C Battery vs. D Battery: The Ultimate Guide
C batteries (or C-cell batteries) and D batteries (or D-cell batteries) are cylindrical batteries manufactured as both non-rechargeable and rechargeable batteries and are commonly used in toys, flashlights, remote controllers, power tools, and many other devices and gadgets.
C batteries and D batteries are very similar in appearance, but they do differ in size, capacity, and other features, making many people ask themselves what the actual difference between C and D batteries is and if they are interchangeable.
Updated: October 15, 2024.
C vs. D Battery: Similarities and Differences
Both C and D batteries are cylindrical batteries, differing in size:
- C Battery Size: 50.0 x 26.2 mm (~1.9685 x ~1.0315 inches),
- D Battery Size: 61.5 x 34.2 mm (~2.42 x ~1.35 inches).
As one can see, the total volume of the batteries differs by ~2.1 ratio - D-cell batteries are both taller and wider than C-cell batteries and have higher capacity.
Although differing in size, both C and D batteries are offered in more or less the same chemistries:
- Non-Rechargeable Chemistries: Carbon-Zinc, Alkaline, Iron Disulfide, Lithium-Thionyl Chloride,
- Rechargeable Chemistries: Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydride, Lithium Ion (with or without DC-DC converter).
The capacity, voltage, output current, and other features greatly depend on the battery chemistry. The lists of most common C and D battery chemistries and models are given in the following comparison tables.
C-Cell Battery Chemistries And Models Comparison Tables
The most common C-cell battery chemistries and their features are given in the following comparison table:
| Chemistry | Typical Label | Rechargeable | Typical Capacity (Ah) | Nominal Voltage (V) |
| Zinc-Carbon | R14 | No | 2-4 | 1.5 |
| Alkaline | LR14 | No (Mostly No) | 6-8 | 1.5 |
| NiCd | KR14 | Yes | 1.5-3 | 1.2 |
| NiMH | HR14 | Yes | 4-6 | 1.2 |
| Li-SOCl2 | ER 26500 | No | 7-9 | 3.6 |
| Li-FeS2 | - | No | 8-11 | 1.8 (1.5) |
| Lithium | - | Yes | 2-4 | 1.5 (built-in DC-DC converter) |
| Lithium | 26500 | Yes | 3-6 | 3.2-3.7V |
C-cell batteries models:
| Battery Datasheet |
Capacity | Operating Temperature | Note |
| Duracell MN1400 Coppertop (Alkaline) |
~6Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~4.5Ah down to 0.8V @500mA |
-20°C to +54°C | - |
| Duracell QU1400 Quantum (Alkaline) |
~5.75Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~4.6Ah down to 0.8V @500mA |
-20°C to +54°C | - |
| EEMB ER26500 (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
9000 mAh | -55°C to +85°C | 0.1A max. cont. ≤1% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB ER26500M (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
6000 mAh | -55°C to +85°C | 1A max. cont. ≤2% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB ER26500S (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
5500 mAh | -55°C to +150°C | 0.15A max. cont. ≤1% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB CR26500SL (LiMnO2 3.0V Battery) |
5000 mAh | -40°C to +85°C | 2A max. cont. 3A max. pulse |
| Energizer E93 (Alkaline) |
~8Ah @25mA; ~7Ah @100mA; ~5.5Ah @250mA; ~4.2Ah @500mA |
-18°C to +55°C | 10 years shelf life @21°C |
| Energizer NH35-2500 (HR14) (NiMH) |
2500 mAh down to 0.9V @1.25&2.5A @21°C 2250 mAh down to 0.9V @5A @21°C |
0°C to +50°C | - |
| Panasonic BK310CHU (NiMH) |
3100 mAh down to 1.0V @620 mA @20°C | -20°C to +75°C | - |
| Panasonic BR-C (LiMnO2 3.0V Battery) |
5000 mAh | -40°C to +85°C | 5mA std. cont. |
| Rayovac LR14 Alkaline Fusion (Alkaline) |
~7Ah @150mA ~4.6Ah @400mA |
-30°C to +55°C | 12 years shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac LR14 High Energy (Alkaline) |
~6.7Ah @150mA 4.5Ah @400mA |
-30°C to +55°C | 10 years shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac LR14 UltraPro (Alkaline) |
- | -18°C to +55°C | 10 years shelf life @21°C |
| Ultralife ER26500M (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
6.5Ah @10mA down to 2.0V @23°C | -55°C to +70°C | 1A max. cont. 1.5A max. pulse |
As one can see, actual capacities greatly depend on the actual discharge current, battery age and temperature, and similar.
D-Cell Battery Chemistries And Models Comparison Tables
The most common D-cell battery chemistries and their features are given in the following comparison table:
| Chemistry | Typical Label | Rechargeable | Typical Capacity (Ah) | Nominal Voltage (V) |
| Zinc-Carbon | R20, 13D | No | 6-8 | 1.5 |
| Alkaline | LR20, 13A | No (Mostly No) | 10-18 | 1.5 |
| NiCd | KR20 | Yes | 2-6 | 1.2 |
| NiMH | HR20, B006 | Yes | 8-12 | 1.2 |
| Li-SOCl2 | ER 34615 | No | 18-19 | 3.6 |
| Li-FeS2 | - | No | 18-24 | 1.8 (1.5) |
| Lithium | - | Yes | 4-8 | 1.5 (built-in DC-DC converter) |
| Lithium | 32600 | Yes | 5-10 | 3.2-3.7V |
D-cell batteries models:
| Battery Datasheet |
Capacity | Operating Temperature | Note |
| Duracell MN1300 Coppertop (Alkaline) |
~12.5Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~9.5Ah down to 0.8V @500mA |
-20°C to +54°C | - |
| Duracell QU1300 Quantum (Alkaline) |
~11.5Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~9Ah down to 0.8V @500 mA |
-20°C to +54°C | - |
| Energizer E95 (Alkaline) |
~10Ah down to 0.8V @21°C @250mA ~6.5Ah down to 0.8V @21°C @500mA |
-18°C to +55°C | 10-year shelf life @21°C |
| Energizer NH50-2500 (HR20) (NiMH) |
2500mAh down to 1.0V @500mA @21°C | - | - |
| Eveready 1250 (ZnMnO2) |
8Ah @25mA down to 0.8V @21°C | -18°C to +55°C | - |
| EEMB ER34615 (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
19Ah | -55°C to +85°C | 150 mA max. cont. 300mA max. 0.1s pulse ≤1% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB ER34615M (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
13Ah | -55°C to +85°C | 2A max. cont. 3A max. 0.5s pulse ≤2% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB ER34615S (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V) |
12.5Ah | -20°C to +150°C | 170mA max. cont. ≤1% annual self-discharge rate |
| EEMB CR34615SL (LiMnO2) |
12Ah | -40°C to +85°C | 2A max. cont. 3A max. pulse ≤1% annual self-discharge rate |
| Procell LR20 (Alkaline) |
~19.6Ah @25mA down to 0.8V @20°C | -20°C to +54°C | - |
| Rayovac LR20 High Energy (Alkaline) |
~13Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA |
-30°C to +55°C | 10-year shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac LR20 (Alkaline) |
~13Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA |
-30°C to +55°C | - |
| Rayovac LR20 Alkaline Fusion (Alkaline) |
~13.5Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA |
-30°C to +55°C | 12-year shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac LR20 UltraPro (Alkaline) |
- | -18°C to +55°C | 10-year shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac R20 (ZnMnO2) |
~3.5Ah @600mA | -18°C to +55°C | 3-year shelf life @21°C |
| Rayovac R20 (Carbon Zinc) |
- | -30°C to +55°C | 3-year shelf life @21°C |
Because of their larger size and, hence, volume, D-Cell batteries feature larger capacity and are able to provide stronger discharge currents - when comparing the batteries of the same chemistry and construction (high-drain, low-drain, multi-drain).
Can C-Cell Battery Replace D-Cell Battery?
If the special battery holder is used, the battery holder that allows the C-Cell battery to fit the battery compartment intended for the D-Cell battery, then yes, the C-Cell battery can be used to replace D-Cell batteries.
But, one must be aware of the smaller capacity of C-Cell batteries and their abilities to provide not-so-strong currents - which shouldn't be a problem for most LED flashlights, remotes, and similar applications.
However, in the long run, one should consider reverting back to D-Cell batteries for many reasons as soon as possible.
Can D-Cell Battery Replace C-Cell Battery?
No, D-Cell batteries are larger than C-Cell batteries, and they can't fit the battery compartments intended for C-Cell batteries.
So, if You need C-Cell batteries and You have D-Cell batteries, sorry, but no...
Are D batteries the same as LR20?
D batteries, also labeled as D-cell, D-type, MN1300, MX1300, LR20, R20, etc., are cylindrical batteries featuring physical dimensions of 61.5 x 34.2 mm (~2.42 x ~1.35 inches) and feature various chemistries.
LR20 batteries are D-cell batteries featuring alkaline chemistry.
So, for short, LR20 batteries are D-cell batteries, and D-cell batteries may be LR20, but not always - chemistry dependent.
Are LR20 and R20 batteries the same?
Both LR20 and R20 are D-cell batteries, but LR20 batteries are D-cell batteries with alkaline chemistry, while R20 batteries are D-cell batteries with Zinc-Carbon chemistry.
Similarly, LR14 batteries are C-cell batteries featuring alkaline chemistry, and R14 batteries are C-cell batteries featuring Zinc-Carbon chemistry.
Are Rechargeable C and D Batteries Worth It?
Rechargeable C-Cell and D-Cell batteries (Amazon links, open in the new windows) can be worth it, especially if you're using devices that require frequent battery replacements, like flashlights or toys.
Since they can be recharged hundreds of times, they reduce waste and save money in the long run, which might align well with your practical, eco-conscious approach to devices.
If you’re reviewing or using gadgets that rely on C or D batteries, rechargeable options offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Just make sure the device's power needs match the output of rechargeable batteries for optimal performance.
Most rechargeable C and D batteries are charged using dedicated battery chargers, but thanks to advancements in chemistry and electronics, many brands now offer C and D batteries that are charged directly using a USB cable.
If unsure, go for the combo package from reputable brands containing both a battery charger and rechargeable batteries.
Which is Better For High-Drain Devices, C or D Batteries?
D batteries are generally better for high-drain devices because they have a larger capacity and can deliver more energy over a longer period compared to C batteries.
Their bigger size allows them to store more power, making them ideal for high-drain devices like large flashlights, radios, and some motorized toys.
If a device requires sustained power over time, D batteries are usually the better choice.
How to Properly Dispose of C and D batteries?
Properly disposing of C and D batteries depends on their type/chemistry.
Alkaline C and D Batteries
- Recyclable in Some Areas: In many regions, these batteries can be disposed of in regular household trash because they are considered non-hazardous. However, it is always better to recycle them if local facilities are available.
- Check Local Regulations: Some areas have specific recycling programs or designated drop-off locations for alkaline batteries to reduce environmental impact. Check with your local waste management or recycling center.
Rechargeable C and D Batteries (NiMH, NiCd, or Lithium-Ion)
- Must Be Recycled: Rechargeable batteries contain hazardous materials and should never be thrown in the trash. Take them to designated battery recycling centers or electronics retailers that accept rechargeable batteries.
- Drop-Off Programs: Many stores, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Best Buy, have drop-off bins for recycling rechargeable batteries.
Carbon-Zinc and Zinc Chloride Batteries
- Safe for Regular Trash: Like alkaline batteries, these can usually be disposed of with household waste in many areas. However, recycling them is always a better environmental option if possible.
General Disposal Tips
- Store Before Disposal: If you’re collecting used batteries for recycling, store them in a cool, dry place and tape the terminals to prevent short-circuiting.
- Look for Battery Collection Programs: Many cities, communities, or organizations offer special collection events or permanent drop-off sites for battery disposal.
It’s always best to recycle batteries to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the environment and to recover valuable materials. Be sure to follow local guidelines for battery disposal.
Since both C-Cell and D-Cell batteries are easy to find batteries in local hardware stores and online shops, one should always try to use batteries from reputable brands with positive reviews - numerous users have already tested such batteries in real-life applications.
For the best offers and prices, feel free to check the C-Cell and D-Cell batteries Amazon links (the links open in the new windows).