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Updated September 2021
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Rayovac
Ultra Pro Alkaline C Cell Batteries: 6-Pack
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Expert-Recommended
Bottom Line
Twice-tested 5V batteries for camping trips, RC cars, flashlights, and more.
Pros
Built to last both on the shelf and in devices. Ultra Pro among the best that Rayovac has to offer. Buyers note how good they are to keep around for power outages and life's other curveballs. Others laud price when compared to other high-end batteries.
Cons
Some report similar performance to bargain batteries in lower-voltage devices. Not for everything.
Best Bang for the Buck
Rayovac
Fusion C Batteries: 8-Pack
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line
Bargain option from an industry leader in power and performance.
Pros
U.S.-made bargain battery from one of America's go-to brands. Buyers praise Fusion batteries for packing a punch for a lower price than others. 1.5 volts plenty for most standard battery-operated devices, with buyers noting long battery life next to comparable competitors.
Cons
Inconsistent reports on power, with some claiming they go over advertised 1.5 volts.
Duracell
CopperTop C Alkaline Batteries: 12-Pack
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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line
High-performance CopperTop batteries for maximum performance and power.
Pros
C batteries that pack a punch both today and in 10 years. Buyers love the Duracell commitment to consistency and reliability for toys, gadgets, chargers, etc. Ideal batteries for those who want power without carving a hole in their wallet. Safe bet for most C battery-operated devices.
Cons
Check the date. Some report batteries near the end of their 10 year run.
Energizer
MAX C Batteries Premium Alkaline Batteries: 12-Pack
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Portable Convenience
Bottom Line
A dozen high-quality Energizer batteries with 10 years of shelf-life and hours of power for your favorite devices.
Pros
Powerseal technology keeps the power in your device without needless loss. Buyers note how reliable Energizer is for standard battery-operated devices and heavy-duty ones alike. Great for affordable batteries to keep on shelves in case of power outages and emergencies.
Cons
Reports that some mistakenly bought cheaper version expecting same results, so be sure to read information.
Amazon Basics Store
24-Pack C Cell All-Purpose Alkaline Batteries
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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line
Bargain batteries from Amazon's go-to house brand; ideal for items in constant use.
Pros
Amazon Basics' C batteries are perfect for those toys and gadgets that quickly drain. Buyers note the power and reliability compared to other bargain brands. Several buyers note cost-effectiveness in side-by-side test with competitors.
Cons
Not ideal for camping or supplies that benefit from higher-powered batteries.
Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews
HOW WE TESTED
We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
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Consumers
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Our Top Picks
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