Maxell SR626SW Watch Batteries Review: Conditional Buy Verdict
Starting with a surprising pattern from verified buyers, the Maxell SR626SW Silver Oxide Watch Batteries (4 Pack) earned a strong 8.8/10 in aggregated user ratings, thanks to consistent performance, authentic Japanese manufacturing, and value pricing. Yet, digging deeper reveals a few recurring complaints about shorter-than-expected lifespan and minor fitment quirks compared to original watch batteries.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Authentic factory hologram packaging reassures buyers | Some reports of shorter battery life (months instead of years) |
| Made in Japan – trusted by major watch manufacturers | Slightly thicker than original batteries in certain watches |
| Stable 1.55V output ideal for precision devices | Not all packs show expiration date |
| Strong leakage resistance design | Occasional complaints about shipping handling |
| Excellent value – multiple batteries for low cost | May not fit ultra-thin watch models |
| Works reliably in watches, calculators, medical devices | Individual experience varies on longevity |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing highlights Maxell’s “flat discharge characteristics” and “twice the energy capacity of alkaline button cells” with superior leakage resistance. The factory hologram packaging is promoted as a safeguard against counterfeits. The reality, according to Reddit and Trustpilot users, aligns well with these claims for most – but not all – buyers.
Several Amazon reviewers noted that “the clock turns off immediately, and does not start to lag behind like with other cheap batteries,” supporting Maxell’s claim of voltage stability. Reddit user feedback also backs the Japanese quality narrative, with one noting they “installed one in my vintage watch, and suddenly it was like I turned back time — literally!”
However, while Maxell suggests a service life beyond 1.5–2 years, multiple buyers, such as Trustpilot contributor kenta sasaki, reported batteries lasting “for a maximum of 1.5–2 years,” indicating a gap between marketing optimism and real-world watch usage. Fitment quirks emerged too, with some buyers finding them “thicker than original batteries,” which can matter for certain precision timepieces.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Reddit, and eBay, the most consistent praise centers on authenticity and build quality. Factory hologram packaging was repeatedly cited as reassuring – “gave me confidence that these were the real deal — no sneaky counterfeit business,” wrote one Trustpilot reviewer. For watch owners, the reliable 1.55V silver oxide chemistry maintained accurate timekeeping without lag, benefiting both casual wearers and professionals relying on precise timing.
The batteries’ versatility impressed gadget users. A verified buyer on Amazon noted they worked in “three different watches… all showing accurate time for about 8 months so far.” Medical device users also found stable performance; one Trustpilot user used them in a glucose monitor sensor, reporting stable output for the full expected cycle.
Fast delivery was another common thread. Reddit contributors praised that they “arrived promptly and in perfect condition,” making them a quick fix for dead devices.
Common Complaints
Longevity concerns were the most frequent negative theme. Some buyers reported lifespans of only a few months in high-drain watches, contradicting Maxell’s extended-life positioning. This impacts owners of multifunction watches with alarms and lights more than analog users. Fitment also drew complaints – the “slightly thicker size compared to original batteries” caused issues in ultra-slim watch cases.
Packaging transparency was another weak point. Trustpilot user anastazja kendzior noted “there are no expiration dates on the individual battery packs or on the box,” leaving buyers uncertain about shelf life.
Divisive Features
Price-to-value perceptions varied. Many saw the multi-pack as an unbeatable deal — “about the same price as one bought locally” for five batteries — while others, especially in niche markets, felt the shorter lifespan offset the savings. Performance in non-watch devices was generally good, but some calculator or thin gadget users preferred alternatives with guaranteed fit.
Trust & Reliability
The hologram packaging and “Made in Japan” label were effective in building trust. Across Trustpilot and Reddit, counterfeit concerns were minimal compared to generic brands. Long-term reliability stories included watches running “accurate time for about 8 months” and medical devices completing their operational cycles without failures.
However, the absence of expiration dates on some packs raised questions, especially for bulk buyers intending long-term storage. While Maxell claims superior leakage resistance, users did not report leakage incidents, strengthening its reliability profile.
Alternatives
Energizer’s SR626SW variant drew strong feedback for “maintaining over 90% performance after 5 years of storage” and having excellent leakage resistance. Renata offered mercury-free options, appealing to eco-conscious buyers, but faced complaints about “some batteries dying within a week.” Murata’s 377 SR626SW won praise for “great performance” but occasionally shipped with unexpected branding.
For buyers prioritizing maximum shelf life and consistent voltage in storage-heavy scenarios, Energizer may be the safer bet. For those focused on eco-certifications, Renata’s mercury-free tech is attractive despite mixed longevity reports.
Price & Value
On Amazon, the 4-pack retails around $3.95, with eBay listings as low as $2.50–$3.99 with free shipping. Community tips stress buying from authorized sellers to ensure hologram-packaged authenticity. Bulk buyers often pivot to 5- or 10-packs for better per-unit value, especially if they maintain multiple devices.
Reddit users emphasized considering your device’s drain rate before bulk buying, as high-drain gadgets may burn through stock faster than expected.
FAQ
Q: How long do Maxell SR626SW batteries typically last in watches?
A: Most users report 1–2 years in analog watches, but high-drain digital models may see shorter lifespans of several months.
Q: Are these batteries mercury-free?
A: Yes, Maxell offers mercury-free versions, aligning with EU environmental standards.
Q: Do they fit all SR626SW-compatible devices?
A: Fit is generally good, but some buyers noted they are slightly thicker than certain OEM watch batteries, which can cause issues in ultra-thin models.
Q: How can I verify authenticity?
A: Look for the factory hologram on packaging; this is a key indicator of genuine Maxell production.
Q: Is there an expiration date on the pack?
A: Not all packs display expiration dates, so buyers planning long-term storage should verify freshness with the seller.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a watch owner or small electronics user seeking authentic, stable, and affordable Japanese silver oxide cells with good leakage resistance. Avoid if your device demands ultra-thin batteries or if you require guaranteed multi-year lifespan in high-drain devices. Community pro tip: source from hologram-sealed packs and match purchase volume to your device drain rate.
