For "around the house", they are pretty much overkill. There are times when I'm trying to peer deep into the engine compartment (lots of obstructions, shadows, etc.) that benefit from their brighter, more focused light (than the little "penlight" or "cranklight" flashlights).
If I need to look "down the road" or into a neighbor's back yard, I'll drag out the Thor-X or something similarly sized.
But, to peer behind a computer (located UNDER my workbenches) or under a bed, etc., a little 2 AA cell maglite works just fine. Or, the three cell HD give(throw)aways.
Someone once claimed that AA and D cells were essentially the same "internals", just different shells. I'd find that hard to believe (unless it's akin to the "11 oz Coors" scam). One *hopes* the big, heavy, bulky D cells are actually *giving* you something for the extra size/weight!
Many of my devices have special "battery packs" (not counting the obvious candidates: laptops, cameras, etc.). One of my "digital magnifying glasses" uses the Sony "SmartLithium" modules that they used in their cameras. Many other things just require me to plug in a "charger" (wall wart) and the batteries charge inside the unit.
Exactly. I can buy 2032's in quantity as there are so many things that now use them; just keep them handy and "next time" I'm inside a computer, pull the old battery and replace it.
It's amusing how 9v "transistor" batteries have fallen from favor since the days of youth (in "transistor" radios). Aside from the smoke/CO detectors, I can' think of anything that uses them (so, why keep them on hand IN ANTICIPATION of a failure?)