Usually, yes: a disposable 3V lithium battery labeled “123” is cross-referenced by manufacturers as a replacement for CR123A, and vice versa. Before buying, confirm that your device calls for a disposable 3V CR123A-type battery. A rechargeable cell with a similar name is a different compatibility question.
When 123 and CR123A mean the same battery
For disposable primary lithium batteries, “123” and “CR123A” are commonly used as equivalent type designations. Energizer lists CR123A among the replacement designations for its 3V lithium 123. Panasonic identifies 123 as an equivalent designation for its 3V CR123A.
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That manufacturer cross-reference supports using a 123 primary lithium battery when a device specifies disposable CR123A, provided the voltage and device instructions agree. The label alone does not establish that every similarly named cell has identical capacity, performance, or approval for every device.
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- Read the device label or manual. Confirm the specified battery type and voltage. If it calls for a disposable 3V CR123A, look for a 3V primary lithium cell explicitly cross-referenced as 123 or CR123A.
- Check whether the cell is rechargeable. The equivalence above concerns disposable primary lithium batteries. Do not recharge a primary CR123A.
- Verify any rechargeable option against the exact device model. Similar dimensions or a label such as RCR123A or 16340 do not, by themselves, establish electrical compatibility.
Why rechargeable cells need a separate check
Rechargeable cells sold under similar naming can differ in chemistry and electrical characteristics from disposable 3V primary cells. Compatibility depends on the device, not just the apparent size or a shared “123” label.
#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
For example, Streamlight’s Vantage II instructions say “DO NOT RECHARGE CR123A” and give product-specific guidance on allowed primary batteries. That warning applies to the cited product instructions; it should not be treated as a universal rule for every device or every rechargeable cell.
SureFire says its rechargeable LFP 123A cells are for compatible LED illumination tools and warns against using them in incandescent tools. Follow the manual for your particular device before using any rechargeable alternative.
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
Are all 123 and CR123A batteries identical?
No. The names are useful cross-references for the disposable primary-cell type, not a promise that products from every manufacturer have identical specifications. For example, Panasonic lists a nominal capacity of 1,550mAh and maximum dimensions of 17.0mm diameter by 34.5mm height for its CR123A model. Those figures describe that Panasonic model, not every battery sold as 123 or CR123A.
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Choose by the device’s stated type, voltage, and compatibility instructions. If the manual specifies a primary 3V CR123A, a primary 3V 123 cross-referenced by its manufacturer is the relevant replacement; if you are considering a rechargeable cell, confirm that the device maker approves that specific type.
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.
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