Battery type CR1/3N — Compatible cameras

The CR1/3N is a lithium manganese dioxide button cell (LiMnO₂) with a nominal voltage of 3 volts and dimensions of 11.6 × 10.8 mm. It is sold under numerous designations — including 2L76, DL1/3N, K58L, 5018LC, CR11108, and GL2-76 — but all refer to the same cell. Lithium cells provide a very constant voltage over most of their lifespan and work reliably even at low temperatures, making them ideal for camera electronics.

The best-known models are the Leica M6 (2022 reissue) with 1× CR1/3N and the Leica M7 with 2× CR1/3N for their electronically controlled shutter speeds. Additionally, CR1/3N is used in several Leica models (including M-P, R6, R7) and in the Minox AF. The complete list of all compatible cameras can be found above in the searchable table on this page.

Yes — and that is even the original purpose of this design. A CR1/3N has exactly the height of two stacked SR44/LR44 button cells (each about 5.4 mm) with the same diameter, and the total voltage matches: 2 × 1.55 V silver oxide ≈ 3.1 V, 2 × 1.5 V alkaline = 3.0 V. Mechanically and electrically the swap is possible, but in practice two arguments favor the one-piece CR1/3N: first, it avoids loose contacts between the two stacked single cells, second, the lithium chemistry lasts significantly longer and delivers a more stable voltage throughout the discharge than alkaline. Silver oxide (SR44) is an acceptable equivalent alternative, alkaline (LR44) rather a last resort.

Lithium cells like the CR1/3N have a very flat discharge curve — the 3 V remain constant over about 90 percent of the lifespan and only drop off shortly before the end. This is good for consistent exposure metering but can be confusing for the camera's battery check because the indicator shows "full" until almost the very end. So plan spare batteries for longer trips. In cold conditions (below 0 °C), lithium cells are clearly superior to other chemistries — silver oxide and especially alkaline lose noticeable capacity in frost, while lithium works practically unhindered down to about −20 °C.