What would we do without batteries to power our remotes, computer keyboards, wireless mice, smoke detectors and more? Without some in the remote, even the best TVs would be rendered useless. A reliable stash of AA or AAA batteries tucked away in a drawer can swiftly resolve any power-related predicament. However, the best rechargeable batteries are the modern way to go, saving you money, creating less waste and having a much lower environmental impact.
Rechargeable batteries emerge as a beacon of eco-conscious power in a world overwhelmed with single-use disposables. The beauty lies in their simplicity. When your torch, radio or gaming controller quits on you, there's no need for a mad dash to the corner shop. Instead, swap them out for a freshly-topped-up set and put the old ones in the charger ready for next time.
Best rechargeable batteries of 2024 at a glance
• Best overall: Duracell Rechargeable AA Batteries (Pack of 8) - View at Amazon
• Best budget: Amazon Basics AA High-Capacity Rechargeable Batteries - View at Amazon
• Best with charger: Duracell 45 minutes Battery Charger with 2 AA and 2 AAA - View at Amazon
• Best AAA: Energizer Power Plus, AAA - View at Amazon
In addition to the convenience of recharging instead of discarding batteries, rechargeable batteries mean we can take advantage of their green credentials throughout the year. Picture this: a Christmas morning where all of the toys are powered by rechargeable batteries. Or when someone gets a portable DAB radio for their birthday and wants to take it out right away. The best rechargeable batteries will not only remove the stress of the day but also replace the need for endless disposables, contributing to a cleaner, greener environment.
You'll still need to consider a few things, though – such as how many you need, whether you need a charger, how much capacity they have for your more power-hungry devices and so on. To help you decide, we've created a list of the best rechargeable batteries you can get today from trusted brands. There's also a handy buyer's guide and some FAQs at the end of the article. So, let's get charged up and find eco-friendly power for all of your gadgets.
The best rechargeable batteries
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Our top choice is really all about what happens when the most common battery size and the most renowned battery brand meet. These Duracell Rechargeable AA Batteries are a solid investment for anyone needing reliable, high-capacity power. Their impressive 2500 mAh capacity makes them perfect for high-drain devices like digital cameras and gaming controllers. These batteries retain their charge for up to a year, ensuring they're ready when you need them. But, bear in mind that you may need a second charger if you need to keep them all topped up at once. Their lifespan of up to 400 charge cycles or five years means you get significant long-term value, even if the initial cost is higher than standard batteries.
Pros
- Long-lasting charge
- High capacity at 2400 mAh – will outlast most other AA batteries
- Excellent quality, typical of Duracell
Cons
- You may need to invest in a second charger if you want them all charging at once
| Size | AA |
| Capacity | 2500 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2v |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 400 charge cycles |
Sometimes you just want a cheap and cheerful solution to your AA woes. But, for us, these Amazon Basics AA High-Capacity Rechargeable Batteries offer an economical solution without sacrificing quality. With a capacity of 2400 mAh, they provide ample power for most household devices. Pre-charged and ready to use, these batteries are convenient right out of the box. Although (despite their claims) in practice their lifespan may be slightly shorter than premium brands, their cost-effectiveness makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious gadget fans.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- High capacity to rival even Duracell
- Pre-charged and ready to use.
Cons
- May have a slightly shorter lifespan in practice
| Size | AA |
| Capacity | 2400 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 1000 charge cycles |
The Duracell 45-minute Battery Charger is a versatile and fast solution for charging both AA and AAA batteries. This pack includes two AA and two AAA batteries, making it highly convenient. The rapid 45-minute charging time is a major plus for anyone who doesn't have time to spare. While the charger is a bit bulky for travel, its reliability and speed make it a great addition to any busy gadget or toy-mad household.
Our tech writer, Chris Duffill, owns one of these and said: "I really value the rapid 45-minute charge time – especially when I need to use them in my Xbox controller. Actually, it can be much less than 20 minutes if your batteries are only partially drained. Also love that it came with batteries and supports AAAs as well. As someone who is safety-conscious, I appreciate the peace of mind of the various safety features like overcharge protection too. "
Pros
- Quick charging time – 45 minutes is one of the best to be found
- Includes AA and AAA batteries
- Reliable Duracell quality with great safety features
Cons
- The charger may be a little bulky for travel
| Size | AA and AAA |
| Capacity | 1300 mAh (AAA), 2500 mAh (AA) |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 400 charge cycles |
Best AAA
Energizer Ideal for low to moderate-drain devices like remote controls and wireless mice, we really like these Energizer Power Plus AAA batteries for their steady power delivery. You'll have dependable performance for your devices thanks to their 800 mAh capacity. The long lifespan of up to 1000 charge cycles ensures they provide lasting value, too. Though their capacity is lower compared to AA batteries, their ability to hold a charge over long periods makes them highly reliable.
Looking to save a bit more cash on your next set of AAAs? This set of Amazon Basics AAA Rechargeable Batteries have a little less to offer in terms of capacity, but come in much cheaper.
Pros
- Long-lasting performance
- High cycle count for a AAA, so you can keep these topped up for longer
- Holds charge for extended periods
Cons
- Lower capacity than AA batteries.
| Size | AAA |
| Capacity | 800 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 1000 charge cycles |
We really dislike weak AA batteries, especially when gaming or trying to make a torch work when you need it. Thankfully, Duracell's 2500 mAh AA batteries are among the best for high-drain devices. Pre-charged and ready to use, they offer the convenience and reliability that Duracell is known for. Their high capacity ensures long-lasting power, making them suitable for demanding devices and gadgets. However, you may need to invest in a charger if your current one is only for AA batteries. That aside, these will last a long time when charged and are a top choice for AA performance.
Pros
- High capacity at 2500 mAh
- Trusted Duracell reliability
- Pre-charged and ready-to-use
Cons
- You may need a second charger if your existing one is only AA
| Size | AA |
| Capacity | 2500 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 400 charge cycles |
As one of our top brands of choice, we think these Energizer Rechargeable C batteries are perfect for high-drain devices such as torches and toys. With a capacity of 2500 mAh and a lifespan of up to 500 charge cycles, these batteries offer both power and durability. Their reliable performance ensures your devices stay powered longer, but keep in mind that these are bulky and heavy compared to others – especially if you're planning on taking several of them on a long trip.
Pros
- Suitable for high-drain devices thanks to the high capacity
- Long lifespan for this size of battery
- Reliable performance – ideal for torches and toys
Cons
- Bulkier than AA, so factor this in if you're travelling
| Size | C |
| Capacity | 2500 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 500 charge cycles |
Duracell is back on our list with its D rechargeable batteries. Built for heavy-duty applications with a high 3000 mAh capacity, they're ideal for devices like large flashlights and radios, providing long-lasting power. Despite their bulkier size and weight, the extended lifespan of up to 400 charge cycles ensures they offer excellent value over time. Once again, these are one of the largest of the common cylindrical type batteries and are heavy too, so remember – if you need a large number of these and are travelling, you'll need to carry and store them.
If you need your next pack of D batteries to come in a bit cheaper, we think these Amazon Basics D Cell Rechargeable Batteries might do the trick.
Pros
- Ideal for heavy-duty devices
- High capacity at 3000 mAh – more than enough for most gadgets
- A decent lifespan means a larger saving over ordinary batteries
Cons
- Bulky and heavier than smaller sizes
| Size | D |
| Capacity | 3000 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 400 charge cycles |
The Amazon Basics 24-pack of AA rechargeable batteries offers great value for money. With a 2000 mAh capacity, they are suitable for a wide range of devices. We love that they're pre-charged and ready to use, too – making them a convenient and practical choice. While their capacity is lower than some premium options, the affordability and decent lifespan of up to 1000 charge cycles make them a smart choice for budget-conscious gadget fans.
Pros
- Economical multipack – ideal for busy households
- Pre-charged and ready-to-use
- Decent capacity for most devices
Cons
- Lower capacity than premium brands
| Size | AA |
| Capacity | 2000 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 1000 charge cycles |
Duracell 9V rechargeable batteries are reliable for essential devices like smoke alarms and electronic DIY tools like laser levellers. With a capacity of 170 mAh and a voltage of 8.4V, they provide steady power for safe and reliable use. Though their capacity is lower than other battery formats, the trusted Duracell quality and up to 400 charge cycles make them a dependable choice.
Want to save on price but still get great charging capacity? Check out these Amazon Basics 9V Cell Rechargeable Batteries. They actually deliver an impressive 200 mAh of charge.
Pros
- Trusted Duracell quality
- Reliable for smoke alarms and other PP3-powered devices
- A fairly good number of recharge cycles
Cons
- Lower capacity than other formats (but fine for most 9V uses)
| Size | PP3 (9V) |
| Capacity | 170 mAh |
| Voltage | 8.4V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 400 charge cycles |
We love these LLOYTRON NiMH rechargeable batteries because, unlike many AAAs, they're ideal for telephone handsets, offering a high capacity of 1100 mAh. This ensures long-lasting performance and less time on the charging cradle – reducing the frequency of recharges and solving the annoyance of picking up the call to find a low battery icon again. Their lifespan of up to 1000 charge cycles provides good value over time. However, they may not fit all handsets due to slight size variations (and not all handsets use the same type), so compatibility should be checked.
Pros
- High capacity for AAA size – perfect for handsets and everyday high-use devices
- Long-lasting performance thanks to 1000 charge cycles
- Spend less time worrying about your handset charge
Cons
- You should check the handset before buying, as not all have the same battery type
| Size | AAA |
| Capacity | 1100 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Battery type | NiMH |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years or 1000 charge cycles |
How to choose the best rechargeable batteries for you
Device compatibility
Rechargeable batteries are typically compatible with devices that accept disposable batteries of the same size and voltage. It's essential to consult the device's manual for confirmation and adhere to any specific recommendations from the manufacturer. But, you will of course need to double-check your devices for the right battery size before you click that buy button. It may seem like the most obvious thing in the world, but we've all been there – a quick glance at that TV remote or ergonomic mouse and you rush off to buy AA batteries, only to find they take AAA batteries.
Tech note: Although commonly referred to as 1.5-volt batteries, AA, AAA, C and D often carry slightly less (e.g.: 1.2v). This is fine as 1.5v is the target with 1.2-1.5v being an acceptable range. The same goes for the 9v PP3 style, which may be 8.4v.
Know your power needs
The measurement of how much electrical charge a battery can hold is measured in milliampere-hour, otherwise known as mAh. It's how many milliamps are delivered over the course of an hour. Therefore, the higher this measurement, the longer the battery will be able to last – but of course that also partially depends on how much power your device needs to work.
So, while an LED head torch for running or a pulse oximeter may last months on two AA batteries, the same batteries may only last a day in a portable radio. For example, a 2500mAh battery could supply a 250mA device for 10 hours.
Many devices don't detail their mAh usage clearly, so unless you're buying a non-standard battery size (such as a replacement internal rechargeable battery that isn't AA, AAA, C, D and the like) you won't need to worry about power delivery being much different to a regular non-rechargeable battery.
Buying in bulk? Consider storage
For effective storage, keep rechargeable batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Storing them partially charged when not in use helps preserve their capacity, ensuring they are ready for use when required.
Invest in a quality charger
One of the common concerns about rechargeable batteries is the idea that they might heat up too much when charging. The best chargers for rechargeable batteries have built-in protection to prevent overcharging and other safety features. Overcharging can shorten the life of your batteries, too, so this is a must-have feature.
FAQs
Are rechargeable batteries worth it?
They definitely are. They are significantly more efficient and eco-friendly than single-use batteries and will last much longer.
What is the lifespan of rechargeable batteries?
Rechargeable batteries, known for their cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits, generally last for 500 to 1000 charge cycles. Proper charging practices, such as avoiding overcharging, contribute to maintaining optimal performance over time. Depending on how much you use them, you could be looking at a two to seven-year usable lifespan. Imagine all the savings you'll make by not having to shell out for non-rechargeables over that time.
How do I dispose of rechargeable batteries?
Responsible disposal is crucial due to the composition of rechargeable batteries. Recycling is the preferred method to minimise environmental impact. Many cities, towns and villages have designated recycling facilities, and electronic retailers may offer recycling services. Avoid disposing of rechargeable batteries in regular waste to promote eco-friendly waste management.
Why should you trust us?
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Chris Duffill is a Senior Tech Writer and Reviewer for What's The Best. His background includes writing, editorial, marketing, design, video production and photography.
He specialises in home entertainment and audiovisual tech, including speakers, amplifiers, turntables, streaming media players, and TVs. He is also one of our resident experts in computing (PCs, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches), DSLR photography and all kinds of digital cameras. He also writes about retro gaming, game consoles and various electronic gadgets. If it plugs in, lights up or makes a noise, he’ll write about it.
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