Duracell CR123A Lithium Battery Review: Reliable but Pricey
Surprising feedback emerged around the Duracell CR123A Lithium Battery, 6 Count — despite its premium branding and marketing promises, user sentiment ranges from glowing praise for longevity and reliability to concerns over cost and occasional underperformance. Overall score from aggregated sources: 8.6/10.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Highly recommended for critical devices like security systems, flashlights, and cameras, but the higher price may not appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long shelf life (up to 10 years) | Higher price than generic brands |
| Reliable in high-drain devices | Some reports of shorter-than-expected lifespan |
| Performs well in extreme temperatures | Not rechargeable |
| Leak-resistant design | Occasional complaints about cost-to-performance ratio |
| Widely compatible with electronics | Packaging varies by seller |
| Trusted brand reputation | Slight performance gap vs. marketing claims in some cases |
Claims vs Reality
Duracell markets the CR123A as having "long lasting performance" and an "excellent shelf life of 10 years", positioning it as ideal for high-drain devices like cameras, flashlights, and security systems. According to the company, the lithium chemistry offers higher energy density than alkaline alternatives, with leak resistance and durability in extreme temperatures.
User feedback largely supports these claims, but with nuance. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: "These batteries last for years and don't require regular replacement in our house alarm sensors... very happy with this product." This matches the advertised endurance. However, FindThisBest’s analysis revealed that while many customers praised its longevity, “some have noted that the batteries may not last as long as expected.”
Duracell also claims reliability in extreme temperatures, and Reddit reports back this up. One user stated: "During a recent power outage, my Duracell-powered flashlight was a lifesaver. After hours of continuous use, the light remained bright and steady." This aligns closely with the marketing, showing performance in a high-demand scenario.
On the other hand, the value proposition is more contested. The brand leans heavily on its premium status, but a verified Amazon purchaser admitted: "Are they better than Energizer? Marginally at best... but more elegant and better to look at." This suggests that while performance is solid, the price premium may not always be justified in real-world use.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot, the Duracell CR123A earns a reputation for dependability in critical devices. For home security users, these batteries are a set-and-forget solution. A Reddit user shared: "I replaced the batteries in my security system months ago, and they’re still going strong." This reliability is particularly valuable for applications where downtime is unacceptable, such as alarm sensors and smoke detectors.
Photographers and flashlight enthusiasts also report strong results. One Amazon buyer commented: "Good for my tactical flashlight — I want peace of mind and dependability when using my light." For outdoor adventurers, the temperature resilience was a highlight, with marketing claims of stability in both hot and cold aligning with user experiences in camping and hiking conditions.
The 10-year shelf life is another standout. Multiple buyers keep them in emergency kits, with one Trustpilot reviewer recommending: "Keep a set in your emergency kit – they’ll be ready when you need them, even years later." This makes them ideal for infrequent-use devices where battery readiness is critical.
Common Complaints
The most frequent gripe is price. Even satisfied customers acknowledge the premium cost. As one Reddit user put it: "The price point is slightly higher than generic brands… but you get what you pay for." For high-volume users — like those replacing dozens in a large security network — cost can become significant.
There are also sporadic reports of shorter-than-expected lifespan. While these are the minority, they stand out against the otherwise consistent praise. FindThisBest noted that “some have noted that the batteries may not last as long as expected”, suggesting potential inconsistency between batches or usage conditions.
Packaging differences between sellers occasionally cause confusion. eBay listings show variations, and some buyers received different blister designs than pictured. While this doesn’t affect performance, it can raise doubts about authenticity for cautious buyers.
Divisive Features
One divisive point is comparison to Energizer. Some users feel Duracell edges out in build feel and aesthetics, with remarks like: "They’re just more elegant and better to look at than that atrocious drum line-esque bunny." Others believe performance differences are negligible, making the choice come down to brand loyalty or price.
Another split is on aesthetics vs. function — while the new textured design has fans for its grip, others see it as irrelevant to a battery’s core purpose.
Trust & Reliability
Long-term trust in Duracell is high. Multiple Reddit and Trustpilot accounts describe multi-month or multi-year use without degradation. One Amazon buyer reported that in low-drain applications like remotes, "These batteries last for years and don’t require regular replacement."
Scam concerns are minimal, though packaging variations on reseller sites like eBay prompt buyers to prefer authorized sellers. The brand’s guarantee and wide availability help maintain confidence. The leak-resistant feature is repeatedly mentioned, with TheBatterySupplier.com noting “little risk of them corroding and damaging the terminals of your device” — a key reliability factor for expensive electronics.
Alternatives
The main competitor mentioned is Energizer CR123A. Both share similar specs, including 10-year shelf life and high-drain capability. Users who tested both often cite negligible performance differences, making cost the deciding factor. Energizer can be slightly cheaper in bulk, but Duracell retains an edge in perceived build quality.
Amazon Basics also offers a CR123A option at a lower price. While not as lauded for extreme-condition performance, they are considered a good budget alternative for non-critical applications.
Price & Value
Prices vary widely depending on the retailer: Amazon listings hover around $31.99 for a 6-pack, while eBay prices range from $24.99 to over $50 depending on packaging and shipping. Community tips suggest buying in bulk from reputable dealers to offset the per-unit cost.
Given the long shelf life, some buyers treat the purchase as a long-term investment in readiness. As one Amazon reviewer put it: "The bulk purchase makes them more economical too." For those using them in mission-critical gear, the cost is justified by reduced replacement frequency and reliability under stress.
FAQ
Q: Do these batteries really last 10 years in storage?
A: Yes, if stored properly. Multiple users confirm long-term storage without degradation, though actual in-device lifespan varies by usage.
Q: Are they worth the premium over generic CR123A batteries?
A: For critical devices like security systems or tactical flashlights, many say yes due to reliability and leak resistance. For casual use, cheaper brands may suffice.
Q: Can they handle extreme temperatures?
A: User reports confirm stable performance in both hot and cold outdoor environments, aligning with Duracell’s claims.
Q: Are these rechargeable?
A: No. They are single-use lithium batteries. Attempting to recharge them is unsafe.
Q: Do they fit all CR123A-compatible devices?
A: Yes, they are widely compatible, including with devices labeled CR17345, DL123A, and similar equivalents.
Final Verdict: Buy if you rely on CR123A batteries for critical, high-drain devices where failure is not an option — especially for security, photography, or outdoor gear. Avoid if you’re sensitive to price and using them in low-stakes devices. Pro tip from the community: Keep an extra set in your emergency kit — they’ll still be ready years from now.
