LR44 vs 357 Battery: Pro Guide to Differences and Performance

Introduction

Among button cell batteries, the LR44 and 357 are two of the most frequently used options for low-power electronic equipment. It all depends on the power needs of your needs. Well, if the manual recommends these two, you can bet they will be good for it. 

One question though, are the two different? Which one should you get? These and more questions are what you will have in mind when you come across the LR44 and 357 batteries for the first time. With this in-depth LR44 vs. 357 battery comparison, you will easily choose the option that best fits your gadgets. 

LR44 Battery Overview

LR44 button cells are compact alkaline batteries designed to provide reliable power for a wide range of small electronics. Some of the common devices include calculators, digital thermometers, and kids’ toys. 

The battery is also known by other names, including A76, AG13, and L1154. This largely depends on the manufacturer. Each one might have a different name, but the technical specifications are the same. 

The battery uses an alkaline chemistry. The composition features Zinc Magnanese Dioxide. If you have to choose an alternative, make sure it is the same battery chemistry. However, you can still get good silver oxide equivalents; they will have a higher normal voltage of 1.55V. 

The LR44 battery has a nominal voltage of 1.5V with a capacity range of 110 to 150 mAh, which is quite good for its applications. 

357 Battery Overview

The 357 battery is another popular button cell battery, but it features silver oxide chemistry. This means a higher voltage of 1.55V with a capacity reaching up to 165mAh, depending on the manufacturer. 

That is not all, as the battery also offers a stable voltage output. It is higher and more constant than the alkaline cells. Expect a longer lifespan compared to similar batteries, such as the LR44. 

Does it have equivalents? Yes, there are several batteries you can use interchangeably with the 357 battery. Such include SR44, SR4SW, and the 303. The difference is mostly down to the manufacturer, which might give it a different name, but the dimensions and other features remain the same. 

As for the common uses, expect to find them in medical instruments, watches, advanced calculators, and small electronics. 

LR44 vs 357 Battery: Technical Specifications

Alkaline vs Silver Oxide: Battery Chemistry Comparison

Both the LR44 and 357 batteries use different chemistries. The LR44 button cell battery is alkaline, while the 357 battery is silver oxide. This difference in their battery chemistry affects how well they can perform. 

Chemistry

The alkaline LR44 battery uses manganese dioxide chemistry, which is more readily available and affordable. This results in lower costs. However, this technology tends to experience a gradual drop in voltage during discharging. This can affect the accuracy of sensitive electronics. 

The 357 silver oxide battery is an alternative to the LR44 with a different battery chemistry. The best part about this battery chemistry is that it offers a higher energy density and has a more stable voltage output throughout its lifespan. Such performance makes it ideal for precision instruments, which require consistent power delivery. Medical equipment and high-end watches use this type of battery chemistry. 

Cost and Availability 

The LR44 battery is generally cheaper and readily available in most shops because it is widely produced. The silver oxide 357 battery is more expensive than the LR44 alkaline counterpart. This is because it may not be easy to find in all stores where the LR44 is readily available. 

Voltage Stability 

Still on LR44 vs 357 batteries, the voltage stability also differs. In LR44, there is a gradual voltage decline throughout its lifespan. This affects the performance of devices, especially those with sensitive performance parameters. 

The silver oxide alternative offers a more stable voltage output. This allows the 357 battery to be used for powering the sensitive devices or those that need consistent power.

Which One Lasts Longer? Performance Comparison

The silver oxide battery offers a flatter discharge curve, meaning its voltage relatively remains constant even as the device using it for display or any other use. 

The alkaline battery, on the other hand, is still a good choice for its applications but may experience a voltage decline as you continue using it in a device. 

The temperature may also affect how well the battery will work. The 357 silver oxide battery generally performs better in a cold environment. It is expected that such a battery would deliver more usable power. 

Both alkaline and silver oxide batteries degrade faster when used at high temperatures. We do not recommend storing such batteries in places where the temperature is above 50 degrees C. 

When to Choose Each Battery Type

You already know the differences between the LR44 and the 357 battery. However, you may not know when best to choose one over the other. 

When to Choose the LR44 Battery:

• Budget is key since the LR44 batteries are generally cheaper thanks to their alkaline chemistry
• You need to power low-drain devices such as children’s toys, calculators, or remote controls. 
• The voltage drop is acceptable. The LR44 batteries generally have a gradual voltage decrease during discharge. This is fine for applications that do not need constant voltage. 

When to Choose the 357 Battery:

• Precision is required since this battery can maintain a stable voltage. This makes it ideal for precision instruments, medical devices, and similar equipment. 
• You want a longer lifespan and stability. Expect a higher capacity with the 357 batteries, as they retain their charge for longer even in storage. 
• You have critical applications that need reliability and consistent power output. The 357 battery is definitely a superior choice here. 

Can You Use LR44 and 357 Interchangeably?

Yes, the LR44 and 357 batteries are easily interchangeable. This is because they have the same physical dimensions. Even though the voltage profiles and chemical compositions are different, they can still work great in each other’s places. 

Use the 357 battery for having more stable voltage and long-term performance, while the LR44 is used in less demanding and low-drain devices. 

How to Get the Best Battery Performance Out of the Batteries

How you use the 357 or LR44 batteries determines their performance. First, choose a cool dry environment for storing the batteries. Low humidity and stable temperatures ensure the chemistry is not affected, and the same applies to the battery. 

Original packaging of the batteries should be used for storage. They are designed to prevent short-circuiting and corrosion. 

Do not mix old and new batteries or use different battery chemistries in one device. For example, using alkaline and silver oxide batteries. Choose batteries with the same chemistry to ensure good performance. 

Check the expiration dates. This is important so that you are always using fresh and high-quality products. 

Inspect for damage, focusing on leakage, corrosion, or swelling, before using or storing the batteries. 

Conclusion

At this point, you already understand the difference between the LR44 and the 357 battery. Just know that each will have its own place when you have to use them. The LR44 is recommended for small and basic electronic devices, while the 357 battery works best for sensitive electronics such as medical equipment that need a consistent voltage supply.

Video: LR44 Battery vs 357 Battery – Battery Performance Comparison! (Which Battery Is Better?)