Generally, you’ll find that most small electronic gadgets and tools need to obtain power from C or D batteries. The kinds of devices that use these batteries, in particular, are flashlights, toys, portable radios and clocks.
So if you’ve noticed that your flashlight or your kid’s remote control car, or interactive pet isn’t working well, then this may be the time to replace the batteries. What is important is you make sure that you purchase the right kind of batteries for the item in question.
Below, we look closely at C and D batteries to help you find the best ones for your particular needs.
C vs D Battery: What Are The Similarities?
The main similarity between C and D batteries is the voltage. Both of the alkaline variety is 1.5 volts. As for the rechargeable versions of these batteries, they come with 1.2 volts.
This is the only thing that these two types of batteries have in common.
C vs D Battery: What Are The Differences?
Difference in battery size
As you will see when you search online for such batteries, they differ in size quite a bit.
- C batteries measure 50mm x 26.2mm.
- D size batteries measure 61.5mm x 33.2mm.
Due to the difference in size, it is essential to make sure that you choose the correct ones when buying any replacement batteries. If not, you may need to make alterations to fit them inside the battery compartment or spend more money getting the correct size.
 Energizer MAX C |  Energizer MAX D |
|
|---|---|---|
| Customer Rating |  | |
| Price |  | |
| Size | 50 mm x 26.2 mm | 61.5 mm x 33.2 mm |
| Capacity | Up to 8,000mAh | Up to 17,000mAh |
| Supported devices | Medium-drain applications: small flashlights, toys | High-drain applications: large flashlights, radios, alarm systems |
Why a difference in the physical size?
Larger physical size for higher capacity
D batteries are larger than C batteries to ensure that they can store more energy. In turn, this means that they will last longer. Also, these batteries come with larger electrodes allowing them to deliver much higher levels of current.
Larger capacity batteries can deliver a higher level of current simultaneously and deliver the same for more extended periods.
In terms of mAh, the C battery offers up to 8,000 mAh, whereas the D battery offers up to 17,000 mAh.
See Rayovac D Batteries, Alkaline D Cell Batteries:
Rayovac D Batteries, Alkaline D Cell Batteries
Larger battery size for larger electronic devices
Due to the difference in size, these batteries will be used in many different appliances.
When it comes to C cell batteries, these typically are used in devices that don’t need a great deal of power, such as small flashlights, toys, and some musical instruments.
Energizer MAX C Batteries
However, D cell batteries are used in devices that need more power, such as medium/large flashlights, radios, alarm systems. Plus, any other devices that need batteries that come with an extended running time. These batteries have double the capacity of C batteries.
Energizer MAX D Batteries, Premium Alkaline
Can You Use C Batteries In Place Of D Ones?
Yes, you can use C batteries in place of the D type. But you must make sure that they are of the same voltage. So if the D batteries already in the device are 1.5 volts, you need to replace them with C batteries that are 1.5 volts.
What will happen when replacing D battery with C battery?
The differences in battery’s voltage and capacity determine how effectively the batteries provide power.
For example, in a flashlight, the battery’s voltage will determine how bright the light emits from it. Whereas the current is what determines how long a flashlight is going to shine for.
So, of course, batteries with a higher voltage will produce a much brighter light when the flashlight is turned on. As for batteries that come with higher amps, the light emitted will last for longer.
So when you use a C battery rather than a D one, you won’t notice any difference in the brightness of the light. However, as the number of amps in a C battery is lower, then you’ll find that you’ll need to replace the batteries quicker as they have a much shorter running time.
Buy Energizer MAX C Batteries here:
Energizer MAX C Batteries
How To Use A C Battery In A D-Size Spacer?
The other thing you need to consider is the space in which the battery will sit. Remember, C batteries are slightly shorter in length than D batteries, so you need to make an adaptor to ensure they remain in place.
To use a C battery in a D-size spacer, you just need to place two quarters into the space where the battery sits, one at each end of the battery.
Can You Place A D-Size Battery Into One Of The C-Spacers Or AA-Spacers?
Unfortunately, you aren’t able to use D-size batteries in devices that use C or AA-spacers. As already mentioned above, these batteries are slightly larger, so they will not fit into the space available.
When it comes to things like TV remote controls, these often use C or AA batteries in them. They tend not to use D size batteries because the remote control would need to be larger, making it more cumbersome to use.
Plus, of course, devices like these don’t need as much energy to power them.
What To Consider Before Buying C, D Batteries?
When it comes to buying such batteries, the first thing you need to be looking at is the capacity. Ideally, choose batteries with a higher mAh rating as these will have a longer running time.
Also, it is essential to avoid buying cheap generic ones in the shop, especially the rechargeable D size models. These tend to only come with around 2,500 mAh, which is useless. You’ll probably spend more time recharging them than using them in the devices they are meant for.
Instead, it is better to go online and buy such rechargeable batteries as there are many available that can provide you with 9,000 mAh. It May cost more but will be worth the extra expense over time.
Chose rechargeable battery with a higher mAh rating:
EBL D Size Battery 10000mAh
Best Alkaline D-Size Batteries You Can Buy Online
Energizer Max D Batteries
These 1.5volt batteries measure 61.50 x 34.20 mm and come with a mAh rating of 20,500. They also come with Energizer’s Powerseal technology that helps to deliver energy when needed the most.
Rayovac D Batteries
Just as with the above, these 1.5-volt batteries will provide you with all the power you need when required. These D batteries also measure 61.50 x 34.20 mm, but the mAh rating is less at just 17,500. But it does cost less than the batteries we’ve discussed above.
Why not Duracell D Alkaline batteries?
We are all aware that Duracell is meant to be the best, but their performance doesn’t mean worth more. You may be surprised to learn that Rayovac D batteries will last nearly two times longer than any Duracell battery will. This is why we suggest you buy this product.
- Rayovac batteries can last for up to 24.5 hours before they need replacing.
- Also, the cost per hour of using such batteries is only $0.037, whereas when it comes to Duracell batteries, it is $0.113.
Discount on Amazon
There are a few ways that allow you to buy Rayovac batteries at a discounted price. You can look for the Today’s Deal link or see what coupon offers they have.
Also, go to a place called Woot! Which could prove very useful in getting such products at a reduced cost. Furthermore, if you happen to be an Amazon Prime member, such items will be shipped to you for free.
Buy Rayovac batteries with discounted price here:
Rayovac D Batteries, Alkaline D Cell Batteries
