LR44 vs 357
Identical 11.6 × 5.4 mm cells with different chemistry: the 357 is silver oxide at 1.55 V, the LR44 alkaline at 1.5 V with roughly 30% less capacity.
Both are the same size, so both will physically fit. The difference is what is inside. The 357 is silver oxide: it holds a steady 1.55 volts almost until the moment it dies, and stores more energy. The LR44 is alkaline at 1.5 volts and fades gradually from the first day. For a watch, a light meter or a pair of callipers, buy the 357. For a toy, a calculator or a thermometer, the LR44 is cheaper and perfectly fine.
- Verdict:
- 357 for watches and meters, LR44 for everything cheap
- Interchangeable:
- usually, in low-drain devices
Side-by-side specifications
| Specification | LR44 | 357 |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry | Alkaline | Silver Oxide |
| Type | Button Cell | Button Cell |
| Nominal voltage | 1.5 V | 1.55 V |
| Diameter | 11.6 mm | 11.6 mm |
| Height | 5.4 mm | 5.4 mm |
| Typical capacity | 110–130 mAh | 150–190 mAh |
| Rechargeable | No | No |
| Also sold as | AG13, A76, L1154, 157 | SR44W, SR44, V357, SG13 |
Size comparison
Both cells share an identical 11.6 × 5.4 mm footprint, so physical fit is not the deciding factor here.
Chemistry
Silver oxide against alkaline. The 357 holds a near-flat 1.55 V until it is spent; the LR44 starts at 1.5 V and sags steadily, which drifts the readings on anything calibrated.
Runtime
150–190 mAh against 110–130 mAh — and the silver oxide cell delivers more of that at a usable voltage rather than trailing off.
Cost
The LR44 costs a fraction as much. In a device you open twice a year, the price gap usually matters more than the performance gap.
Can I use a 357 instead of a LR44?
Physically, yes — the 357 occupies exactly the same space as the LR44. The question is electrical: the 357 runs at 1.55 V against 1.5 V, and uses silver oxide rather than alkaline. For everyday low-drain devices such as toys, calculators and remotes, that difference is not usually a problem. For calibrated instruments, follow the manual.
Check before you swap. Batteries with similar dimensions are not always interchangeable. Always verify voltage, chemistry and the requirements printed in your device manual before fitting a replacement.