7 Ways They’re Different

There are many types of alkaline batteries, but the most popular are AA and AAA batteries. Both types of batteries offer a wide range of applications in our everyday devices, such as toys, TV remotes, wall clocks and digital cameras. However, the two batteries differ in various aspects such as size, use cases and price. The amount of electrochemical materials in the two batteries also varies, meaning they also provide different power capacities. In this article, we will compare the two batteries side by side, look at their main differences and understand how they are used in different devices.

AA vs. AAA Batteries: A Side-by-Side Comparison

AA vs. AAA Batteries: An Overview

AA batteries use dry cell technology to power small electronic devices that don’t require a lot of power. They contain a moist medium or paste charged with electrolytes allowing the passage of electric current. AA batteries have been around for over 100 years and are still effective in modern devices. Although technology has advanced greatly and many devices use rechargeable batteries, dry cell batteries are still important for powering most portable devices.

It is important to note that the name AA has no special meaning. Instead, it is a name for a standard battery size with a nominal voltage. These batteries are larger than AAA and are primarily used for devices such as TV remotes, wall clocks, portable kitchen gadgets and flashlights.

On the other hand, AAA batteries, also known as Triple A, are smaller than AA batteries, and the name represents nothing more than what type of battery size they are. They are second in popularity among dry cell batteries after AA. They too have been around for over 100 years, but arrived four years after AA.

Unlike AA batteries, they have a smaller power capacity and are more efficient for devices such as remote controls, smaller toys and kitchen timers.

AA or AAA batteries: what’s the difference?

If you’re looking for alkaline batteries, it’s easy to confuse AA batteries with AAA batteries. Although both batteries perform similar functions, there are a few things that set them apart. Here are the main differences between AA and AAA.

Size

Size is the most noticeable difference between the two batteries. Both have the same cylindrical shape but different sizes. The AA is taller, wider and generally taller than its AAA counterparts. Their standard size is 50.5mm (height) x 14.5mm (diameter). AAA has a smaller diameter and length to accommodate smaller toys. They measure 44.5mm (height) x 10.5mm (diameter).

Ability

Battery capacity refers to the amount of charge generated by electrochemical reactions in the battery. It is measured in ampere-hours or milliamps per hour (mAh). The two batteries have different capacities mainly due to their size difference.

AAA contains smaller electrochemical materials and therefore capacity is limited. It offers capacities from 350 to 1200 milliamps per hour. The AA battery, being larger, contains more electrochemical material, delivering up to 2000 – 3000 mAh, which is three times the capacity of AAA.

Duration

Just as their sizes and capacities are different, batteries have different operating times. AA batteries last longer than AAA batteries because they contain more energy. You can’t compare 3000mAh with 13000mAh; the difference is clear. AA batteries will last more than twice the life of AAA batteries.

Use it

Many people have a basic understanding of how batteries work. They recognize that AA and AAA batteries are commonly used and can power a variety of devices, from remote controls to smoke detectors. However, confusion can arise as to the appropriate battery size for each device.

In general, high-drain devices such as digital cameras require AA batteries, while low-drain devices such as TV remotes are best suited for AAA batteries. Regardless, it’s always advisable to refer to your device’s user manual to make sure you’re using the right size battery. It’s also wise to keep a variety of battery sizes available to avoid running out of power unexpectedly.

The duration of the call

The length of time a battery can be stored before being used is called its shelf life. Generally, AA and AAA batteries have a relatively long life of around ten years. However, different types of batteries may have different shelf lives. Alkaline batteries, for example, tend to last longer than lithium-ion batteries. In fact, they have a higher internal resistance than lithium batteries, which affects their output voltage. The date of manufacture will also determine their expiration date.

Older batteries will not have the same life as newer batteries. Regardless, it’s important to store both batteries properly to maintain their functionality. Keep them away from sunlight, humidity and high temperatures, which can affect their internal composition and battery life. Extremely cold temperatures can reduce the chemical reactions of alkaline batteries. This explains why some batteries crack or leak in cold weather.

AA vs. AAA Batteries: 7 Ways They’re Different Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main difference between AA and AAA batteries?

The AA is taller, wider and generally taller than its AAA counterparts. Their standard size is 50.5mm (height) x 14.5mm (diameter). AAA has a smaller diameter and length to accommodate smaller toys. They measure 44.5mm (height) x 10.5mm (diameter).

Which lasts longer, AA or AAA batteries?

AA batteries last longer than AAA batteries because they contain more energy.

Which battery is used in the wall clock, AA or AAA?

Most wall clocks use AA.

What happens if you use AAA batteries instead of AA?

Both batteries are of the same voltage. Therefore, no significant difference will be felt. If the battery bay can accommodate both, you can use them interchangeably.

What is the voltage of AA and AAA batteries?

AA and AAA have about 1.5V.