Best batteries for the money 12/11
(This article is adapted from the December issue of Consumer Reports magazine.)
Although AA batteries are still the most widely sold type used in many toys radios, flashlights, and remote controls, nowadays more digital cameras are using tiny rechargeable batteries—a greener choice.
In past tests, Consumer Reports found that rechargeable batteries from the major manufacturers provided over 300 shots out of the box and about 400 shots on their subsequent charge.
The recommended rechargeables were: Kodak Precharged, Duracell Rechargeable, Rayovac Hybrid, Sanyo Eneloop Rechargeable, and Sony Cycle Energy.
By comparison, in recent tests the longest-lasting nonrechargeable was the Energizer Advanced Lithium. It took 809 photos before dying. In general lithium batteries took more photos than the other types so they don’t need to be changed as often.The quickest battery to die was an alkaline type, Walgreens Supercell alkaline, which took just 133 photos.
The top alkaline battery in the recent tests was Duracell’s Ultra Advanced, which is recommended for use with low-drain devices, such as remote controls.
But for high-drain devices, such as cameras and toys that are used a lot, high-capacity rechargeables are the way to go.
Recycle your rechargeables
When they no longer hold a charge, you can recycle rechargeable batteries to keep the toxic heavy metals they contain out of landfills. Learn more. If your town doesn’t provide a way to recycle rechargeable batteries, it’s okay to toss them in the trash.
To find a location where you can drop off batteries for recycling, check online at: www.call2recycle.org, a website of the nonprofit Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corp. Just type in your zip code to see the locations near you, or you can call toll-free 877.2.RECYCLE.
Another online recycling resource is located at: www.earth911.com.
Many major retailers, including Best Buy, Home Depot, Radio Shack, and Staples, among others, will accept the batteries.
Related links
Electronics reuse and recycling center
Electronics recycling resources
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