The Best AAA Batteries
If your house is anything like ours, you're always looking for a fresh set of AAA batteries. Whether they're needed for a game controller, flashlight, remote control, or mom's electric wine bottle opener, it's easy to go through several packs of AAA batteries per month. So it makes you wonder: are all AAA batteries alike? Do some last longer than others? Does it make sense to get rechargeable ones? And what about the environmental impact? Fortunately, we've already asked those questions. Better still, we've answered them, too, and we're happy to share with you our first-hand insight into the best AAA batteries available on the market today.
AmazonBasics 8 Pack AAA High-Performance Alkaline Batteries
Basically the Best
If you’re looking for an everyday battery because you seem to be going through batteries every day, your best bet may be AmazonBasics 8 Pack AAA High-Performance Alkaline Batteries. With 1.5-volt performance, they’ll work with any compatible devices. Plus, with a shelf life of 10 years, they won’t be losing their charge anytime soon. They’re a great value as well and even ship in quantities up to 250 for the shrewd bulk buyers out there.
Pros:
- Ships in recyclable packaging
- Corrosion-proof
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Incidents of leaks
- Bulk packs are heavy
Energizer AAA 48-Count Batteries
Bulk on a Budget
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard about Energizer batteries and you know their “they keep going and going” catchphrase by heart. There is no doubt that Energizer is one of the best known and most respected brands for batteries. If you want that kind of quality at the best value possible, we recommend the Energizer AAA 48-Count package. This bulk-buy brings the per-battery cost down, allowing you to power up your favorite devices for less. Made to hold their charge for 10 years, Energizer batteries are also guaranteed not to leak for 2 years if they’ve run out of power and have sat in your device unused. If they do leak, Energizer will replace the device.
Pros:
- Also available in C, D, 9v, and AA sizes
- Bulk packs easy to store
- No mercury in the battery
Cons:
- Can’t see the expiration date on the package in advance
- May arrive in 8 sets of 6
Powerowl High Capacity Rechargeable AAA Batteries
The One in Charge
Rechargeable batteries are gaining popularity as the world adopts greener alternatives and Powerowl High Capacity Rechargeable AAA Batteries are leading the charge (sorry, had to). Powerowl’s unique design allows for 20% more recharges than the average rechargeable battery and retains more than 70% of its power capacity after 3 years. Most rechargeable batteries won’t even last 3 years. Also, the proprietary temperature control valve on the top of the battery helps prevent explosions by opening automatically when the battery gets too hot.
Pros:
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Fully recyclable
- Work in any device requiring AAA batteries
Cons:
- Require a full charge before first use
- Can be finicky in off-brand charging systems
Energizer AAA Ultimate Lithium Batteries
Long and Strong
When you need top performance from your AAA batteries and the longest shelf life available, Energizer AAA Ultimate Lithium Batteries deliver. Guaranteed to retain their charge for 20 years, they are indeed the longest-lasting battery. They’re also designed to operate in extreme temperatures, making them perfect for outdoor storage in emergency kits. With leak-proof construction, it’s easy to trust even your most expensive devices with Energizer, even if the batteries remain unused in the device for years.
Pros:
- Available in quantities up to 24-count
- Lighter than standard AAA batteries
- Best for devices that require lithium batteries
Cons:
- Should be recycled when depleted
- Not for those on a budget
Fuji Enviromax Super Alkaline AAA Batteries
Green to the Max
Though not all alkaline batteries are considered hazardous to the environment, Fuji takes the guesswork out of it with their Envormax Super Alkaline Batteries. These batteries contain no harmful mercury or cadmium and therefore do not release any ozone-depleting compounds into the air when disposed of in a landfill. Even the packaging is created with 75% recycled materials. Best of all, Fuji doesn’t compromise power in the process: these batteries still sport a 10-year shelf life, a superb discharge curve, and strong protection against leaks.
Pros:
- Still cost-effective
- Perform in extreme weather conditions
- Independent lab-tested
Cons:
- Can run hot
- Should still be recycled
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the AAA in “AAA Battery” mean anything?
AAA is a size designation for zinc-carbon batteries. We use the term “triple-A” instead of the battery’s technical designation, “IEC designate R03/ANSI (C18.1) 24/JIS UM-4.” So, yeah, “triple-A battery” just rolls off the tongue a bit more easily.
I’ve heard you shouldn’t throw AAA batteries in the trash because they’re considered hazardous waste. Is that true?
Alkaline, manganese, and zinc-carbon batteries (like AAAs) are not considered hazardous waste and can be disposed of just like regular trash. However, nickel-cadmium and small sealed lead-acid rechargeable batteries are considered “universal waste” and should be disposed of through a proper facility. There’s a great website called Earth 911 that you can use to find a local recycling facility based on your zip code.
How can I make sure my AAA batteries are going into their device the right way?
Here’s a tip. The end with the nub sticking out is the positively-charged end. This means the other end – the flat end – is negative. The negative end always goes against the spring in the battery compartment of your device. Use this guide to correctly “feel” your way to an accurate installation of your batteries.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.