SR44 vs 357
Two codes for one silver oxide cell: SR44 is the IEC designation, 357 the industry number, both 11.6 × 5.4 mm at 1.55 V.
These are the same battery. SR44 is the international standard code; 357 is the number the watch and camera trade prints on the packet. Same silver oxide chemistry, same 1.55 volts, same 11.6 × 5.4 mm size. If your device asks for one and the shop only has the other, buy it.
- Verdict:
- The same cell — SR44 is the standard code, 357 the retail number
- Interchangeable:
- yes — the same cell under two codes
Side-by-side specifications
| Specification | SR44 | 357 |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry | Silver Oxide | Silver Oxide |
| Type | Button Cell | Button Cell |
| Nominal voltage | 1.55 V | 1.55 V |
| Diameter | 11.6 mm | 11.6 mm |
| Height | 5.4 mm | 5.4 mm |
| Typical capacity | 170–200 mAh | 150–190 mAh |
| Rechargeable | No | No |
| Also sold as | 357, 303, SR44W, V357 | 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.
Why two codes exist
IEC names a cell after its chemistry and shape — S for silver oxide, R for round. The three-digit numbering grew up separately in the watch trade. Neither scheme replaced the other, so most packets carry both.
What actually varies
Capacity figures differ a little between brands, not between the codes. A 357 from one maker and an SR44 from another are the same cell built to the same size and voltage.
The W and SW suffixes
Where a packet reads SR44W or SR44SW, that marks the high-drain and low-drain constructions. The 357 corresponds to the W variant; the low-drain one is sold as 303.
Can I use a 357 instead of a SR44?
Yes. The SR44 and the 357 are the same cell — 11.6 × 5.4 mm, 1.55 V, silver oxide. The two codes come from different naming schemes, not from different batteries, so whichever you find on the shelf will work.
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.