Alkaline vs lithium batteries for preparedness Alkaline batteries are not rechargeable, but they store well. Kept cool and dry, most are good for around 10 years, sometimes longer. They are best used in low drain devices like clocks, smoke detectors, CO detectors, and basic radios. Lithium batteries cost more, but you get more in return. Shelf life is often 15 years or longer, voltage stays stable under load, and they perform far better in heat and cold. That makes lithium the better choice for