Not all batteries are made equal. They come in various shapes, sizes, prices, and manufacturers.
So, whether you plan on using them on a clock or a wireless product, you need to make sure you choose the best battery brand for all devices.
Here is the necessary information to help you do so.
Table of Contents
Types of Batteries
Before you pick the right brand, you need to know the various types of batteries first.
Single-Use vs. Rechargeable
As the name suggests, single-use batteries are drained after a certain period of usage. Rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, can be juiced up with a charger.
There are several types of rechargeable batteries, such as:
- Lithium-ion. Also known as Li-ion, it is known for its quick and immediate charging capacity. Often seen in a laptop or mobile phone, it only loses 5% of its full charge every month.
- Nickel Cadmium. NiCd batteries may be cheap, but they deliver at full capacity every day. They also have a low internal resistance, meaning it can charge and discharge rapidly.
- Nickel Metal Hydride. The NiMH rechargeable battery boasts of high energy to volume ratio. Like NiCd, this environment-friendly option can power up a device at full capacity.
Lithium vs. Alkaline
Lithium batteries may be expensive, but they’re worth every penny because they perform much better and may earn you more juice power.
For one, they have a lower self-discharge, meaning they’re perfect for high-drain devices. And as they age, lithium batteries are less likely to emit a corrosive material.
Alkaline batteries, on the other hand, are of a cheaper value than the former. They are compatible with devices of daily use, such as clocks or toys.
Although lithium performs better than an alkaline battery, the latter is superior to other battery types like zinc batteries.
As for shelf-life, alkaline batteries can be stored for up to ten years. Lithium, in the meantime, can be kept for 10 to 15 years. Carbon Zinc is at the lowest end of the spectrum, with a lifespan of two to three years.
Size
AA Batteries, also known as double-A, are the most popular as they can be used in various devices.
Single-use batteries of this size are ideal for products with a high current draw but are not used frequently.
At 1.5 volts, lithium or alkaline AA batteries are ideal for low-drain devices that are always on (i.e., clocks).
AAA or triple-A batteries, which have 1.5 volts, generate a lesser degree of energy. They are often used for small standard products such as calculators, thermometers, and toys.
C Batteries are heavy-duty products that have an available 1.5 voltage. They are often used to power devices such as flashlights, portable radios, or toys.
D Batteries are what you have to get for products that require a source that can last for a long time. They can be used in stereos and large flashlights.
9-V Batteries, with their unique rectangular shape, are used for products needing high voltage and power. Applicable for areas measuring anywhere from 0 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit, these durable components offer excellent results.
What are the Best Brands for All Devices?
Whether you wish to operate a clock or a high-drain game controller, make sure to choose from these best battery brands:
Duracell Coppertop: Best Overall Single-Use Battery
Most experts consider the Duracell Coppertop as the best of all single-use batteries. Available in several shapes and sizes, they come with a 10-year guarantee as well.
- Amazon Basics Alkaline Batteries: Runner-Up for Great Value
Should you find the Duracell Coppertop expensive, you should get this product from Amazon Basics.
Available in various quantities — from 4-pack to 100-pack — they even come with an anti-corrosion component. Like most labels, these come with a 10-year storage life.
- Energizer Ultimate Lithium Batteries: Perfect for Video Gaming
Looking to find something with good battery life that can last as long as your pro gaming time?
Worry not, as the Energizer battery can help save the day. As the Guinness record holder for the longest-lasting AA batteries, they can last eight hours and more. They can also withstand extreme temperatures and even extended periods of battery storage.
Amazon Basics AA Rechargeable Batteries: Top-Performing Rechargeable Battery
If you want a battery that can last longer than others, this is a perfect choice.
According to tests, it can run a flameless candle device for 120 hours straight and a remote-controlled car for 17 hours.
Coming in a close second is the Energizer Recharge AA battery, which you can buy in several physical and online stores.
Some rigorous testing information can keep a flameless light flickering for 120 hours and a remote-controlled car running for 16.
