Best Battery Charger for Batteries?

[pmatthew876]

Hello, I have 2 kids and a lot of electronics that they play with. I have just realized I should get a battery charger and some rechargeable batteries. The problem is there are so many different kinds. I don't want to pay a ridiculous amount, but I want something that will last and won't fry the batteries. That is another thing, which rechargeable batteries should I buy also? I been looking it up and I see Eneloop everywhere. I am just not sure. I want to get the best deal. Which brings me to my next question. Do you think I should buy all this online or in store? I have been looking on amazon and Ebay. Please help me with this decision. I don't want to be blowing my money on something that is going to give out fast.

 

[GreenGiant]

When looking for rechargeable batteries (Im going to assume you mean common like AA/AAA etc) look at the mAh rating (should be listed on the batteries themselves or on the packaging) the higher the better, for AA's something in the 2250-2700 range is about the best that I have seen, also if you can find cycle life ratings, that will tell you how many times you can use/recharge before they are dead, again the higher the better

As far as chargers go it doesn't make all that much of a difference, dont get a fast charge system though, yes its convenient, but the batteries wont charge as fully, and the cycle life will be shortened, you do want one that indicates when the batteries are done, no indicator means its all guesswork as to how fully charged the batteries are

I personally have a set of 4 AA Energizers, 2450mAh's and a Duracell charger with an indicator, in my digital camera they will last for 1500-2500 pictures (half with and half without using flash) I got one of the cheapest chargers (got it for like 8 bucks) and the mid range batteries (could have gotten 2700's for double the price... not worth it for that little difference) and they lasted me probably 2-300 recharges over 3 years before they would die quickly.

Hope this helps

Green