Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries Review: Reliable but Pricey
Digging into cross-platform user feedback, the Energizer 123 Lithium Batteries (2 Pack) earn an impressive 9/10 for performance, but that score comes with some caveats. Across thousands of reviews, buyers consistently praise their long lifespan, reliability in extreme conditions, and suitability for high-drain devices like security cameras, tactical flashlights, and professional photography gear. However, a recurring complaint is price — not just that they’re expensive, but that costs have more than doubled in recent years, leading some to accuse manufacturers of “flat out price gouging.”
Quick Verdict: Conditional — strongly recommended for critical devices and extreme environments, but less compelling for casual use due to price.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long battery life in high-drain devices | Significantly more expensive than competitors |
| Reliable performance in extreme temperatures | Reports of counterfeit listings on some marketplaces |
| 10-year shelf life for storage | Sudden power drop-off at end-of-life |
| Leak-resistant design protects sensitive electronics | Not rechargeable |
| Fits industry-standard CR123A slots | Slightly larger than alkalines — can be tight fit in some housings |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing materials emphasize “up to 10 years in storage” and “reliable performance for high-tech devices.” Several Amazon reviewers misunderstood this, assuming it meant 10 years of active use. One clarified: “These have a 10-year shelf life, not a 10-year use life… expect use-life to be about the same as a typical 9V or a little longer.” This distinction matters for those buying in bulk for infrequent use.
Energizer touts extreme temperature performance from -40°F to 140°F, and field reports back this up. A verified Best Buy reviewer using them in outdoor Arlo security cameras said, “They last a long time. Def worth the money,” even through seasonal changes. For photographers, Reddit user feedback notes consistent voltage delivery during long shoots, avoiding the gradual dimming common in alkalines.
The brand also claims leak resistance, a point customers value for expensive gear. An Amazon buyer powering Fishman Fluence guitar pickups highlighted that lithium construction “could be destroyed by a small battery leak” if using cheaper cells — a risk they avoided with Energizer.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Longevity is the headline feature. Amazon, Best Buy, and Trustpilot reviews repeatedly use “long lasting” in contexts ranging from home security to tactical gear. A law enforcement officer on Best Buy stated, “Through intermittent use I can normally expect to get 12–18 months of power out of these batteries” in a Streamlight TLR-2 HL weapon light. For Arlo camera owners, multiple reviewers cited 3–4 month intervals before replacement, even in high-activity zones.
Reliability in critical applications comes up often. A photographer on Trustpilot said, “When I go on photo shoots I always reach for Energizer lithium batteries, as they are reliable in a variety of extreme weather conditions.” Similarly, for smart home devices like August smart locks, one Best Buy customer reported, “They keep our door lock working hard… keeps me from getting locked out.”
Extreme temperature tolerance is another strong point. Users in outdoor and unheated environments confirm consistent performance, with no noticeable drop in cold snaps or summer heat. This makes them favored in professional surveillance setups.
Common Complaints
Price is the biggest sticking point. Fakespot analysis notes “their price has more than doubled in recent years,” with one Amazon reviewer calling it “far too expensive for something weaker than it should be for the $$$.” Some users switch to alternative brands or rechargeables for cost reasons, though often at the expense of lifespan.
Counterfeit concerns plague online platforms. A Reddit home automation thread warned that “fake batteries are absolutely rife — not just on sites like eBay, but on Amazon too,” advising buyers to purchase directly from Amazon or brick-and-mortar chains.
Capacity drop-off at end-of-life is also mentioned. One Amazon reviewer explained that while the battery delivers consistent power, it “will suddenly die out on you once they are done,” potentially catching users off guard if not monitored.
Divisive Features
Shelf-life marketing is praised by those stockpiling emergency power but criticized by buyers expecting extended active use. While security system owners appreciate multi-month performance, heavy-use photographers and certain camera models may drain cells faster, leading to perceptions of underperformance.
Physical fit can be a minor issue. The CR123A form factor is slightly larger than some alkaline equivalents; an Amazon user noted that “if the battery space is a very tight fit it might not fit” due to squared edges.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Reddit discussions reveal a two-fold trust dynamic: strong faith in Energizer’s genuine products, and deep skepticism toward third-party online sellers. Several Redditors stress that genuine Energizer 123 batteries “should last a long time in smart home products,” but counterfeit versions can fail in weeks. The safest purchase routes cited are Amazon direct and large chain retailers.
Long-term durability stories bolster the trust factor. Users report multi-year reliability in low-drain alarm panel functions, with one Best Buy reviewer noting, “Security system batteries last about 4 years in glass break functions.”
Alternatives
While most feedback centers on Energizer, Reddit mentions Panasonic as another reliable CR123A option, often at a lower price. Some users have moved to rechargeable CR123 cells for frequent-use devices, trading shorter runtime for lower lifetime cost. However, for mission-critical gear — such as law enforcement lights or high-end cameras — many state “Energizer ultimate or go home.”
Price & Value
Current eBay listings show wide price variation, from $6 for a 2-pack to over $11 depending on seller and shipping. Brick-and-mortar pricing (Best Buy, $15.99) is higher but offers counterfeit protection. Several reviewers recommend paying the premium to avoid fakes, especially for security or professional gear.
Buying tips from the community include:
- Purchase only from verified sellers or direct retail
- Avoid “too good to be true” prices
- Stockpile during sales due to long shelf life
FAQ
Q: Do these really last 10 years?
A: In storage, yes. The 10-year figure refers to shelf life, meaning they retain charge when unused. In active use, lifespan depends on device and drain rate.
Q: Are these compatible with all CR123A devices?
A: Yes, they meet industry size and voltage standards, but be aware the squared edges make them a slightly tight fit in some housings.
Q: Will they work in extreme cold?
A: Yes. Users report reliable function down to -40°F, making them suitable for outdoor security and winter photography.
Q: Are there counterfeit versions?
A: Yes, especially on marketplaces like Amazon and eBay from third-party sellers. Buy from reputable sources to ensure authenticity.
Q: Can they replace alkaline batteries?
A: Not directly, as CR123A lithiums have a different voltage and size. They’re designed for devices that specifically require them.
Final Verdict: Buy if you need dependable, long-life power for critical devices, outdoor use, or extreme temperatures. Avoid if you’re only powering casual-use gadgets, as lower-cost alternatives may suffice. Pro tip from community: pay extra for verified retail sources to avoid counterfeits and ensure the performance you’re paying for.
