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357/303 Battery Equivalent: Interchangeability, Differences & Best Replacements

6/19/2025 11:18:58 AM

When shopping for button cell batteries, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the numerous model numbers available-especially when they appear nearly identical. Among the most common and confusing are the 357 and 303 batteries. These small but powerful silver oxide batteries are widely used in watches, medical devices, calculators, and small electronics.




357/303 Battery Equivalent
In this guide, we'll break down the key features of both batteries, explore whether they are truly interchangeable, compare them to similar battery types, and provide a list of the best equivalents and replacements.

What is a 357 Battery?

The 357 is a 1.55V silver oxide button cell battery, commonly used in high-drain devices that require a stable voltage output. It's also known by several other names depending on the manufacturer and standards used:
  • SR44W (IEC name)
  • D357 (Duracell)
  • SP357
  • SR1154W (dimensions-based)
  • J (ANSI code)
It features a high energy density and relatively flat discharge curve, which means it can deliver consistent power throughout its life cycle.
Typical applications include:
  • Digital watches with backlights or alarms
  • Laser pointers
  • Hearing aids
  • Small medical devices (thermometers, glucose meters)
  • Electronic toys

What is a 303 Battery?

The 303 is also a 1.55V silver oxide battery, but it's optimized for low-drain devices, meaning those that require small amounts of power over a long period.
Common aliases include:
  • SR44SW
  • SR1154SW
  • V303 (Varta)
  • D303 (Duracell)
While its voltage and physical dimensions (11.6mm diameter × 5.4mm height) are identical to the 357, its chemistry and internal design are tailored for applications with minimal power demand.
Typical uses for the 303 battery:
  • Analog watches
  • Small calculators
  • Analog thermometers
  • Clocks

Are 357 and 303 Batteries Interchangeable?

Technically yes-but with caveats.
Since both batteries have the same size and nominal voltage (1.55V), they are physically and electrically interchangeable. However, the difference lies in their internal discharge characteristics:
The 357 (W-series) is designed for high-drain applications.
The 303 (SW-series) is better suited for low-drain applications.

Using a 357 in place of a 303 typically works fine and may even result in longer life. But using a 303 in a high-drain device like a laser pointer or medical device may lead to shortened battery life or inconsistent performance.


357 vs 303 Battery Equivalents & Cross-Reference

If you can't find the exact model, here are commonly accepted equivalents:
Brand 357 Equivalent 303 Equivalent
Energizer 357/303 Silver Oxide 303 Silver Oxide
Duracell D357 D303
Renata 357 303
Maxell SR44W SR44SW
Sony SR44W SR44SW
IEC Code SR44 (W) SR44 (SW)


Other equivalents: SR44, SR1154, AG13 (alkaline but lower performance), LR44 (alkaline)


Silver Oxide vs Alkaline Alternatives

While SR44-based silver oxide batteries like the 357/303 are ideal for most applications due to their stable voltage and long life, they are more expensive than alkaline counterparts like LR44 or AG13.

Key differences:

 
Feature Silver Oxide (357/303) Alkaline (LR44/AG13)
Nominal Voltage 1.55V 1.5V
Voltage Stability High Moderate
Lifespan Longer Shorter
Cost Higher Lower


If your device is sensitive to voltage drops (like watches or medical sensors), silver oxide is the better choice. For toys or simple LED lights, alkaline can work as a budget-friendly option.


Best Uses of 357 and 303 Batteries

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, choose the right type for your device:
Use 357 for:
Digital watches, glucometers, heart rate monitors, laser pointers
Use 303 for:

Analog watches, wall clocks, small remotes, simple calculators


FAQs About 357/303 Batteries

1. Can I replace a 303 battery with a 357?

Yes, a 357 can safely replace a 303. In fact, it may provide better performance due to its higher discharge capacity. and also 357/303 Battery replacement for: 280-03, 280-08,  D303/357, SB-A9, SR 1154 SW, SR 44 SW, SR 44SW, SR44SW, WS14

2. Can I use an LR44 instead of a 357 or 303?

Physically, yes. But LR44 is an alkaline battery, so expect a shorter lifespan and less stable voltage compared to silver oxide 357/303 batteries.

3. How long do 357 or 303 batteries last?

Typically 2–5 years in watches, or a few months in high-drain devices, depending on usage.

4. Are SR44W and SR44SW the same?

No. SR44W is high-drain (equivalent to 357), while SR44SW is low-drain (equivalent to 303).


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