What’s a C Battery’s Voltage?

By Gerald, Updated on February 26, 2025

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Part 1. Learn C size batteries

C batteries are medium-sized cylindrical batteries used primarily in medium-power devices. They have a standard diameter of 26.2mm (1.03 inches) and a length of 50mm (1.97 inches), making them larger than AA and AAA batteries but smaller than D batteries. This size allows C batteries to offer a higher energy capacity, making them ideal for devices like portable speakers, flashlights, and toys.

Part 2. What is the voltage of a C-Size Battery?

Typically, C-size batteries have a voltage of 1.5V when they are fresh and fully charged. This is the standard voltage for most alkaline C-size batteries. However, it’s important to note that the voltage may drop over time as the battery is used. For example, when the battery is nearing depletion, its voltage can drop to 1.0V or even lower.

In some cases, rechargeable C-size batteries, such as nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, typically have a voltage of 1.2V when fully charged. While this is slightly lower than the standard 1.5V of disposable C batteries, they still work well in most devices that accept C-size batteries.

Part 3. Types of C batteries and their voltage

When shopping for C batteries, it’s important to understand the differences in battery types and their voltage characteristics. The most common C batteries include:

Alkaline C Batteries: These are the most popular type, with a typical voltage of 1.5V. They are ideal for most household devices, providing reliable and long-lasting power.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) C Batteries: These rechargeable batteries have a slightly lower voltage of 1.2V, but they can be recharged hundreds of times, making them cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Lithium C Batteries: Lithium batteries tend to have a higher voltage and longer lifespan compared to alkaline or NiMH batteries, with voltages ranging from 1.5V to 1.8V, depending on the specific model. These batteries are ideal for high-performance applications.
Carbon Zinc C Batteries: These offer the lowest voltage of around 1.5V, but their capacity and performance are not as strong as that of alkaline or lithium batteries. They are generally used in low-power devices.

Each battery type has its own unique voltage characteristics, which can affect the performance of your devices.

Alkaline vs. Carbon-Zinc vs. Lithium Batteries: A Complete Guide

Part 4. What happens to C battery voltage when it dies?

The voltage of a C-size battery decreases gradually as it discharges. When the battery is fresh, it provides the full 1.5V. However, as you use the battery, its voltage starts to drop, and its ability to power devices diminishes. Once the battery reaches around 1.0V, it is typically considered dead and will no longer provide sufficient power to most devices.

What is the Cutoff Voltage for C-Size Batteries?

The cutoff voltage for C-size batteries is typically considered to be 1.0V. At this point, most devices will stop functioning properly, as the voltage is too low to sustain their operations. It’s important to note that while rechargeable batteries might still have a bit of life left after reaching 1.0V, disposable C batteries are usually unable to provide adequate performance once they hit this level.

Part 5. C battery voltage chart

For a better understanding of how voltage changes as the battery discharges, refer to the following C Battery Voltage Chart:

Part 6. How does voltage affect battery life?

Understanding the relationship between voltage and battery life can help you make better decisions about battery replacement. When a battery’s voltage drops, the devices powered by it often require more time to function properly, causing performance degradation. For instance, a flashlight powered by an alkaline C-size battery may become dimmer as the voltage decreases.

Part 7. Comparison of C batteries with AA, AAA, and D batteries

To better understand how C-size batteries compare to other common battery sizes, here is a comparison of their voltages and capacities:

As shown, C batteries have a moderate capacity compared to AA and AAA batteries. While they provide a bit more power than AA batteries, they are still smaller than D batteries, which have the highest capacity and are used for power-hungry devices.

For those seeking more advanced power options, Ufine Battery offers customized solutions in a variety of lithium battery types. We can tailor voltage, capacity, and size to suit your needs—ensuring optimal performance for your applications. Get in touch with Ufine Battery for more details!

Part 8. FAQs

Can I use a rechargeable C-size battery in place of an alkaline C battery?

Yes, you can use a rechargeable NiMH C-size battery instead of an alkaline C battery. However, note that the voltage of a rechargeable battery is typically 1.2V, slightly lower than the standard 1.5V of disposable batteries. Many devices can still function properly with this voltage difference, but some high-power devices may not perform as well.
What happens if I use a C-size battery with too low of a voltage?

If the voltage of your C-size battery drops below the usable threshold (usually around 1.0V), your devices may stop working or perform poorly. For instance, a flashlight may become dim, or a toy may stop functioning entirely.
How do I know when to replace my C-size battery?

You should replace your C-size battery when the device’s performance starts to decline, such as dimming lights or slower motor functions. Alternatively, you can measure the battery voltage with a multimeter—once it drops below 1.0V, it’s time for a replacement.
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