Get reliable power for your smaller hearing aids. This guide covers everything you need to know about size 312 batteries, from compatibility to top brands, helping you make the right order for your needs.
312 Hearing Aid Batteries – Key Facts at a Glance
| Standard Colour Code | Brown |
| Physical Dimensions | 7.9mm (diameter) x 3.6mm (height) |
| Power & Capacity | 1.4V, 160mAh |
| Best For | Smaller, discreet hearing aids (RIC, ITC, CIC) |
| Typical Lifespan | 3-7 days, depending on usage & hearing aid type |
| Feature | Zinc-Air (Disposable) | Rechargeable |
| Lifespan per Charge | Longer life per battery | Shorter daily runtime (~7-10 hours) |
| Cost & Convenience | Easy to stock up, change on the go | Higher upfront cost, no need to order frequently |
| Performance | Fresh batteries perform better; stable voltage | Consistent power but may need daily charging |
| Shelf Life | Up to 4 years unopened | Degrades over time (like a phone battery) |
| Eco-Friendly | Can be recycled | Reduces waste |
Expert Insight: Smaller, more discreet hearing aids require smaller batteries like the 312, which naturally have a shorter battery life due to their reduced size and capacity.
Top Brands for 312 Batteries
- Rayovac: A top-performing brand. Their Rayovac Extra Advanced batteries use Active Core Technology to maximise charge capacity, making them long-lasting and optimised for modern digital hearing aids.
- Duracell: Known for reliability, they offer +50% extra life versus minimum standards and feature an “EasyTab” design for simple handling.
- Energizer: A widely available and trusted brand producing reliable hearing aid batteries.
- Power One: A high-quality specialist brand offering both disposable zinc-air and rechargeable options.
Are 312 Batteries Right for My Hearing Aid?
312 batteries are compatible with any battery-powered hearing aid designed for that size. They are commonly used in smaller, discreet models from all major manufacturers, including:
- Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
- In-the-Canal (ITC)
- Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
Expert Tip: Always check your hearing aid’s manual or the existing battery compartment door for the correct size number (312) and colour code (brown).
Ready for Reliable Power?
Ensure you never run out. Buy long-lasting 312 hearing aid batteries, including the advanced Rayovac range.
Hearing Aid Battery FAQ – An Audiologist Answers
This varies significantly with use. A typical user of a smaller hearing aid may find a 312 battery lasts between 3 to 7 days. Factors like streaming audio, using tinnitus maskers, or higher volume settings will reduce this time.
- Let the battery “breathe” for a full minute after removing the tab before insertion.
- Store them at room temperature.
- Turn off your hearing aids when not in use.
- Open the battery door at night to reduce power drain and moisture build-up.
Yes, if you have an NHS hearing aid, you are entitled to free batteries. You can request them from your local audiology department. Many users also choose to buy privately for brand preference, convenience, or to access advanced long-lasting options like Rayovac.
This is often due to handling. Ensure your fingers are clean and dry to avoid transferring oils that can damage the battery. Also, check that the plastic tab on zinc-air batteries is fully intact before use, as this tab seals the battery and preserves its shelf life.
- Storage: Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. A standard case or the original packaging is ideal.
- Disposal: Never throw hearing aid batteries in general waste. They can and should be recycled. Look for local recycling points or use retailer take-back schemes.
Buying a multi-pack or case is often more cost-effective. With a shelf life of up to four years for unopened zinc-air batteries, you can order in bulk with confidence, ensuring you always have a fresh supply to change into your device.
No, there are significant differences. While all 312 hearing aid batteries are the same physical size and voltage, their longevity and energy output vary by brand. Advanced brands like Rayovac use proprietary technology to maximise the energy released from the oxygen reaction, giving them a performance advantage over basic brands.
The “best” battery balances longevity, reliability, and value. For maximum battery life, many consumers and specialists recommend Rayovac Extra Advanced due to its Active Core Technology. Duracell hearing aid batteries are also a top-tier choice, known for their consistent performance. The best way to find your favourite is to order a pack from a reputable online retailer like Sound Hearing and test them.
While performance depends on individual use, brands like Rayovac and Duracell are engineered specifically for longevity. Rayovac’s technology is designed to maximise charge capacity, offering a clear advantage for power-hungry digital hearing aids, meaning you replace them less frequently.
The lifespan of 312 hearing aid batteries typically ranges from 3 to 7 days. This depends on your hearing aid model, how many hours a day you use it, and features like streaming. To ensure maximum longevity, always start with a fresh battery and replace it when performance drops.
The cost varies by brand and pack size. Buying a larger case from an online retailer often provides the best value per battery. While the NHS supplies free batteries for eligible users, many consumers choose to purchase advanced brands privately for their performance advantage.
You can get them from your local NHS audiology department (if applicable) or from high-street chemists and supermarkets. For the best selection and value, many consumers choose to order from a trusted online retailer, which allows you to easily stock up on your preferred brand.
A 312 hearing aid battery is a small, button-cell battery measuring 7.9mm in diameter and 3.6mm in height. It’s standardised and colour-coded brown for easy identification, ensuring a correct fit when you need to replace it.
No, they are different sizes and are not interchangeable. Size 13 (orange) is larger than a 312 (brown). Using the wrong size will prevent your hearing aid from functioning. Always check your device’s manual to confirm you have the correct size before you replace the battery.
You should replace the battery when your hearing aid sounds weak, distorted, or a low-power alert sounds (if your aid has one). For consistent performance, it’s a good practice to change your battery on a set schedule, such as every Sunday morning, before it dies completely.
