Conventional batteries used in electronic devices today are called dry cell batteries. They are called dry cells, since the electrolyte used is pasty in nature. These cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy. The most common dry cells are zinc carbon batteries and they generate approximately 1.5 Volts.

The zinc carbon battery has been the most popular dry cell battery because of its low cost. In this cell, a zinc casing which functions as an anode stores a paste of ammonium and zinc chloride separated from carbon and magnesium oxide using a thin paper. This is packed around a carbon rod which functions as the cathode. Alkaline cells are also dry cells in which the electrolyte in the paste is replaced using an alkaline paste of potassium hydroxide. Multiple cells when connected in series in a single compartment form a cell battery.

Dry cells are relatively cheap and have been used in the development and usage of portable devices such as transistors, cameras and flashlights. Alkaline dry cells are more expensive than conventional dry cells, but last four to five times longer. Other dry cells used today include the silver battery, mercury cells and nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cad) cells.