7 Best AA Batteries For Electronic Devices

Many devices that rely on a power source will not function without using a battery. The most common battery size is AA battery, small and practical, but there are big differences in chemical composition, durability and energy delivery. In our product comparison, we present the 7 best AA batteries and go into more detail about their advantages and disadvantages.

In the following guide, you will learn how these batteries are made and what information the manufacturers provide regarding their durability and intended use. We explain the different names for AA batteries and the advantages of the best AA batteries over rechargeable batteries. We also go into more detail about which buying criteria and tips you should consider when dealing with batteries.

Huge comparison of the 7 best AA batteries in frustration-free packaging

1. Varta Industrial LR6 AA Baterai Battery

According to Varta, it means quality and competence in German production. Germany's only portable battery manufacturer can look back on more than 130 years of experience. According to the product description, with the Varta Industrial LR6 AA battery, Varta offers the perfect energy solution that you can also use in professional devices. This includes, for example, security devices, communication devices, microphones, and various medical devices. According to Varta, batteries score with excellent alkaline performance and with the exception of 9 volt batteries in the range, you can be sure of German brand quality with every battery.

Is battery shelf life limited? How long the battery lasts depends on the chemical system used by the manufacturer. Here, for example, lithium or lye can be used. The type of battery is also important. Batteries that have passed their expiration date should not be used as they may leak. The manufacturer guarantees you a shelf life of 10 years on the batteries presented here.

The Varta battery is an alkaline battery from Germany, which according to the product description is very durable. You can keep the battery for 10 years because the airtight seal is designed to prevent leakage. Varta promises a safe environment and the best quality control and reliable technology so that your electrical devices are not damaged.

According to the manufacturer, relying on environmentally friendly production, mercury is no longer used. Varta has also stopped producing zinc-carbon batteries and switched to mercury-free production. According to the product description, cadmium is also no longer found in batteries. The company promises that its top priority is minimizing environmental impact.

Advantages

• Hermetic sealing by manufacturer
• According to the manufacturer optimized for industry and commerce
• Certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2008 and DIN EN ISO 1 4001:2005
• Can be used for security devices, communication devices, microphones and various medical devices

Deficiency

• Cannot be refilled

2. AmazonBasics Performance AA Alkaline Battery

AmazonBasics Performance Alkaline AA batteries have 1.5 volts and are, according to the manufacturer, very powerful. They are designed to be reliable and work with a variety of devices such as game controllers, toys, flashlights, and digital cameras. AmazonBasics promises that the batteries provide the respective amount of energy to your device and discharge for a long time. This is to ensure optimal efficiency.

According to the product description, the battery is ideal for everyday use and has a shelf life of 10 years. According to the manufacturer, the battery is equipped with enhanced corrosion protection so that it does not leak. In addition, the new zinc composition and two-terminal design help improve battery quality. Due to the long shelf life, this battery is also suitable for longer storage according to the product information.

This battery is provided with short circuit protection and is leak free according to the manufacturer. The long service life is said to be ensured by an airtight and liquid-tight seal, which also makes the battery extremely strong.

According to AmazonBasics, the battery isolation ring protects against misuse or overcharging of the battery. The SPW short circuit protection seal must also protect against short circuits and self-discharge. Therefore, the two small holes ward off heat build-up and blast. Package contains 48 1.5 volt AA alkaline batteries. According to the provider, delivery takes place in certified packaging and is frustration-free. AmazonBasics offers a one-year limited warranty.

Advantages

• Two clamp technique
• According to the manufacturer, protection against short circuit and corrosion is guaranteed
• According to the manufacturer, suitable for daily use
• Protected against heat buildup and explosion according to the manufacturer

Deficiency

• Relatively low capacity
• Cannot be refilled

3. Duracell Plus Alkaline Battery

According to the manufacturer, this AA battery should provide up to 50 percent more power than its predecessor Duracell Simply. You can use general purpose alkaline batteries according to product specifications for everyday electronics. Duracell Plus Power alkaline batteries are said to be leak-proof thanks to a superior nylon enclosure and Duralock technology is said to make Duracell batteries that are stored and unused ready for use for a period of up to 10 years.

What are the advantages of disposable batteries over rechargeable batteries? Rechargeable batteries drain faster, which is why single-use batteries are commonly used in devices that require less energy. Plus, single-use batteries are cheaper to buy and easier to carry on the go because you don't have to carry a charger with you. In our guide, we take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of single-use and rechargeable batteries.

According to the manufacturer, the battery is not only reliable and durable, but also provides constant performance for devices that depend on a constant power supply.

Duracell can draw on years of experience in battery manufacturing and has a number of references to point to. In 1969, for example, the Duracell battery, along with Apollo 11, was the first battery on the moon.

Advantages

• Superior nylon cover
• Plastic free packaging
• SCG technology (highly conductive graphite)
• Ready to use up to a period of 10 years

Deficiency

• Cannot be refilled

4. Super Mignon Alkaline Battery

According to the manufacturer has an extra long life. They are said to have been developed specifically for everyday devices and are suitable for a large number of devices. Low-cost AA mignon batteries in a handy packaging perfect for a mailbox.

The long battery life is said to be due to the Super Alkaline formula, which protects against leakage.

According to the manufacturer, it has more than 50 years of experience in the production of batteries and rechargeable batteries. This guarantees a high quality product which ensures the best safety. Because Mignon manufactures batteries in its own production facilities, you can be assured of consistently high quality. These batteries can be used in various devices such as cell phones, flashlights, smoke detectors, motion detectors, and remote controls.

What is another name for an AA battery? The list of designations for AA batteries is very long and usually contains several abbreviations such as L6 or L06. In our guide, you'll learn what each number and letter means and how you can use them to identify the chemical composition of your battery.

Advantages

• Protected against leakage with super alkaline formula according to the manufacturer
• Available in nine different battery types
• According to the manufacturer, it is perfect for phones, flashlights, smoke detectors, motion detectors and remote controls

Deficiency

• Only last 7 years
• Cannot be refilled

5. ANSMANN AA Alkaline Batteries

According to the manufacturer, these batteries are characterized by a durable and precise delivery of energy. Alkaline batteries are said to be an ideal energy source for a variety of everyday devices that have moderate energy requirements. This product is a single-use battery, which according to the product description is durable and reliable. You should be able to store the battery for 7 years.

Ansmann AA alkaline batteries are suitable for a temperature range of -10 degrees Celsius to +50 degrees Celsius. The packaging allows you to safely store the battery until you need it.

According to ANMANN, the safety and quality of batteries is guaranteed by the international standard DIN EN ISO 9001:2008. Therefore, products are continuously tested in test laboratories with respect to electrical, thermal, geometric and mechanical requirements. This battery is mercury and cadmium free. The scope of delivery includes 48 LR6 alkaline mignon batteries with 1.5 volts in a frustration-free package.

Can I throw the battery into household waste after use? No, as a consumer you must dispose of the battery properly. Since batteries contain hazardous substances, you cannot simply throw empty batteries into your household waste. The battery manufacturer is obliged to provide you with a collection box. These are often located at the entrances of supermarkets, electronics or drug stores. You should throw the battery into this collection box.

Advantages

• Certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2008
• Free of mercury and cadmium
• Leak-proof according to manufacturer
• According to the manufacturer, they are characterized by a durable and precise delivery of energy

Deficiency

• Expensive in the long run as it is non-refillable

6. Longlife Power Var Varta Battery

The manufacturer describes the Varta Longlife Power battery as the "strongest" battery among the Varta batteries. It should be specially designed for devices that have high energy requirements, such as remote controlled toys, computer sets or LED flashlights. Varta manufactures its batteries in Germany and guarantees brand quality and a shelf life of 10 years.

Who is behind the name Varta? According to Varta, that means 130 years of experience and market-leading battery solutions. The manufacturer focuses on quality as well as an innovative spirit and closeness to the customer. The company claims to guarantee quality you can trust. German production and the "Made in Germany" label must be a hallmark of quality and part of Varta's long tradition.

According to the product description, this product is a long-lasting battery, which always ensures the necessary energy release and can be used for a long time at the same time. Batteries must be leak-proof.

Advantages

• Developed by manufacturer for devices with high energy consumption
• Refillable
• According to the manufacturer, it can be used for a long time (long battery life)
• 130 years experience in battery production

Deficiency

• No frustration free packaging
• No other battery types offered

7. Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Battery

The Energizer Ultimate Lithium is an AA battery with an output of 1.5 volts and a capacity of 3,000 mAh. One pack contains four batteries, which the manufacturer says have a shelf life of up to 20 years once opened. According to Energizer, innovative upgrades have made Ultimate Lithium the world's most durable AA battery.

For extreme temperatures: According to the manufacturer, AA batteries are suitable for use in extreme environmental temperatures between -40 and 60 degrees Celsius.

According to Energizer, Ultimate Lithium AA batteries are a good choice for high-tech devices that have high energy requirements. According to the manufacturer, these batteries are leak-proof and about a third lighter than standard alkaline batteries. They are optionally available in packs of 24 batteries.

Are rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries more suitable for my device? Rechargeable batteries are usually used in devices that have high energy requirements. Batteries drain faster, which means they provide more energy. That's why they are commonly used in devices like cameras, baby monitors or phones. Disposable batteries are better suited for devices with low energy requirements, such as clocks, alarm clocks or remote controls.

Advantages

• Designed according to the manufacturer for extreme environmental temperatures between -40 and 60 degrees Celsius
• Relatively very high capacity
• According to the manufacturer, it can be stored for 20 years
• According to the manufacturer, it is suitable for use in extreme environmental temperatures between -40 and 60 degrees Celsius

Deficiency

• Cannot be refilled

What is an AA battery?

Apart from the smaller micro batteries, AA batteries are the most common battery cells used by many people and are mostly used in small devices such as remote controls, cameras or controllers. The battery supplies the device with energy and is available as a single-use battery.

There are different electrochemical systems in production. As a result, the load capacities of the batteries differ from each other, as do the capacities and nominal voltages.

For this reason, it is necessary to find out extensive information about the properties of small energy suppliers before purchasing an AA battery and to decide which battery will suit your needs. To make your buying decision easier, the following guide takes a closer look at all the details you should know about AA batteries.

How many batteries pass through the sales counter each year? The Federal Environment Agency states that users in Germany buy about 1 billion batteries every year. This means that individual consumers need about 15 to 20 batteries per year.

How does the battery work?

The battery consists of two electrodes inside. The negative pole is called the anode and the positive pole is called the cathode. The anode is made of metal in the battery core, while the cathode is made of metal oxide and is found on the inside of the battery case. Among these, the battery contains electrolytes, acids. The so-called separator is a layer of glass fiber fleece or plastic and separates the electrodes. It must be made of a material that does not conduct electricity but is permeable to ions.

Since the positive and negative poles are made of metal, they contain electrons. It is the negatively charged component of atoms and ions. If you now insert a battery into a device intended for this purpose, electrolysis will begin. This means that a chemical process takes place inside the battery. Electrons flow through the separator from the positive pole to the negative pole. The chemical energy is then converted into electrical energy. A current flow is created which supplies energy to your device.

What types of batteries are there?

As already mentioned, most of the batteries used in our devices are AA batteries. The terms mignon battery or cell mignon are also used here, although there are some differences between AA batteries and mignon batteries. The latter has a diameter of 13.5 to 14.5 millimeters and a height of 50.5 millimeters, which makes it slightly wider and larger than an AA battery.

In addition, mignon batteries have a higher capacity and load capacity than AA batteries, where electrochemical systems also play a role. In the following we will go into more detail about the differences between the different batteries.

Non-rechargeable AA cells

Rechargeable AA battery

With these two tables it is important to know that the nominal voltage represents the effective value of the voltage under normal operation. Most AA cells have a nominal voltage of 1.2 to 1.5 volts. If a higher voltage is required for the device, it may be necessary to insert several batteries and connect them together.

Capacity describes the electric charge contained in the battery. AA batteries are mostly used in smaller devices that cannot be powered by a power cord. This is, for example, an MP3 player, a toy, or a camera. Batteries are also usually a source of energy in wall clocks and remote controls.

What do the different designations mean?

If you search for the right battery for your device, you will find many abbreviations and designations. To give you a better idea, we will cover each of the abbreviations below. You should know that the first character stands for battery system. The second character of the battery label describes the shape of the battery. Some labels are preceded by a number that describes the number of cells. Batteries are numbered according to IEC standards.

The meaning of the first letter of the battery designation:

• C: If the battery is marked with C, it is a lithium manganese cell.
• E: If the first letter is E, you get a lithium thionychloride cell.
• H: H indicates a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery.
• K: The designation K is used for nickel-cadmium batteries.
• L: Batteries marked with L are usually alkaline manganese cells.
• M:M depicts a mercury oxide cell.
• N: This designation is used for manganese mercury oxide cells.
• P:P shows zinc-air cells.
• RA: This is a rechargeable alkaline manganese cell.
• S:S is used to denote silver oxide cells.

The meaning of the second letter of the battery designation:

• R: If your battery is marked with an R, it is a round cell.
• P: If the second letter is P, you get a non-rounded cell.
• LF: This designation describes a flat cell.

With regard to battery electrochemical systems, the packaging may not provide sufficient information. Some manufacturers simply show the abbreviation IEC from the International Electrotechnical Commission. This abbreviation consists of numbers and letters. Therefore, we will go into various electrochemical systems in more detail below.

Alkaline battery

The abbreviations LR6 or LR06 are often used for alkaline manganese batteries. You can also think of an alkaline-manganese battery if you read the term alkaline or the designations AM-3, AM 3, 4006 or E91.

Zinc-carbon battery

You will usually find the R6 designation on zinc-carbon batteries. If applicable, the battery is also marked UM3, UM-3 or 2006.

Lithium iron sulfide battery

This electrochemical system is also known as FR6 or L91. If your battery has these two abbreviations, it is a lithium iron sulfide battery.

Nickel Metal Hydride Battery

Nickel-metal hydride batteries are also commonly designated as HR6 or cncloop.

Which electrochemical system is suitable at high or low temperatures? If you live in a cold or warm area for a long time, then you should use a battery that is not sensitive to extreme temperatures. This includes the lithium variant in particular. The battery drains faster in warm or cold temperatures.

The difference between rechargeable AA batteries and disposable AA batteries

Depending on the manufacturer you choose, you have a choice between disposable batteries, which you can only use once, and rechargeable batteries. Well-known manufacturers like Duracell or Varta offer one variant after another.

Rechargeable battery

If your battery is a rechargeable battery, you can use the product multiple times. To do this, you need a battery charger that recharges rechargeable batteries, more commonly known as accumulators, with electrical energy. Batteries that can be used multiple times are usually more expensive than single-use batteries. The advantage, however, is clear that these batteries have lower energy costs in the long run.

Tips: Rechargeable batteries usually drain faster than conventional single-use batteries. Therefore, they are best used in devices that have high power requirements and depend on rapidly available energy. This includes, for example, telephones, baby monitors or cameras.

Disposable battery

At first it sounds reasonable to do without disposable batteries and use rechargeable batteries instead. However, in some cases it is a good idea to use a single-use battery. As already mentioned, disposable batteries are much cheaper to buy than rechargeable batteries. Also, they don't come out quickly. For this reason, they are useful for devices that require very little power or that you rarely use. This includes a wall clock, remote control or smoke detector. Disposable batteries are also much more convenient to carry around than battery chargers.

Tips: Some devices, especially older generations, require 1.5 volts. Batteries often produce only 1.2 volts.

Advantages and disadvantages of AA batteries

AA batteries have several advantages and disadvantages, which we will present to you below. It doesn't matter if the battery is disposable or rechargeable. Both variants are classified as hazardous waste and are not good for the environment. AA batteries have a low voltage, which is why many devices require multiple batteries that together provide the necessary energy.

One obvious advantage is that AA batteries are easy to handle and, given their compact size, take up almost no space. They are very easy to use and you usually have a lot to choose from from the many providers on the market. In addition, AA batteries are one of the cheapest energy suppliers.

Advantages

• Concise and practical
• Doesn't take up much space
• Easy to use
• Cheap energy supplier
• Many choices from many suppliers

Deficiency

• Usually several batteries are required for power supply
• Not good for the environment

What should I pay attention to when buying AA batteries?

Manufacturer

As already mentioned, there are many manufacturers on the market that offer AA batteries. While well-known market leaders are often associated with higher prices, you should pay attention to good quality with lesser-known brands.

repatriate

In the long run, it is relatively expensive to keep buying new batteries. Therefore, you should make sure that you are using a battery that does not drain quickly. This includes, for example, alkaline batteries. Zinc-carbon batteries, on the other hand, drain faster.

Size

With so many names and markings on batteries, you need to make sure you choose the right battery size for your device.

Naming

To avoid errors with battery size, be sure to choose a battery that is properly labeled and compatible with your device. The most common designation for the type of battery presented here is the abbreviation AA.

Preferably before the date

Batteries also have an expiration date. You can't keep your battery forever without risking it running out on its own. Most batteries have a shelf life of several years. When buying, make sure the best date before is not too close in the future.

Packaging

If you buy bulk packs, you should make sure that the batteries are not wrapped separately or only in small batches. It always makes sense to save plastic for the sake of the environment. Some of the products in our product comparison come in so-called frustration-free packaging.

Which manufacturers offer AA batteries?

There are many manufacturers in the market that carry AA batteries in their range. There are many options available in this area, which is why you should research the products on offer beforehand. The most famous manufacturers include:

• Duracell
• Varta
• Sony
• Panasonic
• Activist

We have also listed several products from this manufacturer in our product comparison. The disadvantage of well-known manufacturers is often the price of the product is slightly higher. In return, you usually get consistent quality from a manufacturer that has been able to establish itself in the market for years. But that doesn't mean that you should go without a nameless product. You can also find high-quality AA batteries among lesser-known manufacturers, which in the best case are also priced below those of the leading suppliers on the market.

Where can I buy AA batteries?

If you want to buy AA batteries, you have many sources. These batteries are usually available in electronics stores, drug stores and even in supermarkets. Many specialist stores that sell specific devices often have batteries to choose from, which you can purchase directly with a remote control, camera, or watch. However, the range of AA batteries at local stores is usually limited and the selection is somewhat limited.

The situation is different if you buy batteries online. Here you have a wide variety available and you can choose from many products. It's worth doing a price comparison first and taking a closer look at the properties of the battery.

How much do AA batteries cost?

The price of AA batteries varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer and always depends on the electrochemical system used in their manufacture. It is also important how many batteries are included in a set.

Smaller plans tend to be found in the single-digit price range, while plans that can hold up to 100 or more batteries are priced in the double-digits. Compared to individual purchases, however, it will definitely be beneficial to buy bulk packs at a lower price. Since you can keep most of the battery for several years, you can access it generously here.

Is it worth saving the battery? It's always a good idea to stock up on some batteries, so you're prepared if your remote control stops working, the clock stops, or your flashlight runs out of power in the event of a power outage. Depending on how often you use electrical devices, you should consider how much battery you should have.

What terms should I know when buying a battery?

Below we list some battery terms and rechargeable batteries that you should know before buying your battery.

IEC Standard

This designation describes the international standards for batteries, originating from the International Electrotechnical Commission.

Electrode

The electrode interacts with the counter-electrode and exhibits the so-called electron conductor. They are responsible for securing the power supply and are therefore made of a conductive material such as metal or graphite.

Anode

The anode is the electrode which is responsible for picking up electrons. Opposite the anode is the cathode, which represents the counter-electrode.

Cathode

The term cathode describes the negative pole of the battery. It is the electrode that accepts electrons and passes them to the opposite anode.

Electrolyte

An electrolyte is a chemical substance that can be a gel, liquid, or solid. They absorb ions, transport them and release them again. Therefore they are responsible for the transport of ions in batteries or accumulators. The electrolyte connects the cathode and anode to allow ion exchange.

Tips for proper battery handling

Batteries contain chemicals that require careful handling. Therefore, you should pay attention to some tips to avoid accidents and so that you can use your battery as long as possible.

1. Storage: You must follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper storage of your battery. This usually includes that the battery should not be exposed to high or low temperatures. It is usually sufficient if you store the battery in a cool place. You must ensure that the battery does not come into contact with metal objects, such as a toolbox . A short circuit may occur.
2. Best before date: All batteries have a best before date. The longer the battery is stored, the greater the risk that the battery will run out on its own.
3. Proper use: Most manufacturers provide information on proper battery use. This also includes properly inserting the battery into your device and paying attention to the pluses and minuses. Improper use may cause a short circuit or the battery may leak.
4. Same type of battery: To guarantee the best performance and to compensate for the loss of performance, you should only use batteries from the same manufacturer and with the same charging state in the device.
5. Dead battery: If the battery in your device dies, you must remove the battery. Otherwise, the battery may leak. Even if you don't use the device for a while, you should remove the half-charged battery.

Tips: Some devices, such as some cameras, only work with certain battery levels. This means that you may not be able to use the camera even if there is still some energy left in the battery. Here it is worth removing the battery from the camera and inserting it into a device that uses very little energy. This includes, for example, a watch or a remote control. This ensures that you don't waste energy.

Questions about battery

What should I do if the battery leaks?

When the battery leaks, it means that there is liquid coming out. It is an electrolyte, which is very sticky and requires a complete device cleaning process. The leaking liquid is acid or alkaline, which is usually easy to remove with water.

Do not touch a leaking battery with bare skin and remove the battery only with gloves. However, if some liquid gets on your skin, wash your hands immediately. Remove all residue from the device, from the skin as well as from the clothes by washing it in the machine.

Can the battery explode?

Some batteries contain highly reactive metals such as lithium. It can react very quickly with respect to air or water, which can cause a fire or even an explosion. Here you must ensure that you do not expose the lithium-ion product to water or high temperatures. You should never open these batteries and ideally cover the poles with tape before returning them to the collection point.

How should I dispose of the battery?

Battery manufacturers and suppliers have an obligation to reduce their environmental impact as much as possible. To do this, you must provide a collection box in which you can properly dispose of the battery. As a user, you are legally required to deliver empty batteries or accumulators to these collection points and accordingly dispose of them properly.

Conclusion

Choosing an AA battery may seem easy. You can choose whichever battery you find. Even so, you also need to consider the battery capacity as well. Thus, the battery can function optimally for electronic devices.

So first our discussion of the best AA batteries. Hopefully you are helped by the reviews we provide, yes. Finally, we recommend that you buy just enough batteries.

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