Duracell Plus Power AA LR6 alkaline batteries, pack of 16

Before using that one, you'll need to check that your toy or accessory works with AA batteries — it's the most common size in the world, and for good reason. I recommend always keeping a supply on hand, especially if you have several battery-powered toys. There's nothing more frustrating than an evening being cut short because the batteries ran out.

AA batteries have existed since 1907, but they were standardized by ANSI in 1947. Today, they power hundreds of millions of devices. The technical nomenclature refers to alkaline batteries as LR6 and rechargeable NiMH batteries as HR6. The nominal voltage is 1.5 V (rechargeable batteries provide 1.2 V). Lithium AA batteries offer greater capacity, but at a higher price.

Technical specifications of Duracell AA batteries

Each Duracell AA battery measures 51 mm in length and 14 mm in diameter — the universal standard. The voltage is 1.5 V out of the box. LR6 alkaline batteries like these have an approximately 6-year shelf life when stored unused and provide stable power during use. Compared with lithium batteries (which last up to 9 years), alkaline batteries are more affordable and sufficient for most everyday uses.

Available AA battery formats and technologies

You'll find several types of AA batteries on the market: alkaline (Duracell, Energizer, generic), zinc-carbon (basic, short-lasting), lithium (premium, long-lasting), and rechargeable NiMH (eco-friendly, reusable). Modern rechargeable batteries reach 2850 mAh and are sold “precharged” — you can use them right out of the box. For your sex toys, I consider Duracell alkaline batteries a reliable and affordable choice. If you use them frequently, rechargeable batteries quickly become more economical.

Typical uses for AA batteries

• Battery-powered vibrators and sex toys
• Remote controls (TVs, air conditioners, connected toys)
• Wireless keyboards and mice
• Portable electric shavers
• Flashlights and headlamps
• Wall clocks and alarm clocks

For your intimate accessories, AA batteries are the standard power source. They fit easily into the battery compartments of compact vibrators. Between us, I've seen thousands of them go through the shop — they're the accessory people always forget to buy with a new toy. So make sure you keep a supply on hand.

Care and storage of AA batteries

Store your batteries in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Don't leave them lying around in contact with metal objects (they could short-circuit). Once they're used up, recycle them at a specialized collection point — batteries contain heavy metals. For your sex toys, remove the batteries if you won't be using them for several weeks (to prevent chemical leaks).

If you're looking for rechargeable alternatives to reduce your environmental footprint, I recommend checking out our comprehensive guide Beginner's sex toy guide: how to choose, use, and love it from the very first time — it also covers toy power supplies. You'll also find suitable cleaners for maintaining your accessories between uses.

A friend's advice — Always buy an extra pack of AA batteries when you purchase a vibrator. You'll thank me the day you need them at midnight on a Sunday.