We use batteries every day. Our phones, laptops, smoke detectors, TV remotes, and more all utilize batteries to provide power, but we don’t think about it until they need to be charged or replaced. Then, when the remote stops working, it’s time to open up a pack of batteries.
Most likely, the pack of batteries you’ll open will contain AA batteries. We expect these common batteries to be durable, have a long shelf life, and last a long time while in use. You’ll find that the AA batteries listed below will have all of these qualities and more. So when looking to restock, your search should start here.
Duracell AA Batteries
Best Overall
Built To Last
These batteries were designed to last for twelve years on the shelf and have quite a long lifespan in use, too.
Why We Love It:
- Durable
- Lasts long, whether in use or not
- High-quality
Something to Consider:
- Occasionally leak
- Packaging is not super durable
Energizer AA Batteries
Runner-up
For The Little Things
These batteries last up to ten years on the shelf and are designed not to leak, even when they’ve been completely used up. They also come in smaller packages for when you need a quick refill.
Why We Love It:
- Small packages
- Leak-resistant design
- Sturdy
Something to Consider:
- May not last very long in use
- Occasionally packs are loose or missing a battery
AmazonBasics AA Batteries
Best Value
Good For Restocks
These quality batteries come in bulk, with the largest pack containing one hundred batteries, and have a long shelf life. They provide the energy you need to power the various devices and gadgets throughout your home.
Why We Love It:
- Come in bulk
- Long shelf life
- Quality packaging
Something to Consider:
- May not last long in use
- Occasionally arrive dead
ACDelco AA Batteries
Honorable Mention
Buy In Bulk
These batteries were designed for bulk purchases, with the largest pack containing three hundred batteries. On the shelf, they can last for around ten years.
Why We Love It:
- Come in large quantities
- Last long when used
- Don’t leak
Something to Consider:
- Inconsistent batches
- May be too weak for some devices
Rayovac AA Batteries
Most Versatile
Combo Pack
These AA batteries come with some AAA as well, allowing you to restock both types simultaneously, and they’ll last a long time both on the shelf and in use.
Why We Love It:
- Each pack contains two types of batteries
- Durable
- Good lifespan
Something to Consider:
- Fewer AAA than AA
- Quality per pack may vary
Allmax AA Batteries
Best Shelf Life
Good Where You Need Them
Summary: These batteries come in two pack sizes, one with one hundred batteries and one with fewer than fifty. They’re designed to be leakproof and last a long time.
Why We Love It:
- Bulk options
- Leakproof
- Long-lasting
Something to Consider:
- May need to be replaced frequently
- Arrive dead sometimes
FAQs
Are these batteries rechargeable?
None of the batteries mentioned in this article are rechargeable. They are single-use only, so when they die, they must be thrown away or recycled. Read the description of the ones you’re considering to see if they’re rechargeable, and consider changing your search terms if none of the results are.
How long will these batteries last?
A battery’s lifespan is determined by how heavily it is used. Many are designed to last upwards of a decade on the shelf but may last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months when in use, depending on how heavily used the device is. They may not last very long in a child’s favorite toy, but they last for multiple months in a TV remote.
Buying Guide
We use batteries every day in many different ways, but we rarely consider it. When our video game controllers stop responding or the screens of our thermostats go blank, then we consider our batteries. The next time they need to be replaced, consider how often you use them and what your stock currently looks like. When it’s time for a battery restock, keep the following factors in mind:
- Shelf life: Most batteries will last for a very long time on the shelf, which is useful when you buy them in bulk. However, you still need to check them every once in a while. They may leak if stored for too long, and they may lose longevity the longer they stay there. When replacing batteries, prioritize using older batteries first to prevent these issues.
- Lifespan in use: Not all batteries are made equal. Some will last longer than others when in use, and this must be considered when purchasing more. When moderately used, high-quality batteries can last for a few months to a year before needing to be replaced. When considering battery life, also think about how often the device that requires them is used. The more heavily it’s used, the more batteries you’ll need.
- Usage: You must consider where and when you use batteries. They are usually in children’s toys, TV remotes, battery-operated lights, and more. One of the most common battery types is AA, so you need to consider all the places you use them when restocking.
- Durability: Batteries are always in one of three possible states: storage, use, and dead. When in the dead stage, they no longer work and must be discarded and replaced. Batteries in storage need to last long without leaking or dying. Batteries in use will die quicker the more the device they are in is used, and if left in this device for a long, they may begin to leak. In all three stages, the batteries may begin to leak if left alone for long enough. Be sure to check your stored batteries once in a while, and remove batteries that are dead or from devices that haven’t been used in a while.
