Expendable, but essential, batteries are a piece of kit that powers everything from our watches and smoke alarms, to mobile phones, cameras, and laptop computers.

Most common types of battery are available all over the high street, while others may require a trip to a specialist retailer, or direct contact with a manufacturer or online retailer. Should you need to replace a battery, it must always be done safely, to ensure minimal/zero effects on the environment, but this is easy to do.

Although there are still quite a few uses for standard batteries, such as those that come in AA or AAA sizes, this site is more about specific types of batteries, designed for mobile phones, laptops, watches, and also the growing rechargeable battery market.

Like many types of battery, those made for mobile phones have benefitted from technology, and new combinations of materials, to become increasingly powerful and lightweight. They hold more power, for longer, than their predecessors, and are commonly made from Lithium Ion. This is also commonly found in laptop batteries, made to fit all makes and models of laptop, from Acer, to IBM and Panasonic. Available direct from the manufacturers or other retailers supplying compatible batteries, a decent product should supply up to five hours charge, perfect for when you’re on the move! There’s plenty of help available online to help shoppers find the right battery for their laptop, and most suppliers will offer a warranty on each purchase too.

Warranty is also key when buying watch batteries, especially if you own an expensive watch, and this site offers tips on finding the right type of battery for your watch, and having it fitted correctly. Avoiding damage to the product is key if you want your warranty to remain valid.

It’s not just button cell batteries for watches, or larger units for mobile phones and laptops that are covered here though, it’s also important to take a look at the growing market for rechargeable batteries, how they can be used, and how to safely dispose of them too. Big name brands such as Duracell, JCB and Energizer all produce rechargeable batteries which can be used in a large number of electrical appliances.

Browse through the site for more information and tips for all these battery types, which will help you find a good quality battery at the right price.