Consumer Reports Reveals Which AA Batteries Last

CR December '08 Cover YONKERS, NY — To determine which batteries will keep cameras clicking and toys running this holiday season, Consumer Reports tested 17 AA batteries rom various manufacturers including Duracell, Energizer, and Panasonic and found that some batteries are better for digital cameras and others for devices such as flashlights or remote controls. The full report and Ratings are featured in the magazine’s Annual Electronics Issue and online at ConsumerReports.org.

Best Batteries for Energy Drainers

Consumer Reports recommends rechargeable batteries for digital cameras, some toys and other devices that draw bursts of power or are used often. Although they cost more than alkaline batteries and the charger may have to be purchased separately, rechargeable batteries almost always save money in the long run. Both Duracell rechargeable batteries tested – the 2650mAh and Precharged 2000mAh – performed very well in tests. Duracell Precharged is unusual in that it works right out of the box without an initial charge. Another option is a single-use lithium battery such as the Energizer Ultimate.

Best for Rarely-Used Products

For flashlights, remote controls, seldom-used toys, and other devices that draw little power, Consumer Reports recommends that consumers consider nickel oxyhydroxide batteries, such as the Panasonic Oxyride Extreme Power, or alkaline batteries, such as the inexpensive Kirkland Signature (available at Costco). Both types have a shelf life of several years.

Care and Handling

Consumer Reports recommends the following tips for the caring and handling of non-rechargeable and rechargeable batteries:

Don’t mix types, sizes, or ages.
Don’t store batteries in a pile near other metal objects.
Rechargeable batteries should be recycled. For locations, visit the Web site of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corp., at www.rbrc.org.

The Annual Consumer Reports Electronics Issue is on newsstands November 4, or online at www.ConsumerReports.org.The issue features 32 pages of Ratings and reviews of more than 400 of the hottest electronics products including the new Google phone, flat-screen TVs, Blu-ray players, digital picture frames, GPS navigators, digital cameras, and more. The full ratings of AA batteries are available in the December issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

About Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education, and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.

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