9 of the best batteries for powering your portable radio
Contributing Editor
If you’re a fan of portable radio, the best batteries are a must-have purchase. Once you’ve chosen the ideal radio for your adventures, the best batteries for electronics will keep it going strong.
We rely on batteries for countless products in our lives today, from remote controls, to CD players, GPS devices, cameras, and so much more.
Yet, few of us put the right amount of time and effort into choosing the right batteries for our needs.
Picking a great set of batteries ensures that you don’t need to worry about things like running out of charge mid talk show or being unable to check your weather stations when you’re out camping.
The right purchase also reduces the amount you need to spend on restocking batteries.
Here are our top choices for the best batteries to power your radio:
- Energizer Max AA & AAA Combo (best AA & AAA)
- Duracell Optimum AAA (best AAA batteries)
- ACDelco Super Alkaline AA batteries (best budget option)
- POWEROWL Rechargeable (best with charger)
- Energizer Max AA (best AA batteries)
- Rayovac D Batteries (best D batteries)
- Duracell Coppertop 9 Volt (best 9 volt)
- AmazonBasics CR2032 3 Volt Lithium Coin (best coin)
- Energizer Ultimate Lithium (best long-lasting)
1. Energizer Max AA & AAA combo (best AA & AAA)
How aggravating is it when you think your portable radio needs AA batteries, then you suddenly discover that isn’t the case when you’re out in the middle of a hike?
This 24-pack of Energizer batteries will solve that issue for you, by ensuring that you’re stocked up on two of the most common power options around.
The kit contains a selection of AA and AAA batteries from Energizer, featuring the sensational power performance of the brand, which claims to have some of the longest-lasting cells in the industry.
There’s also the benefit of a leak-resistant construction, which means that you don’t have to worry about your batteries bursting in your backpack.
Features include:
- Set of AA and AAA batteries
- Some of the best batteries from Energizer with MAX power
- Leak-resistant construction
- Supports use for up to 2 years with no issues
- Holds power for up to 10 years
- Long-lasting alkaline design
- Full customer service and support
Long-lasting power and innovation are the cornerstones of the Energizer brand.
For years, this company has delivered some of the best batteries for electronics around, so you can feel safe putting them in your portable radio.
These are also some of the best batteries to buy for long-term durability, thanks to their 10 year lifespan.
One slight downside is that you may receive a box with some defective batteries due to quality controls issues.
Pros:
- Combined set of AA and AAA batteries
- Leak resistant construction
- Use regularly for up to 2 years
- Holds power for as long as 10 years
- Alkaline for long-term durability
Cons:
- Some issues with quality control
2. Duracell Optimum AAA (best AAA batteries)
If your portable radio and other essential devices run almost exclusively on AAA batteries, then you’re going to need a set of cells that can stand the test of time. Fortunately, one of the most popular companies in the industry – Duracell – has you covered.
Suitable for smoke alarms, torches, controllers, and your radios, these AAA Optimum batteries deliver extra life for longer.
Delivered in a handy resealable package, the Duracell batteries have their own storage tray, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place for them in your home or kitchen drawer.
There’s also a full guarantee for peace of mind too.
Features include:
- 12 pack of triple A batteries
- Convenient resealable storage tray
- Extra life optimum performance
- Two active materials for all energy
- Proprietary cathode system
- Full battery guarantee
- Premium performance for any device
- 1.5 volt alkaline design
Duracell is one of the most trustworthy brands in the battery sector for a reason.
These revolutionary 1.5 volt Alkaline batteries will work in a wide selection of devices, with excellent long-life performance.
They are a little pricey compared to some of the options available. Plus, these leading batteries don’t come with an expiration date either.
Pros:
- Handy slider pack for convenience
- Optimum long-life performance
- Long-lasting alkaline design
- Proprietary cathode system
- Reliable battery guarantee
Cons:
- A little pricey
- Limited information on the packaging
3. ACDelco Super Alkaline AA batteries (best budget option)
If you’ve already spent most of your budget on a high-performance portable radio, you probably don’t want to spend a fortune on your batteries too. Fortunately, ACDelco has the solution to that.
This 40 pack of AA batteries are some of the most affordable on the market.
Designed to give you access to all the extra power you need, these batteries can support a range of devices, from remote controllers to computer mice and toys.
The Super Alkaline batteries from ACDelco won’t weigh heavily on your conscious either. These products contain no cadmium or mercury, which means that they don’t damage the environment.
If you need affordable batteries that deliver on a budget, these are the best batteries for you.
Features include:
- Environmentally friendly design
- Guaranteed for 10 years in storage
- Alkaline design for durability
- Long-lasting performance in various devices
- 40 batteries in one package
- Handy resealable package
For great value and long-lasting performance, ACDelco has it all.
You’ll have no problem keeping extra power cells on you when you invest in one of these bumper packs.
Just keep in mind that quality control can be a bit of an issue here. Some batteries may not work as well as others.
Pros:
- Affordable high-value pack
- Guaranteed for 10 years in storage
- Alkaline long-lasting design
- 40 batteries in one package
- Environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Quality control isn’t ideal
- May die faster when not stored correctly
4. POWEROWL Rechargeable (best with charger)
These days, you have a range of options when looking for the best batteries.
You can stick with simple solutions like alkaline batteries or opt for a set of rechargeable products that you can use time and time again.
The POWEROWL AA battery pack comes with a high-performance 8 bay battery charger to help you discover the benefits of recharging fast.
These Ni-MH batteries are powerful and reliable, with a 1.2 volt rating and exceptional durability.
You can recharge your cells up to 1200 times without having to worry about damaging your batteries.
Plus, the trickle power charger doesn’t eat up too much electricity.
Features include:
- Set of 8 AA batteries
- 2800mAh rechargeable 1.2 volt
- Long-service life (up to 1200 charges)
- Environmentally friendly design
- 8-port charging station included
- USB micro cable for quick charging
- Long-term durable performance
Easy to use and dependable, these are some of the best batteries to buy when you don’t want to have to keep constantly stocking up.
The charging system comes with indicator lights to show you when your batteries are ready to use, and it can even indicate if a battery is damaged.
It can take a little while for your cells to fully recharge, but at least you don’t have to buy new ones.
Pros:
- Easy to use rechargeable batteries
- Environmentally friendly design
- Lasts up to 12,000 charges
- 8 port charging station included
- Excellent micro USB charger
Cons:
- Can take quite a while to recharge
- No mainline charging option
5. Energizer Max AA (best AA batteries)
Another top contender from the Energizer team, these AA batteries are sure to come in handy for a variety of your electronic devices.
Energizer Max batteries are some of the most reliable lithium cells on the market, offering the perfect leak resistant construction that protects your devices from issues for as long as 2 years.
And because you’re getting an ultra-reliable and durable design for your lithium batteries, they can last up to 10 years in storage too.
Energizer was responsible for the world’s first zero-mercury alkaline battery too. So, if you’re looking for the best batteries to buy that won’t’ negatively impact the planet, Energizer has you covered.
Features of these convenient batteries include:
- 50% longer-lasting than basic alkaline batteries
- Leak-resistant construction protects your devices
- Holds power for up to 10 years
- 24-pack for awesome value
- Completely free from mercury (Eco-friendly)
- Protection for up to 2 years
- Compatible with a range of devices
It’s hard to go wrong with a big name like Energizer when you’re looking for long-lasting batteries to power your portable radio. Unfortunately, there’s no storage container included with this pack, which makes it a bit hard to find a place for them.
You might also struggle to find a “best before” date on the cells too.
Pros:
- Premium lithium batteries
- Eco-friendly with no mercury
- Excellent large pack value
- Holds power for up to 2 years
- Lasts up to 50% longer than other alkaline batteries
Cons:
- No best-before date
- No storage container
6. Rayovac D batteries (best D batteries)
D cell batteries might not be as common for your rechargeable radios than AA or AAA. If you have a particularly chunky device, or a boombox, this could be the product that you need.
The Rayovac aren’t quite as well-known as companies like Energizer and Duracell in the battery landscape, but they excel at delivering high-quality technology.
These high-value D batteries come with long-lasting performance and they can hold their charge for as long as ten years.
Designed in the USA, these cells also promise to protect your devices against leaks and other common problems.
Features include:
- Convenient value pack
- Powerful performance for up to 10 years
- Double tested against leaks
- Perfected over 110 years of brand building
- Excellent resealable package
- Environmentally friendly
Simple and reliable, the Rayovac D batteries are great for portable CD players and similar devices.
Since they can hold their charge for up to 10 years, you can simply place them in a drawer and forget about them until one of your devices runs out of charge.
There is a slight risk that you might receive a damaged package as the company has had some transportation issues in the past.
Pros:
- High value pack with 12 batteries
- 10 year guaranteed performance
- Excellent environmentally friendly design
- Resealable pack for storage
- Double tested to avoid leaks
Cons:
- Occasional issues with delivery
7. Duracell Coppertop 9 volt (best 9 volt)
9 volt batteries are another slightly less common option for recharging your devices. But you may find that you need a set of these batteries for worksite radios and CD players.
Offering the perfect combination of power and performance, the Duracell 9 volt coppertop batteries are guaranteed against any defects in quality or performance, so you can enjoy absolute peace of mind.
Ensuring long-lasting performance, these power cells can survive up to 5 years in storage with no problems.
You get a dependable performance that doesn’t cause too much trouble for the environment.
Features include:
- Durability for up to 5 years in storage
- Pioneering alkaline technology
- Excellent durability in any condition
- Guarantee included for peace of mind
- Excellent for home and business use
A great set of batteries to have on hand for those heavy-duty products around your home, these Duracell 9 volts will get the job done.
If you notice any defects, Duracell will even replace the cells for you, no questions asked.
These batteries are a little pricey – but they’re not the most expensive on the market.
You may also occasionally receive out-of-date products.
Pros:
- Durable performance
- Last up to 5 years in storage
- Guarantee included for peace of mind
- Made with pioneering alkaline technology
Cons:
- Some issues with quality control and old stock
- A little pricey
8. AmazonBasics CR2032 3 volt lithium coin (best coin)
Coin batteries are some of the hardest to replace when you run out of juice in your radio alarm clock or portable music device. Fortunately, AmazonBasics has an affordable and easy-to-use solution.
This set of four lithium coin cell batteries come with an 8-year leak-free shelf life, so you can store them for as long as you need with absolutely no problems.
The 3 volt power is perfect for ensuring excellent performance, and the engravement on the back of the coin keeps you informed about what kind of battery you’re using.
The handy pack even comes with “cut-out” guidelines so you can use one battery at a time.
Features include:
- 4 coin cell batteries
- 8 year leak-free shelf life
- Excellent 3 volt 225mAh capacity
- Engraved for identification
- 1 year limited warranty included
- Easy cut-out storage pack
Reliable and easy-to-use, these are some of the best batteries for those in need of coin cells for smaller products.
There’s even a 1 year limited warranty included for peace of mind.
The biggest issue with these batteries is that the plastic packaging can be a little difficult to cut through.
Pros:
- High value choice for coin batteries
- Excellent engraving for quick identification
- 8 year leak-proof battery life
- 1 year warranty included
- Work with a range of devices
Cons:
- Packaging is difficult to cut through
9. Energizer Ultimate lithium (best long-lasting)
Finally, lithium batteries are usually the most common choice for people in search of the best batteries for electronics.
These products are reliable, long-lasting, and they work with a range of devices – including your portable radio.
For lithium performance, it’s hard to go wrong with the Ultimate lithium AA batteries from Energizer.
These high-performance batteries come in a pack of 24 for extra value, and they promise a completely leak-free construction.
Designed to give you more power for longer, these sensational batteries can hold power for up to 20 years in storage – double the length of most competitors.
That means you’ll always have a source of backup energy available when you need it most.
Features include:
- Up to 20 years of storage life
- 24 pack of the best batteries for lithium users
- Works with a range of devices
- Performs in extreme temperatures
- Excellent anti-leak design
- Environmentally friendly
The ultimate lithium batteries from Energizer don’t just stand the test of time, they also perform in challenging environments too.
Whether you’re in extreme cold (-40 degrees fahrenheit) or extreme height (up to 140 degrees fahrenheit) these batteries continue to work.
They are a little pricier than your standard lithium batteries.
It’s also worth noting that the package isn’t resealable, which makes storage more difficult.
Pros:
- Last up to 20 years in storage
- Excellent proprietary lithium technology
- Performs in extreme temperatures
- Anti-leak design to protect your devices
- Value bumper pack
Cons:
- Package isn’t resealable
- Quite pricey
What are the best batteries for your radio?
Choosing the best batteries for your needs isn’t always as simple as it seems. There are questions to answer, like who makes the best batteries, or what are the best batteries made from? It’s easy to focus too heavily on the wrong things.
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing the best batteries for electronics, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind, such as:
- Size: The size of the battery that you need for your radio will depend on the kind of product you have. Make sure that you double-check the size before you start ordering (just in case). It’s helpful to buy batteries in bulk when you can too if you want to save on extra cash.
- Shelf life: You need your batteries to continue working perfectly when they’re not in your devices. With that in mind, make sure you look for a good shelf-life. Something that lasts at least 5 to 10 years is usually a good bet.
- Design: The best batteries need a durable leak-proof design that won’t end up damaging your equipment when the temperature in your home changes. It’s also worth looking for environmentally friendly batteries too, so you know you’re protecting the world around you.
- Rechargeable: Decide in advance whether you want one-use batteries or rechargeable models. There’s no right answer here – it all depends on your own needs. Rechargeable batteries last longer over time, but they require you to remember to actually recharge them.
- Performance: Most importantly, the best batteries need to give your devices the power they need for as long as possible. Watch out for any reviews that might indicate batteries not lasting as long as they should.
Finding the best batteries might not be the most exciting part of shopping for radio accessories, but it’s an important consideration.
Make the right choice, and you’ll ensure that you always have access to the entertainment you love, wherever you are.
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
Just so you know… This article contains affiliate links. The commission we earn helps to cover our costs, and comes at no additional cost to you. For more information on our affiliate program, please refer to our disclosure policy.
