Consider the following types of batteries when making your next purchase:

Lithium Batteries are replacing some of the older technologies such as alkaline. The advantages of this type of battery are longer shelf life and the ability to function within a wider range of temperatures. They are widely used in devices such as battery backups, cameras and calculators.

Silver Oxide Batteries have one of the highest densities, which makes them good for devices with push button operation. They are often used in watches, calculators, cameras and hearing aids. Due to the cost of silver, however, they are only produced in a limited number of sizes.

Ultra Batteries are redesigned alkaline batteries for high-tech, high-drain devices such as cellular phones, digital cameras and personal organizers. They last up to 50% longer than regular alkaline batteries and increase the performance levels of the devices they power. The added power should not, however, be a cause for concern. Ultra batteries are safe to use in all devices that require alkaline batteries.

There are several performance-related issues that you will have to evaluate when making your battery purchase. Take a moment to look at these three areas.



Which type of battery would work better for your product: Primary or Secondary batteries?

Primary batteries are the standard "one time use" batteries. Secondary batteries are rechargeable and can be used many times. Although secondary batteries have their advantages, the amount of time that is needed for recharging the batteries for your device may be a deterrent in making that type of purchase.

Although not always considered during the buying process, shelf life is one of the main indicators of quality. Consumers typically assume that an unused battery in its original packaging is at full power. However, a battery loses energy over time even if it's unused. Based on industry standards, a battery that cannot deliver at least 80 percent of its power potential is useless.

Cost is usually taken into consideration when purchasing batteries. With this kind of purchase, the cheaper option is typically not the best one. A quality battery will cost more initially but it will pay for itself in the long run by lowering replacement costs.