The best rechargeable batteries in the UK 2023

Batteries are found everywhere and in many forms. In children's toys, remote controls, and even flashlights and alarm clocks, batteries play essential roles in our daily lives. Affordable to buy, disposable batteries are not cost effective and pollute. To power a battery-operated device, especially the energy-hungry ones, rechargeable batteries save money in the long run.

Varta Power on Demand 1
9/10

Best value for money

Varta Power on Demand

Best rechargeable battery

Varta Power on Demand AAA 1000 mA h batteries are perfect for all equipment. They have a low self-discharge. Rest assured, these batteries have no memory effect.

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These VARTA Power on Demand AAA 1000 mA h rechargeable batteries are pre-charged. They can be used as soon as the packaging is removed. Very energy efficient, these batteries do not discharge easily and can be recharged with all common Ni-Mh chargers and standard products on the market. You won't throw them away for years. They fit easily with everything from digital cameras to remote controls.

In terms of safety, Varta batteries are resistant to overcharging and deep discharge. Among other things, they can be used long term without impact or memory of the old device or charger.

Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge 2
7/10

Best value for money

Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge

Best entry-level rechargeable battery

For everyday use, the quality and performance of Energizer batteries is what you need. With unbeatable pricing, you can enjoy these batteries for months, even years.

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Save the environment and prevent further pollution with Energizer Recharge Power Plus batteries. Made with 4% recycled battery, these batteries are already pre-charged and ready to use. In case you don't want to use it yet, it can be kept in the original packaging for over a year. Its autonomy and life span vary according to your uses. In a single charge, you can enjoy its services up to more than 7 hours.

The use of these rechargeable batteries will make you see another world with less expense and a less polluted environment.

Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes 3
8/10

Best value for money

Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes

Best high-end rechargeable battery

Needs of battery, Duracell offers you with this batch what there is of better. This brand offers in addition to the 4 AA batteries a fast charger that takes only 5 minutes to recharge a battery.

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This pack that Duralex puts forward consists of 4 rechargeable batteries and a fast charger. The Duracell Hi-Speed expert battery charger can charge 4 batteries at the same time and in no time. The length of the charging interval depends on the number and capacity of the battery connected to the charger. It can range from 5 to 45 minutes, shorter than other chargers.

The batteries provided can be used for some time after charging, the numbers may vary depending on the use of the batteries. The 4 AA Duracell rechargeable batteries with a capacity of 2,500 mA h are perfect for powering your equipment, especially those that consume a lot.

Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme 4
9/10

Excellent

Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme

Excellent rechargeable battery

Here you have rechargeable batteries that are already charged and ready to use. Right out of the box, these Energizer Recharge Power Plus rechargeable batteries can be inserted directly into the device or wait in a drawer for up to 1 year without any problems.

11,19 £ on Manomano

Energizer rechargeable batteries are already pre-charged. This allows the user to unpack and use them directly upon receipt. Just like buying a disposable battery, but better. You can use it several times and at the same time preserve the nature of battery waste. Each Energizer Rechargeable AA battery can be recharged and used up to 1,000 times.

This item was made with 4% recycled batteries. However, you'll find that this battery lives up to your expectations. You'll be able to use it with all your battery-powered devices, from your remote control to your camera.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best rechargeable batteries

Any specific needs?

Best rechargeable battery

Best entry-level rechargeable battery

Best high-end rechargeable battery

Excellent rechargeable battery

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best rechargeable batteries

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Varta Power on Demand 5
9/10
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge 6
7/10
Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes 7
8/10
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Varta Power on Demand
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge
Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme
Varta Power on Demand AAA 1000 mA h batteries are perfect for all equipment. They have a low self-discharge. Rest assured, these batteries have no memory effect.
For everyday use, the quality and performance of Energizer batteries is what you need. With unbeatable pricing, you can enjoy these batteries for months, even years.
Needs of battery, Duracell offers you with this batch what there is of better. This brand offers in addition to the 4 AA batteries a fast charger that takes only 5 minutes to recharge a battery.
Here you have rechargeable batteries that are already charged and ready to use. Right out of the box, these Energizer Recharge Power Plus rechargeable batteries can be inserted directly into the device or wait in a drawer for up to 1 year without any problems.
Excellent functionality
Charges/discharges properly
Great battery life up to 4 hours for only 5 minutes of charging
Good power of 2,000 mAh
Ecologically perfect
Performant 2000 mAh
Delivered with charger
Can last a long time, up to about 8 hours
Excellent and powerful 1000 mAh
Respires with confidence and quality
Light system on charger
Made with 4% recycled batteries

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Buying guide - rechargeable batteries

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How to choose your rechargeable batteries

You might think that a battery is a battery. Well, it's not! When it comes to AA and AAA rechargeable batteries, it's important to understand how they work. That's why we've put together this guide, to help you understand and make the best purchase possible.

#1 - Your type

You may have noticed that each device requires a specific type of battery. Before making your purchase, we advise you to look at the type of AA or AAA rechargeable batteries that the device requires. This will prevent you from making an unnecessary purchase. In some cases, the user's manual will give you advice on the type of battery that will best suit your device.

Next, you need to consider your needs. Yes, you can recharge your batteries, but it is convenient to have reserves. That's why you have 8-packs or 12-packs on the market, and their prices save you money.

#2 - What brand?

When

we talk about AA and AAA rechargeable batteries, it's important to talk about brands. The reason is simple. Despite technical advances, the mastery of this technology is not perfect. Thus, it is not uncommon to come across so-called rechargeable models, but which quickly disappoint.

So, in order not to break your head, we recommend you to choose branded batteries when purchasing. This is the best solution to not be frustrated.

#3 - What capacity?

After

the brand, this is the most important criterion. Since you are buying so-called rechargeable batteries, the issue of battery life comes into play. The longevity

of this type of battery will define your usage time. You can find this indication on the product box and it is expressed in mAh. For AA rechargeable models, you are recommended a minimum value of 1700 mAh and 700 mAh for AAA type batteries.

#4 - The "Kit"

If this is

your first purchase regarding this type of product, you need to get the charger as well. This is the element that will allow you to recharge your batteries. In most cases, the big brands sell the charger with a set of AA and AAA rechargeable batteries: in kit. Their price is high, but it is an investment that pays off quickly. For you and for the ecological issue!

Recharge your rechargeable batteries!

Just like on your smartphone, the charger will define the speed and quality of your recharge. First of all, you should know that the reason manufacturers sell their kit with a charger is because there is a type of charger for each type of battery. If you charge a NiCd rechargeable battery with a case that doesn't match it, you risk damaging your batteries. Or worse, the charger may melt them! So it's important to be careful.

However, there are universal chargers that can be used to charge the different kinds of AA and AAA batteries that exist. Before buying this kind of device, however, it is advisable to observe the following indications:

  • Respect the voltage of your rechargeable batteries (1.2 v or 1.6 v)
  • Full discharge charger: it is a perfect device for NiCd batteries and it is also effective on NiMH type batteries
  • Intelligent ones: this type of box has a system that allows it to automatically recognize the type of battery and take the appropriate measures. In addition, it has a mechanism against overcharging your batteries.

Memory effect or not?

Memory effect

NiCd models have a memory effect. In other words, in order for the battery to fully recharge, it is imperative that you have fully recharged it. If you forget to discharge it to 0%, it will only recharge halfway and your battery will quickly deteriorate. This can be considered an advantage if you are careful before each recharge. Unfortunately, the memory effect quickly becomes a liability over time.

No memory effect

You might think that this is a disadvantage for this type of model. We confess that it is not! Why not? The quality of a battery is its ease of use. When we use a battery, we tend to want to light it up immediately without worrying about other details, so if we need to recharge a battery, we don't want to know its charge level. It's more convenient to put them in the charger, so you can use them more quickly afterwards.

Verdict

Our choice will clearly be the model: no memory effect.

Why buy a rechargeable AA and AAA battery?

Durability

A rechargeable AA and AAA battery has a much longer life than a conventional battery. It can be used up to 500 times, unlike disposable batteries which are for one-time use only. Simply recharge it as soon as it is no longer able to power your device.

Higher charge capacity

The AA and AAA rechargeable battery is a great performer. It has a long life; up to 5 times longer than a regular battery. That's why some power-hungry devices such as digital cameras only work with this type of battery, because they won't last long with a regular battery.

Practicality

A rechargeable battery is multi-purpose and can be used in the same way as a disposable battery. It can be used in all devices that require an AA or AAA battery: gamepads, remote controls, clocks, cameras, etc. As for charging, each manufacturer offers a charger for its batteries, but you can also find universal chargers on the market. There are USB rechargeable models that are more convenient when you're on the go.

Save money

In addition to its high performance, a rechargeable AA and AAA battery is a simple and effective way to save money. You don't have to spend more than €20 every quarter or year on disposable batteries. You buy a single battery that you can use for more than 5 years.

Protection of the environment

Buying a rechargeable AA and AAA battery is also an ecological gesture. No more accumulating tons of single-use or disposable batteries. This type of battery allows you to significantly reduce the volume of your waste. In addition, batteries contain polluting chemicals that can damage our ozone layer. You'll be doing the right thing for the environment by choosing to use a rechargeable AA and AAA battery.

The best brands of rechargeable batteries

In our opinion, the best brands of rechargeable batteries in 2022 are :

Varta
Energizer
Duracell
Ikea Ladda
Panasonic

The first quick loader was created by this company in 2004. Since 2005, the company is an integral part of Spectrum brands. Their fame is worldwide thanks to high quality products.

It is an American company established in 2000 and specializes in portable batteries like batteries. But not only that, the brand also owns Wilkinson razors and Playtex company.

Taken over in 2014 by Berkshire Hathaway, Duracell is a safe bet when it comes to electric batteries. This is their area of focus. The quality of their product has stood the test of time!

Ikea is not to be introduced anymore. It is a leader in the world of furniture and other home accessories. To make their offer even more convenient, Ikea decided to manufacture their own batteries. Thus, their customers will find everything in their stores.

Having made their name in the world of electronics, Panasonic also produces high quality rechargeable batteries. So, you are going to use their batteries with their devices for unmatched performance.

What is the price rechargeable batteries

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
8 £ to 15 £
Mid-range
15 £ to 30 £
High-end
more than 30 £
Price range diagram

Tips

You can mix brands.

Manufacturers tell you that you should only use the same brand of batteries together, but they don't provide any valid justification for that. In fact, what matters is the voltage, and your device doesn't know or care who made the batteries.

The batteries in a set do not all die at the same time.

When the batteries in your device run out, chances are only one is really dead. Test the voltage of all the batteries to see which one is the weak link.

Continue to use batteries that no longer charge.

To give the battery a jump start, connect the terminals of a new battery to the terminals of the dead battery (positive to positive, negative to negative). Keep them connected for a few seconds. Then try recharging the battery.

How do I test the battery voltage?

Multimeters connected directly to a dead battery often give inaccurate readings. Therefore, the easiest way to test your batteries is to use a battery tester.

How to get accurate readings with a multimeter?

To test voltage with a multimeter, insert the battery into the device, turn it on, and then test the voltage.

FAQ

What is the best AA and AAA rechargeable battery?

The best AA and AAA rechargeable battery depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.

What is an AA or AAA rechargeable battery?

These are batteries that can be reused more than once by recharging them. Then, to differentiate between the two types of batteries, the AAA or LR03 model is larger than the LR6 or AA batteries. Their cylindrical shape characterizes them and it is the most common model on the market. Finally, in order to recharge them, you need a suitable charger. To learn more about this, read this comparison.

Which rechargeable battery should I choose?

Before buying a rechargeable battery, it is advisable to know some basic characteristics. In this comparison we will detail the important criteria when buying AA and AAA rechargeable batteries.

Which brand of rechargeable battery should I choose?

When it comes to AA and AAA rechargeable batteries, the choice of brand is important. The reason? The technology is not well mastered or the question of profitability takes precedence over quality. We explain this in this comparison. We invite you to read it.

How do I know if a battery is rechargeable or not?

Not all alkaline batteries can be recharged. These are batteries that we have all used before since they are used only once. A rechargeable battery, on the other hand, is made of either: cadmium-nickel, nickel or lithium. The standard requires manufacturers of AA and AAA rechargeable batteries to specify all the necessary information on the packaging. In addition, you should see some indication on the surface of the battery itself: its composition or any indication.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , conrad.fr
  2. , Quechoisir.org
  3. , futura-sciences.com
  4. , jerecyclemespiles.com
  5. , pile.fr
  6. , actu-environnement.com
  7. , piles-et-plus.fr
  8. , nytimes.com
  9. , lightandmatter.org
  10. , planete-batterie.fr
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , ruedespiles.com
  13. , darty.com
  14. , lesnumeriques.com
  15. , futura-sciences.com
  16. , lesnumeriques.com
  17. , castorama.fr
  18. , 1001piles.com
  19. , piles-et-plus.fr
  20. , boulanger.com
  21. , pilesbatteries.com
  22. , leroymerlin.fr
  23. , amazon.co.uk
  24. , jumia.ma
  25. , pilesbatteries.com
  26. , fnac.com
  27. , mega-piles.com
  28. , rechargapile.com
  29. , mr-bricolage.be
  30. , duracelldirect.fr
  31. , bureau-vallee.fr
  32. , consoglobe.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Varta Power on Demand 9
Varta Power on Demand
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge 10
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Power Plus Recharge
Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes 11
Duracell Ultra Fast Rechargeable Battery Charger 15 minutes
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme 12
Energizer AA Rechargeable Batteries, Accu Recharge Extreme

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