The Best AA & AAA Battery Charger

Both AA and AAA batteries power a tremendous variety of electronics. They supply the energy needed for many flashlights, clocks, remote controls, cameras and portable CD players. If you'd like to spend less money on batteries and stop adding them to landfills, consider using rechargeable units. You can begin by choosing a desirable battery charger.
Capacity

The majority of chargers accept four to eight batteries at a time. They're adequate for most purposes. Certain models can expedite the process by simultaneously charging as many as 12 or 14 units. However, a greater capacity usually results in a higher price. This also increases the device's measurements, making it less portable and harder to store.

Some high-end chargers have independent bays. This means that you can insert any number or combination of batteries. For instance, you could charge three AA and two AAA cells at the same time. Independent bays maximize convenience and flexibility. On the other hand, most chargers are more restrictive. They require people to insert even numbers of identical batteries. You may find this problematic if you have a device that uses a single battery.

USB Output

Do you own an MP3 player, camera or cellphone that charges via its USB port? If so, think about buying a battery charger with a USB charging function. You'll be able to connect the mobile device to a port on the charger. This feature proves beneficial if the gadget's AC power cord fails or goes missing. You may also use it to save space when you travel.

Extras

Some chargers come with rechargeable AA or AAA batteries. Such products often include handy cases that you can use to safely store batteries when you don't need them. These bonuses may help you get started without making multiple purchases. Nonetheless, it's wise to confirm that you actually need these items and find out if they cost less when ordered separately.

Compatibility

Most battery chargers accept nickel-metal hydride batteries. Some units also charge less common varieties, such as nickel-cadmium or nickel-zinc. Each type offers different advantages. If you already own rechargeable batteries, buy a model that accommodates them. Choose Ni-MH if you want to use the batteries that most stores carry.

Overcharging

The majority of modern devices provide overcharge protection. This means that a charger will automatically shut off the power before it overcharges and permanently damages a battery. If you select a model without this feature, you'll need to use a separate outlet timer or remember to unplug the charger at the right time.

Charge Status

Most models use simple indicator lights to tell you when they're charging batteries. Some lights blink or change color depending on the current charging status. A few high-end units boast sophisticated screens. They show the approximate energy level of each battery. This helps users estimate how soon the charging process will come to an end.

Charging Speed

The charging time varies depending on several different factors, such as the power source, battery type and how many milliamps the charger supplies. Numerous models take one to six hours to charge AA and AAA cells. A few devices have the ability to re-energize them in 15 or 30 minutes. However, they tend to receive poorer reviews from users.

Power Connection

Some battery chargers directly attach to electrical outlets and hang against walls. Others have power cables; people can place them on any hard surface. Although this design adds to cord clutter, it allows you to use outlets that don't provide enough wall space for a charger.

Energy Source

Most units connect to standard North American outlets and run on 110-volt power. You may desire additional options if you travel long distances. Some chargers attach to 12-volt cigarette lighters in cars. Others run on overseas 220-volt power. You can even find models that feature built-in solar panels.

Conditioning

Certain high-end chargers have automatic conditioning capabilities. They can fully discharge AA and AAA batteries before recharging them. This process enhances a battery's performance and longevity. It eliminates the memory effect, a problem that develops in some types of batteries when people partially discharge or recharge them.

Recommendations

Be sure to consider these six models when you look for a charger. The AmazonBasics V-3299USB is an affordable unit that holds up to four Ni-MH batteries and charges USB devices as well. Amazon customers rate it an average of 4.3 stars. It runs on North American or overseas AC power. The V-3299USB features overcharge protection and directly attaches to a wall outlet with no cord.

If you desire off-the-grid functionality or want to have a smaller environmental impact, look at the Samyo 45121600. This inexpensive model features a compact solar panel and charges four batteries at a time. When bright sunlight directly shines on the panel, it can fully energize four AAA units in about eight hours. This highly rated product could come in handy during a lengthy power outage.

Perhaps you travel frequently and want an especially compact charger that you can easily fit in your luggage. The RadioShack 2302011 or Kodak K630 may meet your needs. These basic Ni-MH units charge only two batteries at a time. They don't provide many extra features. The RadioShack model garners somewhat more positive reviews, but its Kodak counterpart costs half as much and comes with two AA cells.

If you seek a fairly sophisticated unit that accepts numerous batteries, the EBL 808 may prove desirable. It boasts eight charging bays, but they don't work independently. This mid-priced model charges both Ni-Cd and Ni-MH units. It has earned an average rating of 4.4 stars. The charging system doesn't only protect batteries from being overcharged. It also disconnects power when it detects non-rechargeable or faulty units.

Check out the Titanium Innovations MD-1600L if you're looking for a top-of-the-line product or you regularly use large numbers of batteries. It features 16 independent bays, a status information screen, USB ports and a conditioning system. This deluxe model automatically detects short circuits and insertion mistakes. It runs on 12, 110 or 220 volts. A drawback is that the MD-1600L costs almost $60.

The best choice depends on how you use battery power. Perhaps you only need to occasionally recharge the batteries in your portable radio and wall clock. You can probably get by with a rather basic unit. On the other hand, you might want a more sophisticated model if you're an avid photographer or a jogger who listens to an MP3 player every day.

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This page about AA & AAA Battery Charger was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2024-10-10 08:09:43 and has been viewed 3448 times.