LR44 Battery Overview
The LR44 is an alkaline button cell battery featuring a zinc powder anode, silver oxide cathode, and an alkaline electrolyte (typically potassium or sodium hydroxide). Its working principle relies on the electrochemical reaction between zinc and silver oxide, delivering stable 1.5V output for small electronics.
Renowned for long lifespan and high capacity, LR44 batteries power devices like calculators, medical instruments (e.g., glucose meters), toys, LED lights, and digital thermometers. Their compact size (11.6mm diameter × 5.4mm height) and reliability make them a market staple.
LR44 Specifications
- Type: Alkaline (MnO₂)
- Voltage: 1.5V
- Capacity: 150mAh
- Discharge Rate: 300µA
- Weight: 2g
- Operating Temp.: -10°C to 60°C
- Dimensions: 11.6mm × 5.4mm
- Manufacturers: Murata, Energizer, Duracell, Panasonic
LR44 Equivalents & Alternatives
LR44 has cross-compatible alternatives, but chemistry varies:
- Alkaline (1.5V): AG13, A76, L1154, 76A (110–130mAh)
- Silver Oxide (1.55V): SR44, SR44SW, 357 (150–200mAh; stable voltage)
- Zinc-Air (1.4V): PR44, ZA675 (600–700mAh; high capacity)
- Mercury Oxide (Discontinued): MR44 (1.35V; obsolete)
Key Notes:
- Silver oxide variants (e.g., SR44) last longer but cost more.
- Zinc-air batteries suit hearing aids; alkaline is general-purpose.
Common Equivalents by Brand
- Energizer A76 / Duracell 76A → Direct LR44 replacements.
- AG13 → Generic LR44 label.
- SR44/SR44SW → Silver oxide; ideal for watches.
- 303/357 → Similar size but check chemistry (may not be alkaline).
Applications
- Medical Devices: Glucose meters, hearing aids.
- Consumer Electronics: Remote controls, calculators.
- Toys & LEDs: Electronic games, keychain lights.
- Digital Tools: Watches, thermometers, timers.
Compatibility FAQs
Q: Can AA batteries replace LR44?
No. AA cells are larger (14.5mm × 50.5mm) and may damage LR44 devices due to size/voltage mismatches.
Q: Is LR44 the same as 675?
No. 675 (zinc-air) has lower voltage (1.4V) and different chemistry.
Q: Does 377 replace LR41?
Yes, but LR41 is smaller (7.9mm × 3.6mm). 377 (silver oxide) offers longer life.
Q: LR44 vs. AG10?
AG10 is thinner (3.1mm vs. 5.4mm) and lower capacity.
Discharge & Handling
- Stable discharge: Voltage remains consistent until depletion.
- Avoid mixing chemistries: Prevents leakage or device damage.
- Storage: Keep in cool, dry places to extend shelf life.
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