Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries
4.7Editor score
6 pack value
10 years storage
Replaces multiple types
In this guide
CR123A batteries are essential power sources for high-drain devices like tactical flashlights, security cameras, and professional cameras. Choosing the right lithium battery ensures your gear performs reliably when you need it most.
We evaluated ten top-rated CR123A options based on capacity, shelf life, temperature tolerance, and brand reputation. Our analysis covers major brands and value picks to help you find the best fit for your specific needs.
Each review highlights key specifications, pros, and cons to guide your decision. Note that prices and availability fluctuate frequently, so check current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best deal available today.
Top 3 Picks for Best CR123A Batteries
Duracell CR123A 3V Lithium Battery
4.8Editor score
10-Year storage guarantee
High energy density
Wide temperature range
SureFire CR123A 3V Lithium Battery
4.7Editor score
1550mAh capacity
High-drain optimized
10-year shelf life
Top 10 Best CR123A Batteries in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten CR123A battery options reviewed in this guide to help you quickly identify the best choice for your device.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
Duracell CR123A
10-Year storage guarantee
High energy density
Wide temp range
Trusted brand
4.8Editor score
Editor's Choice
Energizer 123
6 pack value
10 years storage
Replaces multiple types
High tech power
4.7Editor score
Best Premium
SureFire CR123A
1550mAh capacity
High-drain optimized
10-year shelf life
Expert engineered
4.7Editor score
Panasonic CR123
1550mAh capacity
3.00V voltage
Replaces many types
Professional quality
4.6Editor score
Amazon Basics 6-Pack
1550mAh capacity
10-year shelf life
Leak-free design
Value oriented
4.6Editor score
Energizer 123 (2 Pack)
2 pack size
10 years storage
High tech power
Versatile fit
4.7Editor score
DURNERGY CR123A
12 pack value
Temperature range -40 to 185
10-year storage
Safety certified
4.5Editor score
HW CR123A
1700mAh capacity
6 pack value
Leak-proof design
Safety certified
4.6Editor score
Panasonic CR123A (4 Pack)
4 pack size
3V output
Photo lithium
Reliable brand
4.6Editor score
Panasonic Industrial CR123A
1550mAh capacity
Max discharge 1000mA
Industrial grade
Temperature range
4.5Editor score
1. Duracell CR123A – Best Overall CR123A Batteries
Duracell CR123A 3V Lithium Battery
10-Year storage guarantee
High energy density
Wide temperature range
Trusted by professionals
The Duracell CR123A stands out as a top performer in the CR123A battery category. With a 4.8 rating, it offers high performance for tactical flashlights and security cameras.
Pros
- Reliable performance
- Long shelf life
- High-drain capable
- Temperature tolerant
- Trusted brand name
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited pack sizes
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Its 10-year storage guarantee ensures readiness for emergencies. The high energy density supports demanding devices without voltage drop-offs, making it ideal for professional and tactical use cases.
The trade-off is a higher price compared to generic brands. However, the reliability and storage guarantee often justify the cost for critical applications like security systems.
For those needing dependable power for critical gear, this battery is a strong recommendation. Trust the brand name for long-term storage and high-drain applications where failure is not an option.
Long-Term Reliability
The 10-year storage guarantee means you can stock these batteries with confidence they will work when needed.
Wide Temperature Performance
These batteries perform in extreme heat and cold, essential for outdoor security cameras and tactical flashlights.
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2. Energizer 123 – Best Value CR123A Batteries
Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries
6 pack value
10 years storage
Replaces multiple types
High tech power
The Energizer 123 Lithium Battery offers solid performance at an affordable price point. It is ideal for cameras and flashlights that do not demand extreme power.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Replaces many types
- Long shelf life
- Trusted brand
- Good for cameras
Cons
- Lower capacity than premium
- Not for high discharge
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It replaces multiple battery types like CR123 and CR17345. The 10-year storage ensures they remain viable in your emergency kit or camera bag for years.
While it lacks the high-drain optimization of premium options, it is sufficient for most standard devices. The value pack size makes it easy to stock up without overspending.
Choose this option if you need reliable power for everyday devices on a budget. It balances cost and quality effectively for general photography and lighting needs.
Versatile Compatibility
This battery replaces several legacy types, making it a convenient universal solution for various electronic devices.
Cost Effective Storage
Buying in a 6-pack at this price point allows for significant savings compared to single-pack purchases.
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3. SureFire CR123A – Best High-Drain CR123A Batteries
SureFire CR123A 3V Lithium Battery
1550mAh capacity
High-drain optimized
10-year shelf life
Engineered for flashlights
SureFire is known for tactical flashlights, and their batteries match that standard. This CR123A is optimized for high-drain performance without the typical voltage drop.
Pros
- Optimized for high drain
- No voltage drop
- 12 pack availability
- Reliable output
- Professional grade
Cons
- Higher cost per unit
- Not for standard cameras
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The 12-pack offers excellent value for bulk buyers. The 10-year shelf life ensures they stay ready in emergency kits or vehicle storage for long periods.
These are not for standard cameras or low-power devices. They are designed for tactical gear where consistent brightness and output are critical for performance and safety.
If you use high-performance flashlights or security systems, this battery ensures maximum output. It is a premium choice for those who rely on their equipment in demanding situations.
High-Drain Optimization
Engineered to prevent voltage drop-off, ensuring your flashlight stays at full brightness until the battery is depleted.
Bulk Pack Value
The 12-pack option allows users to stock up on reliable power for multiple devices and long-term storage.
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4. Panasonic CR123 – Reliable Professional CR123A Batteries
Panasonic CR123
1550mAh capacity
3.00V voltage
Replaces many types
Professional quality
Panasonic batteries are known for consistent quality and stable voltage output. This 6-pack offers a reliable source of power for digital flashes and cameras.
Pros
- Stable voltage
- Reliable brand
- Multiple replacements
- Good capacity
- 6 pack standard
Cons
- Mid-range pricing
- Few features
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It replaces many battery types like CR123 and DL123A. The 1550mAh capacity provides good endurance for standard high-drain devices without over-engineering.
There are fewer standout features compared to premium brands. However, the consistent performance and brand reputation make it a solid choice for professionals.
Choose this for consistent performance in professional photography. It is a safe bet when you need reliable power that meets standard specifications without surprises.
Consistent Voltage
Panasonic batteries are engineered to maintain steady voltage, which is critical for digital camera sensors and flashes.
Universal Fit
This battery replaces a wide range of legacy types, simplifying your inventory of spare power sources.
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5. Amazon Basics 6-Pack – Best Everyday CR123A Batteries
Amazon Basics 6-Pack
1550mAh capacity
10-year shelf life
Leak-free design
Value oriented
Amazon Basics offers a straightforward and affordable option for CR123A needs. It provides a 1550mAh capacity with a leak-free shelf life of up to 10 years.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Leak-free shelf life
- Good for flashlights
- 10-year storage
- Easy to find
Cons
- Not for Arlo cameras
- Not rechargeable
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It is ideal for flashlights and night-vision goggles. The leak-free design ensures your storage containers remain clean if batteries are left for extended periods.
Not recommended for Arlo cameras or rechargeable needs. However, for single-use devices like emergency flashlights, it provides sufficient power at a low cost.
Best for general use and emergency kits. It is a convenient choice for those who value accessibility and reasonable pricing over specialized brand features.
Leak-Free Storage
The improved design ensures a 10-year leak-free shelf life, making it ideal for long-term emergency storage.
Night Vision Ready
Suitable for night-vision goggles and other specialized equipment that relies on consistent lithium power.
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6. Energizer 123 (2 Pack) – Best Small Pack CR123A Batteries
Energizer 123 (2 Pack)
2 pack size
10 years storage
High tech power
Versatile fit
The 2-pack offers a convenient way to buy just enough batteries for a specific trip. It delivers serious power for high-tech devices like digital cameras.
Pros
- Small pack size
- Quick replenishment
- 10-year storage
- High tech power
- Versatile
Cons
- Higher per unit cost
- Limited bulk
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It is ideal for cameras and smart home devices. The 10-year storage ensures that these spare batteries remain viable when you need them for urgent use.
The small pack size means a higher cost per unit compared to bulk options. This makes it best for quick replacements rather than stocking up large emergency kits.
Choose this when you need a few batteries immediately. It is perfect for travelers or photographers who need a small reserve for an upcoming shoot.
Travel Friendly
The compact 2-pack size fits easily into camera bags without adding bulk or weight to your travel gear.
Quick Replenishment
Perfect for replacing a single lost or dead battery without committing to a large pack purchase.
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7. DURNERGY CR123A – Best Temperature Range CR123A Batteries
DURNERGY CR123A
12 pack value
Temperature range -40 to 185
10-year storage
Safety certified
DURNERGY focuses on small batteries and offers a 12-pack for great value. It is designed to operate in an extreme temperature range from -40°F to 185°F.
Pros
- Wide temperature range
- 12 pack value
- Certified safe
- Home automation
- Good storage
Cons
- Newer brand
- Not well known
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It is ideal for wireless security systems and home automation. The 10-year storage ensures these batteries remain viable for emergency needs over long periods.
As a newer brand, reliability data is less extensive than giants. However, safety certifications like UL1642 indicate adherence to industry standards for safety.
Choose this for home security and temperature-sensitive environments. It offers a compelling value proposition for those who need many batteries for multiple devices.
Extreme Temperature Tolerance
Designed to operate from -40°F to 185°F, making it reliable for outdoor sensors in harsh climates.
Safety Certifications
Passed IEC60086-4 and UL1642 certifications to ensure safety for high power consumption devices.
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8. HW CR123A – Best Capacity CR123A Batteries
HW CR123A
1700mAh capacity
6 pack value
Leak-proof design
Safety certified
HW offers a higher capacity of 1700mAh, which is more than standard 1500mAh options. This can extend the run time for compatible high-drain devices.
Pros
- Higher capacity
- Leak-proof
- UL certified
- Wide compatibility
- All-weather
Cons
- New brand
- Limited reviews
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It is leak-proof and UL/RoHS certified with PTC protection. This design ensures safety for smoke alarms, fire alarms, and flashlights that require consistent power.
As a newer brand, availability and support may be limited compared to major names. However, the safety certifications and higher capacity make it a strong contender.
Best for smoke alarms and devices needing long run times. It is a solid value for those looking for higher capacity at an affordable price point.
High Capacity Output
With 1700mAh capacity, these batteries offer extended runtime compared to standard 1500mAh CR123A options.
Safety Protections
Includes PTC protection and is UL certified to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation in various devices.
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9. Panasonic CR123A (4 Pack) – Best Compact CR123A Batteries
Panasonic CR123A (4 Pack)
4 pack size
3V output
Photo lithium
Reliable brand
This 4-pack of Panasonic CR123A batteries is perfect for photographers who need a small reserve. It delivers reliable 3V power for photo equipment and flashes.
Pros
- Compact size
- Reliable performance
- 4 pack utility
- Professional quality
- Photo ready
Cons
- Smaller pack
- No special features
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Panasonic is a trusted brand for high-quality lithium batteries. These are designed specifically for digital flashes and cameras that require consistent voltage.
The 4-pack size is less convenient for bulk storage than 12-packs. However, it is ideal for a travel kit or a small home stash for photo gear.
Choose this for photography and compact storage needs. It offers the reliability of a major brand in a convenient small package.
Photo Ready
Designed specifically for digital flashes and cameras requiring consistent 3V lithium power.
Compact Utility
The 4-pack size is convenient for travel bags without adding bulk.
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10. Panasonic Industrial CR123A – Best Industrial CR123A Batteries
Panasonic Industrial CR123A
1550mAh capacity
Max discharge 1000mA
Industrial grade
Temperature range
This industrial grade CR123A battery is specified for continuous drain and max discharge. It is ideal for professional and industrial equipment requiring consistent power.
Pros
- Industrial grade
- High max discharge
- Temperature range
- Standard specs
- Professional
Cons
- Spec-heavy
- Limited retail
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It offers 1550mAh capacity and a high max continuous discharge of 1000mA. This ensures it can handle demanding professional applications without performance drops.
The specs are technical and tailored for industrial users. It might be overkill for casual consumers but essential for devices requiring specific discharge profiles.
Best for industrial applications and professional equipment. If you need a battery with defined max discharge rates, this is a reliable professional choice.
Industrial Specifications
Specified for continuous drain and max discharge, ensuring performance in demanding professional and industrial environments.
High Current Output
Supports a max continuous discharge of 1000mA, suitable for equipment requiring high current draw.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best CR123A Batteries
Choosing the right CR123A battery depends on your device needs and budget. Here are key factors to consider.
Capacity and mAh
Capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh) and determines how much energy the battery holds. Higher mAh means longer run time in high-drain devices like tactical flashlights.
Look for batteries with 1550mAh or higher for extended performance in demanding applications.
Shelf Life
Lithium batteries have a long shelf life, often up to 10 years. This is critical for emergency kits where batteries may sit unused for long periods.
Check for specific storage guarantees to ensure your batteries are ready when needed.
Temperature Tolerance
CR123A batteries are often used in outdoor environments like security cameras. They must perform in extreme heat and cold without losing power.
Select options with wide temperature ranges if your devices are used outdoors or in vehicles.
Brand Reputation
Major brands like Duracell and Panasonic have decades of quality control. They often provide more reliable voltage consistency than newer generic brands.
Choose established brands for critical applications where failure is not an option.
High-Drain vs. Standard
Some batteries are optimized for high-drain devices like tactical flashlights, while others are for standard cameras. High-drain batteries maintain output without voltage drop.
Ensure the battery type matches your device's power requirements for best performance.
Pack Size and Value
Batteries are sold in packs ranging from 2 to 72 units. Buying in bulk lowers the cost per unit but requires more storage space.
Choose pack sizes that match your immediate needs and storage capacity.
Safety Certifications
Look for certifications like UL or IEC which ensure the batteries meet safety standards for protection against leakage and overheating.
Certified batteries provide peace of mind for high-power and sensitive devices.
How to Use and Care for Your CR123A Batteries
Store CR123A batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme heat can reduce their shelf life over time.
Remove batteries from devices that will be stored for more than a few months. Even lithium batteries can leak if left in place for years.
Use batteries in order of expiration date if your pack has dates. This ensures you use the oldest stock first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CR123A batteries rechargeable?
No, standard CR123A batteries are non-rechargeable. Using a charger with them can be dangerous. Rechargeable options exist but must be specifically designed for this form factor.
What devices use CR123A batteries?
Common devices include tactical flashlights, security cameras like Ring and Arlo, and digital cameras. They are also used in smoke alarms and laser pointers.
How long do they last?
Lifespan depends on the device. In high-drain flashlights, they may last hours. In low-drain cameras, they can last months depending on usage patterns.
Are they safe?
Yes, CR123A batteries are generally safe. They have protection circuits to prevent over-discharge. Always buy from reputable brands for safety certifications.
Can I use them in Arlo cameras?
Yes, they work in most Arlo cameras. However, ensure you check specific compatibility notes as some models recommend specific brands.
What is the voltage?
The nominal voltage is 3.0V. This is higher than AA or AAA batteries which are typically 1.5V, making them suitable for high-power compact devices.
Do they lose power in cold?
Some lose power in extreme cold, but many modern CR123A batteries are rated for temperatures down to -40°F. Check the specs for your climate.
What is the difference between CR123 and CR123A?
They are often interchangeable. CR123A has a slightly higher capacity than the older CR123. Most modern devices accept both.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best CR123A Batteries
Duracell leads the pack with its 10-year storage guarantee and reliable performance. Energizer and SureFire offer strong budget and premium options respectively.
Prioritize high-drain performance for tactical gear and standard capacity for everyday cameras. Always consider the temperature range for your specific use case.
Prices change frequently so check current listings before purchasing. The right battery ensures your gear is always ready when you need it.