LR44 and 357 batteries are not the same, but they are often used interchangeably in the same devices

LR44 and 357 batteries have the same voltage (1.5 volts) and nearly identical physical dimensions, which is why they fit in the same battery compartments. However, they differ in chemistry and capacity. An LR44 is an alkaline battery, while a 357 is a silver oxide battery. This difference means a 357 will last longer in most devices and maintain a more stable voltage throughout its life, but it also costs more. For low-drain devices like calculators or small LED lights, either battery works. For devices that demand consistent power—like hearing aids or watches—a 357 is the better choice.

The confusion between these two batteries is common because they are physically interchangeable in most devices. You can put either one in the same compartment and it will fit. But the performance difference matters, especially if you rely on the device daily. Understanding which battery your device actually needs will save you money and prevent unexpected shutdowns.

Key Takeaways

  • LR44 and 357 batteries are both 1.5 volts and fit the same compartments, but LR44 is alkaline and 357 is silver oxide.
  • A 357 battery lasts significantly longer than an LR44 in most devices and holds its voltage more steadily as it drains.
  • LR44 batteries are cheaper and work fine in low-power devices like calculators, games, and small flashlights.
  • Using a 357 in a device designed for LR44 will not damage the device, but using an LR44 in a device designed for 357 may cause it to shut off prematurely.

The difference between alkaline and silver oxide chemistry

An LR44 is an alkaline battery, meaning it uses zinc and manganese dioxide as its chemical reactants. Alkaline batteries are inexpensive to manufacture and widely available. They work well for devices that draw power steadily but not heavily—remote controls, small toys, light meters.

A 357 is a silver oxide battery, which uses silver oxide and zinc. Silver oxide batteries cost more to produce because silver is an expensive material, but they deliver several advantages. They maintain a voltage of 1.55 volts for most of their life, then drop sharply at the end. An LR44, by contrast, starts at 1.5 volts and gradually declines throughout its use. For devices sensitive to voltage fluctuations—particularly hearing aids and precision watches—this steady output matters.

Which battery lasts longer

A 357 battery typically lasts two to three times longer than an LR44 in the same device. The exact difference depends on how much power the device draws. In a hearing aid, which runs continuously, a 357 might last 5 to 7 days while an LR44 lasts 2 to 3 days. In a calculator used occasionally, both might last months, but the 357 will still outlast the LR44.

The longer life comes from two factors: silver oxide chemistry is more energy-dense than alkaline chemistry, and the stable voltage output means the device does not have to work harder as the battery ages. An alkaline battery's declining voltage forces some devices to draw more current to maintain function, which drains the battery faster.

When you can safely swap them

You can use a 357 battery in any device designed for an LR44 without risk of damage. The device will straightforward run longer before the battery needs replacement. This is a safe upgrade, especially for devices you use frequently.

Swapping in the opposite direction—using an LR44 in a device designed for 357—is riskier. Devices engineered for silver oxide batteries often expect that steady 1.55-volt output. When an LR44's voltage drops below what the device needs to function, the device may shut off unexpectedly, even though the battery still has charge remaining. This is particularly common in hearing aids and digital watches. If your device's manual specifies 357, follow that specification.

Cost and availability

LR44 batteries are cheaper—typically 50 cents to $1 each when bought in bulk—and available at nearly every pharmacy, grocery store, and hardware retailer. A 357 costs $1 to $3 per battery and is less widely stocked, though still straightforward to find online and at electronics retailers.

For devices you use occasionally, the lower cost of LR44 makes sense. For devices you rely on daily—hearing aids, watches, glucose meters—the longer life and stable voltage of a 357 usually justify the higher price, since you will replace it less often and avoid the inconvenience of unexpected shutdowns.

How to check which battery your device needs

The battery compartment cover or the device manual will specify which battery type to use. Look for markings like "LR44", "357", "SR44", "AG13", or "L1154"—these are all common names for button cell batteries in this size range. Some devices list multiple compatible types; others specify only one.

If you have lost the manual, search the device model number plus "battery" online, or contact the manufacturer. Using the wrong battery type in a precision device like a hearing aid or pacemaker can affect performance, so it is worth confirming before you buy.

Other button cell battery names you might see

Button cell batteries have multiple naming systems, which creates confusion. An LR44 is also called an AG13, A76, or PX76. A 357 is also called an SR44, SR44W, or S76. The letters indicate chemistry: LR and AG mean alkaline, while SR means silver oxide. The numbers refer to physical dimensions.

When shopping, match the exact code on your device or battery compartment. If your device says "357", buying an "LR44" labeled as "AG13" will still give you an alkaline battery, not a silver oxide one, even though the physical fit is correct. The letter code matters more than the number code when you are trying to match chemistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 357 battery in a device that says LR44?

Yes. A 357 will fit and work safely. Your device will run longer before needing a battery change. The only downside is that a 357 costs more, so if your device uses batteries infrequently, the extra cost may not be worth it.

What happens if I use an LR44 in a device designed for 357?

The device may work initially, but as the LR44's voltage drops, the device might shut off before the battery is truly dead. This is especially common in hearing aids and watches. If your device specifies 357, use a 357 to avoid unexpected shutdowns.

How long does each battery last?

It depends on the device. In a hearing aid, a 357 lasts 5 to 7 days and an LR44 lasts 2 to 3 days. In a calculator used occasionally, both might last several months. Check your device manual for typical battery life estimates.

Are LR44 and AG13 the same thing?

Yes. LR44 and AG13 are both alkaline button cells with identical voltage and dimensions. They are just different naming systems for the same battery. Either name will get you the same product.

Where should I store these batteries?

Store button cell batteries in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Keep them away from metal objects that could short the terminals, and store them in their original packaging or a plastic case. Do not store them in the refrigerator—condensation can damage them.