Choosing the Right Canon AE-1 Battery: 4SR44, 4LR44, PX28A
The Canon AE-1 needs a 6-volt battery to operate. Compatible batteries include 4SR44 (silver oxide), 28L (lithium), or 4LR44 (alkaline). There are trade offs for each type of battery chemistry.
The camera will not work without a battery. The AE-1 has a battery test function you can use to check your battery. (Make sure to always have a spare battery when out shooting.)
Use the tip of a pen to open the battery door. If you have the action grip installed, use a coin to unscrew the grip.
| Battery | Battery Chemistry |
|---|---|
| 4SR44 | Silver Oxide |
| V34PX | Silver Oxide |
| 28L | Lithium |
| 4LR44 | Alkaline |
| PX28A | Alkaline |
| A544 | Alkaline |
| K28A | Alkaline |
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Silver Oxide Batteries
These are the best value.
4SR44 and V34PX silver oxide batteries provide a steady voltage output.
They cost a bit more than alkaline batteries, but they will last longer. You should expect at least 6 months of life, with a year possible from high quality batteries.
They are the best choice for the Canon AE-1.
You should be able to find them at a hardware store or battery shop.
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Lithium Batteries
These are the best. You don’t need them you’re going to be shooting in cold weather.
28L lithium batteries offer the longest life and best cold weather performance. They maintain a steady voltage output over their lifespan and have the highest capacity.
They’re also difficult to find and the most expensive.
I’d rather have 2 silver oxide batteries, than 1 lithium. I wouldn’t pay a premium for them unless I knew I was going to be shooting in cold weather.
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Alkaline Batteries
They’re the worst. For the cheap and desperate.
4LR44, PX28A, A544, and K28A are all alkaline batteries. They are cheap and easy to find.
The voltage declines as they discharge. You could turn the camera on, have the battery check be good, and then 15 minutes later the battery could be dead.
The inconsistent performance will be frustrating. You can’t even ignore them as unattended batteries can start leaking within months. Never store a camera with these batteries in it.
Cheap ones are sold in multi packs. They are used in dog bark collars and other devices. Expect the batteries to last a few months. I would suggest always having multiple spares with you.
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Battery Info from the Manual
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Correct Batteries Examples Lithium 6V Duracell PX 28L Alkaline-manganese 6V Eveready (UCAR) No. A544
IEC 4LR44Silver Oxide 6V Eveready (UCAR) No. A544,
Duracell PX 28, IEC 4SR44 -
Try to make a habit of checking the battery at the following times:
- After loading a new battery.
- If the shutter won’t function when the shutter button lock lever is on “A”.
- Before and after making many long exposures.
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The AE-1’s battery check circuit not only tells you whether the battery is good but also how good it is. When you check a new battery, the meter needle will rest below the battery check index. The weaker the battery the higher the needle. If the meter needle is exactly in line with the index, the battery is still good but it will not last much longer. Have a new battery ready.
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There are two other signs that the battery is weak and needs replacing:
- The meter needle takes more than about three seconds to come to a rest after you press the battery check button.
- The meter needle fluctuates above and below the battery check index while the battery check button is pressed.
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Pressing the battery check button, the shutter button, or carry the camera, take care that nothing presses down on these controls.
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Remove the battery if you do not expect to use the camera for a long time.
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Do not try to take the battery apart and never dispose of it in a fire.
Replacing the Battery in the Canon AE-1
The manual tells you to use the viewfinder cover from the hot shoe to open the battery door. Your camera most likely does not have this small, easy to lose, piece of plastic. You can use a pen cap or other small piece of plastic to gently press the tab that holds the battery door closed.
If your camera has the action grip, it will need to be removed in order for the battery door to be opened.
A battery that is left too long in the camera may leak. Any battery salt in the battery chamber and battery contacts can be cleaned with a small amount of distilled white vinegar on a cotton swab.
How to Perform a Battery Check on a Canon AE-1
It’s important to check on your Canon AE-1’s battery health. Performing a battery check is a straightforward process that will give you a clear indication of the battery power level. The battery check button is located next to the film rewind lever.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform a battery check on a Canon AE-1 35mm film camera:
Battery Check Button
Press the battery check button while looking through the viewfinder. The meter needle in the viewfinder will move.
Battery Level Indicator
If the bettery is good, the meter needle will rest at or below the battery check index.
If there is not enough power, it will rest above the index. Replace the battery.
Notes on the AE-1 Battery
- With normal use, the correct battery should last about one year.
- It is necessary to take special precautions with the battery when you are shooting in temperatures below 0°C (32°F). See p. 68.
- Remove the battery if you do not expect to use the camera for three weeks or longer. This will prevent damage from a battery leaking.
What Happens When a Battery Starts to Die?
As a battery starts to lose its charge, its voltage output will begin to decrease. For a camera like the Canon AE-1, this can lead to a range of malfunctions. You might notice slower shutter speeds, incorrect light meter readings, or a complete inability to take pictures, even with the film advance lever cranked.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s likely time to replace the battery. The Canon AE-1 has a battery check feature illuminates an LED indicator light if the battery levels are good.
The choice of the best battery for Canon AE-1 camera should be based not just on compatibility, but also on battery chemistries. Lithium or Silver Oxide batteries can provide longer life and more consistent performance, but often at an increased cost.
From the Canon AE-1 User Manual
Here is what is listed from the Canon AE-1 camera manual. The Canon AE-1 specifications can also be seen on the Canon Camera Museum website.
The user manual lists the following compatible battery types:
- Alkaline-manganese - A544, 4LR44
- Silver Oxide - 544, PX 28, 4SR44
- Lithium - PX 28 L
Battery Size
The 4LR44 and equivalent batteries have a diameter of 13mm and a length of 25.2mm.