Mercury batteries were once widespread in the battery market. Their discharge behavior and long life made them especially desirable to professionals such as photographers, who relied heavily on battery power day in and day out. However, due to the harmful chemical content of these batteries and potential environmental damage that they could cause, they were outlawed for sale in many countries, including the United States. As a result, many people are left wondering what to do with a device for which they cannot purchase a new mercury battery replacement.

You shouldn't have to get rid of a perfectly good battery-powered device just because the battery dies. The good news is, you don't have to. Mercury battery replacements in the form of alkaline, zinc air, and silver oxide batteries have been developed for a large majority of old mercury batteries. It is safe to say that the majority of devices once powered by mercury batteries now have mercury-free replacement that can keep the device up and running.

For example, the A32PX is an alkaline replacement for the mercuric oxide PX32 or E164 mercury battery which was used in many older cameras. Although this battery is 6 volts and the original mercury battery was 5.6 volts, the devices it is used in can handle the extra .4 volts and will continue to function properly with the mercury battery replacement. Many camera collectors and photography hobbyists use these batteries to power cameras with nostalgic value.

Similarly, the A14PX alkaline battery, which replaces the PX14 mercury battery, operates at 3 volts while the original operated at 2.7 volts. Again, this battery is compatible with the devices that take the PX14 mercury battery despite the voltage difference. This battery is also used in many older cameras.

Another mercury battery replacement is the PX28A, which replaces the 28PX mercury battery. This battery is used in a slew of medical devices, remote controls, and cameras. Interestingly, this battery can also be used interchangeably with four #357 button cell silver oxide batteries.

The list goes on with many more mercury replacement options. However, in terms of mercury replacement batteries, all options are not equal in quality. Nor are they equal in price. Zinc air batteries do provide a suitable replacement for mercury batteries' steady voltage and unique characteristics. However, they do not last very long and must be replaced quite often. Alkaline batteries deliver a voltage level that varies widely during the life of the battery. These two options are the least expensive choices for mercury replacement batteries, however, and are the right fit for many people seeking low cost solutions. Silver oxide batteries are the best option for longer battery life and steady voltage discharge levels. Despite their higher prices on average, many people choose them because of their superior performance.

Whatever your needs for quality and price may be, chances are there is a mercury battery replacement available for you. If you have an older device with a dead mercury battery, a mercury battery replacement can mean that you do not have to get rid of the device altogether. By choosing one of these mercury battery replacement options with the right combination of price and performance, you may be able to save many devices from the antique shop.