Lithium Batteries Pricing and Costs

Obtain information on lithium batteries to save money and prolong power supply
By Michelle Cramer When you compare the power supply and life of a lithium battery to an alkaline battery, there is no contest – the lithium battery wins hands down. The slower discharge of power allows for a lithium battery to last two-to-three times longer than an alkaline battery, even in high energy devices, such as digital cameras.

You will notice when looking at lithium batteries pricing and costs that they are much more expensive than other batteries. That is because lithium battery makers must spend more on the elements to make these batteries and recognize the significant advantages lithiums have over other battery types. Consider the following options:

1. Lithium batteries come in AAA and AA sizes.

2. Many digital cameras now only take 3-volt lithium batteries.

3. A lithium-ion battery is rechargeable and used in most large electronics.

Replace your alkaline batteries with lithium batteries

Most small electronics and other battery powered devices take AAA or AA sized batteries. While lithium batteries don't match all of the available alkaline battery sizes, the most commonly used are available.
Try:  Energizer is the most well-known among lithium battery manufacturers. You can find a four pack of their AA e2 lithium batteries through REI for just over $10 or Optics Planet for less than $7.

Power small electronics with three-volt lithium batteries

Known as size 123 or 123A, these three-volt batteries are not available in any other type besides lithium. They are typically available for use in point-and-shoot cameras, camera accessories (such as flashes), tactical flashlights and security systems.
Try:  The Battery Station offers its own brand of lithium 123 and 123A batteries for an average of $1.50 each. Other brands they offer range from $2 to $3 each. Buy bulk packages of six, 12, 50 or 400 Duracell lithium 123 batteries at an average of $2 to $4 per battery from Medic Batteries.

Recharge electronics with lithium-ion batteries

Unlike regular lithium batteries, a lithium-ion battery is rechargeable. It also holds more energy than most other rechargeable batteries and discharges that energy over a longer period of time, giving your device more power longer than any other battery would. That is why, predominately, digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, camcorders, cell phones and laptops use lithium-ion batteries as their power source.
Try:  Purchase lithium-ion laptop batteries from Ritz Interactive for $60 to $230. At Battery prides itself on being one of the world’s largest online suppliers of lithium batteries, in addition to alkaline and lithium-ions. Search the lithium-ion batteries they offer by electronic device. Their lithium-ions range from $9 to $300, depending on the size.

• You must recycle lithium batteries. They are highly flammable and can ignite if exposed to high temperatures, so it is safest for you and the environment if you recycle them. Typically the lithium battery providers you purchase from can take the dead battery back and recycle it for you.