Duracell CopperTop alkaline

Disposable alkaline batteries get less attention in reviews than newer types, but the most recent review at Consumer Reports compares Duracell CopperTop batteries with 15 other sets of disposables. Smaller comparison tests at PC Magazine and USA Today also include Duracell CopperTop batteries -- but mostly as a baseline for reviewing batteries that use newer technology. A handful of owners review Duracell CopperTop batteries at Amazon.com.

Some tests find Duracell CopperTop batteries outlast other disposable alkalines by a nose. Reviews say it's best to stick with a well-known brand such as this one, though some store brands can also be good buys. Among good brands, though, reviewers recommend just buying the least expensive alkaline batteries available at the time, since price differences outweigh any other advantage. Since alkaline batteries hold their charge for a long time, it's safe to stock up when you find a good sale. Reviews say disposable alkaline batteries are the best value for low-drain electronics like smoke detectors. For most devices, though, reviews recommend the pre-charged Sanyo eneloop (*est. $10 for a four-pack) since they can be recharged up to 1,000 times.