How to Choose a Primary (Non-Rechargeable) Battery?

Batteries for end consumers can, in simplified terms, be divided into two main groups. Although this classification is not entirely technical, they can be divided into standard and special batteries. 

Standard batteries

The following batteries can be classified as standard batteries:

AAA    “AAA batteries” R03,LR03

AA      “AA batteries” R06,LR06

C         “C batteries” R14,LR14

D         “D batteries” R20,LR20

9V       “9-volt battery” 6F22,6LR61

3R12   “flat battery” 3R12,3LR12

When choosing a battery, you should first consider what it will be used for. This determines which battery chemistry is the most suitable.

Zinc-carbon batteries

These are the least expensive type of batteries. However, they have lower capacity and a lower ability to supply higher current, which means they generally last for a shorter period. Another disadvantage is that water is produced during the chemical reaction inside the cell, which can result in battery leakage. They are therefore mainly suitable for less demanding applications such as clocks and alarm clocks, radios or some flashlights. 

Alkaline batteries

Most batteries sold are alkaline batteries. Alkaline batteries generally last longer than zinc-carbon batteries. Their capacity, however, depends on the load (for example, under a low load they may provide a capacity of up to 3000mAh, while under a 1-amp load, which is common for digital cameras, their capacity may be only around 700mAh). Alkaline batteries can also leak.

There can also be differences between alkaline batteries. Major manufacturers usually produce several product ranges under different commercial names (for example, Varta offers – from the basic to the highest range – Longlife, High-Energy and Max-Tech). They differ mainly in operating life.

Comparison of zinc-carbon and alkaline battery capacity

AA AAA C D 9V 3R12

Alkaline 3000 1200 8000 12000 595 6100

Zinc-carbon 1100 540 3800 8000 400 1200

Lithium batteries

These batteries provide the longest operating life of all the types mentioned above (for example, at a current draw of 1 amp, an AA lithium battery may provide around 3000mAh, whereas an alkaline battery may provide only around 700mAh). They are therefore also the most expensive, partly because of the energy-intensive production of lithium and partly because of their construction. They are particularly suitable for devices with high power consumption, such as camera flashes, digital cameras, joysticks and similar equipment.

Special batteries

Special batteries are available in an almost unlimited number of shapes. In simplified terms, they can be divided into the following categories:

• Button cell batteries
• Photo batteries
• Batteries for electronic devices
• Watch batteries
• Hearing aid batteries

The main difficulty with these batteries is the large number of different designation standards. A single battery may have many equivalent model numbers. The advantage is that the battery chemistry is generally standardized across manufacturers. It is therefore sufficient to correctly identify the battery type. 

Button cell batteries

These are also sometimes called coin cells. They are among the battery types that are usually clearly marked. They are widely used in small electronic devices, particularly household electronics. Their designation often begins with the letters “CR”, followed by four digits indicating the diameter (in mm) and height (in tenths of a millimetre), for example CR2032. The battery type is usually stamped on the back of the battery.

Watch batteries

These are also generally well marked. They are identified by a three-digit code beginning with the number “3” (357/303; 362/361; 364/363; 371/370; 373; 377/376; 379; 389/390; 391/381; 392/384; 393; 394/380; 395/399; 397/396). Sometimes the designation is supplemented by a letter (H, HD, W, etc.). This is usually only a commercial designation and has no functional significance.

Photo batteries

Batteries most commonly used in cameras. Common types include 123, 223, CR2, 2CR5, 28L and CR-V3.

Hearing aid batteries

Hearing aid batteries are miniature zinc-air batteries. They are identified only by a number. There are essentially four main types: 10, 13, 312 and 675.

Batteries for electronic devices

Batteries for other electronic devices can be difficult to identify mainly because of inconsistent model-number systems. A conversion chart is provided here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does cold temperature really affect batteries?

 Yes, it does. Batteries may not be able to provide sufficient energy when they are cold. Keep this in mind especially if you store a device in cold conditions during winter, for example a flashlight in a car. The batteries may not necessarily need to be replaced immediately.

Where should batteries be stored?

Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures, which can significantly reduce their performance. Keep batteries in their original packaging until you are ready to use them.

Why should new and old batteries not be mixed?

No, this is not simply a marketing recommendation from battery manufacturers – there is a practical reason. Used batteries are more prone to leakage. If you continue using an already depleted battery together with new batteries, there is an increased risk that the older batteries will leak inside the device.

Why should different types of batteries not be mixed?

The reason is the same – the risk of leakage. Different types of batteries discharge at different rates, which means that after some time the device may contain both depleted and partially charged batteries. Since depleted batteries are more prone to leakage, this again increases the risk of discharged batteries leaking inside the device.

What should I do with used batteries?