Energizer “D” sized batteries aren’t really D batteries…(AA wrapped in plastic) [Scandalous]

• Mike Norris

• August 27, 2009 6:08 am

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Gadgets take electricity. It’s the nature of the beast. Naturally, running around the world with gadgets in tow means bringing tons of mobile energy. Whether it be solar chargers, wind power, or good ‘ol classic battery power, we need a way to bring energy on the go. Similarly, Energizer has been a household name for decades, providing reliable energy on the run. But is their credibility about to take a major turn downward? Apparently, Energizer’s “High Capacity” “D” sized batteries are no more than “AA” batteries encased in a cheap plastic shell to make them look bigger. While this may not be new news to you, it certainly is to me. While I always read technical specs and dig deeper than the average consumer, I haven’t purchased a “D” sized battery in over 8 years so I don’t even remember what was on their labeling that long ago. But the here and now is a different issue. Just look at the image above. The dishonesty isn’t anything new from a large company though still is disturbing.

You may realize that the 2500 mAh Energizer battery you buy was a tad lighter than you expected, not to mention it didn’t last that long. Well, there’s a legitimate reason for that. Inside of each Energizer D battery are the same power rating of their “AA” batteries. Uh-oh. So instead of getting that super high capacity battery you thought you were buying, your actually getting some nice plastic casing with a AA battery stuffed inside. It isn’t all lost however as a competing company, Powerex, actually markets and sells some powerhouse D batteries. In fact, their D batteries are pretty impressive with 11,000 mAh per battery! It isn’t in Energizer’s best interests nor will it make them very much money if they actually designed batteries that lasted longer as people would buy less (theoretically). However, stepping so low as to pull the old bait and switch trick is simply BS.

Now why am I spending so much time on something so insignificant? One, I can’t stand to see people get ripped off. Second, I know I am always looking for the most compact yet powerful battery for any of my devices when I venture far from outlets. What good is a gadget if the screen is dark, the speakers silent, and the radios void of any transmissions? I urge you to double check specs next time your battery shopping regardless of brand and really see if you’re getting that good of a deal. Anyone a bit perturbed by this?

So the next time you’re shopping for batteries, read the label, do the weight comparison test and see what you’re really getting inside of that battery. Chances are if it feels a little light, you’re getting scammed.

Source: Gizmodo, Natural News