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Usually, yes: for disposable 3V lithium primary batteries, “123” and “CR123A” are cross-referenced names for the same battery type. If your device calls for a disposable 3V CR123A, a 123 primary lithium battery is the relevant replacement. Rechargeable cells with similar names are a separate matter: check your device’s manual before using one.
What “123” and “CR123A” mean
Battery labels can vary by manufacturer. Energizer describes its 123 as a 3V lithium battery and lists CR123A among its replacement designations. Panasonic identifies its CR123A as a 3V primary lithium battery and lists 123 as an equivalent designation. These manufacturer cross-references support treating 123 and CR123A as interchangeable names for the disposable primary-cell type—not as a guarantee that every similarly labeled cell is suitable for every device.
For example, Panasonic lists its CR123A model at a nominal capacity of 1,550mAh and maximum dimensions of 17.0mm in diameter by 34.5mm in height. Those are specifications for that Panasonic model, not universal figures for every 123 or CR123A battery. See Panasonic’s CR123A specifications and Energizer’s 123 battery information.
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- Check the device label or manual. Confirm the required battery designation and voltage before buying.
- Match the battery type. If the device specifies a disposable 3V CR123A, choose a 3V primary lithium 123 or CR123A that the device accepts.
- Check rechargeable-cell compatibility separately. Similar labels or dimensions do not establish that a rechargeable cell is electrically suitable for your device.
Why rechargeable 123-style cells need a separate check
A disposable CR123A is a primary battery and must not be recharged. Streamlight’s Vantage II product instructions explicitly say, “DO NOT RECHARGE CR123A,” and specify allowed primary battery brands for that model. That warning applies to the cited product instructions; it should not be mistaken for a universal rule about every device’s approved rechargeable options. Read the Streamlight Vantage II instructions for that model’s requirements.
#1 Best Overall
- 6 pack of Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries
- Energizer 123 lithium battery provides serious power for your high tech devices
- Ideal batteries for cameras, flashlights and smart home devices
- Powerful photo batteries last up to 10 years in storage
- Energizer 123 lithium photo battery replaces 5018LC, CR123, CR123A, CR17345 and EL123
Rechargeable cells sold as RCR123A, 16340, or under similar names may look like a match, but naming and dimensions alone do not confirm compatibility. SureFire says its rechargeable LFP 123A cells are for compatible LED illumination tools and warns against using them in incandescent tools. Follow the instructions for your exact device and cell; SureFire’s guidance is available in its battery safety information.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 2 pack of Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries
- Energizer 123 lithium battery provides serious power for your high tech devices
- Ideal batteries for cameras, flashlights and smart home devices
- Powerful photo batteries last up to 10 years in storage
- Energizer 123 lithium photo battery replaces 5018LC, CR123, CR123A, CR17345 and EL123
Rank #4
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS: Powers tactical flashlights, home security cameras (Ring, Nest Cam, Arlo), alarm sensors, professional cameras, and any device requiring CR123A / 3V lithium batteries.
- 10-YEAR STORAGE GUARANTEE: Duracell CR123A High Power Lithium batteries are guaranteed for 10 years in storage. Stock your emergency kit, camera bag, and security system spares—they'll be ready years from now, guaranteed.
- HIGH-ENERGY LITHIUM CHEMISTRY: More energy density than standard alkaline in high-drain devices. Delivers reliable, consistent power in demanding flashlights, security cameras, and professional equipment.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: Performs in extreme temperatures from sub-freezing to high heat—essential for outdoor security cameras and emergency flashlights.
- PROFESSIONAL TRUST: Trusted by law enforcement, security professionals, and photographers for applications where battery failure isn't an option.
Rank #3
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS: Powers tactical flashlights, home security cameras (Ring, Nest Cam, Arlo), alarm sensors, professional cameras, and any device requiring CR123A / 3V lithium batteries.
- 10-YEAR STORAGE GUARANTEE: Duracell CR123A High Power Lithium batteries are guaranteed for 10 years in storage. Stock your emergency kit, camera bag, and security system spares—they'll be ready years from now, guaranteed.
- HIGH-ENERGY LITHIUM CHEMISTRY: More energy density than standard alkaline in high-drain devices. Delivers reliable, consistent power in demanding flashlights, security cameras, and professional equipment.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: Performs in extreme temperatures from sub-freezing to high heat—essential for outdoor security cameras and emergency flashlights.
- PROFESSIONAL TRUST: Trusted by law enforcement, security professionals, and photographers for applications where battery failure isn't an option.
Rank #2
- One 6-pack of CR123A Lithium 3-volt batteries with 1,550mAh capacity NOT RECHARGEABLE
- Improved design offers up to 10-year leak-free shelf life; store for emergencies or use right away
- Ideal for flashlights, night-vision goggles, and more
- Not recommended for Arlo security cameras and for one-time use only; for rechargeable batteries check out Amazon Basics’ rechargeable line
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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