While they may not be the most exciting item on your shopping list, batteries power many of the gadgets that make life more fun—from remote controls to cameras and toys. But do you really need to pay more for brand-name batteries? And are more expensive rechargeable batteries better than disposables? This guide will help you decide when to shell out a few extra bucks for premium batteries and when to save your cash.
Jump to
1Which batteries are better: rechargeable or non-rechargeable?
Rechargeable batteries and disposable batteries both have their place. It all depends on how you intend to use them.[1]
Rechargeable Batteries
More expensive than disposables and a hassle if they go dead when you need them most, rechargeable batteries are also kinder to the environment and may save you money over the long term if you treat them well.[2]
NiMH technology is the current standard, boasting better performance and safer materials than other types of rechargeable batteries. They’re fantastic for everything from game controllers to festive lights.[3]
NiMH Batteries
| Pros | Cons |
| Best for the environment—if they’re used to their full recharge capacity | Recharge capacity decreases if overcharged |
| Store plenty of power | Charge may decline quickly if not used |
| Good power output for high-drain devices such as remote-control cars | Some need to be charged upon purchase |
Shop NiMH Batteries and Chargers
Shop all rechargeable batteries at Walmart
Non-Rechargeable Batteries
Disposable batteries remain an inexpensive option suitable for a variety of devices. You just need to decide which type of non-rechargeable battery works best in each situation.[4] There are two common types:
- Lithium: Known for terrific energy density and performance, lithium batteries are more expensive than alkaline batteries, but can also last much longer. They’re ideally suited for devices that sap energy quickly or emergency items such as flashlights and radios.
- Alkaline: The cheaper disposable option, alkaline batteries don’t store as much energy or last as long as lithium. Use alkalines for TV remote controls, clocks and LED lights.
Lithium Batteries
| Pros | Cons |
| Last longer than any other disposable consumer battery | Higher potential to combust, so they require special disposal |
| Suitable for high-drain, high-performance devices | Create more waste than rechargeable batteries do |
| Longer shelf life than alkaline | Pricey |
| Work well in cold temperatures |
Shop Lithium Batteries
Shop all lithium batteries at Walmart
Alkaline Batteries
| Pros | Cons |
| Relatively inexpensive | Occasionally leak or get crusty |
| Work well in cold temperatures | Shorter shelf life than lithium |
| Lead, mercury and cadmium-free, which makes them better for the environment | Not ideal for high-performance devices |
| Create more waste than rechargeable batteries do |
Shop Alkaline Batteries
2How long do batteries last?
Buying in bulk typically results in a cheaper price per battery but you may want to keep in mind that different types of batteries begin to lose their charge if they sit unused for long periods of time. If, for example, you only use a couple of AAAs every year, you may want to buy fewer at a time so the rest don’t go to waste.
Shelf life depends on battery type. Here’s a cheat sheet you can use when you shop.
| Type | Technology | Example | Shelf Life |
| Rechargeable | NiMH | Energizer Recharge | Can be recharged about 500 times |
| Disposable | Lithium | Energizer Ultimate | 10 to 12 years |
| Disposable | Alkaline | Duracell Coppertop, Energizer Max | 5 to 10 years[5] |
3Is spending more on brand-name batteries worth it?
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth it to pay a premium for name brands like Energizer and Duracell, the answer is… sort of.
According to a physicist writing for Wired, brand-name batteries last longer… a lot longer.[6] But since you can buy far more budget batteries (like from Great Value) for the same price as only a few Energizers, the overall price-per-watt equation often works out to be the same.
- When to buy brand name: If you want to reduce waste and enjoy the convenience of replacing your batteries less often, then go for the more expensive batteries. They’re also better at delivering a consistently high voltage, making them a smart choice for high-performance devices like drone remote controls or game controllers.
- When to buy budget brand: If you just need a couple of AAs for a gadget that you rarely use, go for the batteries that are cheapest per unit.
Article Sources
- Microbattery. Rechargeable vs. Non-Rechargeable Batteries: The Pros and Cons.
- WebstaurantStore. Types of Batteries.
- Mr. Electric. Are Rechargeable Batteries Worth It?
- WebstaurantStore. Types of Batteries.
- WebstaurantStore. Types of Batteries.
- Wired. Are Expensive Batteries Worth the Extra Cost?
Prices shown are subject to change. Please check Walmart.ca for the latest pricing.
This article is intended as general information. To be sure a product is right for you, always be sure to read and follow the label(s)/instruction(s) that accompany your product(s). Walmart will not be responsible for any injury or damage caused by this activity.
