We're going to level with you, this probably won't be your most exciting purchase ever, but it is a necessary one.
With most household items requiring AA batteries, such as toys, instant cameras, and remote controls, AA batteries are probably one of the most useful devices in our home. Yet, standard AA batteries seem to die incredibly quickly and produce harmful chemical waste when they're not carefully disposed.
There are plenty of benefits when it comes to using rechargeable batteries. For starters, they're much more efficient and eco-friendly than single-use batteries, as they last longer and drastically reduce waste. They also usually cost less, too, so you won't need to find a sale or an Amazon Prime Deal on them to save money.
We're currently facing an energy crisis in the UK and saving money on energy bills is more important than ever. If you're looking at swapping to more energy-efficient options, here's our top picks for some great energy-efficient tech that'll save you hundreds in the long run.
Rechargeable batteries have come a long way over the past decade, becoming more powerful and more efficient, some even can be recharged over 2,000 times before dying.
We've done all the hard work for you and rounded up the cream of the crop of AA rechargeable batteries, for every use and budget.
If you have any questions regarding rechargeable batteries, or what the mAh rating of a battery means, make sure to have a look at our short FAQs section located at the bottom of our guide.
How do I recharge my AA batteries?
To recharge, simply place the AA batteries in a battery charger, these do not have to be brand specific and should be suitable for any AA rechargeable battery available.
Can rechargeable batteries die?
After a heavy amount of recharging (approximately 500 times) batteries will begin to reduce in efficiency. The electrodes required to produce power eventually are coated in chemical by-products, making them increasingly lose efficiency over time, until they stop working altogether.
The best AA rechargeable batteries
Editor's pick
When it comes to electronics, Panasonic is a solid and trustworthy brand, and it's certainly lived up to its reputation with these AA batteries. These Eneloop Pro batteries remain at 85% capacity even after a year of use. Panasonic claims that they can be charged up to 500 times and they are pre-charged with solar energy - so they're extra environmentally friendly! mAh: 2500
Review: "Over the years, I've tried most, if not all of the leading brands of rechargeable AA's and these are by far the best I've used to date. They hold the charge exceptionally well, for months on end when in storage, and they really do give an outstanding performance when it comes to powering the various bits of kit."
Best for mAh capacity
If you're looking for the highest number of mAh in a battery, then this product may just be the one for you. Boasting an impressive 2800 mAh and able to be charged up to 1200 times, this is a seriously long-lasting set of batteries. mAh: 2800
Review: "Very pleased with these batteries. I am fed up with buying cheap batteries only to keep throwing them away and buying more. These Bonai pack of 8 seem very good, they are long life and still retain 80% of their initial usage, even if they have not been used, after three years, now that has to be good."
Recommended
An all-around excellent product, this battery pack includes eight AA rechargeable batteries and comes fully pre-charged and ready to use. They're also pretty eco-friendly, as they can simply be recycled once they no longer work. mAh: 2400
Review: "Rapid charging and good battery life".
Best budget AA rechargeable batteries
If you're trying to save as much as you can but you don't want to compromise on quality, let us introduce the Energizer Rechargeable Batteries. Aside from being Amazon's choice, these batteries are made with 4% recycled batteries, and according to Energizer, one single charge will power toys for up to five hours and gaming devices for 7.5 hours. mAh: 2000
Best value for price
It's pretty clear to see why this is one of Amazon's top choices, aside from having a pretty low price tag, they also come 100% fully pre-charged. According to Duracell, they are also guaranteed to last up to five years. mAh: 2500
What about AAA rechargeable batteries?
POWEROWLA great solution to reducing chemical waste in your home, AAA batteries are in an absolute ton of tech, from kitchen appliances, to remote controls, so they're always handy to have around. POWEROWL have a great offer on some terrific batteries that are great value and powerful.
Review: "These AAAs from POWEROWL are first class. Made of Nickel Metal Hydride (as I think most are these days), Quick to charge, in a smart charger they charged from empty in 2 hours - fantastic. They put out great power and last for ages. You get 3 packets of 4, 12 in the pack. Difficult to write anything negative really!"
POWEROWL If you're looking for the ultimate battery charger to keep all of your gadgets running, then look no further. This 8-bay battery charger is a great way to save money on disposable batteries without sacrificing time waiting for useable batteries. And as an added bonus, it also charges AAA batteries!
Review: "I have various chargers by my computer but I have given up on them. This new acquisition is by far the best. It is sitting there with eight glowing green lights and works just as it should. I have no connection with the firm other than as a very satisfied customer."
EnergizerFAQ's
What is mAh?
This is the measurement of how much electrical charge a battery can hold. It is measured in milliampere-hour, otherwise known as mAh. The higher this measurement, the more electrical charge the battery can hold, meaning the battery will be able to last longer.
Is it worth buying rechargeable batteries?
They are much more efficient than single-use batteries and will last you a lot longer! They also are much more environmentally friendly as they reduce waste and can be re-used.
Are rechargeable batteries better for the environment?
While, of course, it is still a battery and will eventually have to be disposed, the fact it can be recharged significantly reduces the amount of hazardous waste produced. It also saves you from making trips to the shop or ordering more, reducing your carbon footprint.
Can rechargeable batteries be recycled?
Thankfully, yes, they can be recycled. However, they can't simply be placed into your recycling bin and they must be disposed of in proper battery recycling bins which are often in supermarkets and refuse centres.
Will rechargeable batteries work in solar lights?
Yes they will, and they will be recharged by sunlight so your garden can shine on for the foreseeable future.