Lithium is one of the key components in the rechargeable batteries that power our devices today, but many of us still use those disposable AA batteries to put in our clocks and toothbrushes. One of the main reasons people still use them is that disposable batteries are often designed to stay in cool, dry places for five to ten years, making them perfect for flashlights and other tools you would store in an emergency kit. For some people, that means putting away a giant package they bought from a wholesaler like Costco or Sam’s Club.
Often, people choose store brand batteries, such as Kirkland Signature from Costco or Member’s Mark from Sam’s Club. Which might leave you wondering which of the stores has the best buy.
If you’re focused on price, go with Sam’s Club. The retailer’s Member’s Mark imprint offers a pack of 66 AA batteries for $18.48, or 28 cents each. Costco’s packages go up to 48 units, and in those cases, Costco’s Kirkland Signature AA and AAA batteries cost $16.99, which is 99 cents less than the Sam’s Club member’s brand. $17.98 – 99 cents more than Costco. If you’re in the BJ camp, a 48-pack of Berkley Jensen costs $17.99.
Beyond any other factor, however, arguably the best reason to pick up a 66-pack of Member’s Mark is because it comes in a compact cardboard box. The Kirkland 48 packs in particular come in single cavity blister packs which have been criticized in customer reviews for poor integrity.
Who makes alkaline batteries for Costco and Sam’s Club?
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Wholesale clubs are active in the retail sector and not in the battery manufacturing sector. So they rely on white label deals to get branded products in bulk under the Kirkland Signature or Member’s Mark banner.
In Costco’s case, former CEO Craig Jelinek went on record in 2016 with WSB-TV, saying Duracell made Kirkland batteries. Since Kirkland and Duracell offer the same 12-year shelf life guarantee, it’s likely that this is still the case. Meanwhile, longtime consumer reporter Jeff Rossen says Walmart subsidiary Sam’s Club gets Energizer’s AA and AAA marks — both share a slightly longer 15-year shelf life guarantee. If, after comparing the two, you prefer a brand logo on your battery, Costco stocks Duracell brand batteries, charging $20.99 for a 40-pack of AA or AAA. Energizer AA and AAA batteries can be found in packs of 48 at Sam’s Club for $24.98.
Costco and Sam’s Club compete in many departments other than batteries. Once you’ve stocked up on that, you might also want to check out our guide to navigating the electronics section of both warehouse chains.
