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Conditional substitute

301 vs 386

Both are 11.6 × 4.2 mm silver oxide / zinc cells at 1.55 V nominal, but their drain designations differ (SW: low-drain profile versus W: higher-drain profile). Preserve the device-specified class.

Conditional substitute

Both are 11.6 × 4.2 mm silver oxide / zinc cells at 1.55 V nominal, but their drain designations differ (SW: low-drain profile versus W: higher-drain profile). Preserve the device-specified class.

Top profile · Ø 11.6 mm
Side profile · 4.2 mm high
Original proportional profiles. Scale is consistent within this diagram; screen size is not a physical ruler.
Top profile · Ø 11.6 mm
Side profile · 4.2 mm high
Original proportional profiles. Scale is consistent within this diagram; screen size is not a physical ruler.
FieldSR43SW / 301SR43W / 386
Dimensions11.6 × 4.2 mm11.6 × 4.2 mm
Voltage1.55 V nominal1.55 V nominal
ChemistrySilver oxide / zincSilver oxide / zinc
DrainSW: low-drain profileW: higher-drain profile
RechargeableNo — primary cell; do not recharge.No — primary cell; do not recharge.

Direct answer

301/SR43SW and 386/SR43W share 11.6 × 4.2 mm dimensions. They are not collapsed into one alias because the source maintains separate SW and W drain designations.

Both are 11.6 mm in diameter; heights are 4.2 mm and 4.2 mm. Both are 11.6 × 4.2 mm silver oxide / zinc cells at 1.55 V nominal, but their drain designations differ (SW: low-drain profile versus W: higher-drain profile). Preserve the device-specified class.

Do not infer acceptability from fit alone. The device maker’s complete code and current instructions remain authoritative.

Why these codes are confused

SR43SW / 301 and SR43W / 386 share part of their dimensions, naming pattern or retail context. The table separates the four fields that a one-line cross-reference can hide.

When the alternative may be acceptable

Only when the device or battery manufacturer explicitly permits the alternative after accounting for size, nominal voltage, chemistry and drain behaviour. Otherwise use the specified family. Never stack cells or modify a compartment to compensate for a height difference.