Smartwatches get all the attention in 2025, but not everyone needs a high tech gadget on their wrist. While the Galaxy Watch 8 is the latest release from Samsung, its predecessor has become the smarter buy thanks to a huge AU$250 discount.
At the same time, traditional quartz watches powered by the humble 377 watch battery continue to prove their value. Takes a closer look at how the 377 battery compares with modern smartwatch batteries, why it’s still relevant, and what kind of users prefer it.
- What Is a 377 Watch Battery and Why Is It Important?
- Why Do People Still Rely on 377 Batteries in 2025?
- Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Traditional Watches with 377 Battery
- How Long Does a 377 Watch Battery Last in Real Life?
- Advantages of the 377 Watch Battery
- Best Brands That Make 377 Watch Batteries
- Smartwatch Owners vs. Traditional Watch Owners
- Should You Buy a Smartwatch or Stick to a 377 Battery Watch?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
What Is a 377 Watch Battery and Why Is It Important?
Before diving into smartwatches, let’s understand the 377 watch battery. Known in technical terms as the SR626SW, this tiny silver oxide cell powers millions of devices worldwide.
It is especially popular in quartz watches because of its long lasting performance and small size. Measuring just 6.8 mm in diameter and 2.6 mm in height, it packs a punch with a steady 1.55 volts of energy.
Unlike rechargeable smartwatch batteries that last only a day or two before needing a charge, the 377 can keep a traditional watch ticking for 2, 3 years without interruption. That reliability is one of the main reasons people still choose watches that use this small but powerful battery.
Why Do People Still Rely on 377 Batteries in 2025?
You might think everyone has switched to smartwatches by now, but the truth is different. Quartz watches powered by button cell batteries remain extremely popular. A recent report from Statista (2024) showed that over 500 million quartz watches are sold annually, and a huge portion of them use silver oxide batteries like the 377.
The reasons are simple. A 377 battery is cheap, reliable, and hassle-free. It doesn’t need charging stations, cables, or software updates. Once installed, it quietly powers your watch for years. This makes it perfect for people who value convenience over tech-heavy features.
Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Traditional Watches with 377 Battery
The Galaxy Watch 8 is an impressive device with fitness tracking, app notifications, and even health sensors. But it comes at a cost not just the purchase price but also the maintenance. A smartwatch requires daily charging, and after a few years, its lithium-ion battery starts degrading.
Now compare that with a traditional quartz watch. Powered by a 377 battery, it can go for years without needing attention. Even when it does run out, replacing it costs less than AU$5. This difference is one of the biggest reasons many buyers are reconsidering whether they really need a smartwatch.
| Feature | Galaxy Watch 8 | Older Galaxy Watch (Discounted) | Quartz Watch with 377 Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (2025) | AU$699 | AU$449 (AU$250 off) | AU$50–150 |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Silver Oxide 377 |
| Battery Life | 1–2 days | 1–2 days | 2–3 years |
| Maintenance | Daily charging | Daily charging | Replace battery every 2–3 years |
| Durability | Advanced but fragile | Similar | Simple and tough |
In short: If you love technology, go with the smartwatch. If you love simplicity and durability, a 377 powered quartz watch still wins.
How Long Does a 377 Watch Battery Last in Real Life?
The lifespan of the 377 battery depends on the type of device it powers. In a regular analog watch, it usually lasts 2, 3 years. In digital watches, which use more power, it might last closer to 1, 2 years. For medical devices like glucometers, the battery may need replacing every 6, 12 months due to heavier usage.
This lifespan is still impressive compared to smartwatches. A smartwatch battery might last only a day or two before needing a recharge, and after two to three years, it loses capacity and may require a costly replacement. That reliability is why traditional users still prefer the 377.
Advantages of the 377 Watch Battery
The 377 battery remains popular for several reasons. Here are the key advantages that keep it relevant in 2025:
- ✅ Affordable – Usually costs less than AU$5.
- ✅ Widely available – Found in supermarkets, watch stores, and online shops.
- ✅ Mercury-free options – Environmentally safer versions are now standard.
- ✅ Compact size – Fits in slim watches and small gadgets.
- ✅ No daily charging – Works continuously for years without effort.
For many consumers, these benefits outweigh the flashy features of a smartwatch.
Best Brands That Make 377 Watch Batteries
Not all batteries are the same, and trusted brands provide better quality and longer shelf life. Some of the best options in 2025 include:
| Brand | Shelf Life | Price Range | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energizer 377 | 4 years | AU$4–6 | Mercury-free, reliable |
| Sony 377 | 3–4 years | AU$3–5 | Stable voltage output |
| Maxell 377 | 3 years | AU$2–4 | Widely stocked worldwide |
| Renata 377 | 4–5 years | AU$3–5 | Swiss-made, excellent quality |
If you want your watch to run smoothly for years, it’s worth spending a little extra on a trusted brand.
Smartwatch Owners vs. Traditional Watch Owners
Interestingly, people today are not choosing between smartwatches and traditional watches they are often using both. A GlobalData 2025 survey revealed:
- 41% of people own both a smartwatch and a traditional quartz watch.
- 29% still prefer quartz watches for formal or professional settings.
- 30% wear smartwatches only, mainly for fitness and productivity features.
This balance shows that quartz watches powered by the 377 battery are not being replaced. Instead, they complement smartwatches, offering variety for different occasions.
Should You Buy a Smartwatch or Stick to a 377 Battery Watch?
The answer depends on your lifestyle. If you’re into fitness, health tracking, and constant notifications, then the Galaxy Watch 8 or its cheaper predecessor makes sense.
But if you prefer simplicity and value a watch that just tells time without constant charging, then a quartz watch with a 377 battery is unbeatable.
For budget-conscious buyers, the discounted older Galaxy Watch at AU$250 off is attractive. But for people who want reliability at the lowest cost, nothing beats a watch powered by the classic 377 battery.
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy Watch 8 may be the talk of 2025, but its predecessor is now the best cheap smartwatch deal thanks to a big price cut. At the same time, the 377 watch battery continues to prove that traditional watches are here to stay.
With multi year battery life, low cost, and reliability, the 377 remains one of the best power sources for everyday use. For many, this small button cell is a smarter investment than a smartwatch battery that demands daily care.
FAQs
Q1. What is another name for the 377 watch battery?
The 377 is also called SR626SW, depending on the manufacturer.
Q2. How long does a 377 battery last in a watch?
Typically 2–3 years in analog watches and 1–2 years in digital watches.
Q3. Is the 377 battery rechargeable?
No, it is a disposable silver oxide cell, not designed for recharging.
Q4. How much does a 377 watch battery cost?
Prices range between AU$2–6, depending on the brand and pack size.
Q5. Can I replace a 377 battery myself?
Yes, but it requires a small screwdriver or watch tool. For expensive watches, professional replacement is recommended.