Even though most devices and gadgets now use built-in batteries, the best AA batteries are here to stay. You still need them to power your remotes, gaming pads, wall clock, alarm clocks, humidifiers, nightlights, hand watches, and a boatload of other household devices that still rely on good old batteries.

But while critical, a simple search for AA batteries on the internet will have you knee-deep in a ton of batteries from brands you did not even know existed. That is why we took it upon ourselves to help you identify the best. We scoured through the plethora of AA batteries on the internet, picked out the best, and put together a list so your search for the best can be seamless. We also put together some advice, so you not only go home with the best AA batteries but also make a value worthy decision. So, check out this list of the best AA batteries and find which are the best for your unique needs. Make sure to read through the pros and cons for each entry in this list of the best AA batteries to optimize your buying decision.

When looking to power up your camera, be it a blink camera, a wireless thermometer, or even a wireless rain gauge, the L91SBP-4 comes in handy as one of the long-lasting non-rechargeable batteries.

With a battery capacity 3000mAh, the batteries provide more than 250 hours of non-stop performance, allowing you to power the most draining devices. Also, the company packs the batteries in leakproof construction that protects your devices from damage. It explains its 20-year shelf life.

The L91SBP AA batteries certainly live up to the brand's fame owing to their ability to perform in extreme weather. The batteries are designed to withstand cold temperatures of up to -4 F and high temperatures of 140 F.

As such, this pack of four batteries should last throughout the summer or winter season without the need to replace them. It is this feature that also makes the L91SBP batteries from Energizer suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

This means you can use them on handheld games, digital cameras, smart home devices as well as outdoor surveillance systems. What's more, its lightweight construction means the batteries don't add much weight to any of the devices.

As for its performance, the L91SBP holds up well against comparable batteries. When used on digital cameras, it lasts eight times longer, and in handheld GPS devices, it lasts seven hours long.

Key Features
  • 3000 mAh battery capacity
  • Leakproof construction
  • Indoor and outdoor use
  • Long-lasting AA Brand
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • High battery capacity
  • Withstands extreme temperatures
Cons
  • Depletes rapidly
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Energizer L91SBP-4 AA Batteries

Rechargeable batteries not only help save cash but also the environment.  Their function is more evident when you have more than one pair like this 16-pack from POWEROWL. When paired with a good battery charger with overcharge protection, you are sure to use the batteries for the longest time. Once a set gets depleted, you only need to recharge it to continue using it.

What’s more, the batteries tout a recharge cycle of 1200 times before replacement and retain 70% power for up to three years of non-use. It is this feature that makes Powerowl stand out from rival brands like AmazonBasics. More recharge cycles mean you get to save cash, not to mention the reduced waste buildup. The brand explains that owning one POWEROWL rechargeable battery replaces up to 2100 alkaline batteries.

The batteries also come pre-charged 15-20% allowing you to use them right of the box. And if you are eco-conscious, you’ll be pleased to know that the device comes pre-charged using clean solar energy. What’s more, the integration of Ni-MH environmental protection material reduces the heavy metal pollution caused by batteries. Ni-MH batteries have higher specific energy and have fewer toxic metals, which translates into reduced effects on the memory.

Its capacity level is also relatively high (2800mAh), making it ideal for charging large and small devices. This means you can pair the batteries with handheld gaming consoles, LCD-TVs, alarm clocks, toys, to mention a few.  Also, you can use the batteries on winter-powered devices like tactical lights, battery-powered lanterns, and walkie-talkies as they have an impressive performance even at a low temperature of negative four degrees.

Key Features
  • Reduced self-discharge
  • Ni-MH eco-friendly construction
  • Winter-friendly
  • 1200 recharge cycles
Pros
  • High recharge cycle
  • High capacity
  • Minimal idle drain
Cons
  • Pre-charged 15-20%
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POWEROWL AA Rechargeable Batteries

As the name suggests, AmazonBasics AA High-Performance Alkaline Battery is specially designed for high performance across various devices. It delivers just the right amount of power for a specific device when needed. The AA battery rocks a 1.5 voltage capacity, making it the ideal option for game controllers, digital cameras, flashlights, clocks, or digital cameras. However, you should note that these batteries are not rechargeable but can hold power for up to 10 years.

One of the best things about AmazonBasics is its high-quality components. Its top safety features provide safe operation for both the device and the user. Besides, if overworked or used in the wrong way, the short circuit preventive washer (SPW) can protect self-discharging and short-circuiting. Further, it has two small holes to prevent bursting or heat build-up. It is the ideal option for anyone looking for a reliable and safe-to-use battery.

Apart from the high-quality components and huge battery capacity, it can provide a long-lasting shelf life of up to ten years. The battery locks in power and uses the new zinc composition, improved anti-corrosion, and two crimp design to prevent leakages. It is also designed in a well-built liquid-tight seal and a well-built battery's air to store power, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to use them in an emergency.

Key Features
  • AA batteries
  • 1.5 voltage
  • Safe leak-free design
  • Short circuit prevention washer (SPW)
  • Alkaline battery cell composition
  • Non-rechargeable
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Adaptive power supply
Pros
  • Has a 10-year shelf life
  • It is a high-performance alkaline battery
  • It is ideal for everyday use
  • Adaptive power
  • AA 1.5-volt voltage
  • It is made with high-quality materials
  • Delivers the right amount of energy when needed
Cons
  • Not rechargeable
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AmazonBasics 4 Pack AA High-Performance Alkaline Batteries

While many modern tech gadgets tout sophisticated charging methods (e.g., using solar power), alkaline batteries remain a staple power source for most electronics. Duracell’s CopperTop AA alkaline battery-pack particularly stands out due to its unique construction and long life.

Duracell developed two categories for its product line to cater to the varying needs of its customers: the CopperTop and Procell alkaline batteries. The latter was primarily designed for industrial users, while CopperTop batteries are marketed to consumers. The idea was to provide batteries that could deliver the desired level of power for consumer needs, and these Duracell CopperTop batteries have proved reliable.

Since it is an alkaline battery rated at 9V, it provides dependable and long-lasting power for high-draining and low-draining devices, including flashlights, toys, remotes, and smoke detectors. On average, alkaline batteries provide 10 for continuous use. This means a low power device like a wireless keyboard, trackball, or mouse can use the batteries for nine or more months before needing replacement. However, for a single battery LED flashlight, the battery provides a reasonable 1.5 hours of juice.

This capacity curve is typical of alkaline batteries as their chemical composition generates an internal resistance that minimizes usable capacity at extremely high discharge rates. It explains why low power devices last longer than high power devices.

On the same note, Duracell is all about upholding the safety of your electronic devices by guaranteeing the batteries against defects in craft and material. As such, if any of your gadgets is damaged due to a battery defect, the company repairs or replaces it. And the good news is that the guarantee extends to ten years.

Key Features
  • 9V
  • 10-year guarantee
  • All-purpose
  • #1 battery brand
Pros
  • Lasts long
  • Can be recharged
  • Available in larger packs
Cons
  • Drains rapidly on high-powered devices
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Duracell-CopperTop AA Alkaline Batteries

If you are looking for an AA rechargeable battery that can be recharged 1000 times with minimal power loss, you should try out AmazonBasics. It comes pre-charged, ready to use, and maintains an 80% charge capacity for 24 months. Besides, its 2000mAh battery capacity is ideal for any electronic gadget with high power usage. It is the perfect option for digital cameras, toys, and remote controls.

AmazonBasics AA rechargeable batteries come in a unique green and black amazon battery design. It prevents heat build-up, leakage, and corrosion. What's more, the improved design features a new zinc composition, dual crimps, and anti-corrosion components.  Additionally, its adaptive feature enables it to regulate power flow to be used when needed. Although these batteries do not provide the highest amount of power, they can deliver just the right amount required by the device.

Also regarded as Amazon's recommended choice, the best thing about AmazonBasics is its ability to retain 80% of its power for up to ten years. Its long shelf life makes it the ideal option when buying in bulk and can be used immediately or stored for later use. Additionally, it also comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can also recycle it by clicking a link on Amazon’s page.

Key Features
  • 1.5 voltage
  • 2000mAh battery capacity
  • Adaptive power supply
  • AA batteries
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Rechargeable
  • Safe-leak free design
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Its design is unique
  • It is made of high-quality content
  • Delivers just the right amount of power
  • It is ideal for everyday use
Cons
  • The appearance and packaging of the batteries may vary
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AmazonBasics AA Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries capable of retaining their charge for a long time are an ideal option for anyone on the go. They're especially useful if you are planning to use an electronic constantly but don't want to spend a ton on extra batteries. Rechargeable batteries won't keep a full charge for eternity, but they're defintiely useful for not having to buy extra batteries in the short-term. Panasonic Eneloop is one of the best-selling batteries on Amazon and for a good reason. It can maintain up to 70% of their charge even after ten years of not being used. What's more, it has no memory effect, which also means that it can be recharged when partially or fully discharged.

Like the majority of Panasonic products, Eneloop is specially designed to last. It features a hard casing capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. This pack comes with two 1.2 volts AA batteries and can be recharged up to 2100 times. You also don't have to worry about charging your battery after buying Eneloop. It is pre-charged at the factory using solar power and can be used immediately after purchase.

Whether you are using Eneloop batteries on your calculator, gamepad, mouse, or on your TV's remote control, you will enjoy the full benefits of the 2000mAh, Ni-MH pre-charged rechargeable battery, or 1900mAh type for the longest time.

Key Features
  • 2000mAh battery charge capacity
  • 1.2 voltage capacity
  • Rechargeable
  • No memory effect
  • 2100 recharge cycle
  • AA-size
Pros
  • It is pre-charged at the factory
  • It is capable of retaining a 70% charge even after ten years without being used
  • The battery can be recharged up to 2100 times
  • It has no memory effect; the battery can be recharged when partially or fully discharged
  • Affordable
  • AA sized
Cons
  • It can take a long time to charge
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Panasonic BK-3MCCA4BA Eneloop AA

The renowned brand is famed for producing long-lasting batteries, and this four-pack alkaline battery lives up to the hype. With a shelf-life of ten years, you are confident the batteries will be operational even after a decade. What’s more, its cardboard package makes it easy to open and store if not using all four batteries.

For many customers, the first question that pops when buying batteries is if they leak. Well, you can trust Energizer’s leakproof construction that keeps the contents in the battery intact for up to two years. Also, the company offers to repair or replace devices damaged by leakage from its alkaline batteries two years after full use of the battery or during their useful life.

Energizer’s dedication to producing more eco-friendly products is reflected in this four-pack battery. Not only does it last long to minimize waste buildup, but also it’s made from recycled battery material.

Over the years, the company’s tech experts have focused on producing batteries using recycled cells without compromising performance. After seven years of research, they produced a high-performing alkaline AA battery-pack by refining and transforming recycled battery material into high-performance active ingredients. As a result, the AA batteries don't need as much mining material during the manufacturing process. And just like other Energizer alkaline batteries, it doesn't contain mercury.

Upon testing its performance, this AA four-pack aced the test. When used on a flashlight, toys, and household tools like a wireless keyboard, it lasts twice as long as comparable batteries.

Key Features
  • Zero mercury
  • Two-year protection
  • 5V
  • No leakage
Pros
  • Lasts long
  • Environment-friendly
  • Free replacement if leakage develops
Cons
  • Can't be recharged
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Energizer AA Batteries

Anker, a purveyor of all things power, finally introduced a line of batteries available in AA and AAA sizes. While it seems a little late for the company to release this kind of product, it has managed to curve its path owing to the overwhelming customer response. Anker decided to introduce a range of other products along with the batteries (security devices, audio products, power tools, dash cams, to mention a few), and they have all lived up to the brand’s hype.

This 24 AA pack is particularly handy for the customer looking for an affordable set of batteries to power different household gadgets. Unlike other Alkaline battery packs, the Anker pack doesn't come in a clear plastic cover to display the batteries. The company packs them in a white and blue box, adding to their safety when shipping. The batteries are arranged in two sets, each holding 12 batteries, and the box holding AA batteries appears larger than one used to package AAA batteries.

As for their durability, the batteries have a ten-year shelf life and have universal compatibility. As such, if you aren’t using all the batteries at once, you are confident to use them even after three years. What’s more, Anker uses a special PowerLock Ring that seals the energy inside the casing until it is ready for use. The interlocking mechanism and a rubber seal prevent leaks into the battery’s components.

Another feature that makes the Anker’s AA batteries stand out is their ability to use cutting-edge components that make recycling easy. Generally, the batteries are made from recycled parts, and they don’t contain cadmium or mercury.

Key Features
  • PowerLock mechanism
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Recycling ready
  • Adaptive Power
Pros
  • Can be recycled
  • Long shelf life
  • Universal compatibility
Cons
  • Not rechargeable
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Anker Alkaline AA Batteries

Whether looking for alkaline batteries for home or office use, bulk buying has always proved economical, especially with the numerous tech gadgets used in modern spaces. The Allmax AA Max Power Alkaline battery pack is one such example available in 100 pieces. Being an AA capacity battery pack, you are confident to have stored up batteries for the long haul for all your accessories. This is because AA batteries have three times the capacity of AAA batteries hence likely to last longer.

What’s more, Allmax uses a unique EnergyCircle technology that ensures a maximum supply of power to all your electronic devices. It is this feature that ensures the batteries hold power even after ten years of storage.

Also, the batteries are made of premium raw materials which, when combined with its D/I Can technology and high-density, enable them to last eight times longer. This means you don't need to purchase heavy-duty batteries for your smart appliances; the Allmax battery pack is your ultimate solution. And if you aren’t sure about its ability to power all your smart devices, the alkaline batteries have universal compatibility. They are designed to power high and low drain devices allowing you to use them on low-drain devices like radios and remote controls after using them on high-drain gadgets like toys.

In addition, you don't have to change them during freezing weather; the batteries remain operational, powering your flashlights to light your home the entire night. And with the improved sealing structure, the batteries remain leak-proof, whether in storage or using them to power electronic devices.

Key Features
  • 10-Year shelf life
  • EnergyCircle technology
  • Eco-friendly
  • Leak-proof
Pros
  • Best for bulk buys
  • Doesn’t leak
  • Compatible with most devices
  • Lasts long
Cons
  • Not rechargeable
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Allmax AA Maximum Power Alkaline Batteries

Rayovac is a relatively new addition to the industry, but so far, it holds up pretty well competing with renowned brands like Energizer. The brand primarily focuses on producing AA batteries for industrial applications, but they are also great for powering household items. With this eight pack of alkaline batteries, you can pair it with high-draining medical devices.

By comparison, the batteries perform just like Energizer’s batteries. Their shelf life is, however, shorter, only able to last ten years. As for standard features like leak protection, the batteries are well-sealed to avoid damaging your devices. The leakproof layer protects against short-circuiting too.

Short-circuiting is one problem associated with batteries, especially when a high current flows through a cell, causing a spike in temperatures. Luckily RayVac’s batteries have been tested twice prior to shipment to ensure they are safe for use. You can use them without worrying about battery explosion.

In addition, the batteries are free of mercury, enhancing your safety during use. The use of mercury in batteries has declined sharply over the years after the Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act of 1996. The act led to the production of mercury-free alkaline batteries, which has since become a national standard. Previously, manufacturers used mercury in batteries to reduce gas build-up known to cause batteries to leak and bulge.

Key Features
  • Tested twice
  • Leak Proof protection
  • Mercury-free
  • Resealable storage pack
Pros
  • Tested twice for safety
  • Best for high-drain devices
  • Leakproof
Cons
  • Shorter shelf-life
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Rayovac AA Batteries

AA batteries are the cream of the crop when it comes to batteries. They account for about 50% of batteries sold in the U.S., and although we are in an age where built-in batteries are the modern trend, these batteries are not going anywhere.  But as noted, they are not made equal. There several factors to consider when picking which batteries are the best for your unique needs. The first thing to keep in mind when looking to buy the best AA batteries is that they can either be rechargeable or non-rechargeable.

Important Factors To Consider

Rechargeable AA batteries are the most popular nowadays. They are often sold in multiples, usually between 2, 4 6, or even 24 batteries, complete with a charger. Such packs are pretty convenient if you have multiple gadgets in your household that rely on classic AA batteries. The main advantage of rechargeable AA batteries is that they are rechargeable. This makes them a cost-effective option because you'll be sorted out for a long time once you purchase a pack. Their rechargeable nature also makes them eco-friendly.

Non-rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, are just as the name suggests, non-rechargeable. The most popular types of AA batteries under this category include lithium and alkaline batteries. Note, lithium batteries are not the same as li-ion batteries.

Li-ion batteries are what you find in smartphones, laptops, and other modern devices and are rechargeable. Lithium batteries are non-rechargeable, have a longer shelf life, and do not leak.  Lithium batteries have a longer shelf life, and they don't leak. This makes them the best AA batteries for short term use in high-drain devices like cameras or low-drain gadgets like smoke alarms where power requirements are low, but stability is critical.

Alkaline non-rechargeable AA batteries, on the other hand, are the most common. They are versatile and are what you will find in wall clocks, TV remotes, grooming gadgets, and a ton of other essential household and non-household gadgets. The key advantage of alkaline batteries is that they're widely available. Also, they are cheaper and are super-versatile. However, they tend to leak over time, which means they need to be replaced regularly, or otherwise, they may damage your valuable devices and equipment.

Now that you know about the most popular categories, can AA batteries explode? Well, while explosions are rare, they do occur. An AA battery will explode or rapture violently if exposed to high temperatures, mixed with other wrong capacity batteries, or inserted in the wrong direction. In other words, an AA battery will only explode if subjected to conditions it's not designed to handle. Therefore, you have nothing to worry about if you use the best AA batteries per manufacturer's instructions.

FAQ

Q: Are all AA batteries the same?

All AA batteries are not the same since most disposable ones supply 1.5 volts, while the rechargeable ones typically produce 1.2 volts depending on the alkaline configuration. Most household devices that need an AA battery will usually take any variant of the same. The most notable differences between AA batteries are caused by the chemicals powering them and the configurations. Regarding the internal components, the commonest chemicals in an AA dry cell include Zinc Carbon and an Alkaline, while the rechargeable ones include Nicad and Lithium. The differences seen in usage come from the quality of metals and the level of purity of the components.

Q: Why do AA batteries get hot?

Batteries get hot when they have been subjected to heavy use or in case of an external short circuit. The best AA batteries will remain cool if they are just sitting in a remote or clock. Internal short circuits are quite rare since they only happen if the physical components in a battery are moved to the point of making an unwanted contact. Such scenarios only happen if the battery has been dropped or dented.  The short circuit makes it discharge rapidly such that external cooling can’t keep up leading to excessive heat. External short circuits may also cause your AA battery to overheat under rare circumstances. If you store the battery alongside metallic components and naked wires, it is possible for the items to cause a short circuit by linking the top and bottom terminals.

Q: Are AAA batteries bigger than AA?

AAA batteries are not bigger in capacity than AA ones. In fact, AA batteries are bigger in diameter and deliver more current than AAA variants. The major selling point of AA batteries over AAA is their ability to deliver more power to the device you are using. AAA batteries are often used in smaller electronic devices or gadgets that are supposed to maintain a low footprint and weight. If you use larger appliances, they will mostly require AA batteries. Device manufacturers will usually indicate the battery size that you need to fit in the compartment. In case it is not shown, you can test two older batteries and use the one with a snug fit.

Q: How long do AA batteries hold a charge?

The battery life of an AA battery depends on the intensity of the usage. If you leave AA batteries on a shelf and not use it, they will take several years to drain. Some of the best AA batteries can last almost 10 years before the last bit of juice dries up. If you use the battery in a clock or a remote control, you are looking at one or two years. More aggressive use cases will kill the battery in a few days or hours. For example, a kid's electric toy that has two motors, five LEDs, and a speaker for honking will drain an AA battery in a few days.                                                                                                                                                                   

Q: Which AA batteries last the longest?

The best AA batteries should stay charged for several months with moderate use. Most manufacturers sell premium and affordable AA batteries. In most cases, the premium variants will last longer than average ones because of the component used in the manufacturing process. While price alone is not enough to tell you how long an AA will last, it may help you compare two products from the same company. Going for the most expensive AA batteries does not always guarantee top quality. The best way to determine which AA battery lasts longer than the rest is to compare how fast they discharge in an intensive test.