Best batteries for flashlights, storms

Many of us grabbed flashlights with Superstorm Sandy in the forecast just in case the power goes out.

And many found our batteries dead or dying. So which ones will keep your emergency flashlights and radios charged longest?

Melissa Gabriel is always in need of batteries, because her kids burn through them.

"My friend who'd had kids before said you have no idea how much you're going to need these all the time," she said.

AA batteries are the biggest sellers. They're commonly used in flashlights, digital cameras, remote controls and toys.

Our partners at Consumer Reports Magazine tested a dozen, including big names like Energizer and store brands like Walgreens and CVS.

Testers used a rack to evaluate battery performance. It is programmed to mimic a digital camera and a flashlight.

Tests turn up big differences.

        -The Eveready Gold - the worst batteries - took only 52 shots before dying.

       -The Energizer Ultimate lithium - the best - took 682 shots. But they are expensive, at more than $2.50 per battery.

"Lithium batteries do cost more, but they can be worth it for digital cameras and other high-drain devices," said Sarah Goralski of Consumer Reports.

Alkaline Battery Winners

Among alkaline batteries, top ratings went to:

       -Duracell Ultra Power for about a dollar per battery.

       -Duracell Copper Top came in second place.

While store brands are often as good as name brands, in this case they did not last as long as Duracells.

As always, don't waste your money.

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