Hi, I'm still new to OzBargain but I often see stuff about Eneloops batteries and how people always want more. Can someone explain to me what this is all about? Is it genuinely good/cheap? Or is it just an insider's joke?
I'm out of the (Ene)Loop?
LDoggiie on 29/10/2014 - 16:07
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I've been in the OZB community for xx years and I still don't know what they're about. I still want to buy them though which is why this place can be so dangerous and I barely even use batteries.
No idea if it has morphed into a joke, but Eneloop batteries are considered one of the best Low Self Discharge (LSD) NiMH Rechargeable batteries. Yes Turnigy batteries are usually cheaper if purchased in bulk, but there appear to be less issues with the Eneloops. Plus, with all the torch purchases, it's nice to have spare batteries lying around.
As to the question of recharging batteries, Eneloop branded chargers are fine. However, if you're pedantic with batteries and charge them often then you may want to invest in getting a smart battery charger with electronic display. Top brands include Maha and La Crosse. However, there are new brands out that offer more functions (charge many battery sizes as well as lithium ion batteries) or are clones of the popular chargers. So may need to dig around in other postings to see what others suggest and/or search amazon reviews to see if the charger fits your needs or if the brands/model are reliable.
Why get one of these smart chargers you say? Well these chargers are able to refresh batteries, show you the battery's actual capacity, vary charge rate etc. However, they are usually $30+, so whether you get one depends on your needs/wants.
@scarysombie you gotta neg from me because
Yes Turnigy batteries are usually cheaper if purchased in bulk, but there appear to be less issues with the Eneloops.
got a link to where this has been shown?
in my experience tunigys have outperformed eneloops in every way. cheaper? yes, more capacity? yes, equal technology? yes
thats not to say that eneloops arent good or arent worth getting but just dont spread incorrect "facts"
@doggiie yes it has turned somewhat into an inside joke and kinda like internet memes it has its basis in some fact (most people at least have some eneloops) but people take it to that next "ridiculous" step
Eneloop
- low discharge rate (can be sitting there without needing to recharge them before use)
- handles multiple charging cycles (batteries can lose capacity over many charges)
- accurate capacity (cheap batteries may not last as long per charge as capacity is inaccurate)
he/she who has not sinned may throw the first battery :)
They are manfe by Sanyo. Have been on the market for quite a few years now. Last time I heard, they were also the only battery manufacturer left in Japan. The newest version of eneloops when fully charged will have 85% charge after 12 months of not being used and 70% after two years. They are great in most kids toys, digital cameras, torches and even some tv remotes.
The thing with any rechargable nimh AA battery though is the voltage is lower then an alkaline battery. 1.2volts instead of 1.5. So some sensitive electronic equipment wont like being used with rechargeable batteries.
In regards to a charger, make sure you get one that as individual charging circuits for each battery. Most Battery World stores can help you in that department.
Not sure about Sanyo - My last eneloops were Panasonic.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eneloop
Eneloop is a brand developed by Sanyo encompassing rechargeable batteries and associated devices, introduced to the market in November 2005
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eneloop#Panasonic_Eneloop_.284t…
Following the acquisition of Sanyo by Panasonic, a fourth generation was introduced in April 2013 which states Panasonic instead of Eneloop on the label in some countries.
Saw this discussion today — pretty certain that it's posted by an OzBargainer :) It compares the Japanese Eneloop with the newer Panasonic ones that were made in China, and found some quality differences.
Better go and check where my Eneloops were made.
I bought them and they are still in their package…….
Don't ask bro just buy