LR41 Battery Guide: Specifications, Equivalents, and Uses

The LR41 battery is one of the most commonly used coin-type cells, known for its small size, stable 1.5V output, and wide compatibility. From digital thermometers and watches to toys and handheld gadgets, batteries quietly power many everyday products. Small electronic devices rely on compact and dependable power sources to function accurately, and button cell batteries play a key role in meeting this need. This blog explores what these batteries are, their technical specifications, equivalents, applications, and practical replacement tips to help you choose the right battery with confidence.

1. What Are LR41 Batteries?

2. Technical Specifications of Battery LR41

3. LR41 Battery Equivalent and Usage

4. LR41 Button Battery Applications

5. Common LR41 Battery Manufacturers

6. Are 392 Batteries the Same as LR41?

7. How To Install LR41 Button Cell Battery in Your Device

8. What is the Difference Between LR41 and 312?

9. FAQ about LR41 Button Batteries

What Are LR41 Batteries?

The LR41 battery is a compact alkaline button cell widely used in small electronic devices that require a reliable 1.5V power source. It commonly identify as BATTERY ALKALINE 1.5 V COIN 7.9MM, with a typical capacity of 45mAh, making it suitable for low-drain and intermittent-use applications. Because its coin-shaped design and lightweight construction, the LR 41 fits easily into slim and space-constrained devices.

This battery frequently find in products such as digital thermometers, watches, calculators, laser pointers, electronic toys, and certain medical instruments. They value for their stable voltage output, ease of replacement, and cost-effective performance. While alkaline in chemistry, the LR41 also has several compatible equivalents, including silver oxide versions that offer longer service life in precision devices.

Another advantage of this battery is its wide availability across global brands, ensuring consistent supply and quality options. Although it not intend for high-drain electronics, the LR41 remains a dependable choice for everyday gadgets where compact size, standard voltage, and affordability are important considerations.

Technical Specifications of Battery LR41

Main Features

The battery is a small alkaline button cell designed to deliver reliable power to compact, low-drain electronic devices. It most commonly recognize as a 1.5V coin-type battery with a typical capacity of 45mAh, making it ideal for intermittent-use electronics like watches, calculators, digital thermometers, laser pointers, and small toys.

The LR 41 measures 0.31 inches (7.9mm) in diameter and 0.14 inches (3.6mm) in height, giving it a compact, coin-shaped design that fits easily into space-limited devices. Its nominal voltage of 1.5V ensures stable performance, while its alkaline chemistry provides a reliable, long-lasting power source. The battery also design to operate efficiently within a moderate temperature range, typically from 0°C to 60°C, and it offers a shelf life of 2–3 years when stored properly.

The LR 41 combines several practical features that make it a dependable choice for everyday electronics. Its compact and lightweight design allows devices to remain slim and portable, while its low self-discharge rate ensures stored energy retain even during long periods of inactivity. The battery’s leakage-resistant construction protects sensitive electronics from damage, adding to its reliability.

With a standardized size, replacing an LR41 battery is quick and easy, and it is widely compatible with a variety of devices. It can also substitute with equivalent silver oxide batteries for applications requiring more stable voltage and longer life. The LR 41 offers a cost-effective power solution, delivering consistent voltage for low-drain, intermittent-use devices without breaking the budget. Additionally, most modern LR41 batteries use mercury-free alkaline chemistry, which makes them safer for the environment and easier to dispose of responsibly.

Overall, this battery is a compact, reliable, and eco-friendly solution, providing consistent performance for a wide range of small electronic devices.

LR41 Battery Size / Dimensions

Diameter: 0.31 inches (7.9 mm)

Height: 0.14 inches (3.6 mm)

LR41 Battery Voltage

Nominal Voltage: 1.5V

Specifications

These specifications make the LR 41 suitable for intermittent use electronics rather than continuous high drain devices.

LR41 Battery Equivalent and Usage

LR41 Battery Substitute, and Replacement

This battery widely use in small electronic devices, and its standardized size means there are several equivalent batteries from different brands. These equivalents can serve as substitutes when the original LR41 is unavailable, offering either the same alkaline chemistry or silver oxide versions, which typically provide longer life and more stable voltage.

Silver oxide equivalents often prefer in precision devices such as watches, medical instruments, and calculators because they maintain a more consistent voltage throughout their life. Alkaline equivalents, on the other hand, are generally more cost-effective and suitable for toys, calculators, and other low-drain devices.

Silver oxide equivalents often prefer for precision devices such as watches and medical instruments.

Alkaline equivalents, such as Panasonic LR736 or GP192, are cost-effective and suitable for low-drain devices like toys, calculators, and LED keychains. Silver oxide equivalents, including Energizer 392/384, Duracell D392/D384, Maxell SR41W, and Sony SR41SW, provide more stable voltage and longer operating life, making them ideal for precision electronics such as watches, medical instruments, and digital thermometers.

Using the right equivalent ensures that your device maintains proper functionality. For example, replacing an LR41 with a silver oxide equivalent can improve battery life and reduce voltage fluctuations in devices that require steady power. Conversely, in less critical applications, alkaline equivalents offer a more economical option. Always check the device specifications before choosing a substitute to ensure compatibility in voltage, size, and performance.

By understanding the equivalents and their usage, you can easily find replacements for your LR 41 batteries, ensuring your devices continue to work reliably without interruption.

LR41 Button Battery Applications

The battery is a versatile power source for many small electronic devices because its compact size, stable 1.5V output, and reliable performance. It commonly use in devices that require low-drain, intermittent power, making it ideal for both precision electronics and everyday gadgets.

In the medical field, LR 41 power digital thermometers, glucose meters, and other portable diagnostic tools where accurate and consistent voltage is critical. In wearables, they find in watches, fitness trackers, and small personal devices. Toys and novelty gadgets also use these batteries, especially products that require lightweight, compact power sources. 

Other applications include electronic devices like calculators, laser pointers, and LED keychains, as well as household gadgets such as remote controls and small LED lights. Even measuring tools like digital calipers and test pens often rely on these batteries.

Overall, the LR41’s small form factor, dependable voltage, and wide availability make it a preferred choice for a range of low-power electronics, ensuring devices operate efficiently and consistently.

Common Applications of LR41 Batteries

Common LR41 Battery Manufacturers

Energizer is a globally recognized brand that produces reliable LR41 batteries, including silver oxide equivalents like the 392/384 series. Their batteries know for long shelf life, consistent voltage, and leak-resistant construction, making them suitable for precision electronics and everyday devices.

LR41 Duracell battery offers both alkaline LR 41 cells and silver oxide equivalents, designed for durability and dependable performance. Duracell batteries widely trust in watches, toys, and small medical instruments.

Maxell manufactures high-quality LR 41 batteries, particularly silver oxide versions like SR41W, favored for devices requiring stable voltage output and long-lasting performance.

Renata specializes in precision batteries, producing silver oxide equivalents such as the 392, commonly used in watches and medical devices for their consistent energy delivery.

Varta provides LR41 batteries with reliable voltage and extended shelf life, making them suitable for both consumer electronics and specialized equipment.

Panasonic produces alkaline batteries (LR736/LR41), known for cost-effectiveness and dependable performance in low-drain devices like calculators and toys.

Sony offers high-quality silver oxide equivalents, including the SR41SW, designed for precision electronics and devices requiring consistent voltage.

GP Batteries manufactures alkaline LR41 equivalents such as GP192, widely used for household gadgets, toys, and calculators.

Rayovac produces LR41 and equivalent button cells, combining affordability with reliable performance for everyday electronic devices.

Toshiba also manufactures these batteries, offering dependable alkaline and silver oxide cells suitable for small electronics, ensuring consistent voltage and durability for various applications.

Are 392 Batteries the Same as LR41?

The 392 battery and the LR41 often consider interchangeable because they share the same physical dimensions. Both are coin-shaped button cells, measuring approximately 7.9mm in diameter and 3.6mm in height, which allows them to fit into the same battery compartments in many small electronic devices. Despite their similar size, these two batteries differ significantly in chemistry and voltage performance.

The LR41 is typically an alkaline cell with a nominal voltage of 1.5V and a capacity of around 45mAh, making it suitable for low-drain, intermittent-use devices such as toys, calculators, and LED keychains. The 392 battery, on the other hand, is usually a silver oxide cell with a slightly higher voltage of 1.55V and more stable voltage output over its life. This makes 392 batteries more suitable for precision electronics, such as watches, digital thermometers, and medical devices, where consistent voltage is critical for accurate operation.

In practice, a 392 battery can often replace an LR41 without issues, providing longer service life and better voltage stability. However, using an LR41 as a replacement for a device designed for a 392 result in shorter battery life and minor performance fluctuations, especially in devices that are sensitive to voltage variations.

How To Install LR41 Button Cell Battery in Your Device

Installing an LR41 button cell battery is simple, but it’s important to follow proper steps to ensure safety and device functionality.

Turn off the device before attempting to replace the battery to prevent accidental short circuits or damage.

Locate the battery compartment, usually marked with a positive (+) and negative (–) sign. You need a small screwdriver or latch to open it.

Remove the old battery carefully, avoiding contact with any metal parts to prevent shorting.

Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up, aligning it correctly according to the device markings.

Close the battery compartment securely, making sure it snaps or screws back in place properly.

Power on the device to confirm that it is working correctly.

Additional tips: Avoid touching both sides of the battery with your fingers, as oils and dirt can reduce battery performance. Dispose of the old battery responsibly and store spare LR41 cells in a cool, dry place. Following these steps helps ensure long-lasting and reliable performance of your device.

What is the Difference Between LR41 and 312?

While the LR41 and 312 batteries are both small button cells, they differ in chemistry, voltage, and typical usage. The LR 41 is usually an alkaline battery with a nominal voltage of 1.5V, designed for low-drain devices like calculators, toys, digital thermometers, and watches. It delivers reliable performance in intermittent-use electronics and is widely available in both alkaline and silver oxide equivalents.

The 312 battery, on the other hand, is primarily a zinc-air battery with a nominal voltage of 1.45V. Zinc-air cells are air-activated and often used in hearing aids because they provide stable voltage and high energy density in a compact size. Unlike LR41, 312 batteries are not suitable for general electronics or devices requiring alkaline or silver oxide chemistry.

In short, the LR41 is versatile and commonly used in a broad range of low-drain electronics, while the 312 is specialized for hearing aids and similar devices. Generally not recommend substituting one for the other, as differences in voltage and chemistry can affect device performance and lifespan.

FAQ about LR41 Button Batteries

What is LR41 battery price?

LR41 batteries are inexpensive and widely available. Prices typically range from $0.050 to $1 per cell, depending on the brand, chemistry (alkaline or silver oxide), and purchase quantity. Bulk packs reduce cost per battery. Branded batteries like Duracell, Energizer, or Renata are slightly higher but offer more reliable performance and longer shelf life.

Can a 377 Replace LR41?

No, a 377 battery (SR626SW) cannot directly replace an LR41. Although both are small button cells, the 377 differs in size, chemistry, and voltage, making it incompatible with devices designed specifically for LR41. Using an incorrect battery can lead to poor performance or device malfunction. Always check the device specifications before substituting.

What devices use LR41 batteries most often?

Commonly used in digital thermometers, watches, calculators, laser pointers, toys, glucose meters, and small household gadgets. They are ideal for devices requiring low-drain, intermittent power because their compact size and reliable 1.5V output. Their versatility makes them a standard choice for precision electronics and everyday small devices.

Can LR41 batteries be replaced with other types of batteries?

Yes, can replace LR41 with equivalent batteries such as silver oxide 392, SR41, or D392, provided they match the size, voltage, and chemistry requirements of the device. Silver oxide equivalents prefer in precision devices for more stable voltage, while alkaline equivalents are suitable for general low-drain applications. Always confirm compatibility.

How long do LR41 batteries typically last?

Battery life depends on device type and usage. In low-drain, intermittent-use devices, LR 41 typically last several weeks to a few months. High-drain or continuous-use electronics will shorten lifespan. Using silver oxide equivalents can extend performance in precision devices, while alkaline LR41 batteries are more cost-effective for general applications.

Are LR41 batteries rechargeable?

No, LR41 batteries are not rechargeable. They are single-use alkaline or silver oxide button cells. Attempting to recharge them can cause leakage, rupture, or permanent damage. For rechargeable alternatives, consider lithium or rechargeable button cells specifically designed for repeated use.

How should you store LR41 batteries?

Store LR41 batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and metal objects to prevent short circuits. Keep them in original packaging or a protective case. Avoid extreme temperatures, humidity, or contact with corrosive substances to maintain shelf life and prevent leakage. Proper storage can preserve batteries for 2–3 years.

What Is The LR41 Used For?

The LR41 battery powers small, low-drain electronic devices such as watches, calculators, digital thermometers, toys, laser pointers, glucose meters, and LED keychains. Its compact size, reliable 1.5V output, and availability in both alkaline and silver oxide versions make it suitable for precision electronics and general household gadgets alike.

Where To Buy LR41 Batteries?

LR41 batteries are widely available at electronics stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers. Popular brands like Energizer, Duracell, Maxell, Renata, Panasonic, and Sony can purchase individually or in bulk packs. Online marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, and specialty battery suppliers Orwintech Electronics offer convenient options and delivery.

Can You Use LR44 Instead of LR41?

No, LR44 batteries are larger and have higher capacity than LR41, making them physically incompatible with devices designed for LR41. Using an LR44 damage the device or prevent proper fit. Always use the specified battery size to ensure safe operation and correct performance.

Conclusion

The LR41 button battery is a compact and reliable power source for small electronic devices. With its 1.5V output, wide availability, and multiple equivalents, it remains a practical choice for everyday electronics. Understanding its specifications, substitutes, and proper usage helps ensure optimal device performance and battery life.

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