Batteries

[itsybitsy]

Any recommendations for decent brands? I'm about to place a BIG order and while I don't mind paying for Duracell if needed, if there's a comparable alternative that's a little cheaper that would be okay too!

Does anyone use rechargeables? Are they worth it?

[space.gamer]

I’m no expert but I’ve bought loads of non rechargeable Duracell batteries. I think the 10 year life on them is super useful and I know I can rotate my stash as I use them up in real-life anyway.

For me, I’ve decided to avoid recharging batteries. I don’t have to think about how to recharge if I’m out and about, even for many days or weeks, and therefore don’t have to carry power banks and the like.

[Frnc]

Rechareables are definitely worth it. I use them in my keyboard and trackpad. I wear them out in a couple of weeks or less. So I recharge them at least 25 times a year. They are eight years old, so that's over 200 times charged up, or maybe 100 as I have 4 pairs, two in use and two charged or charging (they don't take long to charge, maybe an hour or so). They are Duracell AAs.

I do have some AAA non-rechargeables in my long term bugout bag, Panasonic. I also buy rechargeable AAAs, various brands. Amazon Basics AAA Rechargeable Batteries 800mAh Pre-charged claim to be able to be charged 1000 times.

And the batteries I buy for my smoke alarms aren't rechargeable. For smoke alarms I tend to buy Duracell.

There are different types eg alkaline, NiMH, Lipo etc. Most AAA or AA rechargeables seem to be NiMH. These should be charged once a year if stored. Alkaline (non-rechargeable) are best not stored in devices like a torch that's never used, in case they leak.

Lipo should be stored charged about 50%, ideally in a flame proof box. Powerbanks are Lipo.

[space.gamer]

It's interesting to me, Frnc, that you use Duracell for your smoke detectors. I'm assuming it's because you believe they are the best brand/quality/life, etc. and hence you want to use them on life-saving equipment such as a smoke detector. If that is the case, it reinforces to me that you'd want Duracell in something that you are dependent on and where you want longevity.

[Frnc]

It's interesting to me, Frnc, that you use Duracell for your smoke detectors. I'm assuming it's because you believe they are the best brand/quality/life, etc. and hence you want to use them on life-saving equipment such as a smoke detector. If that is the case, it reinforces to me that you'd want Duracell in something that you are dependent on and where you want longevity.

If a smoke alarm arrived with a battery, I'd use what it came with. But when it comes to replacing, I'd use Duracell.
Note that the alarms themselves should be replaced every 10 years.

[Winterprep]

Any recommendations for decent brands? I'm about to place a BIG order and while I don't mind paying for Duracell if needed, if there's a comparable alternative that's a little cheaper that would be okay too!

Does anyone use rechargeables? Are they worth it?

I have some rechargeable but not in use much so no comment.If you are a Costco member or know someone who is I find their own Kirkland brand batteries to be excellent in power/ use and great value.

WP

[jennyjj01]

Any recommendations for decent brands? I'm about to place a BIG order and while I don't mind paying for Duracell if needed, if there's a comparable alternative that's a little cheaper that would be okay too!

Does anyone use rechargeables? Are they worth it?

For AA rechargeables, nothing will beat Ikea Ladda 2540 on price or quality. They are eneloop pro which usually sell for 3x the price.

Duracell, generally are rubbish. They push out a new range every few years and their reputation is no longer deserved.

Lidl's AeroCell batteries are good alkalines made by Varta. Great quality and value, when you can get them.

In Home Bargain, they sell JCB branded alkalines which were very good last time I bought them, but seek up to date reviews.

For PP3's check out proper Electronics suppliers such as Farnell Electronics. There you will find data sheets with which to compare capacity and shelf life. Good site for that info and for bulk buys.
https://cpc.farnell.com/c/electrical-li ... /batteries

[Le Mouse]

Tesco has Energiser 12 packs of AA and AAA batteries on Clubcard prices - 2 for £12

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/p ... /277861466

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/p ... /277861472

[Frnc]

Duracell, generally are rubbish. They push out a new range every few years and their reputation is no longer deserved.

So how come they only get 1, 2 or 3% of reviews at 1 or 2 star?

[Yorkshire Andy]

Tesco has Energiser 12 packs of AA and AAA batteries on Clubcard prices - 2 for £12

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/p ... /277861466

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/p ... /277861472

£3.99 a pack in our Lidl