Lithium and alkaline AA batteries are used in a range of electronic devices.
Battery sizes are designated by letter codes, and AA and AAA are the most common types used by consumers. Batteries are manufactured using different chemical combinations, such as lithium, alkaline and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and there are also rechargeable and nonrechargeable batteries using different chemicals. Each type is suited for a particular function.
Alkaline AA
Alkaline AA batteries are appropriate for usage if you do not use a lot of batteries on a regular basis, or the devices that you use the batteries for are not heavy-drain (that is, they do not drain the batteries very fast). Alkaline AA batteries are reasonably priced and perform well if you use them in devices that are not battery-intensive. If you need to use batteries regularly, alkaline AA may not be the best choice because they run out faster. For regular battery users, lithium AA batteries may be more cost-effective in the long term.
Rechargeable Alkaline AA
Rechargeable alkaline AA batteries are suited for use in devices that perform better in alkaline batteries of 1.5 volts. For high-drain devices, rechargeable alkaline AA batteries may be appropriate because the batteries can be conveniently charged from any AC outlet once they are depleted. Another advantage is that rechargeable alkaline batteries use chargers that also work with rechargeable NiMH batteries, so you can use both types provided that a device supports them.
Lithium AA
Lithium AA batteries are very durable and perform extremely well in a wide range of temperatures, making them the ideal choice for use in harsh climates. Lithium AA batteries may last up to seven times as long as alkaline AA batteries and are suitable for use in heavy-duty devices or when you do not want to replace batteries as often. Lithium AA batteries are not rechargeable, however.
Lithium Ion
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) are rechargeable batteries, typically 3.6 or 3.7 volts. The batteries are long-lasting, and once depleted, may be recharged from any power outlet. A major disadvantage of lithium-ion batteries is that they work only with dedicated chargers and do not support generic chargers or even chargers from the same manufacturer but made for a different battery type. Lithium-ion batteries are not as popular because most of the time some other battery type is more appropriate in terms of cost or utility. Lithium-ion batteries serve a niche purpose.
Price
Lithium AA batteries are more expensive than alkaline AA batteries; in March 2009, a single unit of alkaline AA cost 40 to 50 cents, whereas a single unit of lithium AA cost between $2.30 to $2.40. Even with the large price difference, lithium AA batteries may actually be more cost effective than alkaline AA for regular use in heavy-drain devices. Alkaline batteries are better suited to low-drain use, such as toys, low-power flashlights and remote controls. For rechargeable batteries, alkaline is cheaper than lithium ion.
Weight
If you have to carry a lot of spare batteries, lithium AA is more convenient, at about half an ounce for a single unit; an alkaline AA battery usually weight between 0.65 to 0.85 ounces.
Tags: alkaline batteries, devices that, Lithium batteries, single unit, alkaline batteries, Alkaline batteries, batteries appropriate
