AA Batteries

You load up on them at Christmas for all of your new battery-operated toys, and you keep them in your drawer just in case your clocks or other devices need a recharge. AA batteries are one of the most common types of household battery, and they are a must-have in every home.

What are AA batteries used for?

An AA battery, also called a double A battery, is a single cell or dry cell battery. The name ‘AA’ doesn’t stand for anything specific, but instead indicates size. An AA measures 50.5mm x 14.5mm. For comparison, a AAA battery is 44 mm x 10.5 mm.

An AA battery is the most common type of household battery and is used in portable electronic devices like handheld video games and wireless transmitters like garage door openers.

AA batteries are rated on voltage and capacity or mAh (milliampere-hours to ampere-hours). Batteries with a large mAh may last longer than batteries with a smaller mAh rating, but it depends on what you’re using the battery for. If you’re using the battery for a high charge item like a camera, your battery may drain quickly.

Different types of AA batteries

There are a few different types of AA battery that are considered disposable or recyclable. Zinc Carbon AA batteries are 1.5 volts and have 600-1600 mAh. There are also AA alkaline batteries with 1800 – 2700 mAh and 1.5 volts.

These are the type of AA batteries you will see in the store that come in 2 packs, 4 packs, or in bulk. This type of AA battery is not rechargeable.

Rechargeable AA batteries

One type of double A battery that is rechargeable is the Ni-MH AA battery. It is 1.2 volts and 700-2800 mAh. This type of battery is similar to Alkaline AA batteries in that they can keep a charge for up to a year when not in use and most are able to be charged up to 500 times. This style of rechargeable AA battery is the perfect choice for devices like cameras or gaming controllers.

Lithium-ion AA batteries

AA lithium batteries are also called 14500 lithium ion batteries. 14500 lithium ion batteries are rechargeable AA batteries with an output of 3.6 to 3.7 volts and mAh of 900 mAh. They are most often used for flashlights. Lithium-ion batteries will usually last between two to three years and charge for up to 500 cycles.

Stock up on AA batteries at Best Buy and you’ll always have power for your every day electronics.