Alkaline, Lithium or Rechargeable: Which Battery Type Should You Use?

Two batteries can be exactly the same size and still behave very differently. The chemistry inside makes a big difference to how long a battery lasts, how it copes with power-hungry devices and how much it costs you over time. Here's a simple breakdown of the three types you'll see most often.

Alkaline batteries

Alkaline batteries are the everyday standard. They're affordable, widely available and hold their charge well while sitting in a drawer, which makes them a great choice for devices that use a small amount of power over a long time.

Best for: remote controls, wall clocks, wireless mice and keyboards, kitchen scales and low-power toys.

Keep in mind: in high-drain devices such as digital cameras or game controllers, alkaline batteries can run down quickly.

Lithium batteries

Lithium batteries in standard sizes like AA and AAA cost more up front, but they're lighter, cope well in cold conditions and keep their power for a long time in storage. They also tend to deliver steady power right up until they're nearly empty.

Best for: outdoor equipment, cameras, GPS units, smoke alarms and devices you can't easily get to.

Keep in mind: for low-power devices, the extra cost often isn't worth it. A good alkaline will do the job.

Rechargeable NiMH batteries

Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeables cost more to buy at first, but you can reuse them many times, so they can work out far cheaper for devices you use a lot. Many modern versions come pre-charged and are designed to hold their charge well between uses.

Best for: game controllers, toys, wireless headsets, torches and anything you change batteries in regularly.

Keep in mind: you'll need a compatible charger, and a few devices, such as some smoke alarms, aren't designed for rechargeables. Always check the device instructions.

A quick way to decide

• Low power, long life: choose alkaline.
• Cold, critical or hard to reach: choose lithium.
• High use, frequent swaps: choose rechargeable NiMH.

Stocking up for work?

For offices, schools and shops, a mix usually works best: alkaline for everyday kit and rechargeables for the devices that eat through batteries. Buying multi-packs keeps the cost per battery down.

Browse our batteries or contact us about bulk and trade pricing.