There are two primarily different batteries in the manganese battery family: lithium-manganese and zinc-manganese. Zinc-manganese batteries, also known as alkaline batteries, contain a large amount of manganese dioxide. Both battery types are good for different reasons. The lithium variant is better for longevity, while the alkaline battery is better for older items and those that require a low charge. Several factors to consider before purchasing a manganese battery are the item in which the battery will be used, price, longevity and recharging potential.
Some items are unable to use lithium and alkaline batteries equally well or may only be able to use one type. Older items sometimes have trouble using lithium batteries, and items that need a large amount of power have a hard time using alkaline batteries. Before anyone purchases either type of manganese battery, he or she should read the item’s instructions, which will usually detail which battery type is better for its operation.
The price of the manganese battery is another factor. Zinc-manganese batteries are much cheaper than their lithium counterpart. This is because less expensive materials go into the production of alkaline batteries, and alkaline technology has been around longer, so it is easier to produce. Lithium-manganese batteries cost more to produce and, while they tend to last longer, the battery will be more expensive.
While consumers can keep purchasing a large amount of batteries, some would prefer to go with a longer-lasting battery. In terms of longevity, lithium batteries are much better. They last around double or triple the amount of time alkaline manganese batteries do. Alkaline batteries lose energy much quicker, so they have a higher rate of corrosion and breaking down, which can release dangerous battery acid all over the item and anyone touching it.
If a consumer is looking for a rechargeable battery, then lithium batteries are usually better for this, but not lithium-manganese batteries. Of the three main types of lithium battery, the lithium-manganese version is the only one that is a primary battery, or a battery that cannot recharge. The other types of lithium batteries hold charges longer than alkaline batteries and can store the energy even if the battery is not in use. An alkaline manganese battery, while rechargeable, will not store energy as well as the rechargeable lithium battery types, nor will it last as long after being charged. This means that, while other versions of lithium batteries might be better at recharging, the alkaline battery is the only rechargeable one in the manganese arena.