What Is an A23 Battery? | The 12V Remote Power Cell

The A23 battery is a 12-volt alkaline cylindrical cell used to power small RF devices like keyless entry remotes and garage door openers.

For the full breakdown, see our best A23 23A 12V Battery guide.

If you’ve ever popped open a car key fob or a wireless doorbell, you’ve likely seen one of these small, squat cylinders. The A23 is a 12-volt primary (non-rechargeable) alkaline battery, built from eight tiny 1.5-volt LR932 button cells stacked inside a single metal wrapper. It is not a larger version of an AA or AAA — it is a different voltage class entirely, and it’s the standard power source for compact transmitters that need a strong signal from a small package.

Core Specifications and Dimensions

The A23 battery runs at a nominal 12 volts and is designed for low-drain, intermittent use. The most commonly published capacity figure is 55 mAh, though some manufacturer datasheets rate it at 50 mAh (with a 47 mAh minimum) when drained at a 10kΩ load down to 6.0V.

Physically, the cell is a small cylinder measuring roughly 10.3 mm in diameter and 28.5 mm in length, weighing about 8.0 grams. Different manufacturers list slightly different measurements — some show 10 x 28 mm — due to tolerance and measurement method, but any A23 will fit the same standard battery compartment.

Key specs at a glance:

• Chemistry: Alkaline manganese dioxide (MnO₂)
• Nominal voltage: 12 V
• Typical capacity: 55 mAh (50 mAh rated on some datasheets)
• Internal construction: 8× 1.5 V LR932 button cells in series
• Shelf life: Around 3 years when stored properly

Common Names and Equivalents

Manufacturers slap a surprising number of labels on this same cell. The A23 goes by 23A, 23AE, GP23A, V23GA, LRV08, 8LR932, 8LR23, MN21, L1028, and ANSI-1181A. You might also see A23S on some packaging. These are all essentially the same 12-volt alkaline battery, just rebranded per manufacturer.

Because labeling varies so widely, the safest approach is to match voltage, dimensions, and terminal style rather than relying on the model name alone. Most devices that take an A23 will also take a 23A with no issue, but it’s worth a quick visual check before snapping the compartment shut.

What Is an A23 Battery Used For?

This cell powers small, low-drain radio-frequency transmitters that need enough voltage to push a signal a few dozen feet. The most common homes are keyless-entry remotes, garage-door openers, home security keypads, and wireless doorbells. You’ll also find it in some Bluetooth headsets, toys, and medical devices.

A23 batteries are strictly single-use — they are primary alkaline cells, not rechargeable. Attempting to recharge one risks leakage or rupture. When the remote starts needing a second press to work, it’s time for a fresh cell.

Before replacing, verify your device is actually designed for a 12-volt A23. The battery is physically close to the A27 in some product families, but they are different size classes and are not interchangeable. Swapping in the wrong size can damage the battery contacts.

FAQs