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AA vs. AAA — What's the Difference?

Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 18, 2024
AA batteries are larger and typically hold more charge than AAA batteries, which are smaller and used for devices requiring less power.
AA vs. AAA — What's the Difference?

Difference Between AA and AAA

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Key Differences

AA batteries are generally bigger and store more energy, making them suitable for devices like digital cameras and portable music players. Whereas, AAA batteries are smaller and less powerful, often used in remote controls and wall clocks.
AA batteries have a length of about 49.2 to 50.5 mm and a diameter of about 13.5 to 14.5 mm. On the other hand, AAA batteries are smaller, measuring about 44.5 mm in length and 10.5 mm in diameter, making them more suitable for compact devices.
The typical voltage for both AA and AAA batteries is around 1.5 volts, but the capacity of AA batteries is much higher. Whereas, AAA batteries have a lower capacity, which is why they don't last as long as AA batteries in high-drain devices.
AA batteries are heavier due to their larger size and capacity, which can be an important factor in the balance and weight of a device. On the other hand, AAA batteries are lighter, which might benefit devices that need to be lightweight, like small flashlights.
In terms of availability and cost, AA batteries are commonly found and generally cost less per unit of energy delivered. Whereas, AAA batteries, while also widely available, may cost a bit more per unit of energy due to their smaller size and lower energy content.
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Comparison Chart

Size

Larger (49.2-50.5 mm x 13.5-14.5 mm)
Smaller (44.5 mm x 10.5 mm)

Capacity

Higher (usually 2000-3000 mAh)
Lower (usually 1000-1200 mAh)

Voltage

1.5 volts
1.5 volts

Weight

Heavier
Lighter

Suitable Devices

Digital cameras, toys
Remote controls, wall clocks

Compare with Definitions

Aa

Frequently used in a variety of household devices.
We keep a pack of AA batteries for emergencies.

Aaa

Has a lower energy capacity suitable for low-drain devices.
AAA batteries are sufficient for clocks and remote controls.

Aa

Offers higher energy capacity than smaller cells.
AA batteries are ideal for high-drain devices due to their capacity.

Aaa

Also available in disposable and rechargeable variants.
Using rechargeable AAA batteries saves money over time.

Aa

Known for its cylindrical form factor.
The toy requires four AA batteries to operate.

Aaa

A smaller type of dry cell battery typically used in lightweight devices.
The remote control uses two AAA batteries.

Aa

Available in both disposable and rechargeable forms.
I prefer rechargeable AA batteries for environmental reasons.

Aaa

Characterized by its compact cylindrical shape.
AAA batteries are perfect for the small spaces in portable electronics.

Aa

A standard size of dry cell battery commonly used in portable electronic devices.
I replaced the AA batteries in my flashlight.

Aaa

Commonly found in everyday electronic gadgets.
Most TV remotes require AAA batteries to function.

Aa

Lava having a rough surface.

Aaa

(medicine) abdominal aortic aneurysm

Aa

(volcanology) A form of lava flow associated with Hawaiian-type volcanoes, consisting of basaltic rock, usually dark-colored with a jagged and loose, clinkery surface. Compare pahoehoe.

Aaa

(medicine) acquired aplastic anemia

Aa

Initialism of acetic acid

Aaa

(medicine) acute anxiety attack

Aa

Initialism of acting age

Aaa

(medicine) amalgam

Aa

(medical) alveolar-arterial

Aaa

(medicine) androgenic anabolic agent

Aa

Initialism of aminoacetone

Aaa

(military) anti-aircraft artillery

Aa

Initialism of amino acid

Aaa

An aneurysm of the abdominal aorta associated with old age and hypertension

Aa

Initialism of approximate absolute

Aa

Initialism of arachidonic acid

Aa

Initialism of armature accelerator

Aa

Initialism of ascending aorta

Aa

Initialism of atomic absorption

Aa

Initialism of author's alteration

Aa

Initialism of average audience

Aa

Abbreviation of adjectives

Aa

Abbreviation of arteries

Aa

Initialism of arctic-alpine

Aa

Initialism of always afloat

Aa

Abbreviation of ana

Aa

Acronym for Associate in Arts, a college degree granted for successful completion of a two-year course of study in arts or general topics.

Aa

Alcoholics Anonymous.

Aa

A dry form of lava resembling clinkers

Aa

An international organization that provides a support group for persons trying to overcome alcoholism

Aa

An associate degree in arts

Common Curiosities

What is the primary use of AA batteries?

AA batteries are primarily used in medium to high-drain devices like toys and portable music players.

Can AAA batteries be used in place of AA batteries?

No, AAA batteries cannot be used in place of AA batteries as they are smaller and have a lower capacity.

Are AA and AAA batteries interchangeable?

They are not interchangeable due to differences in size and capacity.

Which type of battery lasts longer?

AA batteries generally last longer than AAA batteries due to their larger capacity.

Why choose AA batteries over AAA?

Choose AA batteries for devices that require more power and longer usage times.

Are there rechargeable versions of both AA and AAA batteries?

Yes, both AA and AAA batteries are available in rechargeable forms.

What is the environmental impact of disposable batteries?

Disposable batteries contribute to waste and pollution, making rechargeable options more environmentally friendly.

What devices are most commonly powered by AAA batteries?

Devices like remote controls, wireless mice, and small flashlights commonly use AAA batteries.

How do I dispose of AA and AAA batteries?

Both should be recycled according to local regulations to prevent environmental harm.

Can high-capacity AAA batteries match the performance of AA batteries?

Even high-capacity AAA batteries generally do not match the overall performance of AA batteries.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Maham Liaqat
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.

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