Charging USB Devices With AA Batteries

In this article, we will share with you some devices that use AA batteries to charge USB-powered small electronics. These devices provide a convenient way to stretch the time between wall outlet recharges.

Some are advertised to work with any type of AA battery, giving you lots of options if you are in a pinch as well as permitting you to use resource-saving rechargeables. Here are some we found:

• QuickerTek Apple Juicz Little Black Box
• Neewer Emergency Charger with Flashlight
• Zap RX-4 Recharge-It-All
• Energizer Energi To Go CEL2MUSB
• Voxred Turbo Charge

QuickerTek Apple Juicz Little Black Box

QuickerTek claims its Apple Juicz Little Black Box is the first charger of its kind that will accept any type of AA battery, including alkaline, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and carbon. As long as each of the four batteries installed is of the same type and brand, this unit’s internal circuitry will adjust voltage appropriately. QuickerTek advertises compatibility with most any USB-powered device, including iPod, iPhone, and iPad. The Apple Juicz Little Black Box measures 3.16” L x 2.46” W x 0.76” D and weighs 1.6 ounces without batteries. There is an on/off switch and a single female USB port. Batteries are not included, and the manufacturer recommends NiZn batteries for best performance.

The QuickerTek Apple Juicz Little Black Box sells for around $23 on Amazon.

Neewer Emergency Charger with Flashlight

Neewer Emergency Charger with Flashlight

The Neewer Emergency Charger with Flashlight draws a surprising number of reviews on Amazon; over 40 customers weigh in to give the black-colored model an average of 3½ out of 5 stars, and about 10 people give the white-colored version an average of 4 stars. This charger accepts two AA batteries; though the manufacturer does not specify which types are appropriate, customers seem to have success with both rechargeables and non-rechargeables. On the edge of this unit you’ll find an on/off/flashlight switch, on its face there is an LED charge indicator, and on the end is the female USB port and LED flashlight. Most reviewers like this charger, citing its high value, slim profile, and wide charging compatibility. But this charger also draws negative feedback for running hot and inefficiently. Neewer claims compatibility with just about all USB-powered devices, including iPhones. Batteries are not included.

Amazon sells the Neewer Emergency Charger with Flashlight in black or white, both for around $5.

Zap RX-4 Recharge-It-All

Zap RX-4 Recharge-It-All

The Zap RX-4 Recharge-It-All accepts (and includes) four AA batteries. Eight Amazon reviewers give it an average rating of 4 stars. Customers like the flexibility of this device—it accepts alkaline and rechargeable batteries, includes a USB cable with adapters for different mobile phones, and it can be plugged into a wall outlet to recharge the batteries it holds. It has a four-light LED battery-life indicator and comes with a carrying case. The biggest complaint is about the included rechargeable batteries; customers find they aren’t nearly as good as most rechargeables on the market today. Though the manufacturer claims wide compatibility, some customers report the RX-4 Recharge-It-All will not charge their devices.

Purchase the Zap RX-4 Recharge-It-All for about $18 on Amazon.

Energizer Energi To Go CEL2MUSB

Energizer Energi To Go CEL2MUSB

Energizer’s Energi To Go CEL2MUSB charger operates on two AA batteries. This charger includes two Energizer Ultimate Lithium AAs, but customers say rechargeables also work. Customers also say the Energi To Go CEL2MUSB performs as advertised, working with a wide range of USB-powered devices and remaining reliable long after their purchase. There are some complaints about the battery door being difficult to work with and some reviewers found this charger was not compatible with their phones after they bought it, but overall the feedback is positive. The Energi To Go CEL2MUSB comes with adapter for mini- and micro-USB connections. The company states this charger is not compatible with iPhone or HTC Android.

You’ll find the Energizer Energi To Go CEL2MUSB available for around $17 on Amazon.

Voxred Turbo Charge

Voxred Turbo Charge

The Voxred Turbo Charge comes in a variety of packages, all with different sets of charging cables. We recommend the TBB850 or TBM1050 packages; each comes with a mini-USB adapter and the TBB850 also includes a micro-USB adapter. You can order additional adapters through the manufacturer. The Turbo Charge accepts two AA batteries (rechargeable or non-rechargeable), and two AAs are included. It measures 3” L x 1.5” W x 0.75”D and weighs 2.5 ounces with batteries installed. There is a three-level LED battery-life indicator and an on/off/flashlight switch (the flashlight is two white LEDs on the end). CNET gave the Turbo Charge 4 out of 5 stars in 2007. Customers have been a little less enthusiastic; their chief complaint is that the batteries are depleted well before the advertised two to three full charges for portable electronic devices.

Both the Voxred Turbo Charge TBB850 and TBM1050 are for sale on Amazon for around $18.

The best rechargeable D size batteries are Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hybride) cells that offer a high storage capacity of around 10,000 mAh or milliamp hours. Typically required in high-drain, high-current devices, D size batteries are expensive to replace so the higher the capacity the better. The new Ni-MH rechargeable batteries are able to retain a charge over time, perfect for that emergency flashlight that uses D size batteries.

You’ll also want to invest in an efficient charger, as D size batteries generally take the longest amount of time to recharge. Many universal smart chargers are able to charge all battery sizes at the same time for all your rechargeable batteries. Be sure to read our full review of the Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers. And read on to learn about the best rechargeable D size batteries and chargers available today.

Imedion Rechargeable D Size Batteries By Maha/PowerEx

Imedion Rechargeable D Size Batteries By Maha/PowerEx

These Maha Imedion batteries by PowerEx are one of the latest Ni-MH rechargeable batteries to hit the market. They boast improvements in the self-discharge rate by retaining a charge capacity of 90% after 6 months and 85% after 12 months, which makes them ideal for storing and for use in flashlights or other low-drain devices.

They come pre-charged and have a  high rate capacity of 9,500 mAh (milli Amp hours). Compatible with Ni-MH chargers, they can be charged up to 1,000 times. A pack of 2 sells for around $30.

The Imedion rechargeable D size batteries are available from Amazon.

Tenergy D Size Rechargeable Batteries

Tenergy D Size Rechargeable Batteries

The Tenergy Rechargeable D size batteries are a Ni-MH battery that offer a long running life and high capacity of 10,000 mAh. According to Tenergy, these batteries can be recharged up to 1,000 times. They can be recharged via a smart charger or universal charger. A standard charge takes 15 hours at 800 mA or they can be rapid charged in 3 hours at 4,000 mA.

A pack of 8 Tenergy D size rechargeable batteries is available from Amazon for about $55.

Maha PowerEx Rechargeable D Batteries

Maha PowerEx Rechargeable D Batteries

These Ni-MH batteries from PowerEx offer the longest run time and highest capacity of the rechargeable D size with 11,000 mAh, slightly more than the Tenergy and the Imedion batteries. They can be recharged up to 1,000 times using a Ni-MH charger. A pack of 2 costs about $30.

The Maha PowerEx rechargeable D batteries sell on Amazon.

Eneloop D Spacer Packs With 2 AA Rechargeable Batteries By Sanyo

Eneloop D Spacer Packs With 2 AA Rechargeable Batteries By Sanyo

Another option for a D size rechargeable battery is to use AA batteries in D size spacer packs. Just keep in mind that the capacity of the AA Sanyo Eneloops are 2,000 mAh, so they won’t give you the efficiency of the D size rechargeable batteries. You probably wouldn’t want to go this route for a high drain device, such as a baby swing, but if you’re looking for batteries to leave in a flashlight for short-term use, then this would be an inexpensive alternative. The 2 D size spacers come with 2 pre-charged AA batteries for about $10.00.

The Sanyo Eneloops, which have made our list of best rechargeable batteries, hold 85% of their capacity after 12 months. The AA Eneloops charge in about 230 minutes.

The Eneloop D spacer packs are available from Amazon.

D-Sized Battery Chargers

Maha PowerEx Ultimate Professional Battery Charger

Maha Power X Ultimate Battery Charger

The ultimate professional battery charger by Maha/PowerEx has been designed for the high capacity C and D batteries. Charging time for an 11,000 mAh D size battery is around just 5 hours. You can charge any combination of AAA, AA, C, or D batteries at the same time with up to 8 stations. Each battery is individually monitored via an LCD display to show charging status.

The Maha charger features a soft and rapid charging mode, will automatically shut off when a full charge is reached, and runs at a low temperature. It’s powered by an AC adapter.

You can get it on Amazon for around $85.00.

Ansmann Deluxe “Energy 16″ Charger

Ansmann is a German company known for their range of high-end, intelligent battery chargers. Ansmann’s “Energy 16″ charger can handle both NiCad and NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries. When the batteries are inserted into the charger, they are analysed, and batteries needing reconditioning are automatically restored by several cycles of charging and discharging. The charger will also indicate if a battery has been damaged and cannot be charged.

This charger has ten charging positions: six for AAA, AA, C or D sized cells, and four for 9V cells. The six top positions can handle two AAA or two AA cells or one each of the larger C or D cells.

A LED display shows the state of charging for each cell.

This charger can be used worldwide — it accepts 100-240V 50-60Hz AC.

It’s available from Amazon for around $120.

Ansmann Deluxe “Energy 8″ Charger

Ansmann’s “Energy 8″ charger has all the features of the “Energy 16″ charger, but has 8 charging points instead of 16. It has four AAA/AA/C/D and two 9V positions.

It’s available from Amazon for around $70.

Tenergy Universal Smart Charger for Rechargeable D Batteries

This universal smart charger from Tenergy will automatically detect the size and type of battery placed in the slot and charge them individually or in a group. With two charging bays, it can charge 2 9V batteries or 4 of any combination of AAA, AA, C, and D. It can charge both Ni-MH and Ni-CD batteries. Each battery is individually monitored with an LED light to indicate discharge, fast charge, and trickle charge. You can mix batteries within the charger.

Sensing when the battery has reached a full charge, it will shut off or switch to a standby battery. It can also detect when a battery has reached the end of it’s life. Powered by an AC 110v-240v adapter, this charger can recharge a D size battery of 1200 mAh to 10,000 mAh in 3-10.5 hours.

The Tenergy Universal Smart Charger is sold on Amazon for about $22.00.

Tenergy Super Universal LCD Battery Charger With USB Port

Tenergy Super Universal LCD Battery Charger With USB Port

Another selection from Tenergy, this universal charger can recharge a combination of 1 to 4 AAA, AA, C, or D sized Ni-MH batteries and 1 to 2 9V Ni-MH batteries. For a D size battery of around 9,000 mAh, the charging time will take about 7.5 hours. The blue LCD display shows individual battery status: charge, discharge, full, and bad.

This charger also features a built-in USB port to power your personal digital devices, though it can’t be done at the same time as the batteries. Comes with a 100-240v AC adapter and offers short circuit protection.

The Tenergy Super Universal LCD battery charger is available from Amazon for about $37.

Or it’s available in a combo pack which comes with 8 D size Tenergy rechargeable batteries for around $83.

nPower PEG

The new nPower PEG (personal energy generator) by Tremont Electric wowed reviewers at the 2011 CES convention. This back-up hybrid charger allows you to keep your cell phone, iPod, or other hand-held device working while you’re on the go. By harnessing the kinetic energy that you produce through movement, then converting it into accessible power, the nPower PEG allows you to be the manufacturer of your own renewable energy. The nPower PEG is marketed for those with an active lifestyle: commuters, cyclists, college students, backpackers, emergency responders, and exercise enthusiasts.

nPower PEG On The Go

The nPower PEG uses an internal battery that you can charge at home using a USB port. Then, when you head out for the day, the PEG will continuously top off the battery with your movement. If you stop moving and the battery loses power, you can give it a shake to get it going in an emergency. Compatible with USB 2.0 devices, the charger comes with a cable and adapter tips. Made of recyclable materials, it weighs 11 oz, is 1 inch in diameter and 9 inches tall, and is encased in titanium.

Some may find the $159.99 price tag a bit hefty, but the ability to charge your phone or MP3 from anywhere is appealing. Currently, the nPower PEG is back-ordered, but you can get your order in now on the nPower PEG website. Soon to come is an nPower leg band which holds the charger on your leg for cycling or for use at the gym.

Tremont Electric is a green company with plans to take the technology of nPower even further with large scale kinetic energy generators and wave energy converters. They are committed to both the global environment as well as their own local economy. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, 90% of the components used to make the nPower PEG come from the state of Ohio.

Today, the best rechargeable batteries are the new hybrid Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) cells. These hybrid batteries have a lot going for them: they come fully charged (like alkaline batteries), and they can hold their charge over may months (unlike regular Ni-MH rechargeables). Because they can hold their charge for so long, they are suitable for low-drain devices like remote controls and flashlights. But they are also ideal for use in high-drain electronic devices like digital cameras.

So, basically, these new hybrid Ni-MH cells offer the convenience and shelf-life of alkalines, and the high-drain performance of older Ni-MH batteries. Here’s a list of the hybrid batteries available: Eneloop, E8DE 1000 and Hybrio.

We also review some of the best battery chargers at the end of this article.

Eneloop Rechargeable Batteries by Sanyo

Eneloop batteries are Ni-MH batteries made by Sanyo in Japan. Sanyo says Eneloops can be recharged up to 1000 times, and they will retain their charged capacity even after 6 or 12 months of storage. (According to Sanyo the specs are: 90% of charged capacity retained after 6 months, and 85% capacity after 12 months at 20 degree Celsius). The AA-sized (R6) batteries are rated at 2000 mAh, and the AAA-sized (R03) cells are rated at 800 mAh. A pack of four AA Eneloops costs about $12. The charge times are as follows: AA Eneloops charge in 230 minutes, and AAA Eneloops charge in 135 minutes.

You can get packs of Eneloop batteries from Amazon.

Eneloop batteries are also available with a USB Charger, or a Universal Charger with 8 Eneloop Batteries included.

E8GE 1000 Hybrid Rechargeable Batteries

The E8GE 1000 batteries are the newest hybrid batteries to be introduced, and they are also the highest rated at 2100 mAh (this stands for milli Amp hour, and indicates a battery’s energy storage capacity). Eneloops, by comparison, have a lower rated capacity — 2000 mAh (or 1980 mAh according to my informal tests).

E8DE batteries are rechargeable up to 1000 cycles, and they are “ultra-low self-discharging” batteries.

E8GE 1000 batteries are available from Amazon.

Hybrio Rechargeable Batteries by Uniross

Uniross, a French battery company, Ni-MH battery called the Hybrio. Like disposable alkaline batteries, they come fully charged when you buy them. Hybrios are said to keep 70% of their charge after a year.

You can recharge the Hybrios in any standard Ni-MH charger, and they can be recharged up to 500 times. A pack of four Hybrio cells costs about $12. The AA-sized Hybrios are rated at 1900 mAh. Uniross offers a three year limited warranty on these cells. They are also branded as: Ultralast, Again and Again, and Uniross.

Hybrio batteries are available from Amazon

The Best Battery Chargers

How about some good battery chargers to go with these batteries? The chargers featured below are some of the smartest out there — they have built-in protection to prevent overcharging or undercharging. They can also handle most battery sizes.

LaCrosse Technology BC-1000 Alpha Battery Charger

The LaCrosse Alpha BC-1000 Charger has sophisticated monitoring circuitry that controls the charging process, and it is also capable of “renewing” batteries by running fully-controlled discharge-recharge cycles.

The charger shows battery voltage and charge status on its digital display. It has four separate charge channels so you can charge one, two three or four batteries at a time – even on individual charge programs. This allows you to test one battery while charging the others. It comes with four AA and four AAA batteries, four battery adapters (which convert AA sized battery to C and D sizes) and a carry case. Note, however, if you want to charge C or D size batteries, you’ll want to get the Ansmann chargers below.

You can get the LaCrosse BC-1000 Alpha Charger at Amazon for about $60, and you find the BC-700 Charger available for around $36 (this is essential the same charger but does not include bonus items the four AA  & AAA cells, plus the four C + D-cell converters).

Ansmann Deluxe “Energy 16″ Charger

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Ansmann is a German company known for their range of high-end, intelligent battery chargers. Ansmann’s “Energy 16″ charger can handle both NiCad and NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries. When the batteries are inserted into the charger, they are analysed, and batteries needing reconditioning are automatically restored by several cycles of charging and discharging. The charger will also indicate if a battery has been damaged and cannot be charged.

This charger has ten charging positions: six for AAA, AA, C or D sized cells, and four for 9V cells. The six top positions can handle two AAA or two AA cells or one each of the larger C or D cells.

A LED display shows the state of charging for each cell.

This charger can be used worldwide — it accepts 100-240V 50-60Hz AC.

It’s available from Amazon for around $120.

Ansmann Deluxe “Energy 8″ Charger

Ansmann’s “Energy 8″ charger has all the features of the “Energy 16″ charger, but has 8 charging points instead of 16. It has four AAA/AA/C/D and two 9V positions.

It’s available from Amazon for around $70.

Maha PowerEx “Ultimate Professional” Charger

The Maha’s Ultimate Professional Charger almost lives up to its hyperbolic name. This compact charger can charge any combination of 1 to 8 batteries. You can mix and charge AA, AAA, C and D sized cells at the same time on individual charging circuits. Each battery size also has its own fixed contact charging points (i.e. not a spring). An LCD display shows charging and conditioning status of each rechargeable battery.

Like the Ansmann chargers, Maha’s chargers can restore batteries to their optimal performance level by repeatedly charging and discharging them. It also has intelligent charging technology and overcharge protection. It also comes with an international AC adapter, and short-circuit protection.

It is available from Amazon for around $89.

Here’s a MetaEfficient Keyring. It’s a collection of lightweight, mini-tools suitable for carrying on a keyring.

The keyring contains the following elements:

• The LD01 Flashlight by Fenix (powered by a hybrid rechargeable AAA battery)
• The folding waterproof Inka Pen
• The 6-in-1 Key Ring Tool by Swiss+Tech
• An Emergency Cash Holder by Cash Can

Here are the details of the MetaEfficient Keyring elements:

The LD01 Keyring Flashlight by Fenix

Fenix Keyring Flashlight Powered by AAA Battery

Why It Was Chosen

The Fenix LD01 is the brightest keyring-sized flashlight that runs on a standard AAA battery. This means it can be powered by a hybrid rechargeable AAA battery. It produces 80 lumens of light on its highest setting.

The Fenix LD01 uses a Cree Q5 LED as its light source, and the lens is made of toughened, anti-reflective glass. It weighs 1.6 ounces, and it is “IPX-8 water proof” meaning it is suitable for continuous submersion.

The flashlight is RoHS compliant (meaning it does not contain non-toxic heavy metals or flame retardants).

It’s available for $35 from Amazon.

The Inka Pen

Why It Was Chosen

The Inka Pen is a keyring sized ball-point that can be used quickly as a half-sized pen, or unfolded into a full-sized pen. Using a pressurized ink cartridge, the Inka Pen is waterproof and write at any altitude or temperature. It’s made in the U.S. and has a lifetime warranty.

The “6-in-1 Key Ring Tool” by Swiss Tech

Why It Was Chosen

The “6-in-1 Key Ring Tool” is a keyring-sized multitool by Swiss Tech. It contains the following:

• straight knife blade
• a serrated cutting surface
• a micro-sized screwdriver
• a Phillips screwdriver
• an eyeglass screwdriver
• bottle opener

The tool weighs 0.5 oz. Given its size, it’s pretty basic, its handy when you have nothing else available, but not suitable for everyday tasks.

The Mini Cash Can

The Mini Cash Can: A Keyring Sized Emergency Money Consealer

Why It Was Chosen

The Mini Cash Can is an emergency cash holder than fits on your keyring. You can secret a single bill inside this stealthy container. If you forget your wallet, you have the cash inside as a back-up. The Cash Can’s assembly cannot accidentally come apart as long as the keyring is through the hole. The container is waterproof.

I actually found a little difficult to fit a bill inside the Mini Can — the larger Mini II might be a better choice.

Toshiba Dynario Fuel Cell Device Charger (photo: Toshiba)

The first commercially available fuel cell device charger is here! (Well, technically it’s only “here” if you’re reading this in Japan, but that should soon change). Toshiba’s Dynario charger packs fuel cell technology into a portable package that can provide instant power to a dead mobile phone or other gadget, completely off the grid.

The Dynario uses small amounts of highly concentrated methanol along with ambient oxygen to create the power-producing chemical reaction. Users simply add a pre-packaged dose of methanol to the charger, which generates enough juice in a matter of seconds to fully charge two mobile phones. An internal lithium-ion battery stores the power that’s created, and the Dynario uses a standard USB cable as its output.

Toshiba Dynario Fuel Cell Device Charger (photo: Toshiba)

The limited run of 3,000 units was released in Japan at the end of October, retailing for about US$330. Replacement methanol packs are available for around $6 each. Toshiba states that it is treating the Dynario as a sort of market test, keeping a close eye on consumers’ reactions to the charger. As mobile devices continue to get more power-thirsty, more advanced fuel cell chargers are likely to appear in other markets worldwide.

Toshiba Japan – Dynario Press Release

The Best iPhone Battery Pack

The iPhone can be power-thirsty. For many people a battery extender is an essential iPhone or iTouch accessory. Here are four of the best backup iPhone battery packs.

Note: iPhone battery performance times vary widely based on individual usage habits and applications. Wherever possible we have tried to give details of a backup battery’s capacity relative to an iPhone’s full charge.

InCase Power Slider iPhone Battery Pack & Case

The InCase Power Slider battery pack is also a protective case with several clever design features. The rubberized shell provides a comfortable grip and adds some impact protection, while still allowing users to synch their iPhone. The integrated battery is unique in that it doesn’t function as a “recharger” like some other designs, but instead provides direct power until it’s exhausted, at which point the iPhone’s own battery takes over. The downside? Several users report that the integrated case/battery design reduced their iPhone’s cellular signal strength.

The InCase Power Slider iPhone Battery Pack & Case retails for $79.95. You can find it at Amazon.

3G Juice iPhone Battery Pack

The 3G Juice promises a full recharge for your iPhone, from 10% to 100% in about 2.5 hours – essentially doubling the device’s life. Slightly bigger than a matchbook, it’s compact enough to keep in a pocket or glove compartment. And 3G Juice claims that their lithium polymer battery and 2A circuitry avoid the problems of memory effect and power fade over time, along with an on/off switch that makes this a solid choice for a backup battery. The battery pack can be recharged using the included mini-USB cable or your iPhone’s charger, and the 30-pin connector will also recharge compatible iPods.

The 3G Juice iPhone battery pack is available for $54.85 at Amazon.

Mophie Juice Pack Air iPhone Battery Pack

The Mophie Juice Pack Air is a streamlined version of Mophie’s full-size Juice Pack. The Juice Pack Air battery is integrated into a sturdy plastic protective case that completely encloses your iPhone. Its lithium polymer battery roughly doubles your talking/browsing time, and an on/off switch lets you select your power source without removing your iPhone from the case. It’s worth noting that, as with the InCase Power Slider, some users report reduced cellular signal strength while using the Juice Pack Air. And remember to bring the included cable with you, since the Juice Pack air uses a micro-USB connection instead of the more common mini-USB.

The Mophie Juice Pack Air iPhone battery pack is available in black and white. It costs $79.95 at Amazon.

Kensington Battery Pack and Charger For iPhone & iPod

The Kensington battery pack doesn’t share the sleek all-in-one design of some competitors. But users report that it can fully recharge an exhausted iPhone battery in about an hour, which is impressive. The battery pack can then be recharged from your laptop, or by using the included AC adapter. And the Kensington is versatile: the dock connector works for iPods as well as the iPhone, and the included mini USB cable means you can share your backup power with your Blackberry-toting friends.

You can find the Kensington iPhone Battery Pack and Charger at Amazon for $35.67.

For powering high-drain electronics such as digital cameras, the most efficient batteries to use are high-capacity Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) cells. Higher capacity batteries store more charge and they can power your devices longer.

The highest capacity rechargeable AA batteries are: Ansmann’s 2850 mAh batteries, Powerex’s 2700 mAh batteries, and Bower’s 3000 mAh batteries. Typically, NiMH batteries are rated between 1800-2500 mAh. So if, for example, you are using three high-capacity cells in a device, that’s quite a bit more charge.

The batteries mentioned here are not the new hybrid rechargeable batteries that have a extended shelf-life, please see our review here.

When buying 9 volt batteries, you might want to consider a rechargeable Lithium Polymer 9 volt batteries. There are only a few companies that make rechargeable 9V batteries, the brand I like the most is Maha. They make a 9V rechargeable batteries and chargers, both available on Amazon.

You can also get Lithium Polymer 9v rechargeable batteries, that use a new gel-type electrolyte. This gel has an energy density that is 20% more than typical lithium ion batteries. They also last 2 to 3 times longer than rechargeable 9V NiMH batteries, and they hold their charge longer. See this forum thread with a discussion of the performance of this battery. However, these lithium polymer batteries are expensive, costing $17 each. They are available on Amazon.

Lithium Polymer 9 Volt Batteries and Charger

If you don’t need a lithium polymer 9v, you can also get rechargeable NiMH 9V batteries, which are less expensive and don’t require a specific charger.

See also our review of this year’s best rechargeable NiHM batteries and chargers.

Toshiba has developed a new lithium-ion battery called SCiB (or Super Charge Ion Battery) which can charge to 90% capacity in 5 minutes. The life cycle of the new battery is more than 10 years even if it is rapidly charged and discharged many times. The battery is also mucher safer than other types of lithium ion batteries, which are potential fire hazards.

Toshiba will begin commercial production of the battery in March 2008. The company says the battery can be used in electric motorcycles and hybrid cars. Toshiba currently makes 150,000 cells a month, mostly for electric bicycles.

Toshiba says its batteries use a lithium-titanium oxide negative electrode. That makes the batteries more stable than typical lithium ion batteries, which use carbon-based negative electrodes.

The company also unveiled a bike manufactured by Cannondale Sports Group that uses the quick-charging lithium ion battery. The SCiB battery uses lithium titanate for enhanced safety and is made up of ten battery cells connected in series. See more information about this bike at CleanTechnica.

The key feature of the battery is the use of lithium titanate (Li₄Ti₅O₁₂) is used as a negative electrode material with electrolyte with a high flash point and a separator with a high heat resistance. Because of this feature, a thermal runaway is less likely to occur in case of an internal short-circuit, so the risks of burst and combustion are reduced, Toshiba said.

For a positive-electrode material, lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂) was adopted as in the case of Li-ion secondary batteries for portable devices.