Last updated on March 16th, 2024 at 10:52 am
Batteries are an important part of our daily life, powering most of the electronic devices around us such as remote controls, flashlights, toys, and more. AA, AAA, and AAAA batteries are the most common types of batteries, but they have significant differences that affect their performance, capacity, and usage.
In this article, we will compare and contrast the characteristics, specifications, and applications of AA, AAA, and AAAA batteries.
Table of Contents
AA vs AAA vs AAAA battery
The following table summarizes the key specifications and practical differences between AA, AAA, and AAAA batteries.
| Battery Type | Length (mm) | Diameter (mm) | Voltage (V) | Capacity (mAh) | Common Applications |
| AA | 50.5 | 14.5 | 1.5 | 2000-3000 | Remote controls, flashlights, toys |
| AAA | 44.5 | 10.5 | 1.5 | 1000-1200 | Remote controls, wireless keyboards, computer mice |
| AAAA | 42.5 | 8.3 | 1.5 | 200-300 | Laser pointers, penlights, medical devices |
As can be seen from the table, there are distinct differences between AA, AAA, and AAAA batteries, including their size and capacity which affects the power and current draw of the device they are used in.
- AA batteries are the largest and most powerful, making them suitable for applications that require more power or a higher current draw.
- AAA batteries are smaller and have less capacity, making them suitable for devices requiring less power or requiring a lower current.
- AAAA batteries are the smallest and have the lowest capacity, making them suitable for devices that require very little power or have a low current draw.
Let’s discuss each battery in a bit more detail.
AA Batteries
AA batteries are the most widely used battery size, often found in remote controls, flashlights, and toys.
They are 50.5mm in length and 14.5mm in diameter and are typically rated at 1.5V. AA batteries come in a variety of chemistries, including alkaline, lithium, and rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH).
Practical Differences
- The primary practical difference between AA and AAA/AAAA batteries is their size and capacity. AA batteries are larger and have more capacity, making them suitable for devices that require more power or have a higher current draw.
- They are more easily available and more affordable than AAA and AAAA batteries.
Must read: Important Battery Terms & Characteristics Explained (with Examples)
AAA Batteries
AAA batteries are slightly smaller than AA batteries, measuring 44.5mm in length and 10.5mm in diameter. They are also rated at 1.5V and come in alkaline, lithium, and rechargeable NiMH chemistries.
AAA batteries are often used in devices that require less power or have a lower current draw, such as remote controls, wireless keyboards, and computer mice.
Practical Differences
- The primary practical difference between AAA and AA batteries is their size and capacity. AAA batteries are smaller and have less capacity, making them suitable for devices requiring less power or drawing a lower current.
- However, they are more expensive than AA batteries.
AAAA Batteries
AAAA batteries are the smallest of the three battery types, measuring 42.5mm long and 8.3mm in diameter.
They are also rated at 1.5V and are available in alkaline and lithium chemistries. AAAA batteries are usually only used in specialty devices such as laser pointers, penlights, and medical devices.
Practical Differences
- The primary practical difference between AAAA batteries and AA and AAA batteries is their size and capacity. AAAA batteries are the smallest and have the lowest capacity, making them suitable for devices that require very little power or have a low current draw.
- However, they are not easily available and more expensive than AA and AAA batteries.
FAQs
What is the difference between AA and AAA batteries?
The main difference between AA and AAA batteries is their size and capacity. AA batteries are larger and have more capacity than AAA batteries.
Can AA batteries be used in place of AAA batteries?
No, AA batteries cannot be used in place of AAA batteries. While both AA and AAA batteries have the same voltage (1.5 volts), they are different in size and capacity.
Which battery size is best for remote controls?
Both AA and AAA batteries are commonly used for remote controls. However, AAA batteries are typically used more often for smaller remotes, while AA batteries are used more often for more oversized remotes. When choosing a battery size for the remote control, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for optimal performance.
Which battery size is best for digital cameras?
The best battery for digital cameras depends on power needs and usage. AA and AAA batteries are generally compatible, but rechargeable batteries like NiMH or Lithium-ion are recommended for high-powered or frequent use due to their longer lifespan and better performance. Check the camera manual for the recommended battery type and size.
