Just as other audio topics go, a vast range of experiences is evident here. Sixty-plus years ago batteries were fascinating wonders that powered the very few electrical toys available then. They were an expensive luxury for middle-class families, and weren't replaced until well after the toy or flashlight quit working. Hell, as long as Dad's flashlight would still produce a dull, orange, glow, the batteries stayed in - often until they leaked. I still appreciate the convenience of not being tethered to an AC cord and wait for super-sales to bulk purchase alkaline cells, both domestic and foreign. Cheap, foreign cells sometimes lasted as long as domestics, without any from a box of 50 ever leaking, while ALL brands of American batteries have had new ones leaking in the box, in the store. These were all well within the expiration period. Of course, this also happened with the cheap foreign cells too, but no more often in my experience.
After all that time, in my limited experience, ALL brands have leaked. When alkaline cells became first available, they were more reliable than the old carbon-zincs I grew up with. Now, I wouldn't count on any alkaline, and as other posters mentioned, I use rechargeable NiMH with a MAHA charger, or lithium primary and rechargeables. I've stuck with the Sanyo/Duracell brand for NiMH; without one leaker in the past 10 years. Panasonic has produced above average batteries, but I haven't tried them again lately, If a lithium cell should leak, it won't harm the metal contacts, AFAIK. To insure my better electronics survive, plus remotes & emergency lights, I use lithium. For high-drain items, NiMH cells are economical.
After all that time, in my limited experience, ALL brands have leaked. When alkaline cells became first available, they were more reliable than the old carbon-zincs I grew up with. Now, I wouldn't count on any alkaline, and as other posters mentioned, I use rechargeable NiMH with a MAHA charger, or lithium primary and rechargeables. I've stuck with the Sanyo/Duracell brand for NiMH; without one leaker in the past 10 years. Panasonic has produced above average batteries, but I haven't tried them again lately, If a lithium cell should leak, it won't harm the metal contacts, AFAIK. To insure my better electronics survive, plus remotes & emergency lights, I use lithium. For high-drain items, NiMH cells are economical.
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