Guide to A23 Batteries Specs Uses and Compatibility

Imagine this: It’s late at night, and you’re trying to start your car, but the remote key fob refuses to respond. Or perhaps you’re about to enter your home, only to find that the garage door opener has suddenly stopped working. These seemingly minor inconveniences often point to the same unsung hero—the A23 battery. Compact yet powerful, this 12-volt battery plays a crucial role in our daily lives, powering a variety of small electronic devices. But how much do you really know about it? This article delves into the specifications, performance, applications, and compatibility of the A23 battery, helping you understand this "invisible champion" in detail.

The A23 battery, also known as 23A, 23AE, or MN21, is a small cylindrical battery renowned for its 12-volt high voltage. Compared to common AA or AAA batteries, the A23 delivers more robust power to small devices that require higher voltage. Its compact design makes it an ideal choice for remote controls, wireless doorbells, garage door openers, and similar devices.

The A23 battery measures approximately 10.3 mm in diameter and 28.5 mm in height, weighing around 8 grams. This compact and lightweight design allows it to fit easily into space-constrained devices without adding unnecessary bulk.

The A23 is a 12-volt alkaline battery, distinct from the more common 1.5-volt AA or AAA batteries. Internally, it consists of multiple small battery cells connected in series to achieve higher voltage output. The primary chemical components of the A23 battery include manganese dioxide (as the cathode) and zinc (as the anode). This combination efficiently generates electrical energy.

Alkaline batteries like the A23 are favored for their high energy density and extended shelf life, outperforming other non-rechargeable options. This means the A23 can deliver stable power for longer durations and maintain reliable performance even after prolonged storage.

• IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission): The IEC refers to it as 8LR932, where the "8LR" prefix indicates a 12-volt alkaline battery.
• ANSI (American National Standards Institute): In the ANSI system, it is labeled 1811A. These standardized names ensure compatibility across manufacturers, guaranteeing consistent performance in devices designed for this battery type.

Two of the most common brands offering A23 batteries are Energizer and Duracell. While both provide A23 batteries, there are subtle differences in their performance and characteristics.

The Energizer A23 is a small cylindrical battery widely used in remote controls, wireless doorbells, and keyless entry systems. It measures approximately 28.5 mm in length and 10.3 mm in width, with a voltage of 12 volts. Its zinc-manganese dioxide (Zn/MnO ₂ ) chemistry ensures high energy density and reliable performance. The battery features a sturdy metal casing with clearly marked positive and negative terminals. Its internal design prioritizes efficient energy storage and leak prevention.

• Performance: The Energizer A23 has a capacity of around 55 mAh (milliampere-hours). Under room temperature conditions (20°C or 68°F), it performs reliably. However, performance may vary under different operating conditions. In high-drain applications, voltage drops more quickly, reducing effective capacity. In cold environments, chemical reactions slow down, leading to diminished performance.
• Lifespan: The battery’s lifespan depends on usage patterns and environmental factors. In low-drain devices, it can last for months or even a year. The battery is designed to provide steady voltage output, which is critical for electronic circuits. Its discharge curve is relatively flat, ensuring consistent power delivery until replacement is needed.

The Duracell A23 is a small, round 12-volt battery commonly used in car alarms, garage door openers, and remote controls. Its manganese dioxide and zinc chemistry enables high energy storage and stable power output. Its compact design ensures consistent 12-volt performance throughout its lifespan.

• Performance: The Duracell A23 has a capacity ranging from 38 to 55 mAh. Discharge rates depend on the device and ambient temperature. Under continuous use, the battery maintains good capacity, but output may decline in cold weather or high-power applications.
• Lifespan: Lifespan varies based on device usage and power demands. In low-power devices, it can last for years, while high-drain devices deplete it faster. A key advantage is its stable voltage output, ensuring reliable operation without sudden power drops.

Understanding how the A23 compares to other common batteries helps prevent confusion and misuse, ensuring devices function correctly.

Both A23 and A27 batteries are used in small electronics, but their dimensions and voltage differ. The A23 is 10.3 mm wide and 28.5 mm long, while the A27 is slimmer (8 mm wide, 28 mm long). The A23 provides 12 volts, whereas the A27 delivers 8 volts. These differences mean they are not interchangeable—using the wrong battery can lead to poor performance or device damage.

N-Cell batteries are larger (12 mm diameter, 30.2 mm length) and provide only 1.5 volts. Their size and voltage make them incompatible with A23-specific devices. Attempting to swap them risks overheating, circuit damage, or device failure.

AAA batteries are larger (10.5 mm diameter, 44.5 mm length) and deliver 1.5 volts. Their lower voltage makes them unsuitable for devices requiring 12 volts, just as A23 batteries are unsafe for 1.5-volt devices.

Though similar in size, 2/3AAA batteries provide just 1.2–1.5 volts, making them incompatible with 12-volt A23 applications. Swapping them risks underpowering or overpowering devices, potentially causing malfunctions.

• Remote controls (garage doors, car alarms, security systems)
• Keyless entry systems
• Wireless doorbells
• Small medical devices (e.g., glucose meters)
• Personal alarms
• Electronic toys and hobby gadgets

• Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Keep batteries in original packaging until use.
• Avoid contact between terminals and metal objects.
• Follow local disposal regulations.
• Recycle used batteries at designated facilities.

The A23 battery remains indispensable for small electronics due to its compact size, lightweight design, and high voltage. While its runtime is limited, its reliability and leak-resistant properties make it a preferred choice. As technology advances, improvements in energy density and environmental sustainability will further enhance its utility.

No. The A23 is larger and delivers 12 volts, unlike the AAA’s 1.5 volts.

A23 batteries are wider (10.3 mm vs. 8 mm) and provide 12V, while A27 batteries offer 8V.

Yes—these are different names for the same battery type.

No. "21-23" refers to a different size designation.

Yes. The "S" may denote a brand variant, but electrical specifications remain identical.