Energizer Batteries

Energizer Batteries: Which to Choose and When

Energizer supplies dependable power across everyday and specialty devices with alkaline (MAX), primary lithium (Ultimate Lithium), rechargeable NiMH (Recharge), and coin/photo cells (e.g., CR2032, CR123A). Use this guide to pick the right chemistry for your device, environment, and usage pattern.

Quick Picks

• Everyday remotes, toys, clocks: Energizer MAX (alkaline AA/AAA/C/D/9V).
• High‑drain or cold weather (cameras, headlamps, outdoor sensors): Energizer Ultimate Lithium (AA/AAA; 9V for alarms).
• Frequently used gear (game controllers, flash units, bike lights): Energizer Recharge (NiMH AA/AAA) with a quality charger.
• Small electronics (key fobs, scales, trackers): Energizer lithium coin cells (e.g., CR2032, CR2025).
• High‑output lights and photo gear: Energizer CR123A lithium photo batteries.

Compare the Main Lines

Line	Chemistry / Voltage	Best For	Typical Shelf Life	Temperature Range	Notes
MAX (Alkaline)	Alkaline, 1.5V	Low–medium drain: remotes, toys, radios, clocks	Up to ~10 years (AA/AAA); ~5 years (9V)	Best at room temp; performance drops below freezing	Good value; widely compatible; heavier than lithium
Ultimate Lithium	Lithium (LiFeS2), 1.5V	High drain & cold/heat: cameras, headlamps, outdoor sensors	Up to ~20 years (AA/AAA); ~10 years (9V)	Approx. −40°F to 140°F	Lighter than alkaline; strong cold‑weather and high‑drain performance
Recharge (NiMH)	Rechargeable NiMH, 1.2V	Frequent use: game controllers, flashlights, photo gear	Low self‑discharge types retain much of their charge for months	Room to moderate temps	Up to hundreds of cycles with a smart charger; may trigger low‑battery alerts in some 1.5V‑only devices
Coin cells (e.g., CR2032)	Lithium, 3V	Key fobs, scales, trackers, sensors	Commonly up to ~10 years	Wide operating range	Keep away from children; ingestion hazard
CR123A	Lithium, 3V	High‑output flashlights, cameras, instruments	Long shelf life	Performs well in cold	High current capability; check device polarity and orientation

Use If / Avoid If

Energizer MAX (Alkaline)

• Use if: You want affordable power for low–medium drain devices used at room temperature.
• Avoid if: You need long runtimes in high‑drain gear (bright LEDs, pro cameras) or reliable performance below freezing—choose Ultimate Lithium instead.

Energizer Ultimate Lithium

• Use if: You need the lightest weight, best cold‑weather performance, or longer service in high‑drain devices.
• Avoid if: You plan to recharge them—these are not rechargeable. For frequent cycling, pick NiMH Recharge.

Energizer Recharge (NiMH)

• Use if: You use devices daily or weekly and can recharge; great total cost of ownership.
• Avoid if: The device is seldom used or requires 1.5V specifically (some equipment may show early low‑battery warnings at 1.2V).

Real‑World Runtime (Approximate)

Actual runtime varies by device design, brightness settings, temperature, and cutoff voltage. These ballpark comparisons help set expectations:

• AA headlamp at ~300 mA continuous: Alkaline may dim within ~1–2 hours; Ultimate Lithium often maintains brightness ~3–5 hours; NiMH (2000–2500 mAh) roughly ~2–4 hours with stable output.
• Wireless game controller (80–150 mA while active): Alkaline commonly provides several sessions (dozens of hours total); NiMH offers comparable or better usable hours per charge and can be recharged hundreds of times; Ultimate Lithium often lasts longer than alkaline between changes.
• Smoke alarm 9V backup: Alkaline typically needs annual replacement; lithium 9V can last multiple years (often 5–10), but always follow the alarm maker’s guidance and test monthly.

Compatibility and Safety Notes

• Match the size and chemistry specified by your device manufacturer. Do not mix battery types or old and new cells in the same device.
• NiMH cells are 1.2V nominal; some devices requiring 1.5V may show low‑battery warnings earlier. If that happens, use alkaline or lithium primary cells.
• Primary lithium (AA/AAA/9V/CR123A/coin) are not rechargeable. Never attempt to recharge them.
• Store in a cool, dry place in original packaging. Avoid high heat and humidity.
• For coin cells, use child‑resistant packaging when available and keep out of reach. If swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.

Care, Charging, and Recycling

• Charging NiMH: Use a smart charger with delta‑V or temperature monitoring. Remove cells once charged to reduce wear.
• Maintenance: For critical devices (alarms, medical equipment as allowed), test batteries regularly and replace at the first low‑battery indication.
• Disposal: Follow local rules. Many communities accept rechargeables and lithium for recycling; tape terminals of 9V and coin cells before disposal to prevent shorting.

FAQ

Are Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries rechargeable?

No. Ultimate Lithium are primary (single‑use) batteries. For rechargeable options, choose Energizer Recharge NiMH.

Why do my NiMH AA batteries show “low battery” in some devices?

NiMH cells are 1.2V nominal vs. 1.5V for alkaline/lithium. Some electronics expect 1.5V and signal low earlier. If that occurs, use alkaline or lithium primary cells in that device.

What should I use for smoke and CO alarms?

Follow the alarm manufacturer’s instructions. Many support alkaline or lithium 9V batteries; lithium often lasts longer. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as specified.

Can I mix battery brands or types?

No. Mixing new and used cells or different chemistries can cause leakage, poor performance, or damage.

How long can I store unused batteries?

Alkaline AA/AAA commonly store up to about 10 years; lithium AA/AAA up to about 20 years (9V about 10 years). Store cool and dry, and keep in original packaging.