Even as technology improves and evolves, household batteries power our everyday lives. But even though many of us use batteries in our various electronic devices, do you know your ABCs when it comes to battery size? In this handy guide, we explain the different types of battery sizes, so you will never be confused when shopping for batteries.
Why do batteries come in different sizes?
Before we delve into the different battery sizes out there, one question you may have is why are there different battery sizes to begin with? A large part of it is to do with the device itself: smaller devices require smaller batteries, whereas larger devices have the potential to hold bigger batteries. But the other reason is that a battery's power and ability to hold energy rises with its size. It makes sense if you think about it: bigger battery size = greater power the battery holds. Therefore, battery size has a correlation with the battery's lifespan and longevity.
Common Battery Sizes
AA Batteries
AA batteries, sometimes called "Double A" batteries, are the most common battery size around the world. When you think of batteries, you probably imagine an AA battery. It is a cylindrical in shape, and measures 14.5 x 50.5mm (D x H). It is used in many household and office devices that you use everyday, from remote controls to toys to many, many other items.
At GP Batteries, AA batteries come in both alkaline (single-use) and rechargeable forms, thus you can purchase whichever type of AA battery that suits your usage and lifestyle.
AAA Batteries
AAA batteries, sometimes called "Triple A" batteries, are the second most common battery size behind its AA counterpart. Think of it as the younger sibling of the AA battery: it is smaller and slimmer in stature, measuring 10.5 x 44.5mm (D x H). Like AA batteries, AAA batteries are used in many electronic devices, often those that are smaller or narrower in design, such as thermometers, laser pointers, calculators and so on.
Like its AA counterpart, GP's range of AAA batteries includes both single-use alkaline batteries and rechargeable batteries, giving you the flexibility to use the technology that best suits your lifestyle.
C Batteries
Now we get into the common battery sizes that you may not have heard of. First up is the C Battery, a bigger and wider cylindrical battery that looks like an AA battery zoomed in. Measuring 26.2 x 50mm (D x H), it is a similar height to an AA battery but wider in diameter. Because it is bigger in size, this means it holds more power than AA and AAA batteries. Therefore, C batteries are most widely used in toys, flashlights and other devices that demand a lot of power and energy.
Some battery brands stop offering rechargeable batteries beyond the common AA and AAA sizes, but not us. At GP, we believe that rechargeable is the future, so we are dedicated to providing as many rechargeable battery options as possible. So whether you just need one C battery, or you have frequently used devices that run on C batteries, we have the power solution for you.
D Batteries
Just like the C battery is the bigger cousin of the AA battery, a D battery is the biggest of the lettered battery clan. Measuring 34.2 x 61.5mm (D x H), it is still a cylindrical battery but taller and wider compared to the rest. As they are the biggest of the bunch, it also means they pack the biggest punch. Therefore, D batteries are used to power heavy-use commercial devices that need prolonged power, such as radios and stereos, flashlights and soap dispensers.
9V Batteries
We were on a letter theme; why the change to numbers?! Think of it as the letter-only battery clan are cylindrical batteries, but when a number is introduced, the shape changes slightly. 9V batteries are rectangular batteries, measuring 26.5 x 17.5 x 48.5mm (L x W x H).
9V stands for 9 Volt, indicating the greater power and energy these batteries contain compared to the common cylindrical batteries (which normally have the voltage of 1.5V). Therefore, 9V batteries are often used in gadgets that require high voltage and substantial continuous power such as smoke detectors and walkie-talkies.
Other Specialty Batteries
Coin Batteries
Sometimes referred to as button batteries or button cell batteries, coin batteries are exactly as the name describes: they are a flat, circular battery in the shape of a coin. They are most often used in small but energy-demanding products such as car key fobs, thermometers, health monitors and so on. As a result, they often use lithium technology, which lasts longer and results in a lighter battery.
Most coin batteries have size or reference codes that start with "CR", which denotes that it is a lithium battery. It is then followed by 4 digits, which describe the size of the coin battery. For instance, a CR2032 cell is a flat lithium coin battery which has a 20mm diameter (when measured across) and is 3.2mm thick. A CR2025 battery, meanwhile, measures 20mm across but is 2.5mm thick. CR2032 is the most common coin battery size, but other popular sizes include CR2025 and CR2450 as well.
What size battery do I need?
The correct battery size you need will depend on the device you are looking to power. The most common battery size is AA, followed by AAA, but there are a variety of other shapes and sizes to suit different devices. For instance, most modern car key fobs use lithium coin batteries such as CR2032. Therefore, it is best to check the device itself, as often the required battery size is etched or printed in the designated battery space.
Should I buy alkaline or rechargeable batteries?
For common battery sizes such as AA or even C batteries, GP provides the option of both single-use alkaline and rechargeable batteries. Both types of batteries have the same size, so they will fit into your device (provided you buy the right one for the product!) without issue.
If you don't use many batteries at home, single-use alkaline batteries are more economical and convenient. If you are a single household, or you don't have many electronics such as electronic toys that need to be powered, then single-use, disposable alkaline batteries will likely suffice. Just make sure you know how to properly dispose of and recycle your batteries when they run out of power, as improper disposal can lead to unexpected fires and other health hazards.
If you use a lot of batteries in your household and you are constantly throwing out and cycling through batteries, you may want to consider making the switch to rechargeable batteries. While rechargeable batteries cost more than single-use ones from the onset, they are the economical choice in the long run. At GP, our rechargeable batteries can be recharged and reused over hundreds of times, saving you money and time as well as being the sustainable choice.
For specialty batteries such as coin and button cell batteries, while they are also single-use and disposable, they use lithium technology which have a much longer life cycle, are often lighter, and are much more durable in different temperatures. Therefore, even if there isn't a rechargeable option, the lithium technology ensures the battery can last years, especially GP coin batteries which holds 30% more power compared to the average.
Whichever type of battery you choose, GP has them all to power your everyday. As one of the leading battery manufacturers in the world, you can trust GP to power your life while keeping you and your loved ones safe.
