Have you ever realized that when you use the flash on your camera the power drains faster? Now since you cannot avoid using it, the wisest thing to do would be to get the best rechargeable batteries for camera, flash.
You want the batteries you pick to have:
- Compatibility
- Low self-discharge inconsistencies
- Highly rated capacity
If you are interested in knowing how to pick the perfect set of batteries, you may want to keep it here because that is what we are going to discuss next.
Top-Rated Rechargeable Camera & Flash Batteries: Comparison Table
In order to keep your device operating in tip-top condition you need to provide it with a good supply of battery power. Below is a table bringing together 12 sets of batteries which we strongly believe provide good value for money. Take a look:
| Ranking | Product Name | Batteries | Voltage |
| 1 | Energizer AA NiMH 2300 Rechargeable Batteries | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 9 Volts |
| 2 | Panasonic Eneloop BK-3MCCA8BA AA 2100 | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 3 | AmazonBasics High-Capacity AAA | 4 Unknown batteries required. | 1.2 Volts |
| 4 | PANASONIC Eneloop BK-3HCCA4BA | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 5 | AmazonBasics Rechargeable AAA Batteries | 12 AAA batteries required. (included) | – |
| 6 | Eneloop Sanyo Ni-MH Pre-charged 1800 Cycle AA | 8 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 7 | EBL 8 Pack Ni-MH AA Pre-charged | 8 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 8 | Tenergy NIMH AA Rechargeable Battery | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 9 | Powerex AA MHRAA4 2700 mAh AA | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 10 | Duracell AA Rechargeable Batteries | 4 AA batteries required. (included) | 1.2 Volts |
| 11 | Energizer NiMH 2000 mAh | 8 AA batteries required | 1.2 Volts |
| 12 | Fujitsu HR3UTC Ready to use AA | 8 AA batteries required | 1.2 Volts |
1. Energizer AA NiMH 2300 Rechargeable Batteries
Top on our list is the Energizer AA NiMH 2300 Rechargeable Batteries. This is the first AA battery in the world to be made from recycled batteries. Another great thing is that they come pre-charged so you can start using them immediately.
They offer over 2000 mAh of energy, which is enough for AA rechargeable batteries.
Other Features and Benefits
When fully charged, these batteries last a long time. They are of high quality and can be recharged up to 1200 times. Besides that, these things can store up to 85% energy, all thanks to the self-discharge mechanism.
The rechargeable batteries are mostly used for powering cameras and flashes. However, they can also be used in remote controllers, clocks, radios, gaming devices, audio players, TV remotes, alarms, shaving devices, and more.
Lastly, these batteries are available in a pack of 20, so you will have enough to replace with when one runs out.
Pros
- Built to last
- Environmental friendly
- High running time
- Built to last
- Function in a wide temperature range
Cons
- Low battery retention capacity
2. Panasonic Eneloop BK-3MCCA8BA AA 2100 Rechargeable Batteries
The Panasonic Eneloop BK-3MCCA8BA AA 2100 Rechargeable Batteries can power most home gadgets, including keyboards, wireless mouse, camera flash units, lanterns, gaming devices, and flashlights.
These batteries come pre-charged with solar power and are ready to use. That said, you will require a charger for replenishing the charge when it runs out.
Other Features and Benefits
Panasonic Eneloop batteries are built from a great cell technology mechanism that allows you to recharge them up to 1200 times, making them extremely durable. On top of that, they offer power during winter and are also good at low temperatures.
In addition, they come in multiple packs to meet your quantity needs. They can maintain a charge of up to 70% even after using them for ten years.
This makes them a great power back-up option — also, no need to worry about memory loss even when halfway drained.
Pros
- Ideal for most camera brands
- Multiple quantity packs
- Very affordable
- Long shelf life
- Come pre-charged so they are ready to use
Cons
- You will need to buy a charger unit
3. AmazonBasics High-Capacity AAA Rechargeable Batteries
Another great option is the AmazonBasics High-Capacity AAA Rechargeable Batteries. Other than in photography you can use them in multiple home devices such as high-drain devices e.g. toys and flashlights.
You can choose from the two available models. They are pre-charged using solar power so you can start using them immediately.
Other Features and Benefits
These batteries feature a capacity of 800 mAh, which is quite high in AAA batteries. What’s more, they are designed to maintain a permanent capacity, so they don’t run out after storage. More importantly, these AAA batteries work great in cold weather, which keeps high power.
These ones can be charged up to 1000 times, making them a durable option. On top of that, when stored appropriately, these batteries can keep charge for up to 3 years.
Pros
- They have a durable construction
- Pocket-friendly
- They are pre-charged
- Work well in cold weather
- Do not minimize run time after multiple recharges
Cons
- There are some options that can keep a charge for more than three years
4. PANASONIC Eneloop BK-3HCCA4BA High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries
The PANASONIC Eneloop BK-3HCCA4BA High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries are constructed with an advanced rechargeable battery technology. With a high capacity unit of up to 2550 mAh, these batteries are ideal for powering even high-drain devices.
What’s more, they come pre-charged and, therefore, ready for immediate use. Besides that, they are competitively priced, but they are a bit pricier than other AAA batteries.
Other Features and Benefits
You can recharge these batteries up to 500 times, which gives them a relatively long lifespan. Also worth noting is that when the PANASONIC Eneloop BK-3HCCA4BA High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries are stored well when not in use, they can retain a charge of up to 85% in one year.
However, this is quite short compared to other brands on this list. These batteries are designed to function incredibly even in low temperatures. Lastly, they are protected against memory effect, so they can recharge when fully drained.
Pros
- No memory effect
- You can buy them with a standard charger
- Perform well during winter
- Great customer reviews
Cons
- A bit more pricy
5. AmazonBasics Rechargeable AAA Batteries
Manufactured in Japan, the AmazonBasics Rechargeable AAA Batteries are quite high in capacity compared to other AAA rechargeable units. They are suitable for powering high draining electronic items.
Of course, most cameras from Nikon, Canon and the like fall in that category. Besides that, these batteries come pre-charged with solar energy and are ready to use.
Other Features and Benefits
These batteries are quite pricy than other brands. They are worth spending extra coins since the batteries have a long life span. On top of that, these units can retain a high charge capacity and can maintain up to 65% charge for three years.
Furthermore, these batteries can function in multiple temperatures, including winter and freezing weather activities. They also have a long shelf life and a low self-discharge capacity. The AmazonBasics Rechargeable AAA Batteries can maintain up to 80% charge after 12 months.
Pros
- Ship ready to use
- Operate well in cold temperatures
- Durable construction
- Low self-discharge capacity
Cons
- Charging capacity could be higher
6. Eneloop Sanyo Ni-MH Pre-charged 1800 Cycle AA Rechargeable Batteries
Another great option is the Eneloop Sanyo Ni-MH Pre-charged 1800 Cycle AA Rechargeable Batteries. These batteries come pre-charged from the factory, which means you can start charging your devices after unpacking.
Other Features and Benefits
To start with, these units have no memory effect, which means you can recharge when partially or fully drained. On top of that, they have a high charge capacity of 1900 mAh and 2000 mAh, which makes them suitable for charging high drain electronics.
On top of that, you can recharge the Eneloop Sanyo Ni-MH Pre-charged 1800 Cycle AA Rechargeable Batteries up to 1800 times.
Pros
- No memory effect
- High charge capacity
- Charged from the factory
- Can be recharged up to 1800 times
Cons
- A bit pricy
7. EBL 8 Pack Ni-MH AA Pre-charged High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries
The EBL 8 Pack Ni-MH AA Pre-charged High Capacity Rechargeable Batteries are an excellent option for powering most household devices such as toothbrushes, remote controls, radios, flashlights, toys, among other devices.
These eight pack units are constructed with ProCyco technology, which develops high capacity batteries of up to 2800 MAh. In addition, they feature a 1.2 voltage. They come pre-charged, so you can use them out of the package.
Other Features and Benefits
These batteries are not constructed with Pb/Cd/Hg material, which makes them an environmentally friendly option. What’s more, these reasonably priced batteries operate well in multiple temperatures and are suitable for winter use.
Besides that, the EBL batteries can be recharged when partially or fully drained without any risk of memory loss. You can recharge them up to 1200 times which gives them a long life span.
Another great feature of these units is that they have a low-self discharge and can maintain 75% charge when stored for three years.
Pros
- Battery case included
- Ideal for high power services
- Durable construction
- Competitively priced
Cons
- You need to buy a charger
8. Tenergy NIMH AA Rechargeable Battery
Next up is the Tenergy NIMH AA Rechargeable Battery. These batteries can power professional and household devices with a 1.2 and 1.5 voltage requirement. With a 200 mAh, these units are ideal for powering high-drain devices.
They can power a wide range of devices such as remote control, shavers, toys, mouse, toothbrush, among others.
Other Features and Benefits
Just like most rechargeable batteries, these ones are quite cost-effective since you can charge them up to 500 times. On top of that, the batteries are low-self discharging, which gives offers them a long storage life.
They can maintain a charge of 85% when properly stored for one year. As if that is not enough, the batteries come pre-charged, which means they can start powering your devices immediately. What’s more, they have no memory effect so you can recharge them when partly full or fully drained.
Pros
- Low-self discharge
- Very affordable
- Durable design
- No memory effect
- Comes pre-charged
Cons
- Fewer charge times than other brands
9. Powerex AA MHRAA4 2700 mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries
Moving forward, we have the Powerex AA MHRAA4 2700 mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries. These batteries have a 2600 mAh and 1.2 Voltage. This means they are high charge units and can power high-drain electronics like a digital camera and gaming devices.
Though these batteries work in cold temperatures, their performance is a bit shorter than its room temperature performance.
Other Features and Benefits
The Powerex AA MHRAA4 batteries come pre-charged, so you can start powering your devices after unpacking. In addition, the batteries feature a low self-discharge, so it retains a charge of 80% in one year. However, this depends on the storage conditions.
Also worth noting is the Powerex AA MHRAA4 2700 mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries are quite affordable. More importantly, each order comes with a battery case, but you will need to get a charger for powering these batteries.
Pros
- Comes at reasonable price
- Retain charge when stored
- Charge high-drain electronics
- Comes with a battery case
- Durable construction
Cons
- You will need to get a charger
10. Duracell AA Rechargeable Batteries
The Duracell AA Rechargeable Batteries features a 2400 mAh high charge capacity, which is higher than most brands out there. With a 1.2 voltage rating, these batteries can effectively power your high-drain devices.
These budget-friendly batteries come with charge meaning you can use them straight from the box.
Other Features and Benefits
Built with the advanced core technology, these units have a long-running time, which allows them to retain charge five four times longer than most rechargeable. On top of that, this advanced core technology makes them suitable for high-drain devices.
More importantly, the Duracell AA Rechargeable Batteries are made with Duralock Power save system that offers them a long shelf life. You can recharge them 400 times.
Pros
- High charge capacity
- Ideal for high power demand
- Competitively priced
- Pre-charged from the factory
Cons
- Shorter recharge time
Also read: 10 Best Camera for Night Photography
11. Energizer NiMH 2000 mAh Rechargeable AA Batteries
These batteries are from Energizer, which is a popular company for high-quality manufacturing products. With a 200 mAh capacity, these batteries are ideal for charging high-drain devices.
These units are ideal for powering cameras along with wireless electronics, toys, and digital audio devices. The well-priced batteries come charged from the factory so you can start using them immediately.
Other Features and Benefits
Another notable feature is that you can charge the batteries up to 100, which makes them a long lifespan of 5 years. On top of that, the battery has advanced construction and can keep a charge when well stored for one year.
More importantly, these unit features a long-running time, but it also depends on the charge requirement of your device.
Pros
- Pocket-friendly
- Environment-friendly
- Comes ready to use (pre-charged)
- Durable construction
- Long running time
Cons
- Battery charge could last longer when not in use
12. Fujitsu HR3UTC Ready to use AA Rechargeable Battery
The Fujitsu HR3UTC Ready to use AA Rechargeable Battery is also a great option too. Basically, this set boasts a high power capacity of 2000mAh.
As such, you can fully rely on it even when you own a power-draining flash. And the best part, these batteries are quite affordably priced.
Other Features and Benefits
Another notable feature with these rechargeable batteries is that they have a low-self discharge, which allows them to retain a charge of 70% when properly stored. What’s more, they function effectively in temperatures as low as 20-c.
Pros
- They come at an affordable price
- Low-self discharge
- They come charged
- Operate well even in cold temperatures
Cons
- You will need to get a charger
Buying Guide for Rechargeable Batteries of Camera or Flash
There are numerous battery options in the market and you may find yourself lost for choice. In that regard, you want to consider several factors before purchasing such as:
Battery Technology
Do you have any idea about the science behind the battery you intend to purchase? When it comes to rechargeable batteries, there are three kinds known as nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium-ion.
Lithium-ion batteries, which are quite popular today, are adequately powerful and they are ideal for advanced digital cameras. The best benefit you will enjoy from these batteries is that they have a low self-discharged rate.
Nickel-metal hydride or NiMH as they are otherwise known are quite popular as well. They are normally used in household goods because they do not contain any toxicity. You will also appreciate the fact that they are also more affordable than other batteries.
That said, the two aforementioned batteries are liable to the memory effect, which means they tend to drain faster. Needless to say, they are not ideal for camera flash.
You may want to settle for nickel-cadmiumbatteries also referred to as NiCd for your camera flash mainly because they recharge faster and last longer.
Battery Type
When it comes to battery type, there are two common types. The first one is the cylindrical type, which is more popular because of its ability to fit into almost all cameras and flashes.
The second type is the prismatic battery that is only compatible with a few exclusive camera models.
Therefore, before making your purchase, you want to ensure that you know and understand what kind of battery your camera needs.
The last thing you want is to waste your money on the wrong batteries.
Recharge Cycle
It is important to consider this particular battery feature prior to purchasing it. Recharge cycle refers to the number of times you can recharge and discharge the battery before it falls below a particular percentage.
This is important because it will determine whether you can still use the battery even if you surpass the number of recharge cycles.
Although, the battery will not have its original runtime, it is still something you want to consider. You also want to keep in mind that batteries with greater mAhratings usually have shorter recharge cycles compared to those with lower ratings.
Battery Charger
In the absence of a good charger, your rechargeable batteries will be useless. Fortunately, it is possible to get your batteries complete with a charger as one package.
Nevertheless, you may have to purchase a separate one under certain circumstances and if that is the case, you need to be very diligent about the selection process.
You want to keep in mind that if your batteries are not recharged properly, they could have a significantly reduced lifespan.
We are certain that you do not want to keep replacing your batteries every few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
As always, we are always ready to address any questions you may have, but since we cannot answer all of them here, we have tackled a few commonly asked ones below that may be of help.
What is aneneloop battery?
Eneloop is a pre-charged, recyclable, long-life, money, and energy saving battery that can be charged and discharged for up to 21000 cycles.
Are rechargeable batteries worth the money?
Yes, they are. Clearly, these batteries come with a host of benefits including the fact that they are cost effective, have along battery life, and are safer for the environment.
Do rechargeable batteries go bad if not used?
Yes, they do. Lithium Ion batteries when stored in a discharged state will go bad. You see, when the batteries have a voltage that is too low, there will be detrimental chemical reactions taking place that will cause degradation.
If the battery is not in use for a long time and the battery is not empty, it will be fine. Nevertheless, these batteries are not perfect so you can expect them to gradually discharge if they do not have any load.
When are rechargeable batteries not recommended?
Not all electronics perform optimally when operated using rechargeable batteries. Luckily, most cameras and flashes don’t belong to that category. However, it’s still worth double-checking what you device is designed to use.
If your camera/flash is designed for alkaline batteries, then continued use of rechargeable batteries might damage it.
Best Overall Choice
The Energizer AA NiMH 2300 Rechargeable Batteries is the best overall choice for us. Why? You ask. We were drawn to these batteries because Energizer manufactures them.
As you might know, Energizer is a renowned manufacturer who does not compromise on quality. In addition, this particular battery model has a self-charging mechanism. Above all, the product is ranked as environmentally friendly.
Final Thoughts
As you can now tell, there is no such thing as one-size-fits all options when it comes to the quest for best rechargeable batteries for camera, flash. In respect to that, we encourage you to be meticulous in your research.
Once you combine that with the information in this guide, you will have an easier time selecting the most suitable batteries for your device(s).