Batteries come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny hearing aid cells and batteries that fit in your television remote, to commercial equipment batteries. Where there are batteries, there also has to be some type of battery caddy or battery cell holder. Battery holders are configured for both single cells or multiple cells. Battery racks can hold a single battery or several batteries and are usually available in one, two, or multiple tier configuration. Battery cabinets are basic battery enclosures.

Battery holders come in a variety of sizes to support commercial, industrial, or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries. battery boxes and holders allow for safe retention, and quick, easy replacement of the battery. Types of battery holders include those made of plastic or metal, battery snaps, coin cell, component clips, battery racks, and battery cabinets. Plastic holders are fabricated from molded plastic. Metal holders similar in form to molded plastic holders, but with flexible metal clips into which the batteries are inserted. Battery snaps are snap terminals, typically for 9V batteries. Coin cell battery holders are for round coin cell batteries. Component chips are flexible clips into which batteries are inserted and held under constant spring tension.

Things to consider when purchasing battery boxes or holders or a battery caddy:

1. How easily or quickly might I need to change the battery?

2. How many batteries will I need in one place?

3. Does the material used for the battery holder matter, or will either metal or plastic do?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find battery holders

You should find battery holders wherever you find batteries, but you may have to look harder for a particular configuration of battery holder.

I recommend: GlobalSpec has a detailed listing of providers. Registration is quick and easy, and you can search for a specific type of battery caddy.

Get battery holder info

Learn about the various types of battery holders available. Some hold a single type of battery, while others can hold several batteries of multiple types. Choose the battery holder most likely to get maximum use for your home, business, or outdoor needs.

I recommend: Action Electronics has an extensive listing of holders for lithium coin cell batteries and most standard-size batteries. Batterycaddy.com advertises a handy caddy for a variety of frequently-used household batteries.

Find battery tester and holder information

AA, AAA, C, D, 9v, and button cell batteries sizes can quickly clutter up your tool drawer. After a while, it's hard to remember how old they are, and you have no way of knowing if they are still good.

I recommend: Get a battery tester and holder all in one from BatterySpace.com and clear up the clutter. Store and organize all standard household batteries and even use the built-in battery tester to check your batteries before you use them.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Decide what types of batteries you require for personal, work, and electronics needs. Knowing this information will help narrow down the type(s) of battery holder or battery rack that will be most useful for you.