CR1220 Battery Equivalent: Full Compatibility Guide With Chart
May 27, 2025
Introduction
Are you looking for a CR1220 size battery replacement?
If yes, then you have found the perfect place.
This guide will walk you through that process with replacements at the speed of your choice, where guesswork can cause you to select the wrong batteries.
What Is A CR1220 Battery?
The device asks for a CR1220 battery. What exactly is that? Let's break it down before getting the replacement.
CR1220 Battery Specs
CR1220 Battery Dimensions
The CR1220 is a small, flat, coin-type battery.
It is 12.5mm wide and 2.0mm thick.
Hence the 1220: 12.5mm x 2.0mm.
This actually makes a difference:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Code | CR1220 |
| Diameter | 12.5 mm |
| Height | 2.0 mm |
| Voltage | 3V |
| Chemistry | Lithium Manganese Dioxide |
| Rechargeable? | No |
It is for devices that use a low current for longtime operation.
Devices CR1220 Batteries Are Used In

CR1220 Battery Applications
You will find CR1220 in:
● Car key fobs
● Fitness trackers
● Digital thermometers
● Motherboards (BIOS backup)
● Little gadgets, perhaps laser pointers
These devices don’t ask for much charging, if any, for months, if not years
The battery basically is there, silently working.
Now, voltage stability together with a longer shelf life are what counts.
Why can't I just use a round battery?
Not all coin cells are alike!
Though it seems like a match in looks, it could be:
● Wrong voltage (1.5V vs 3V)
● Too thick to fit into the battery cover
● Based on different chemistry that drains quickly
That's where the problems start. Using the wrong one can cause:
● The gadget does not work
● Malfunctioning
● Battery leaks
Let's really not go for it.
Related Terms You Might See
One might sometimes find the CR1220 battery equivalent comes under various names.
Say:
● CR1220 battery equivalent AG
● CR1220 battery equivalent Duracell
● Battery CR1220 equivalent Energizer
Don't panic—we'll get that sorted out soon.
You will know what fits and what doesn't.
How To Read A Button Cell Battery Code
If you've ever been at your wit's end with battery codes such as CR1220, AG13, LR44—hey, an entire clutch of bewildered consumers—just wait! Battery codes do seem a little cryptic, but when you grasp the logic of the code, it is quite simple.
Let us try to decode it.
Code Analysis for Batteries
Each battery code has size, chemistry, and voltage all wrapped into a word of clues.
Let's take CR1220 for instance:
● C = Lithium chemistry
● R = Round shape
● 12 = Diameter of 12.5mm
● 20 = Thickness of 2.0mm
Seems simple enough, doesn't it?
For comparison, consider the LR44:
● L = Alkaline chemistry
● R = Round
● 44 = Size code (not very straightforward compared to the millimeters in CR1220)
So CR1220 is lithium 3 V.
LR44 is alkaline 1.5 V.
Different chemistry, different performance.
So Many Names for One Battery?
Manufacturers can get creative.
The equivalent CR1220 battery will be under different names, depending on:
● Brands (Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic)
● Region (Europe vs. US vs. Asia)
● Marketing (AG codes, LR codes)
Here are some you will run into:
| Battery Code | Chemistry | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CR1220 | Lithium | Standard name (ISO/IEC) |
| DL1220 | Lithium | Duracell’s name for CR1220 |
| ECR1220 | Lithium | Energizer’s version |
| KCR1220 | Lithium | Kodak variant |
| BR1220 | Lithium | Stable in extreme temperatures |
Basically same across the board-given that it is 3V and 12.5x2.0mm.
Keep lithium away from alkaline
● CR1220 ≠ AG13
● CR1220 ≠ LR44
They are thicker and use 1.5V, which is far from what CR1220 requires.
This will cause a never-ending disaster in a CR1220 slot.
There is more on this in Section 6.
When all else fails...
● Match voltage first.
● Match size second.
● Chemistry comes last.
Getting the name right is optional, getting the specs right is not.
CR1220 Battery Equivalent Overview

In other words: What is really meant by the term "equivalent" in battery language? Is that replacement of batteries without risking the ruin of the device?
Not all look-alikes automatically present safe replacements.
Some are just battery names.
What Makes Batteries Interchangeable?
To be considered a safe CR1220 battery and its equivalent, it must have these specifications:
● Voltage: 3V
● Chemistry: Lithium (not alkaline)
● Size: 12.5mm diameter by 2.0mm thickness
● Polarity: Same pattern (flat top = +, bottom = -)
Because of that, DL1220 and ECR1220 are interchangeable and safe to use.
What To Avoid In Substitutes
Here is what you should not go for.
AG13 or LR44 are very commonly sold as "equivalents."
They are not.
| Model | Voltage | Diameter | Thickness | Chemistry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR1220 | 3V | 12.5mm | 2.0mm | Lithium | ✅ Correct |
| LR44 | 1.5V | 11.6mm | 5.4mm | Alkaline | ❌ Too thick, wrong chemistry |
| AG13 | 1.5V | ~11.6mm | ~5.4mm | Alkaline | ❌ Also wrong |
Using these could:
● Warp your battery compartment
● Give unstable power
● Cut down on your device's lifespan
What Does a Different Name For The Battery?
If the name says BR1220, you're good to go.
It is just a more stable lithium variant, which is a plus in hot/cold situations.
Anything else beginning with "LR" or "AG"? Walk away. Slowly.
Equivalency Versus Incompatibility
Safe CR1220 battery equivalents can be arranged as follows:
● DL1220 (Duracell)
● ECR1220 (Energizer)
● BR1220 (Panasonic, etc.)
● KCR1220
● Maxell CR1220
They're all safe to use as a direct drop-in replacement.
No stress, no sparks.
CR1220 Battery Equivalent Chart
Which one is the code for CR1220?
Here is a full table of CR1220 battery equivalents for clear understanding.
Across brands, this table will give you a quick, no-frills look at compatible models.
CR1220 Battery Cross Reference Table
| Equivalent Code | Brand | Voltage | Chemistry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR1220 | Generic | 3V | Lithium | Standard code |
| DL1220 | Duracell | 3V | Lithium | Same specs, trusted brand |
| ECR1220 | Energizer | 3V | Lithium | Perfect replacement |
| BR1220 | Panasonic | 3V | Lithium | Wider temp tolerance |
| KCR1220 | Kodak | 3V | Lithium | Budget-friendly |
| L1220 | GP Batteries | 3V | Lithium | Often seen in Asia |
| 5012LC | IEC standard | 3V | Lithium | IEC designation for CR1220 |
If specs match, then no name should matter.
Treat these as fully compatible.
Match By Brand And Model
If your old battery says...
● Duracell DL1220 → CR1220 is a replacement
● Energizer ECR1220 → Another CR1220
● Panasonic BR1220 → Slightly better variant, can be used
Keep in mind mixing brands is perfectly fine too, so long as the package codes match.
Ignore These “Lookalikes”
Some sellers may try to suggest the AG13 or LR44 batteries.
These simply are not the same.
They may fit physically (sort of) but will not power your device correctly.
Wrong voltage = poorly performing batteries in the best-case scenario and non-working batteries in the worst.
Always crosscheck specs!
Ultimate Hint
When going to the store, save or print this sheet.
It will surely help in steering you clear from mislabeled or fake products that especially generic packs end up having.
Purpose:
To vividly show which batteries are compatible and which are not, with CR1220.
CR1220 Battery Equivalent AG & LR Types
Myth busted: CR1220 ≠ LR44 nor AG13.
They cannot be interchanged with each other, the sellers to the contrary notwithstanding.
Your device and your money will benefit from this section.
AG and LR substitutes
Online listings may say things like:
"CR1220 battery equivalent AG13"
Or "battery CR1220 equivalent LR44."
That's just plainly wrong.
Here's why:
| Battery Code | Voltage | Size (mm) | Chemistry | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR1220 | 3V | 12.5 × 2.0 | Lithium | ✅ Correct battery |
| LR44 / AG13 | 1.5V | 11.6 × 5.4 | Alkaline | ❌ Wrong size and chemistry |
LR44 is thicker and of lower voltage.
It might wedge in there but it either won't work or will drain really fast.
Not interchangeable? CR1220 vs LR44
Things that might happen if you put in an AG or LR battery:
● Your device will not turn on.
● The battery dies in a couple hours instead of months.
● It might damage your sensitive electronic devices.
● You could potentially short-circuit it or cause it to overheat.
Lithium (CR series) and alkaline (LR/AG series) are manufactured differently.
Warning: confusing labels
Certain battery kits bear dubious labeling such as:
"CR1220 / AG13 / LR44 compatible!"
Don't believe that.
That's marketing trickery, not real science.
Consider carefully: voltage, diameter, thickness.
Final Verdict
There is no CR1220 battery that can be safely replaced by AG or LR.
Stick with the proper CR1220 lithium battery replacements:
● DL1220
● ECR1220
● BR1220
Trust the CR1220 battery equivalent chart, not that multi-pack at the gas station.
CR1220 Battery Equivalent Duracell And Energizer Options
Now both brands, Duracell and Energizer, are amongst the most trusted ones in the industry.
Further follows a deeper comparison so that you may be well aware before buying.
CR1220 Equivalent Duracell Model
Duracell has named their CR1220 battery DL1220.
It is the same size and chemistry, so no guesswork.
Let's glance at it quickly:
| Brand | Model | Voltage | Chemistry | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duracell | DL1220 | 3V | Lithium | 12×2.0 mm | Reliable, long-lasting |
With a shelf life of 10 years through Power Preserve technology, it's great for devices that need to sit idle for months.
And leak resistance is vital for electronics like key fobs.
CR1220 Equivalent Energizer Model
Energizer calls theirs ECR1220.
It's also a 3V lithium battery with the same specs.
| Brand | Model | Voltage | Chemistry | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energizer | ECR1220 | 3V | Lithium | 12×2.0 mm | Great cold-weather performance |
ECR1220 batteries are designed to perform well in extreme temperatures from -30°C to 60°C.
Great for car remotes and outdoor sensors.
Reliable power output, even in frosty weather.
And Now, Which One?
Honestly, you really cannot go wrong with either.
Fast comparison:
| Feature | DL1220 (Duracell) | ECR1220 (Energizer) |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf life | 10 years | 8–10 years |
| Temp range | -20°C to 60°C | -30°C to 60°C |
| Leak protection | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cost | Slightly higher | Usually lower |
Go with Duracell for reliability, Go with shelf life.
Go with Energizer, if you live somewhere cold or if you're looking for a better cost per unit.
Pro Tip
There are generic CR1220 batteries touted to meet these specifications.
But you don't want to risk it. Stick to Duracell DL1220 or Energizer ECR1220 for best results.
Where To Buy CR1220 Or Its Equivalent
You know the type, brand, and model.
Now, where do you actually buy a CR1220 battery without getting scammed?
Here's what you need to know.
Where To Buy Online
The safest route would be trusted sellers.
Here is an option list for you:
● Amazon (Look for "Ships from and sold by Amazon")
● BatteryJunction.com
● Mouser Electronics
● Digi-Key
● Duracell or Energizer's Official Store
Online prices are cheap, multi packs, and brands to choose from.
But beware, a counterfeit coin cell seller is after you.
How To Avoid Counterfeit Batteries
If the battery:
● Has no brand
● Is in loose plastic wrap
● Is very cheap
● ...It is probably fake. Or old. Or both.
Here's how to spot a bad listing:
| Red Flag | Why It’s Bad |
|---|---|
| No expiration date | Might already be dead |
| “Universal fit” listed | Likely incompatible size/voltage |
| Too many codes on label | May be repackaged or mismatched |
In doubt? Check for:
● Brand logo stamped on the battery
● Original packaging
● A clearly marked manufacture or expiry date
In-store Buying Tips
Battery CR1220 equivalents can be found at:
● Walmart
● Best Buy
● CVS and Walgreens
● Home Depot
● Target
Stock varies.
You are more likely to find generic types or AG and LR which must be avoided.
Check the label of your purchase.
Look for only: DL1220, ECR1220, or CR1220.
Final Buying Tip
Buy a few extras.
Devices that run on CR1220 will often require replacements within 1 to 2 years.
Having extra batteries on hand will save you a few trips!
Tips When Replacing A CR1220 Battery
Replacing CR1220 battery? It's easy but a wrong move will break your device.
Here is the thorough guidance on how to perform the replacement correctly.
Step-By-Step Battery Replacement
Follow these easy steps:
● Turn off your device.
Do not change a battery with the device turned on.
● Use a pair of plastic tweezers or a nonmetallic tool.
You do not want to short anything.
● Gently rock out the old CR1220.
It just may slide out or snap out depending on the holder.
● Take note of battery orientation.
The flat side has usually got cavities with text: the positive terminal.
● Slide in the new battery now.
It should fit snug; anything that feels loose is an inappropriate size.
Quick Safety Tips
Be sure not to touch the terminals of batteries using bare hands because the oils and dirt collection can cause corrosion.
Avoid pulling out the battery with sharp tools or with anything metallic.
Do not attempt to bend or snap battery cover clips into place.
Keep the packaging from the battery; it'll help when identifying replacements in the future.
Make It Last Longer
Want the CR1220 battery to last as long as possible?
● Turn the device off when not in use.
● Keep it away from extreme heat—biggest drains for lithium cells.
● Use trusted brands like Duracell or Energizer.
● Get fresh batteries, not those with just 2 months to go at a discount.
CR1220 batteries are made to last when the device is off most of the time!
What If The New Battery Does Not Work?
First, make sure:
● Did you insert it the right way?
● Is it the correct size and voltage?
● Is the contact spring clean?
● Still not working?
Try a second battery—Maybe yours is dead.
See if the device itself holds a deeper issue.
Clean the contacts with isopropyl.
Mostly, cases come down to poor contact or a wrong type of battery (such as LR44s).
Final Advice
Keep in mind to only use the known CR1220 equivalents when replacing batteries:
● DL1220
● ECR1220
● BR1220
● KCR1220
Avoid mixing battery types, such as AG or LR. They will most likely fit, but run out fast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is Equivalent To The CR1220 Battery?
Any lithium 3V coin cell having 12.5 mm of diameter and 2.0 mm thickness.
The trusted equivalents are:
● DL1220
● ECR1220
● BR1220
Can I Use An LR44 Instead Of CR1220?
No. It is thicker and just 1.5 V.
CR1220 is 3 V lithium—the LR or AG series batteries are not compatible with this.
What Can Be Used As Duracell Equivalent Of CR1220?
The Duracell equivalent for CR1220 battery is called:
● DL1220
Same size, same specs, fully compatible.
What Is The Energizer Equivalent For CR1220?
That would be:
● ECR1220
This is Energizer's direct replacement for CR1220 and works exactly the same.
Where Can I Buy A CR1220 Battery?
Online:
● Amazon
● BatteryJunction
In stores:
● Walmart
● CVS
● Best Buy
Make sure to check the label: CR1220, DL1220, or ECR1220.
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