What types of button cell batteries are available?

There are several types of button cell batteries, each designed for specific applications and performance requirements.

Silver oxide button cells

(commonly used in watches and cameras)

• Stable and constant voltage output
• Very low self-discharge: less than 5% per year
• Suitable for precision electronics

Alkaline button cells

(commonly used in electronic devices)

• Capable of delivering relatively high currents
• Voltage gradually decreases during use
• Self-discharge below 3% per year

Lithium button cells

(used in cameras and electronic devices)

• Extremely low self-discharge: less than 1% per year
• Long lifespan and high energy density
• Less suitable for very high continuous loads

Zinc-air button cells

(mainly used in hearing aids)

• Very high capacity
• Activated by exposure to air
• Self-discharge approximately 3% per year before activation

Mercury oxide button cells

(formerly used in electronic devices, hearing aids, and cameras)

• Delivered relatively high currents
• Self-discharge around 2% per year
• Contained approximately 15% mercury and were environmentally harmful

Mercury-containing batteries have no longer been produced since 1998 and have not been supplied by manufacturers since 1999.

For a limited number of applications, zinc-air batteries are available as replacement solutions.