How we selected the best rechargeable batteries
In order to select the best rechargeable batteries, we looked at several different scenarios and concerns, and examined impressions from both professional and personal users. The methodology strived to identify products designed to be the longest-lasting with the most minimal impact on the environment. We worked to identify batteries that could spring into action even when stored in a drawer for years, as well as options that come equipped with the latest conveniences, like USB charging that can be done directly to the battery with any compatible cable instead of using a more inconvenient apparatus.
The best rechargeable batteries: Reviews & Recommendations
While regular batteries drain over time until they’re bricks, rechargeable batteries are much more energy-efficient and hold a consistent charge throughout the battery lifespan. Using rechargeable batteries keeps more in your wallet and less in landfills, so making the switch can make a difference in your household and beyond. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you.
Best overall: Energizer Recharge Universal AA Batteries
Why it made the cut: Energizer came up with the world’s first battery made with other recycled batteries. Specs:
Comes pre-charged: YesCharge cycles: Up to 1,000 timesCapacity: Up to 2,000 mAhSold in 4, 8, 16, and combo packsAlso available in AAA, C, D, 9V sizes
Pros:
Made with recycled batteriesCharge lasts 12 months in storageUp to 5 years of usable battery life
Cons:
Not pre-chargedSome chargers only charge pairsSensitive to overcharging
Energizer was the first to the market with a line of rechargeable batteries made with recycled materials—4-percent of the components inside are previously used batteries. These Energizer rechargeable batteries are made of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and are more environmentally friendly batteries that can be charged up to 1,000 times at up to 2,000 mAh. They are available in quantities of four, eight, 16, and combo packs and also come in AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V sizes. While these particular rechargeable batteries do not come pre-charged and ready to use like some others in this round-up do, once they are powered up the charge lasts up to one year in storage and you can also expect up to five years of usable battery life. One minor drawback is some customers have reported that this product can be sensitive to overcharging, so it’s best if they’re not plugged in to charge and left overnight.
Best for keeping in storage: Panasonic eneloop AA Batteries
Why it made the cut: A reliable choice even if you put a pack in a drawer and forget about it for a long time. Specs:
Comes pre-charged: YesCharge cycles: Up to 2,100 timesCapacity: Up to 800 mAhSold in 4, 8, and combo packsAlso available in AAA, C, D sizes
Pros:
Can be used worldwideThousands of charge cyclesHolds 70-percent charge after 10 years
Cons:
Company advises against third-party chargersCan get hotA short circuit can expel gas
Panasonic’s eneloop line of rechargeable NiMH batteries are pre-charged at the factory by the wonders of solar power, which is one thoughtful choice you can make as a consumer when you’re looking for the best rechargeable batteries for your needs. If you’re guilty of just throwing your batteries in a drawer and almost never using them, let alone charging them, you can have the satisfaction of knowing that these claim to hold up to 70 percent charge even after 10 years. You will rarely have to think about replacing these batteries even if you feel like you are a pretty frequent user of gear that requires them. The eneloop batteries are designed to be able to be charged for up to 2,100 times and can be recharged even if they have only been partially drained of their energy. They’re the ones that can be trusted to take a nap for the longest time, making them good candidates to sleep inside your flashlights. Why it made the cut: At around $1.25 each, these batteries offer great value for a bulk buyer. Specs:
Comes pre-charged: YesCharge cycles: Up to 1,000 timesCapacity: Up to 2,000 mAhSold in 4, 8, 16, 24 packsAlso available in AAA, C, D sizes
Pros:
Priced to moveUseful quantityHolds up to 80-percent charge after two years
Cons:
Can fall apartReported lower than advertised charging cyclesLower capacity than previous models
Best for charging convenience: Keeppower USB Rechargeable Li-ion AA Batteries
Why it made the cut: Hassle-free micro-USB charging port on the battery makes this a serious universal choice. Specs:
Comes pre-charged: NoCharge cycles: Up to 1,000 timesCapacity: Up to 2,260 mAhSold in 4 packs
Pros:
Plugs into any USB port for chargingBlue light on battery indicates chargeCharges in 90 minutes
Cons:
No cover for USB portMicro-USB cables a challenge for big handsCan short circuit
Keeppower’s USB Rechargeable Batteries are made of lithium-ion, which can store more energy than nickel-metal hydride batteries. This model can be charged at least 1,000 times and will last most people for a number of years. They are made to retain up to 90-percent power after one year’s time and come with micro-USB ports built right into the batteries, so you don’t need to pop them into an external charger (nor do you always have to worry where said charger may actually be hiding in your house). A single battery can be charged with any micro-USB cable connected to a powered USB port and the pack comes with a 4-in-1 charging cable (LED lights on top of the batteries indicate charging progress). It’s important to note that while USB rechargeable batteries do offer a lot of convenience, they also pose an inherent risk of short-circuiting and some users have reported that this has actually happened to them, presumably at a most inconvenient time. You may want to consider keeping an eye on these so as to be mindful not to overcharge and minimize the chance of having some unwanted outcome.
Best for gift-giving: Duracell Ion Speed 4000 Battery Charger with Batteries
Why it made the cut: You don’t have to wait all day for these batteries to be powered up. Specs:
Comes pre-charged: YesCharge cycles: Up to 400 timesCapacity: Up to 2,400 mAhSold in 4 packsAlso available in AAA size
Pros:
Powers up in 1-2.5 hoursCharger works with any brand of batteryLasts for up to 10 years in storage
Cons:
Can only be charged 400 timesCharger works with just two or four batteries at a timeCan get hot while charging
Duracell rechargeable batteries last for up to 10 years, so you can have a reasonable amount of confidence that you can open up an old pack and they won’t be duds. The included pre-charged NiMH rechargeable batteries are known to store less energy as compared to its lithium-ion counterparts and they can only be charged about 400 times, which is a lot less than some of its leading competitors on the market. But the 4000 mW charger, which you can use for two or four batteries at a time (in matched size pairs) can get batteries up to 90-percent capacity within an hour and it smartly powers off once the charge is completed, preventing potential problems that can arise in batteries when they are overcharged. Plus it’s compatible with all rechargeable AA and AAA NiMH batteries. And if you’re a practical gift giver during the holiday season, this rechargeable batteries with charger set could also definitely make for a great stocking stuffer at a cost of less than $20.
What to consider when shopping for the best rechargeable batteries
When you’re considering what the best rechargeable batteries for your needs will be, take a moment to think practically about what sizes and quantities you should have for all the battery-powered gear that you keep around the house, in the garage, in the car, etc. Note how many charge cycles are associated with the product you want to purchase. You may also think about if you want to get a small or large charger to go with your rechargeable batteries, depending on how many you need at once, or if you want to just buy a brand of rechargeables that have USB ports right on the batteries, so you can use any USB charger to give them a jolt.
Do these come already charged and ready to use?
Some rechargeable batteries come pre-charged, while others need to be charged before using for the first time. Pre-charged rechargeable batteries are usually labeled as such on the package. If you don’t pick up pre-charged batteries, consider whether you have an appropriate charger at home or whether you should pick up a starter kit that includes one.
Can I mix single-use and rechargeable in the same device?
While you might get a device to technically work with a mix of single-use and rechargeable batteries, it’s better to avoid mixing and matching these different kinds of batteries. Regular batteries and rechargeables output slightly different volts of energy—the former uses 1.5 volts, while the latter uses 1.2 volts. There’s another key difference between the two: regular batteries start outputting at 1.5 volts and that number decreases until the battery dies, while rechargeable batteries stay consistent at 1.2 volts throughout the hundreds or even thousands of charge cycles until it will no longer hold a charge.
Should I recycle my old batteries?
Please recycle your rechargeable batteries—and your regular batteries, too! In some states, like California, if you throw them away, they’re actually considered to be hazardous waste. Batteries are accepted at select recycling centers (including nonprofits) and drop-off locations, including some organic groceries, Best Buy locations, and participating battery retailers, among others.
The final word on selecting the best rechargeable batteries
Time and money are valuable commodities and rechargeable batteries help you save both. Factor in the bonus of being friendlier to the planet and you’ve got yourself an undeniably smart buy—a convenient, long-lasting investment that’s there when you need it. Stock up on the best rechargeable batteries and the main thought you might have is how nice it is to not have to think about them. Read Next: When to Change Your Laptop Battery
