If we are used to constantly changing alkaline batteries from remote control, watches, toys, cameras, reflex cameras and anything else given their short life, we probably have never heard of NI-MH batteries, that is to say Nickel-Metal Hydride. These batteries are completely similar in shape to alkaline batteries, but they can be recharged a large number of times with a special charger, so that they can be reused a large number of times. Obviously they cost more, but allow to be recharged up to 500 times, safeguarding the environment and avoiding to stay dry of batteries for your portable devices. In this guide we will find all the information on the NI-MH batteries, the rechargeable stylus batteries to choose from, and then also how to use them, how to recharge them and what are the best chargers to use to obtain the best results.
What are NI-MH batteries
NI-MH batteries are batteries very similar to traditional alkaline batteries, but once they are exhausted they can be easily recharged using special chargers. The charging process can be more or less long depending on the charging current and the chosen charger, but on average after 2-3 hours they are again ready to be used in all compatible devices.
NI-MH batteries are mainly available in two formats: AA (stylus) and AAA (ministyle) .
There are other formats as well, but they are much rarer and now little used in portable devices. Recognize these batteries by the presence of the word Rechargeable, Rechargeable, Accu or similar on the outside, often accompanied by the indication of the capacity (in mAh or milliAmperora, as on lithium batteries).
Where to use them
Since these batteries support the same formats as alkaline batteries we can use these batteries practically wherever a pair of batteries is required for the operation of a device, with the certainty of obtaining much higher capacities than normal alkaline batteries. In fact for many models the capacity exceeds 2000 mAh, enough to power a digital camera for many hours or for many months a wall clock or a remote control for a TV or decoder.
We won't have to worry about using them: the voltages used are perfectly compatible, therefore any device that supports alkaline batteries will also support NI-MH batteries (except where expressly indicated).
How to recharge them
To recharge the NI-MH batteries we will have to use chargers compatible with this particular chemical, otherwise we risk damaging! There are numerous chargers compatible with these batteries, what changes is when they take time to recharge. The ideal charging current is about 200 mA (milliAmpere), able to not overheat the batteries too much and preserve their integrity, but can be very slow (even 4-5 hours for the most capacious batteries).
Fortunately, there are much faster chargers, capable of reaching up to 1000 mA (maximum charging speed) and to recharge any type of battery in a few minutes. Personally I always recommend charging at 200 mA, perhaps at night, so as to obtain the best result without excessively damaging the batteries; if we are in a hurry and want to charge the batteries quickly I recommend using 500 or 700 mA as recharging currents, so as to drastically reduce the times (at the expense of the overall life of the batteries, which will wear out faster).
Best rechargeable batteries
After knowing these rechargeable stylus batteries, the time has come to see together which are the best currently on the market.
1) Energizer AA-HR6 Extreme
Among the cheapest and most powerful rechargeable batteries that we can buy, the Energizer AA-HR6 Extreme stand out, with a duration 6 times longer than the competition and a really high capacity (2300 mAh).
These batteries are offered in both AA and AAA sizes, for smaller devices.
We can view these batteries from here -> Energizer AA-HR6 Extreme (9 €)
2) Duracell Recharge Ultra
Duracell has always been one of the best battery and battery manufacturers in the world, so it is automatic to rely on this brand also for NI-MH rechargeable batteries.
Duracell batteries are guaranteed for 5 years, they are pre-charged, hold the charge for a high number of cycles (up to 400 times) and boast a 2500 mAh capacity, one of the highest values we can get from this type of battery.
If we are interested we can view them from here -> Duracell Recharge Ultra (12 €)
3) AmazonBasics Rechargeable Batteries
Amazon also sells its rechargeable batteries and are currently among the best we can buy online.
Amazon does not produce the batteries directly, but places its brand on those sold by Panasonic (Eneloop), considered by all the best manufacturer of rechargeable batteries in the world.
These batteries are long-lasting, maintain their charge even after putting them to rest, guarantee a large number of recharge cycles (from 500 to 1000, depending on the model supplied) and also boast remarkable recharge capacities (over 200 mAh).
Amazon sells convenient packs of up to 16 batteries, both in AA and AAA format, just choose!
We can view Amazon Basics rechargeable batteries here -> AmazonBasics Rechargeable Batteries (starting from € 12), or here -> AmazonBasics - High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries (from € 9).
Best compatible chargers
After seeing the rechargeable batteries, here is a roundup of compatible chargers.
1) Dilusi i4 Intellicharger
Among the cheap chargers, the Dilusi i4 Intellicharger certainly stands out, able to provide a 450 mA charging current for both slots and to separately control the process of recharging the batteries, so as to obtain good results without overcharging them. The display is really comfortable, showing the actual charging of the batteries inserted.
We can view the product from here -> Dilusi i4 Intellicharger (13 €)
2) AmazonBasics - Battery charger
In addition to the rechargeable batteries Amazon also distributes a valid 4-slot charger, capable of recharging as many rechargeable batteries (per pair) with a 200 mA recharge current, the best for stability and seal of the batteries (in less than 5 hours it recharges the most part of the batteries). There are two front LEDs to indicate battery charging (in pairs) and a side USB port to charge any other device via USB cable.
We can view this charger here -> AmazonBasics - Battery charger (14 €)
3) Technoline BC 700
What is the best charger in the world "> Technoline BC 700 (40 €)
