Eneloop Batteries: Green and Easy
Rechargeable batteries have come a long way. Previous rechargeables wore out quickly, suffered from “memory” problems which made their lives fairly short-lived, and taken a long time to charge. And they certainly didn’t offer neat charging devices and a whole line of Japanese accessories!
Enter the Eneloop. Ready to use out of the package, they also can be charged 1000 times. Unlike many other batteries, they also last quite a while on the shelf (low self-discharge), retaining up to 85% of their charge after a year of non-use. Sanyo created the batteries using Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), and they are available in both AA and AAA forms and even offer neat adapters for them to transform into C and Ds (sorry 9-volt lovers).
We tried out their USB and regular chargers, as well as used the batteries in everything from remote controls to flying toys over the last few weeks. As advertised, they worked well out of the package, and lasted quite a while- not as long as good-brand alkalines, but enough for heavy usage. Recharging was simple, and the charger is small, light, and attractive even. The USB charger has a too-short cable though.
The only truly unfortunate thing about the Eneloops is the Japan-only line of Sanyo gadgetry that bears the same name. They recently announced a bicycle that will using the same technology, but we’ve also seen a solar light… and several neat-looking types of hand warmers! Band together, America- if we support Eneloops, maybe we too can have nifty hand warmers soon!
