Button batteries are small single cell batteries usually between five and 12 millimeters in diameter. They are classified according to a wide range of attributes and may be compared and contrasted using a button battery cross reference guide.

Button batteries are classified into three main categories – silver oxide batteries, alkaline batteries and lithium manganese batteries. These are further broken down into categories identifying the battery’s diameter, height, nominal voltage and capacity.

Button battery cross references guides typically provide information on how to categorize each of the major brands of batteries. These brands include:

• Maxell
  
• Duracell
  
• Energizer
  
• Rayovac
  
• Renata
  
• Varta
  
• Seiko
  
• Citizen
  
• Timex
  
• New TEC

These guides also provide information on the recommended applications for each category of battery. For example, silver oxide batteries with a diameter of 11.6mm, a height of 5.4mm, a nominal voltage of 1.55v and a capacity of 165mAh should be used with a high-drain watch.