Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-02-26 Origin: Site
The LR44 and 357 batteries have the same size and shape but different chemistries, voltage stability, and performance. While they are sometimes interchangeable, they are not identical.
The LR44 is an alkaline battery, which means its voltage gradually decreases over time. The 357 is a silver oxide battery, which provides a stable voltage until it is almost fully drained. This makes the 357 battery better for devices that require constant and precise power, such as watches and medical instruments.
Below is a detailed comparison:
Feature | LR44 Battery (Alkaline) | 357 Battery (Silver Oxide) |
---|---|---|
Battery Type | Alkaline Button Cell | Silver Oxide Button Cell |
Voltage | 1.5V (drops over time) | 1.55V (remains stable) |
Voltage Stability | Decreases gradually | Stays steady until nearly empty |
Capacity | ~110mAh | ~150mAh |
Discharge Pattern | Power weakens as it is used | Consistent power output |
Best for | General-use devices with low power needs | Precision devices requiring stable voltage |
Shelf Life | Around 3 years | Around 5 years |
Leak Resistance | Moderate | Higher resistance to leaks |
Common Uses | Toys, remotes, LED lights, calculators | Watches, medical devices, hearing aids, measuring instruments |
Cost | More affordable | Slightly more expensive |
Environmental Impact | May contain more heavy metals | Often lower environmental impact |
Interchangeable? | Can replace 357 in some cases, but performance may suffer | Can replace LR44 with better performance |
Voltage and Stability:
LR44 (Alkaline): Starts at 1.5V, but the voltage drops gradually as it is used. This can cause some devices to lose power over time.
357 (Silver Oxide): Provides a steady 1.55V until it is almost fully used, ensuring consistent performance in precision devices.
Battery Life & Performance:
LR44: Has a lower capacity (~110mAh) and discharges unevenly, making it better for low-power devices that do not require a stable voltage.
357: Has a higher capacity (~150mAh) and provides stable energy, making it ideal for watches, medical tools, and measuring devices.
Leak Resistance & Shelf Life:
357 batteries have a longer shelf life (around 5 years) and are more resistant to leaks compared to LR44, which lasts around 3 years and may be more prone to leaking if left unused for a long time.
Cost Considerations:
LR44 batteries are cheaper because alkaline technology is more common and less expensive to produce.
357 batteries cost more due to their higher quality, stable output, and longer lifespan.
Interchangeability:
Can a 357 battery replace an LR44? → Yes, a 357 battery can be used in place of an LR44 and will generally offer better performance.
Can an LR44 battery replace a 357? → Sometimes, but the device may not perform as well due to voltage drop and lower capacity.
Choose an LR44 Battery if:
✅ You need an affordable battery for toys, remotes, LED lights, or calculators.
✅ Your device does not require stable voltage for precise operation.
✅ You are okay with shorter battery life and possible performance drops over time.
Choose a 357 Battery if:
✅ Your device needs steady and consistent voltage (e.g., watches, medical devices, hearing aids, or measuring tools).
✅ You want longer-lasting battery life and better performance.
✅ You prefer a higher-quality battery with less risk of leaks.
The LR44 and 357 batteries have the same size, but different performance. While they are sometimes interchangeable, the 357 battery provides better stability and lasts longer, making it the better choice for most applications. However, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative and do not need a stable voltage, the LR44 is a suitable option.