Alkalines are my backups too. If my device will take them, I use rechargeable Li-Ion 14500's as the preferred power source. If not, NiMH Eneloops are used. Alkalines are used only for emergency backups for me (and for the extremely rare device that won't work with NiMH). I throw Alkalines into carry bags, tuck them into car glove boxes, etc. Pretty much they never get used, but are there as emergency spares.

So based on "emergency spare use only" for me, I buy alkalines based on price, not performance. Usually that means Costco ("Kirkland") brand alkalines.