Welcome to WINPOW Batteries!
EnglishEnglish
Are D batteries the same as R20?
Home » News » Are D batteries the same as R20?

Are D batteries the same as R20?

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2025-03-11      Origin: Site

Inquire

facebook sharing button
twitter sharing button
line sharing button
wechat sharing button
linkedin sharing button
pinterest sharing button
whatsapp sharing button
sharethis sharing button

D batteries and R20 batteries are related but not exactly the same. Below is a detailed comparison explaining their differences and similarities.

1. Are D Batteries the Same as R20?

No, they are not exactly the same.

  • D battery is a general term for all batteries that have the same size (D-size).

  • R20 battery is a specific type of D battery that uses zinc-carbon chemistry and follows the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) naming system.

  • There are other types of D batteries with different chemistries (such as alkaline, rechargeable NiMH, and lithium).

2. Detailed Comparison Table

FeatureD BatteryR20 Battery
DefinitionA general term for large cylindrical batteries with a standard D-size.A specific zinc-carbon battery classified under IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission).
IEC NamingIncludes R20, LR20, HR20, FR20 (based on chemistry).Only refers to zinc-carbon D batteries.
Chemistry TypeDifferent types, including zinc-carbon, alkaline, NiMH, NiCd, lithium.Only zinc-carbon (primary battery, non-rechargeable).
Voltage1.2V – 1.5V, depending on the chemistry.1.5V (Zinc-carbon).
Rechargeable?Some types are rechargeable (NiMH, NiCd).No, not rechargeable.
Capacity (mAh)Varies by type:
3,000 – 20,000 mAh
- Zinc-carbon: 3,000 – 8,000 mAh
- Alkaline: 12,000 – 18,000 mAh
- NiMH: 2,000 – 10,000 mAh
- Lithium: Up to 20,000 mAh		3,000 – 8,000 mAh (low compared to alkaline and lithium).
Shelf LifeVaries by type:
- Zinc-carbon: 2 – 3 years
- Alkaline: 5 – 10 years
- Lithium: 10+ years
- NiMH (Rechargeable): 1 – 5 years		2 – 3 years (shorter than alkaline and lithium).
Weight85g – 140g, depending on chemistry.~85g – 100g (lighter than alkaline).
Common UsesFlashlights, Toys, Radios, Clocks, Emergency Lights, Battery-operated Fans, Tools.Low-drain devices (basic flashlights, radios, simple toys).
Other NamesD-Cell, UM-1, LR20, HR20, FR20, MN1300 (Duracell), E95 (Energizer).UM-1 (Japan), Size D (Common name in retail markets).

3. Different Types of D Batteries (Compared to R20)

TypeIEC CodeVoltageRechargeable?Capacity (mAh)Best For
Zinc-Carbon (R20)R201.5VNo3,000 – 8,000Low-power devices (radios, basic flashlights).
Alkaline (LR20)LR201.5VNo12,000 – 18,000High-drain devices (flashlights, toys, clocks).
Rechargeable NiMH (HR20)HR201.2VYes2,000 – 10,000Frequent-use devices (radios, high-power toys).
Lithium (FR20)FR201.5VNo~20,000Long-lasting power (medical equipment, outdoor gear).

4. Key Takeaways

  • D battery refers to any battery of the D-size, regardless of the chemistry.

  • R20 battery is only a zinc-carbon D battery, which is cheaper but has lower capacity.

  • If you need longer-lasting power, use LR20 (alkaline D battery) instead of R20.

  • For rechargeable options, choose HR20 (NiMH D battery).

  • For very long shelf life and high capacity, use FR20 (lithium D battery).

Would you like more details on any part?

  • Sign up for our newsletter
  • get ready for the future
    sign up for our newsletter to get updates straight to your inbox
    Submit
Copyright © 2024 Huizhou WinPow Electronic Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.Support By Gdglobal