Is It Worth Switching to Rechargeable Batteries?

Hey there, I currently use a mix of AA, AAA and AAAA batteries for home equipment and I was wondering if it's actually worth using any rechargeable batteries or am I better off sticking to buying normal batteries?

If rechargeable batteries are better, does anyone have any recommendations for a "universal" charger that can do all 3 battery types I use? And additionally, what rechargeable batteries are recommended?

Thanks OzB!

Comments

  • +4

    Yes. Eneloops or IKEA Ladda range are the OzBargain picks for batteries.

    The Liitokala range are the OzBargain choice for chargers.

    • Thank you, I'll set up some OzBargain notifications for these!

    • I bought a Liitokala charger based off recommendations on this forum. It's an excellent charger for the money.

      I also have Aldi batteries but I think their longevity is questionable. I do have some IKEA batteries but not many.

  • +5

    Member since 2018 and asking the following question…. 'what rechargeable batteries are recommended?'

    Shut the front door and hand in your OzBargain badge on the way out.

    • Hahaha! Such poor OzBargain behaviour of me! :P

  • +1

    I would also suggest a Nitecore D4 if you're after a good charger. Review here.

    Rechargeable batteries are great for not having to go out and buy new ones when your stock is depleted, not having to have a stock of them discharging (irreversibly) in your drawer while not in use, and producing less waste.

    • Thanks for the added suggestion! Yes I agree, I wanted to stop buying so much waste and not buy batteries all the time.

  • ALDI ones are reportedly alright too. Cheap and generally more accessible than Eneloops if you needed some today.

    • +2

      Dunno about the AA ones, but the AAA are crap now.

      Used to be 900mAh, now only 800mAh. Tested at ~600mAh (from 2 different stores), so 25% under advertised capacity. Rubbish.

  • It is worth it at the right price plus if you use it for things like wireless keyboards, mice, remotes, scales etc etc. Nothing with massive power draws.

    Can't help with 3 type charges but have got AA / AAA chargers for cheap. Micro USB plug. Takes longer to charge but there is a good rotation of spares so no problems there.

  • When I had a Fuji S1800 camera which is using 4*AA Alkaline batteries, Sony Ni-MH rechargeable batteries were life savers. Now I am using Panasonic eneloops for my wireless mouse :D

  • Yes, both economically and environmentally.

    Single use batteries should be banned IMO

  • Can vouch for IKEA's ladda, they've been solid so far.

  • +1

    User tip - get more than you need and slow discharge ones at that - so you can instantly and simply replace run down bats with ones lying around. Many users do not want to wait (or cannot) while recharger does its thing.

  • TIL that AAAA batteries exist.

    • +1

      Not to be confused with the almost identical LR61.

      Just wait until you find out about the 1/2, 4/5, 5/4, 1/3, 2/3 and sub sizes. And the lithium-ion cells in AAA size.

      Oh god make it stop!

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