[symby]

Not included in this analysis is leakage rate... by which I mean ooze leakage.

I have found that some batteries have a much greater likelihood of leaking ooze than others (yeah Rayovak, I'm looking at you!)

Except in the case of crappy toys, the damage that this causes radically outstrips the cost of the battery.

As a result, I buy batteries not based on electrical performance, but track record in not ruining the things I put them into. I am very happy to accept 50% less energy if I can avoid destroying my $200 gadget.

[mitchbob]

> As a result, I buy batteries not based on electrical performance, but track record in not ruining the things I put them into.

So do I. I'm now using low self-discharge NiMH batteries (mostly Eneloops) in pretty much every device that uses batteries, and I've never had one leak. I also use smart chargers to check battery health when I recharge them. A bit more initial outlay, but much cheaper in the long run, as the batteries can be recharged 1000s of times, and they hold their charge for many months.

[msie]

I have had success in removing the battery leakage from my toys. Baking soda + water on a q-tip works really well.