Energizer A27 Battery: The Definitive Guide to 12-Volt Power for Slim Remotes and Miniature Devices

The Energizer A27 is a compact, high-voltage alkaline battery engineered for tiny devices that need a strong 12-volt pulse in a very slim form factor. Think key fob remotes, garage door openers, small wireless alarms, RF clickers, laser pointers, and specialty electronics that simply won’t wake up on standard 1.5-volt cells. If you’ve ever pressed your car remote and gotten that faint, inconsistent response—or no response at all—the A27 is often the hero behind the fix. This guide goes deep on what the A27 is, where it shines, how long it lasts, pack and case options (carded, bulk, sleeves, master cartons), plus best practices for selection, storage, safety, and fleet buying.

What Is the Energizer A27 Battery?

The A27 is a miniature cylindrical alkaline cell that outputs 12 volts. It’s built by stacking multiple tiny alkaline button cells in series inside a slim metal can. That design delivers a quick, reliable punch of voltage for radio-frequency transmitters in very compact housings. Because many remotes must be slim and pocket-friendly, the A27’s narrow diameter makes it a favorite where bulkier cells won’t fit.

Common Cross-References & Alternate Names

• Industry aliases: 27A, MN27, A27BP (blister/card code), L828 (some catalogs)
• Nominal voltage: 12 V (alkaline primary)
• Typical chemistry: Alkaline (zinc–manganese dioxide)

Quick Specifications

Parameter	Value (Typical)
Form factor	A27 miniature cylindrical
Nominal voltage	12 V
Chemistry	Alkaline (primary, non-rechargeable)
Diameter	≈ 8.0 mm
Height	≈ 28.0–28.5 mm
Operating profile	Short, strong bursts for RF transmitters & remotes
Storage life	Up to several years when stored properly

Where the A27 Shines

The A27 is purpose-built for devices that need a high-voltage “kick” from a very small battery bay. You’ll find it in:

• Automotive key fobs & keyless entry remotes (responsive, long-reach button presses)
• Garage door opener remotes (stable signal output in cold/hot garages)
• Small RF clickers (presentation remotes, gate/door triggers)
• Miniature alarms & sensors (personal safety, small sirens, paging devices)
• Laser pointers & slim pointers that won’t accommodate AA/AAA cells

Why Choose Energizer A27?

Miniature high-voltage batteries are not a place to cut corners. Energizer’s manufacturing consistency helps ensure that the same remote that worked flawlessly yesterday works flawlessly tomorrow. Benefits include:

• Consistent output: clean, reliable 12V delivery for stable RF range.
• Leak-resistant construction: safeguards tiny contacts inside expensive remotes.
• Proven shelf performance: stores well for spares without frequent rotation.
• Broad availability: easy to source globally in carded and bulk formats.

Understanding Performance in Real Devices

Devices such as key fobs and garage remotes draw brief, sharp pulses rather than a long continuous drain. The Energizer A27 excels at delivering strong, repeatable pulses, which supports reliable range and crisp response. If your remote becomes flaky—reduced range, multiple presses required, or intermittent response—an A27 swap is a fast, inexpensive fix. In cold weather, alkaline chemistry can slow slightly; storing a spare at room temperature preserves responsiveness when you need it.

Pack Sizes, Carded Options, Bulk & Case Quantities

Whether you’re replacing a single remote battery or stocking a service department, there’s an A27 package for you. Below are common formats you’ll encounter. (Exact counts vary by distributor/region; use these as practical, widely available reference points.)

Retail & Household Packs

• Single card (A27BP-1): One battery in a blister card—simple grab-and-go replacement.
• Twin-pack card: Two batteries carded—ideal for two remotes or a spare.
• 4-pack card: Popular with households running multiple remotes.
• 5-pack/8-pack value cards: Efficient for families with multiple vehicles/garages.

Small Business / Field Tech Packs

• Dealer sleeves: 10, 20, or 25 loose (or carded) units in an inner sleeve for glovebox/toolbag restocks.
• Counter display boxes: 20–50 assorted cards for storefronts and service desks.
• Mixed remote-battery trays: Assortments (A23/A27/N/CR types) for locksmiths and install pros.

Bulk & Case Options (Commercial & Institutional)

• Inner case: Often 50–100 units (loose or carded) per inner carton.
• Master case: Typically 200–500 units; efficient for auto lots and multi-site property teams.
• High-volume master: 1,000 units for distributors, OEM kitting, and enterprise maintenance.
• Pallet programs: Aggregated master cases with simplified receiving for national rollouts.

How to Pick the Right Quantity

• Single home user: 2–4 carded is a sweet spot (one install + spares).
• Small shop/HOA: sleeves of 20–25 cover seasonal needs without overstocking.
• Fleet/property management: inner cases (100–200) reduce mid-season reorders.
• Retail/resellers: master cases with front-of-house cards + back-room sleeves for refills.

Compatibility & Fit: A27 vs A23 (Know the Difference)

Both A23 and A27 are 12-volt alkaline cells, but they are not interchangeable in most housings.

• A23: About 10.3 mm in diameter, ≈ 28.5 mm tall—stubbier and wider.
• A27: About 8.0 mm in diameter, ≈ 28 mm tall—noticeably slimmer.

If your battery bay is narrow and your old battery looks thin, the device likely wants an A27. Forcing the wrong size can damage contacts or fail to close the cover. Always match the code printed on the old cell or the device manual (look for “A27,” “27A,” “MN27,” or “L828”).

Buying Guide: Use Case Scenarios

Automotive & Access Control

• Car dealerships & reconditioning: Keep A27 sleeves on every technician cart to quickly revive trade-in remotes before showings.
• Gate/garage installers: Pair remote hand-offs with a fresh A27 to reduce callbacks about short range.
• Property managers: Stock inner cases to service garages, gates, and shared entry remotes across buildings.

Retail & Service Counters

• Key-cutting/locksmiths: Upsell an A27 replacement with every fob battery test.
• Hardware & auto parts stores: Front-end impulse cards; back-end master cases for refills.

Home Users

• Two-pack minimum: One for immediate fix, one to stash with spare keys.
• Four-pack family set: Cover two cars + a garage remote with backups.

Installation Tips for Best Results

1. Confirm the code: Check the old battery or device manual for “A27/27A/MN27.”
2. Mind polarity: Match (+) and (–) to the device diagram—tiny bays can flip orientation.
3. Clean contacts: If you see dull or oxidized contacts, gently wipe with a dry, lint-free swab.
4. Close the cover firmly: Many remotes rely on cap pressure for stable contact.
5. Range test: Step a few meters away and confirm signal strength before walking off.

Runtime Expectations & Shelf Practices

In light-duty remotes, an Energizer A27 can last many months because it’s delivering brief transmit bursts rather than continuous drain. Shelf performance remains strong when stored cool, dry, and in original packaging. For households and field teams, label the edge of the card or sleeve with the month/year received to help with FIFO (first-in, first-out) rotation.

Troubleshooting: When a New A27 Doesn’t Fix It

• Check orientation: A reversed cell won’t power the transmitter.
• Look for stuck buttons: A pressed key can drain a fresh A27 quickly.
• Try a second fresh cell: Confirms installation versus a damaged battery bay.
• Re-pair the remote: Some vehicles/doors need re-syncing after a complete power loss.
• Inspect for moisture damage: Corrosion in the bay can interrupt contact.

Safety, Handling & Disposal

• Do not recharge: The A27 is a primary alkaline cell—never attempt charging.
• Keep away from children & pets: Miniature cells are choking hazards.
• Avoid mixing new and used: Replacing pairs? Replace all at once if the device uses multiple cells.
• Recycle responsibly: Follow local guidance for household battery collection.

Environmental Notes

Energizer alkaline batteries are designed without added mercury. While small, they should still be collected through community drop-offs or retail programs to reduce landfill waste and support responsible recycling streams.

Procurement Playbook: From One Battery to One Thousand

Home & Light Users

• Buy: 2-pack or 4-pack carded.
• Store: Kitchen drawer or key hook box, away from heat/humidity.
• Replace: At first sign of reduced range; keep one spare sealed.

Small Businesses (Installers, Locksmiths, HOAs)

• Buy: 20–50 units in sleeves or counter boxes.
• Store: Labeled bins by type (A23/A27/N) for quick grab-and-go.
• Replace: During service calls—document battery type in the ticket for easy reorders.

Fleet & Enterprise (Dealerships, Property Groups, Distributors)

• Buy: Inner cases of 100–200 or master cases of 500–1,000.
• Store: Central cage with monthly cycle counts; issue sleeves to each bay/tech.
• Replace: Standardize: “new battery on intake” to reduce guest frustration on test drives and pick-ups.

A27 in the Real World: Practical Tips

• Cold-weather garages: Keep one spare A27 inside the home; swap in the warm spare if range drops in freezing temps.
• Duplicate key sets: If your household keeps a second set of car keys in a drawer, refresh both fobs together to avoid the “backup is dead” moment.
• Travel kits: Road-warriors with gate fobs should carry a carded twin-pack in the glove box for stress-free access on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Energizer A27 the same as 27A or MN27?

Yes—those are common cross-references for the same size. If your device calls for 27A, MN27, or A27, you’re in the right place.

Can I use an A23 instead of an A27?

No. While both are 12-volt alkaline cells, they are different diameters. If your bay is designed for the slimmer A27, an A23 will typically not fit and may damage the housing.

How long will an A27 last in a key fob remote?

Usage varies by how often you press the buttons and the transmitter’s power level. Many users see months to a year or more. Diminishing range is the first replacement cue.

What pack size should I buy?

For one remote, a twin-pack is smart (one install + one spare). For families or small teams, 4- or 5-packs reduce trips. For service operations, sleeves of 20–25 or inner cases of 100–200 cut downtime and cost per unit.

Are A27 batteries rechargeable?

No—A27 is a primary alkaline cell and must not be recharged. If you need rechargeables, consider device alternatives that support rechargeable chemistries.

How should I store spares?

Cool, dry, and in original packaging. Avoid glove boxes in hot summers; keep a spare indoors and rotate annually if you store many.

My remote still doesn’t work after replacement—now what?

Confirm orientation, inspect contacts, and verify you installed the correct size. If needed, re-pair/sync the remote per the device/vehicle manual.

Do bulk and carded batteries differ in quality?

The cells are the same performance class; packaging differs for the intended buyer (retail vs. service/industrial). Choose the format that fits your workflow and volume.

Is there any maintenance required?

None for the battery itself. Keep the device’s contacts clean and dry, and avoid continuous button pressure in pockets or bags.

What about environmental considerations?

Energizer alkaline batteries contain no added mercury. Use local recycling programs for responsible end-of-life handling.

Summary & Buyer’s Checklist

• Confirm size: Your device should specify A27/27A/MN27—don’t substitute A23.
• Pick quantity: Single/twin for households; sleeves/inner case for pros; master case for enterprise.
• Plan spares: Keep a sealed backup in climate-friendly storage for fast fixes.
• Install cleanly: Correct polarity, firm cover closure, quick range test after install.
• Recycle responsibly: Drop used cells at community or retail collection points.

Bottom line: The Energizer A27 battery delivers compact 12-volt power with the consistency remotes and slim transmitters demand. With versatile carded, bulk, and case options—and the reliability of a global brand—you can equip a single key fob or an entire fleet with confidence.