These days, it seems as if we are becoming more and more dependent on technological devices. These tools make everything from housework to manual labor easier and more efficient. However, no matter how modern a gadget may be, its performance will only be as good as the batteries used to power it.
With so many different options for batteries on the market, deciding what to look for when buying them can be an intimidating task. To help you in making this decision, we have prepared this comprehensive buying guide highlighting the key features of the best batteries in 2022.
What Does the Inside of a Battery Look Like?
Batteries are made up of three units: cathode, anode, and electrolyte. These three parts work together to convert chemical energy into electrical energy, allowing the transfer of charge to your device. Common metals used inside batteries include lithium, zinc, and manganese.
What Are the Different Types of Batteries?
Before setting out to buy some new batteries for your old appliances, you should be aware of the different types. There are two main categories that batteries fall under, each offering its own advantages.
Disposable Batteries
More commonly used than their counterpart, disposable batteries are single-use batteries that can be used to power devices for an extended period of time. After some time, however, disposable batteries no longer work and must be thrown away.
Disposable batteries create current by means of an irreversible chemical reaction, converting chemical energy into electrical energy. When the reactants involved in the process run out, there is nothing left to be converted into electrical energy and hence produce charge. At this point, disposable batteries are useless and must be thrown away and replaced.
Disposable batteries are typically cheaper than rechargeable ones and much more readily available. The charge offered by these batteries also lasts for a long time, making them a convenient, hassle-free choice. However, it is important to note that disposable batteries will always need to be replaced eventually.
Rechargeable Batteries
As the name suggests, rechargeable batteries can be externally charged after they are drained so that they can be used again and again. There is no limit to how many times you can recharge your batteries, though after some time you may notice a decrease in the charge capacity of the battery.
The reason why rechargeable batteries work is because the chemical reaction that takes place inside them is reversible. When you connect a rechargeable battery to a power source, the charge that had been drained is restored, allowing you to continue using it.
Rechargeable batteries, though more expensive than their counterpart, can last you a very long time. They are also better for the environment as they are not disposed of as often. However, they typically have a lower voltage rating as well which can affect the performance of your devices.
What Should You Look for When Buying Batteries?
Batteries are used extensively, charging everything from kitchen appliances to mobile phones. Deciding what aspects to keep in mind when shopping greatly depends on what you intend to use your battery for. However, with so much variation, this can be difficult. To help avoid an unsatisfactory purchase, here is a list of the most important attributes to keep in mind when buying batteries.
Type
As we have mentioned before, there are two main types of batteries: disposable and rechargeable batteries. Each one offers its own advantages and disadvantages.
Disposable batteries are more suited for low-drain devices such as clocks, remote controls, toys, and smoke alarms. These won’t require much charge to operate so you can rest easy for at least a few years before planning on replacing the batteries inside them. Rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, are better for high-drain gadgets such as laptops, mobile phones, and Bluetooth earphones. They require a lot more energy to function making a rechargeable battery a much better option.
Size and Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is the maximum amount of charge that a battery can hold. Of this total capacity is a smaller amount known as "usable capacity," which is the amount of charge the battery can safely hold without causing damage to itself. The higher the storage capacity of a battery the longer it will last, making it a very important metric to consider.
Power Rating
Power rating is another important feature to keep in mind when purchasing a battery. This is the amount of power that the battery can consume or discharge. Having a high power rating is beneficial because it means your battery can cater to more demand of current.
Battery Warranty
Though not a necessity, having a warranty for your battery is always a plus. In case something were to go wrong in terms of charging or overheating, a battery warranty would cover the damages.
How Long Does a Battery Last?
The life of a battery depends on several factors including the type of battery, size, capacity, rating, as well as the frequency of use. Rechargeable batteries on average last much longer than disposable ones though they are a bit more costly.
Best Batteries FAQs
Q. What do I do if my battery explodes?
A. In very extreme cases of misuse, it is possible for batteries (especially AA batteries) to rupture causing the contents of the battery to explode. If you face this scenario, the best course of action would be to immediately wash off any metal pieces or acid that have come in contact with your skin. Then make sure to neutralize the area with some lemon juice or acid for further protection.
Q. Are batteries recyclable?
A. Most batteries are safe to recycle, including alkaline, manganese, and carbon-zinc batteries. However, if your battery is made up of lead acid or nickel, it is best to throw it away with other hazardous waste as it can contaminate the surfaces it touches in case of a leak.
Q. What makes a battery go bad?
A. A battery can expire well before its estimated date due to many external factors. If your battery is placed in a high-temperature area with less humidity, it can cause the battery to age prematurely. Other instances like overcharging, heavy vibrations, or long periods of no use can make a battery go bad as well.