Do you know the difference between AAA and AA batteries? Most people don’t realize there is a difference, but there is!
These batteries are the most popular batteries used in many household devices. Because the devices we use are of different sizes and strengths, there are different types of batteries used to operate them.
In this post, we’ll explain the differences between these two types of batteries. We’ll also talk about which type of battery is better for certain applications. Stay tuned!
Table of Contents
AA Battery Overview
AA batteries are dry cell batteries that are used to power and help portable electronic devices run.
They are called dry cell batteries because they have balanced moisture that allows enough current to pass through. These batteries have existed for a while as they were invented more than 100 years ago.
Unlike some may think, the letters AA do not mean anything, nor are they abbreviations for any term. The AA batteries are what one would call standard size, and they run on 1.5 voltage.
They are also very common; they are the most common types of batteries being manufactured currently. The AA batteries are considerably bigger than the AAA batteries.
AAA Battery Overview
Just like AA batteries, AAA in AAA batteries do not stand for any term; instead are just an indication of what type of batteries they are. Of course, they are the 2nd most popular type of batteries after the AA batteries.
While the AA batteries were invented in 1907, the AAA batteries followed four years later in 1911. Also known as the Triple A batteries, they are also standard-size single-cell and dry batteries.
Unlike AA batteries, though, they are used to power low-drain devices that require lesser capacity, such as portable equipment. They are also used to power devices like small toys, kitchen timers, remote controllers, etc.
Comparison Between AA Batteries And AAA Batteries
Since we know what these batteries are and their basic characteristics, we can now focus on what makes them different and similar. Below, you will find the list of how to differentiate between these two battery types.
1. Size
Many things make these two batteries different, but the most obvious is their size. Although both batteries are cylindrical, their sizes are still different.
AA batteries are larger, wider, and taller than their counterparts, measuring around 14.5mm x 50.55mm. Meanwhile, the AAA batteries are smaller in length and diameter and more suitable for smaller, low-power devices. They have a measurement of 10.5mm x 44.5mm.
2. Capacity
Usually, a battery’s capacity is measured in Milliamps per hour (mAh), and the AA and AAA batteries are no different. Because it is smaller, the AAA battery capacity is smaller than its counterpart.
AAA batteries have a capacity of 350-1200 Milliamps per hour, while the much bigger AA batteries have more than three times the capacity of AAA batteries. The AA battery capacity measures up to 2000 – 3000 mAh.
3. Duration
Because of the difference in their size and capacity, there is also a difference in their functioning duration. AA batteries last way longer than AAA batteries.
Another reason AAA batteries don’t last as long as AA batteries are that their charge storage capacity is much smaller than AA batteries.
This goes on to say that the electrochemical materials in AAA batteries are not as much as those in AA batteries. While AA batteries are made up of materials like zinc anode and copper cathode, it is not the same for AAA batteries.
4. Usage
Most people have a general understanding of how batteries work – they know that AA and AAA batteries are common sizes and that they power everything from remote controls to smoke detectors.
However, there is often confusion about which size battery to use for which device. AA batteries are generally recommended for high-drain devices like digital cameras, while AAA batteries are better suited for low-drain devices like TV remote controls.
However, it’s always important to consult your device’s owner’s manual to be sure you’re using the correct size battery. In addition, it’s a good idea to keep a variety of different sizes of batteries on hand, so you’re never caught without power.
5. Shelf Life
The shelf life of a battery refers to how long it can be stored before it needs to be used. Both AA and AAA batteries tend to have a long shelf life, generally around 10 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of battery and the manufacturing date.
For example, alkaline batteries tend to have a longer shelf life than lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, batteries that are older may not last as long as newer batteries. To get the most out of your AA and AAA batteries, it is important to store them properly.
Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Additionally, it is best to keep batteries in their original packaging or a protective case to prevent them from coming into contact with metal objects that could cause a short circuit.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your AA and AAA batteries will be ready to use when you need them.
6. Output Voltage
Although they are of different sizes, they have something in common: their output voltage, which is between the range of 1.2 and 1.5 volts. And as time passes, the two similarly lose some of their voltage capacities.
Their voltage is also the same as the big D-type battery, and this is because they are all single cells.
You will have to use more than one cell to get a higher voltage. For example, to get 9-volt batteries, you would need six single cells at once.
7. Cost
The cost of both AA and AAA batteries can vary depending on the brand, type, and where they are purchased. The average price for a pack of four AA or AAA batteries is around $5. However, this can be lower for generic brands or higher for name brands.
Standard generic batteries tend to be considerably cheaper than standard brand-name batteries. The type of battery can vary too. Lithium batteries are usually more expensive than alkaline.
The type of battery can also affect the price, with disposable batteries being less expensive than rechargeable batteries. Finally, these batteries’ costs may differ depending on whether they are bought in-store or online.
Online retailers typically have lower prices but may charge for shipping. Overall, the cost of AA and AAA batteries is not too expensive and can be found for a reasonable price with some comparison shopping.
The Difference Between Rechargeable and Primary Batteries
When it comes to batteries, there are two main types: primary and rechargeable. Primary batteries are designed to be used once and then discarded, while rechargeable batteries can be used over and over again.
AA and AAA batteries are the most common types of primary batteries, and they are typically used in small electronic devices like remote controls and digital cameras. Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries are also available, and they offer a number of advantages over traditional primary batteries.
- Rechargeable batteries can be reused hundreds of times, which saves money in the long run.
- Rechargeable batteries tend to have a higher capacity than primary batteries, meaning they will power your devices for longer before needing to be replaced.
- Rechargeable batteries are better for the environment since they create less waste than primary batteries. You can also get a charger to charge them without a hitch.
- The rechargeable batteries are pretty strong and come in different types, for example, the NiMH batteries, also known as the Nickel Metal-Hydride batteries.
Are AA and AAA Interchangeable?
It’s important to know that you can’t interchange AA and AAA batteries. Which battery you need strictly depends on the requirements of the device. These are usually listed on the packaging.
If you no longer have the packaging, you can use a screwdriver to open the back of the toy or device and see what battery you need.
While it may seem like AA and AAA batteries are similar in size, they are actually quite different and not interchangeable. So, next time you’re looking for a battery, make sure you choose the right one!
Conclusion
AA and AAA batteries are similar, but they have some important differences. Knowing which type of battery your device needs is essential to keeping it running properly.
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the difference between AA and AAA batteries and which one is best for your needs. Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!