Powerful, stable performance starts with the right battery. Whether you're shooting with a 70s SLR or a compact point-and-shoot, choosing the correct battery ensures your analogue camera performs at its best. Wondering what battery your film camera needs?
If you're a film photography enthusiast, you already know how important the right battery is for your analogue camera. From powering light meters to driving auto exposure and shutter functions, batteries are essential. Here's a guide to the five most commonly used batteries in classic cameras—and why choosing the right type matters.
1. 4SR44 (PX28S / V28PX / 544)
One of the most popular camera batteries, especially for classic Canon AE-1, A-1, and F-1 cameras.
- Type: Silver Oxide (recommended) or Alkaline alternative
- Voltage: 6V
- Why It’s Popular: Found in many SLRs from the 70s–80s
- Best Version: 4SR44 silver oxide for stable voltage (essential for accurate metering)
📸 Used in: Canon AE-1, Canon A-1, Minolta X series, Yashica FX series
⚠️ A Note on Battery Chemistry
When possible, choose silver oxide over alkaline for button batteries (like LR44 or PX625A). Silver oxide cells offer:
- Stable voltage for accurate exposure readings
- Longer lifespan
- Less risk of leakage
Your analogue camera was built to be precise—don’t let inconsistent battery performance ruin a perfect shot.
2. LR44 / SR44 (AG13, A76, 357)
These button-cell batteries are everywhere—from watches to light meters, and yes, analogue cameras.
- Type: Alkaline (LR44) or Silver Oxide (SR44)
- Voltage: 1.5V
- Why It’s Popular: Inexpensive and easy to find
- Best Version: SR44 silver oxide—more consistent voltage, longer life
📸 Used in: Olympus OM-10, Pentax ME, Nikon FE, various light meters
3. 2CR5 6V Lithium
A rectangular lithium battery often found in more advanced electronic film cameras.
- Type: Lithium
- Voltage: 6V
- Why It’s Popular: High energy capacity and long shelf life
- Best For: Autofocus SLRs from the 90s
📸 Used in: Canon EOS 5, Canon EOS 3, Contax 645, Nikon F90
4. CR123A Lithium
Compact and powerful, this battery is popular in point-and-shoots and some high-end rangefinders.
- Type: Lithium
- Voltage: 3V
- Why It’s Popular: Lightweight, reliable, widely available
- Bonus: Also used in flash units and other compact electronics
📸 Used in: Contax G2, Yashica T4, Olympus Stylus Zoom, Minolta Vectis
5. PX625A / V625U (LR9)
Used in older cameras with built-in light meters originally designed for mercury batteries.
- Type: Alkaline (PX625A) or Silver Oxide (via adapter or mod)
- Voltage: 1.5V
- Why It’s Popular: Replacement for discontinued mercury PX625
- Important: Alkaline alternatives may cause metering inaccuracies—use with caution
📸 Used in: Canon FTb, Olympus OM-1, Rollei 35, Minolta SRT series
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Check out our full range at printpoint.ie, including hard-to-find types like 4SR44, PX625A, CR123A, and 2CR5.