Lauren Farrell, Contributor to BestReviews
27 minutes ago
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Which AA Batteries Should You Buy?
AA batteries are among the most popular on the market and are used in many portable electronic devices. Invented in 1907, AAs became one of the most popular battery types in the mid-20th century. Without this innovation in mobile power, you would most likely have to rely on outlets a lot more. AAs provide portable, convenient energy for powering a variety of electrical devices without wires or cords.
What are AA batteries?
AA batteries power everyday household items like toys, clocks, flashlights, and portable gaming devices. They are usually used in pairs, but can also be used individually to power smaller devices.
The term AA refers to the size and capacity of the battery. They measure just under 2 inches long and about half an inch in diameter. Depending on the type and manufacturer, their electrical output varies between 1 and 1.5 volts.
How do AA batteries work?
AA batteries are a type of dry cell battery. This means they rely on a chemical reaction to generate electricity. They do this by using an electrolyte stored in the battery. AAs have two terminals: the anode at the bottom and the cathode at the top. The electrolyte is in the middle and creates electrons that migrate and get stuck at the cathode.
The battery can only release this energy when it is inserted into a device. You’ll notice a spring at the bottom of your device’s battery connector and a flat spring at the top. These act as conductors, allowing the electrons to flow from the cathode along a conductive path through the device and into the anode. This creates the electrical energy your device needs to function.
Types of AA Batteries
The three basic types of AAs are rechargeable, alkaline and lithium. Choosing the right type depends on the manufacturer’s specifications for the device that requires power. To ensure optimal performance and prevent damage to your device, it is important to understand how each type of battery works.
- Rechargeable AA batteries: These can be renewed by reversing the flow of electrons, restoring the battery to its original condition. Rechargeable batteries can last up to 20 years and are suitable for high-drain devices that use a lot of energy. Some devices they use have a charging port; If not, you will need an AA battery charger.
- Alkaline AA batteries: These are common, affordable, and can last up to a decade depending on usage. Typically used in low-drain devices such as clocks and remote controls, they provide a steady flow of electrons from a zinc and manganese dioxide electrolyte. The battery dies when the chemicals inside lose their ability to produce electrons, which is why alkaline AAs are called disposable batteries. They can be stored for up to 10 years without leaking.
- Lithium AA Batteries: These are less common and can be expensive as they power high drain devices like drones. They use a lithium salt electrolyte to power devices and some are rechargeable. Lithium batteries are known for their safety, low operating temperature and higher power output than alkaline batteries.
Best AA Batteries
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries
These provide power for high-drain devices such as digital cameras and handheld GPS devices. They can hold electricity for up to 20 years and survive temperatures of up to 140 degrees. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need a powerful, reliable battery to power their camera on vacation or summer hikes.
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Duracell rechargeable AA batteries
The batteries in this long-lasting alkaline set can last up to 400 charges and have a lifespan of up to 10 years. They come pre-charged, ready to go, and are great for high-drain devices like baby monitors, wireless electronics, and video game controllers.
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Energizer Max AA alkaline batteries
These 24 non-rechargeable batteries are great when you need a reliable battery for commonly used items like the TV remote or household appliances like toys and flashlights. They are built to last and can hold power for up to 10 years.
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Allmax maximum power alkaline AA batteries
With a 10-year shelf life, these batteries have a leak-proof design so corrosive material cannot damage your devices or cause injury. Even compared to other well-known brands, users rate it as very valuable.
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Panasonic Eneloop AA rechargeable batteries
These batteries come pre-charged so they are ready to use right out of the box. You can charge them up to 2,100 times and they store up to 70% of their charge for up to 10 years.
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Rechargeable Powerowl AA batteries
If you are environmentally conscious, you will appreciate that these batteries are made from materials that reduce heavy metal pollution. They provide 1.2 volts, which should be enough for most household items like cameras, radios, and clocks.
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Energizer Recharge Power Plus AA batteries
This 8-pack is pre-charged for immediate use and offers a lifespan of up to five years. The batteries are durable for everyday devices, but optimal for devices with high power consumption such as digital cameras.
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Voniko Premium Grade AA Batteries
For higher drain devices like gaming controllers, these batteries deliver 1.5 volts to effectively power items while providing a long-lasting charge. The batteries are free of mercury and cadmium.
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Tenergy rechargeable AA premium batteries
These batteries can be charged up to 1,200 times and are designed to maintain consistent performance in low and high temperatures. This, combined with their long-lasting performance, makes them a great choice for photographers who need their cameras to perform in all weather conditions during long photoshoots.
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Lauren Farrell writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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