Best deal on batteries: Which will really last longest?

PHOENIX - So many gadgets make our lives entertaining and easier, but often they require batteries and that expense can add up over time. So which batteries will give you the best bang for your buck?

Consumer Reports wanted to find out. They tested out the most popular battery size, AA in both alkaline and lithium. They tested those batteries using those draining digital cameras.

Overall lithium batteries preformed better on devices that use a lot of battery power, but keep in mind they cost more than alkaline. The top overall performer was the Energizer Ultimate Lithium battery.  You'll pay around $6 a pair. For every 50 shots taken on the digital camera, it cost only $.23.

The top alkaline battery was Duracell Ultra Advanced. The pair will cost you around $3.65.

These batteries won't last as long for your camera at $.70 per 50 shots. That's more than three times more than the lithium. So even though you're paying more upfront for the lithium batteries, you're still saving for devices that use a lot of battery power.

Bottom line, when it comes to using batteries to save money, use alkaline batteries on low draining devices like remote controls and the lithium ones for high draining devices like cameras and portable devices.

Also consider buying rechargeable batteries for those battery sucking devices because in the long run those rechargeable truly will save you the most.

As far as how to properly dispose of your batteries, check out Call2recycle.org .