Canon AE-1 Battery: 4SR44, 4LR44, PX28A, A544, K28A, V34PX, 28L
The Canon AE-1 has an electronically controlled shutter. This means that the shutter on the Canon AE-1 will not fire without a battery. The light meter will also not work.
A 4LR44 battery will work in the Canon AE-1. 4LR44 batteries are widely available. They are used in dog collars for use with invisible electric fences. They can be found online and at any hardware, grocery, pet, or big box store.
Battery Model Numbers
Common battery model numbers that will work in the Canon AE-1:
- 4SR44
- 4LR44
- PX28A
- A544
- K28A
- V34PX
- 28L
From the Canon AE-1 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.
- Alkaline-manganese - A544, 4LR44
- Silver Oxide - 544, PX 28, 4SR44
- Lithium - PX 28 L
Replacing the Battery in the Canon AE-1
The manual tells you to use the viewfinder cover from the accessory 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 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.
Canon AE-1 Battery Check
To check the battery follow these steps:
- Turn the main switch to “A.”
- Press the battery check button. Shooting is possible if you hear about six or mre “beeps” per second. If the camera beeps slowly (about three or fewer “beeps” per second), there is not enough power. In this case, replace the battery.
Notes on the Camera Battery
- With normal use, the 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 about three weeks or longer.
Battery Size
The 4LR44 and equivalent batteries have a diameter of 13mm and a length of 25.2mm.