drain or low-drain. Silver oxide batteries are often recommended for precision devices requiring stable power output.