What exactly is a battery?

Batteries are devices that store energy to be used later. Chemical energy is changed into electricity, to power your remote, bathroom scale, boat, car - or thousands of other battery-operated items!

How many different kinds of batteries are there?

Almost too many to count! Batteries are typically classified by whether or not they're rechargeable, and then by what elements they use to create electricity. Alkaline batteries are the most popular among the non-rechargeable types, while Nickel-Cadmium and Nickel - Metal Hydride are tops among rechargeable batteries.

How long should my batteries last?

There's no simple answer to that question. Some factors that affect battery life are usage, temperature, and (in the case of rechargeables) how they're maintained and recharged.

What is the "memory effect" that happens with some batteries?

Some types of batteries, particularly NiCad and NiMH, can experience a decreased capacity if you don't regularly let the battery discharge all the way to empty before recharging. For example, if you keep your cell phone on a charger and don't ever take the battery down to zero, your battery can "forget" that it can discharge and you wind up with lower capacity. The solution? Let your battery fully charge and discharge at least once every 2-3 weeks.

Can I recycle my batteries?

Sometimes. You shouldn't put them in your weekly recyclables/trash, however. Look for a collection point in your area, or see if your local government has any scheduled drop-off dates.

Will my batteries really last longer if I keep them in the fridge?

Actually, that depends. Most batteries used to be made of zinc-carbon, which did last longer when stored at colder temperatures. But, that doesn't apply to today's alkaline batteries - so with your typical non-rechargeable battery, it's better to store it at room temperature. Most battery manufacturers don't recommend storing any batteries in the fridge these days: the benefits are too small to be worth it, and the moisture in your appliance could corrode the casing or terminals (and who wants a toxic leak in the fridge!).

Which battery is better for everyday use: rechargeables or not?

Six of one, half a dozen of the other, in most cases. You'll notice with rechargeables that they start to lose their charge more quickly as you use them (see above regarding "memory effect"). But, they're more eco-friendly than alkaline: think about how many times you have to recharge your batteries on your favorite gaming remotes, for example, and you'll see how many batteries would wind up in the garbage if they're not rechargeable! It's a matter of preferences and priorities, for most people.

Is it less expensive to buy my batteries online?

Depending on where you shop, yes. There are several reputable online battery stores that offer great deals and an even more impressive selection. That's important at times of the year when it seems like everyone needs batteries: you don't have to worry about leaving the store empty-handed. You also get the added convenience of having your batteries delivered right to your home or office: no trip to the store necessary.

Best Battery Stores for April 2026 | Top Consumer Reviews

Item: The Best Battery Stores - Summary Reviews
Rating: 5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Friday, April 10th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2026 Battery Store Reviews

Where are the Best Battery Stores Out There Today? Almost every piece of tech you can think of runs on batteries (with a few exceptions). While most of us immediately think of the Energizer Bunny and putting the AAAs in the slot the wrong way every time (guilty as charged), there are all kinds of batteries you might need to keep your life running as it should.

5.0

EXCELLENT

Best Option

Walmart

Alkaline batteries priced from $3.68 to $232.31
Multi-packs up to 1,000 batteries
Car batteries offered

Read Full Review

EXCELLENT

5.0

On the Walmart website

Walmart might not be the first place you think of as a battery store, but it should be. It offers thousands of options, from household-use batteries to car batteries, at competitive prices. You can find top brands like Duracell and Energizer, and most orders include free shipping or in-store pickup. With a generous return policy, options for less common battery types, and extra perks through Walmart+, it's the top choice for your next battery shopping spree.

4.5

GREAT

Great

Amazon

Alkaline batteries priced from $0.96 to $799.99
Multi-packs up to 144 batteries
Autoship for discounts

Read Full Review

GREAT

4.5

On the Amazon website

Amazon is an "everything" store, and it's actually one of the most convenient spots to shop for batteries - thanks to its massive selection, low prices, and fast shipping. With everything from AA packs to hearing aid and scooter batteries, you can find almost any kind of battery you need, plus get extra savings through coupons and its autoship program. Amazon earns high marks as a battery store for its variety and ease of use.

4.0

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Battery Mart

Alkaline batteries priced from $4.95 to $469.95
Multi-packs up to 156 batteries
Free shipping on some items

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

4.0

On the Battery Mart website

Battery Mart is a trusted online battery store known for great prices and hard-to-find battery types, with strong reviews from customers and an "A+" BBB rating. It offers a 60-day return window and free shipping on select items, though you'll have to cover return shipping yourself. While the selection for everyday batteries like AAs and 9Vs is a bit limited, the quality and value make it a solid choice if you're looking for something specific, earning a high rating in our review.

3.5

GOOD

Good

Only Batteries

Alkaline batteries priced from $0.49 to $773.99
Multi-packs up to 1,000 batteries
Packs with multiple battery sizes

Read Full Review

GOOD

3.5

On the Only Batteries website

Only Batteries is a solid online battery store with over 2,300 battery types, including well-known brands like Duracell and Energizer. The website isn't the easiest to use, and returns come with some fees. On the other hand, many shoppers keep coming back for the wide variety and good deals on bulk packs. If you're looking to stock up on household or rechargeable batteries, this is a great battery store to check out, earning Only Batteries a solid rating in our review.

3.0

AVERAGE

Average

Best Buy

Alkaline batteries priced from $4.99 to $32.99
Multi-packs up to 48 batteries
Free shipping for Plus members

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AVERAGE

3.0

On the Best Buy website

Best Buy is a great battery store if you're already shopping for electronics and want to pick up some household batteries along the way. It has a decent selection of AA and AAA batteries, and Best Buy Plus members can score better deals and longer return windows. While prices are a bit higher for non-members at this battery store, and customer service reviews are mixed, it's still a convenient stop for both batteries and tech gear.

2.5

FAIR

Fair

Battery Ship

AA battery packs priced from $23.01 to $98.15
Unique batteries even for discontinued items
Free shipping in 48 states

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FAIR

2.5

On the Battery Ship website

Battery Ship is a great battery store to find hard-to-get batteries for things like medical equipment or older devices, but it's not the best option for everyday household needs. The site offers free shipping with no minimum, along with bulk order discounts, though returns come with restocking and shipping fees. While there is some praise for quality at this battery store, the website can be tricky to use and the customer service reviews are mixed. Battery Ship is best for those who know exactly what kind of specialty battery they're looking for, which is why it doesn't earn a higher rating.

2.0

SUBPAR

Subpar

BatteriesPlus

Alkaline batteries priced from $4.40 to $40,158.72
Multi-packs up to 16,000+ batteries
Daily discount deals

Read Full Review

SUBPAR

2.0

On the BatteriesPlus website

BatteriesPlus is a convenient battery store for picking up household batteries, light bulbs, and getting your phone or car key fixed. This battery store carries trusted brands and often offers sitewide discounts, though shipping isn't free unless you pick it up in-store. However, with multiple complaints about poor customer service and issues with car battery warranties, it's best for basic home-use batteries rather than larger purchases.

1.5

WEAK

Weak

Battery World

Alkaline batteries priced from $1.95 to $64.99
Multi-packs up to 24 batteries
Includes some vehicle batteries

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WEAK

1.5

On the Battery World website

Battery World is a battery store that's worth a look if you're specifically shopping for rechargeable or specialty batteries, but it falls short in other areas. The selection of standard household batteries is small, and the return policy is strict with possible restocking fees. While there are occasional big discounts, mixed customer reviews and limited support make it harder to recommend Battery World for everyday power needs.

1.0

POOR

Poor

Battery Junction

Alkaline batteries priced from $0.23 to $361.20
Multi-packs up to 620 batteries
Free shipping on orders $50+

Read Full Review

POOR

1.0

On the Battery Junction website

Battery Junction is a solid option if you're into outdoor gear and want to pick up batteries from trusted brands like Duracell and Energizer at the same time. This battery store has a wide selection of household batteries at low prices, plus free shipping on orders over $50. However, the return policy includes extra fees and short deadlines, and customer reviews warn customers that refunds are almost non-existent. For this reason, Battery Junction is best for outdoorsmen who want batteries at the same time, but may not be ideal for the average shopper looking for a convenient battery store.

0.9

POOR

Poor

Batteries Inc

Alkaline batteries priced from $0.90 to $111.60
Multi-packs and battery packs for home appliances
Up to 50% off for discounts

Read Full Review

POOR

0.9

On the Batteries Inc website

Batteries Inc has been around for over 50 years and carries trusted brands like Duracell and Energizer, with same-day shipping. However, the selection at this battery store is small, there's a $25 order minimum, and shipping can be pricey, which makes it less ideal for casual shoppers just needing a few batteries. With no customer reviews and a short 14-day return policy, it's hard to recommend Batteries Inc over more reliable, well-known battery stores.

Continued from above...

Where Are the Best Battery Stores Out There Today?

Almost every piece of tech you can think of runs on batteries (with a few exceptions). While most of us immediately think of the Energizer Bunny and putting the AAAs in the slot the wrong way every time (guilty as charged), there are all kinds of batteries you might need to keep your life running as it should.

Think about your phone, your computer, or a game controller. All of those need batteries! Whether you have a dead TV remote to rescue or need to replace the power source for your car, finding a solid place to grab replacement batteries will keep your life running without any frustrating power problems.

There are tons of things that need batteries, but not all are made the same. For most home-use batteries, you can find Alkaline, Nickel Metal Hydride, and Lithium Ion batteries. These use different metals and electrolytes which makes them suited for different purposes. Most household batteries for remote controls, children's toys, and flashlights are Alkaline and are easy to find in battery stores. Lithium batteries are used in devices with heavy electric currents like laptops or cordless power tools (for those of us with home workshops). So, depending on what you need, you might want to search for something specific.

There's also some question about buying for longevity - because some items (Wii remotes, anyone?) seem to eat battery power even when they aren't being used, requiring frequent replacement. From different brands like Duracell, Energizer, Rayovac, and more, you can get different lengths of use. Further, some batteries have rechargeable varieties (yep, even for AA or AAA household batteries), so you can buy a pack and change out and recharge your batteries multiple times, which may appeal to those who like recycling.

The bottom line? If you need a place to buy batteries, you'll want somewhere that offers options. There are so many different types of batteries you might need that finding a solid one-stop shop for your battery store is essential. While there used to be only a few brick-and-mortar stores that specialized in batteries, now you can find plenty of places online to grab everything you need. So, the trick is to find the best batteries for the best deals.

If you're not sure where to start, don't sweat it. We've put together a list of factors to help you sift through the top battery stores available today. Here's what we found:

Cost. Where can you get the best value for your money? Can you buy decent multi-packs with enough batteries to keep your household running? Are there competitive discounts or deals at your chosen battery store?
Inventory. Is your chosen battery store a one-stop shop? Can you get batteries for everyday items as well as more "big ticket" batteries like the one for your car? Make sure you choose a battery store that serves all your needs.
Refund policies. Things happen, and sometimes batteries can stop working too early or aren't working at all. Batteries do have a shelf-life, and you might get in a situation where you need to make a return. Make sure your chosen battery store has a solid refund policy, so you feel safe making your purchases there. .
Reputation. As with any retailer, it's a good idea to check out its reputation both on customer reviews as well as its feedback on third-party review sites like Trustpilot or Sitejabber. It's also helpful to check out a business' rating with the Better Business Bureau too.

To help you find all the batteries necessary for your daily life, Top Consumer Reviews has researched and ranked today's most popular battery stores out there today. Now, you don't need to worry about your favorite remote going out just when you're going to start that new Netflix series, because you'll have a go-to battery store to make sure you never run low on those precious AA, AAA, or D batteries!