What are the different battery sizes and types?

We’ve all been there – trying to work out what size battery we need to get our favourite gadgets up and running again. But if you’re baffled by batteries and stumped by sizes, we’ve put together a handy guide to battery sizes to help you find what you’re looking for at Maplin!

Also known as 'double A' batteries, these are one of the most common battery types. This is a basic battery regularly found in everything from clocks to cordless phones to children's toys.

Applications of AA Batteries

1. Consumer Electronics: AA batteries are widely used in consumer electronics for powering a variety of devices, including remote controls, wireless keyboards, computer mice, portable speakers, and electronic toys. Their compatibility and convenience make them a popular choice for everyday gadgets.

2. Household Appliances: AA batteries are also used in a range of household appliances, such as flashlights, wall clocks, smoke detectors, and portable radios. These batteries provide reliable power for essential items that require a compact and portable energy source. However, the most common 1.5V batteries are relatively weak compared to other battery types, especially modern ones.

3. Photography and Imaging: In the realm of photography and imaging, AA replaceable batteries are commonly used to power digital cameras, flash units, and camera accessories. Their standard size and availability make them an accessible power solution for photographers and videographers on the go.

4. Emergency Preparedness: AA and AAA batteries play a vital role in emergency preparedness kits and survival gear, providing power for flashlights, radios, emergency beacons, and other essential items during power outages or natural disasters.

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Also known as 'triple A' batteries, these batteries work well for household devices such as remote controls or kitchen timers. They are smaller than AA batteries. This type of battery is made of an electrolyte, a positive electrode (anode), a negative electrode (cathode), and other parts.

Applications of AAA Batteries

1. Consumer Electronics: AAA batteries are widely used in small devices that don't require that much power, including remote controls, digital cameras, handheld game consoles, portable radios, and electronic toys. Their small size and compatibility make them a popular choice for compact gadgets.

2. Household Appliances: AAA batteries are also used in a range of household appliances , such as compact flashlights, wall clocks, small kitchen gadgets, and bathroom scales. These batteries provide reliable power for essential items that require a portable energy source.

3. Travel and On-the-Go: AAA batteries are ideal for travel and on-the-go use due to their small size and versatility. They can power portable devices such as flashlights, portable fans, travel alarms, and emergency radios, ensuring you're prepared for any situation while on the road or outdoors.

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Heavy-duty batteries which are commonly used for toys or portable radios. Whether used in portable electronics, household appliances, or toys and games, C batteries provide the energy needed to keep our devices running smoothly.

Applications of C Batteries

1. Portable Electronics: C batteries are commonly used in portable electronic devices that require larger power sources, such as portable radios, lanterns, flashlights, and handheld gaming consoles. Their higher capacity and longer lifespan make them ideal for powering these types of devices during outdoor activities, camping trips, and emergencies.

2. Household Appliances: C batteries are also used in a range of household appliances, such as battery-operated fans, electric shavers, electronic toothbrushes, and power tools. These batteries provide reliable power for essential items that require a larger and more robust energy source.

3. Toys and Games: C batteries are frequently used in larger toys and games that require sustained power, such as remote-control cars, robots, and electronic musical instruments. Their high capacity and long lifespan ensure uninterrupted playtime for children and enthusiasts alike.

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These are mostly used in devices that need power over an extended period of time, such as flashlights. Users can choose between alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, and other materials.

Applications of D Batteries

1. Emergency Preparedness: D batteries are indispensable for emergency preparedness kits, powering devices like emergency radios, lanterns, and flashlights. Their reliable performance and long-lasting power make them essential during power outages and other emergencies.

2. Outdoor Recreation: D batteries are commonly used in outdoor recreational equipment such as large flashlights, camping lanterns, and portable radios. Their high capacity and extended lifespan ensure reliable performance during camping trips, hiking adventures, and other outdoor activities.

3. Industrial Equipment: In industrial settings, D batteries power a variety of equipment, including portable tools, wireless sensors, and monitoring devices. Their robust construction and battery cell energy reserves make them suitable for demanding industrial applications.

4. Large Electronics: D batteries are also found in larger consumer electronics such as boomboxes, portable CD players, and musical instruments. Their high electrical energy amount and reliable performance ensure uninterrupted entertainment and audio playback.

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You can easily identify 9V batteries by their rectangular shape. They are durable and deliver a lot of power, making them ideal for smoke alarms, portable electronics and many other devices.

Applications of 9V Batteries

1. Smoke Detectors and Alarms: This type of battery technology is useful for smoke detectors and alarms due to their reliability and long-lasting power . These batteries provide the energy needed to ensure continuous operation and reliable performance in critical safety devices.

2. Audio Equipment: 9V batteries power a variety of audio equipment, including wireless microphones, guitar pedals, effects processors, and electronic tuners. Their high voltage output and stable performance make them ideal for powering audio devices in live performances, recording studios, and rehearsals.

3. Testing and Measurement Devices: 9V batteries are used in testing and measurement devices such as digital multimeters, stud finders, and voltage testers. Their stable voltage output and compact size make them suitable for powering portable instruments used in electrical diagnostics and construction projects.

4. Wireless Devices: 9V batteries are also used in wireless devices such as remote controls, doorbells, and wireless keyboards. Their high voltage output and specialized connectors make them compatible with a variety of battery-powered wireless gadgets.

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These compact round batteries are commonly used in things such as watches and calculators, delivering lost-lasting, reliable power. There are different coin cell battery sizes available.

Applications of Coin Cell Batteries

1. Wristwatches and Clocks: Some of the most common battery applications include power wristwatches , digital clocks, and other timekeeping devices. Their compactness and long-lasting power make them ideal for providing reliable timekeeping in small electronic gadgets.

2. Calculators and Electronic Devices: Coin cell batteries are also used in calculators, electronic thermometers, and other small electronic devices. Their stable voltage output and compact form factor make them suitable for powering these types of gadgets.

3. Key Fobs and Remote Controls: These are primary batteries for key fobs, remote controls, and other wireless devices that require compact power sources. Their long shelf life and stable voltage output ensure reliable performance in these applications.

4. Medical Implants and Devices: In the medical field, coin cell batteries are used to power various implantable medical devices such as pacemakers, hearing aids, and glucose monitors. Their dimensions and long-lasting power make them ideal for powering these critical healthcare devices.

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Also known as Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries or LFP batteries, these tend to be used for smaller electric vehicles, such as golf carts and trolleys, RVs, and electric motorcycles. These specialty batteries have a longer lifespan than lead acid batteries, while offering a high-energy performance.

Applications of LiFePO4 Batteries

1. Solar Energy Storage Systems: These high-energy density batteries rely on oxide and other substances. They are employed in solar energy storage systems to store excess energy generated by solar panels during the day for use during periods of low sunlight or at night. Their longevity and fast charging capabilities make them ideal for renewable energy applications.

2. Marine and RV Applications: LiFePO4 batteries are increasingly popular in marine and recreational vehicle (RV) applications, where reliability, safety, and long battery life are essential. With the right battery, users can power onboard electronics, appliances, and auxiliary systems, providing a dependable energy source for extended periods.

3. Backup Power Systems: LiFePO4 batteries are used in backup power systems to provide emergency power during grid outages or electrical failures. Their long cycle life and fast charging capabilities ensure reliable backup power for critical infrastructure and data centres.

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When it comes to camera battery sizes and types, it’s important to know the model of the camera you want to use it with. Check this first, as many camera batteries call out the specific models they can work with!

Applications of Camera Batteries

1. Professional Photography: This kind of battery is essential for professional photographers who rely on their equipment to capture high-quality images in various environments. Users can recharge lithium-ion batteries, otherwise called li-ion batteries. Lithium ions offer the versatility and reliability needed for demanding professional applications.

2. Amateur Photography: Amateur photographers also benefit from reliable camera batteries , whether they're capturing family memories, exploring new hobbies, or documenting travel adventures. Rechargeable batteries provide a cost-effective and sustainable power solution for occasional photography needs.

3. Videography and Filmmaking: In addition to still photography, camera batteries are crucial for videographers and filmmakers who use digital cameras to record videos and documentaries. Long-lasting batteries with high capacities are essential for extended video recording sessions.

4. Outdoor and Adventure Photography: For outdoor and adventure photographers exploring remote locations or challenging environments, reliable camera batteries are essential for capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife. Portable chargers and backup batteries can provide additional power for extended expeditions. Full charge NIMH batteries, NICD batteries, or AGM batteries will last for a long time even if you record constantly.

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