My experiences appear to be different than some others. I have had many Duracells that were dead out of the package (even though well within the expiration date). Other Duracells died a very premature death after very little use. And I've had Energizers leak. Several of them.

After experiencing these headaches I went over to Candle Power Forums (the flashlight place) and researched alkaline battery choices. At that time many people were recommending the Rayovacs. That's the only brand I've been buying since (for many years now). Never had one leak, never had one go dead prematurely. And they're a lot cheaper than Duracells or Energizers.

Based on my experiences, I would recommend Rayovacs over Duracells or Energizers any day. Just the exact opposite of what some others have said here. Weird.