Rechargeable AA's

[cmarion]

I need to find a good rechargeable battery system for my 580 EX II. What do you use? Any recommendations?

[medic583]

I ended up going with the Rayovac Hybrid rechargeable batteries (2100mAh) from Walmart and just luv 'em. I used them for all my camera gear... and even though it's only been a year... still holding up like they were new. I went with the charger kit that allows 4 batteries at once...

http://www.rayovac.com/recharge/hybrid_products.shtml

[iceman1]

I use the Energizer 2450 mAh batteries for my 430 EX II. I can't complain.

[Jimmer411]

Im using some energizer 2500mAh in my 430EX. I use a 15 min charger and Im still able to squeeze 700+ flash shots out of it.

[Franko515]

Sanyo Eneloops (http://www.eneloop.info/) ;)

[ibdb]

Depends on how you use flash. If you're someone who regularly blasts out a bunch of flash shots or someone who uses flash some of the time, but likes to have it as an option in the gear bag. For less than all out all the time use patterns, it's hard to beat something like the Eneloop. Even if you are someone who goes all out on a regular basis, there are a lot of people who are quite pleased with them.

[elader]

eneloopes - buty buy a good smart charger - batteries go to crap without a good smart charger.

[Franko515]

Sanyo Eneloops (http://www.eneloop.info/) ;)

eneloopes - but buy a good smart charger - batteries go to crap without a good smart charger.

I agree, and recommend the La crosse bc-900 (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-brprice-5497-p-539.html?SP_id=41&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)

[ibdb]

eneloopes - buty buy a good smart charger - batteries go to crap without a good smart charger.

I agree, and recommend the La crosse bc-900 (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-brprice-5497-p-539.html?SP_id=41&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)
I use both, and heartily agree.

[bohdank]

I bought the MH-C401FS, primarily because it is small enough to take on trips and leave in my camera bag. The price was not unreasonable also.

I've been using rechargeables for just about everything since the late 90's and have used a number of inexpensive chargers without ill effext. I have yet to throw a battery away so I am not convinced that the high end chargers are worth the expense. On paper, they appear to be better. I'm not sure that in real use they are measurably better.

[shimmishim]

Eneloops. I have 16AA's. They're beastly and hold their charge forever (almost)!

[DisrupTer911]

I've been using Delkin rechargables..they seem to last a pretty good amount of time and recharge quickly.

[Bobster]

the new Uniross 2700's

[Gizmo1985]

do yal not recomment the charger from sanyo to comes with the eneloops?
http://www.amazon.com/Sanyo-Eneloop-Pre-Charged-Rechargable-Batteries/dp/B000IV0REA/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1229979594&sr=8-2

[Edward Moss]

Another vote for Eneloops. I use my speedlites so infrequently other brands are usually flat by the time I need them.

[iceman1]

Hmm, I may have to try the Eneloops...not necessarily for photography but for other electronics that get used fairly seldom but still benefit from the extra power of NiMHs.

[MattMoore]

any good low discharge ones should do (i.e. Eneloops & MAHAs).

[Peacefield]

At the risk of hijacking this thread, I use eneloops and Lacrosse's BC-700U. Real happy with them, but apparently, I complete exhausted six of them. The charger just reads null and the manual says I need to find some other charger to bring them back above .9. Anyone else ever deal with this?

[Franko515]

At the risk of hijacking this thread, I use eneloops and Lacrosse's BC-700U. Real happy with them, but apparently, I complete exhausted six of them. The charger just reads null and the manual says I need to find some other charger to bring them back above .9. Anyone else ever deal with this?

Seems like I remember someone saying something like that. IIRC a 15min charger or the likes was used to power it up a bit first.

Either that or I heard the La Crosse charger actually brought batteries back from the dead

:confused::confused:

I will do a bit of searching cause now Im a bit confused and want to be clear about this.

[Franko515]

At the risk of hijacking this thread, I use eneloops and Lacrosse's BC-700U. Real happy with them, but apparently, I complete exhausted six of them. The charger just reads null and the manual says I need to find some other charger to bring them back above .9. Anyone else ever deal with this?

Well I counld find what I had read before (I will keep looking) but I did find this little tip for bringing back dead cells ;)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-media/product-gallery/B00077AA5Q

[ibdb]

At the risk of hijacking this thread, I use eneloops and Lacrosse's BC-700U. Real happy with them, but apparently, I complete exhausted six of them. The charger just reads null and the manual says I need to find some other charger to bring them back above .9. Anyone else ever deal with this?
I keep one eneloop stock charger in the event I somehow run a battery completely dead. Put it in the stock charger for a few minutes and then pop it into the LaCrosse and all is good.

[CliveyBoy]

Maha's Powerex 2700maH are great. They are more expensive than some as they use high-purity chemicals in the manufacture. But. it's worth it for the reduced hassle in actual use.

They also have some high-charge-retention ones for infrequent use, but they do not have the same shot performance of the others.

[cvt01]

I use Kodaks I picked up at Walmart (recommended on the dtrobist flickr thread). Great batteries. I won't be surpreised if those turned out to be rebadged eneloops ;) there are not too many NiMH battery manufacturers out there. Sanyo is one of them - Kodak is not.

[DSMITH131]

Another vote for eneloop (http://www.eneloop.info/) and la-crosse (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-brprice-5497-p-539.html?SP_id=41&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)

[twiggles]

I ended up going with the Rayovac Hybrid rechargeable batteries (2100mAh) from Walmart and just luv 'em. I used them for all my camera gear... and even though it's only been a year... still holding up like they were new. I went with the charger kit that allows 4 batteries at once...

http://www.rayovac.com/recharge/hybrid_products.shtml

+1 on these. Reasonably priced and great performers

[Peacefield]

Thanks, everyone for the help with the exhausted battery issue. I've been charging a bunch of batteries after a big shoot. I know I have 5 that read "Null". I took the four dead ones out, put in three other batteries plus the fifth dead one. As expected, it also read null, but I just left it in overnight since the other three were cooking. It recharged! I suppose the charger still feeds a trickle charge that brought it back over the .9 threshold. Now I have to try it with the other four.

Thanks.

[jgoodstein]

I use the Energizer 2450 mAh batteries for my 430 EX II. I can't complain.
+1 I have 4 sets of them in labeled in sets and in a container in my camera bag. I absolutely love them.

[MD Steelerfan]

Sanyo Enloops with the charger that comes with the kit from Costco. It is not a fast charger, but you have to figure it is good for the batteries sice they are selling it with them. I have tow of these kits and have been thrilled with the battery performance. I have shot hundreds of images at shoot on these without changing them often if at all.

[zagiace]

+1
YAV (yet another vote) for eneloop and la-crosse

[Tareq]

Pearstone 2900. truly fantastic batteries, i am so happy with them.

[HighPixel]

Im using some energizer 2500mAh in my 430EX. I use a 15 min charger and Im still able to squeeze 700+ flash shots out of it.
I use these also...NICE!
HP

[msowsun]

I ended up going with the Rayovac Hybrid rechargeable batteries (2100mAh) from Walmart and just luv 'em. I used them for all my camera gear... and even though it's only been a year... still holding up like they were new. I went with the charger kit that allows 4 batteries at once...

http://www.rayovac.com/recharge/hybrid_products.shtml


I also went with Rayovac Hybrids and have no complaints. They seem to last forever and always hold their charge.

They come with a nice small charger (no cord) that lives in my camera bag....

http://media.rei.com/media/m/1135733.jpghttp://flashlightnews.org/images/Rayovac_Hybrid.jpg

[scorpio_e]

Another vote for eneloop (http://www.eneloop.info/) and la-crosse (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-brprice-5497-p-539.html?SP_id=41&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)


+1.

[dc5itr329]

I have eneloops as well and they work great. Just remember that when you charge any NiMH battery to charge them on a slow charge. Fast charging such as a 15 min charger will damage them.

[tony rage]

energizer 2500mAh and I like them very very much!

[Eagle]

Just bought a Panasonic charger at Walmart today, it came with 4 AA 2100mAh and 4 AAA's. Also bought 4 2500mAh Kodak's for the flash.

[acousticvibrations]

i shoot weddings, once tried new 2500's after 15mins they drained.



(edit added 12-27-08) when i referred to drained, i meant recycling time was very slow. 10-12 secs after 50-100 shoots.

[Eagle]

i shoot weddings, once tried new 2500's after 15mins they drained.
So what do you use now?

[Bob_A]

+1 for eneloops

[acousticvibrations]

I'm a professional wedding photog.

i need to trust my equipment.

i use lithium's for weddings and coppertops for personal daily stuff.

with regular batteries, every 200 flash i would be switching.

with lithium's, every 500-600 shoots.

I noticed with 2500's by 100 flashes, if they were not dead, they we very slow recycling.

i hate to ask a bride to redo her cake toss, lol :lol:

[thisdorkagain]

sanyo eneloops FTW. i got like 16 of em for my 580ex and also my wiimotes. =P. never been disappointed and they'll last in the long run unlike some other rechargeables.

[acousticvibrations]

sanyo eneloops FTW. i got like 16 of em for my 580ex and also my wiimotes. =P. never been disappointed and they'll last in the long run unlike some other rechargeables.


just out of curiosity?

what would 16 cost you.

i live in a very small state. i would have to order them online i think.

as far as the 2500's go, i tried 8 koaks and 8 Rayovac Hybrids both sold at wallymart.

i have seen 2700 but pricey.

[rcfury]

I also use the Eneloops but, i didn't like the charger that came with it. Wanted something with a little more control. Does this work?


I am also an Radio Control Junky so im no stranger to batteries. I did some basic tests with the Eneloops and found out they do a very good job under high discharge. So, I can see how they are pretty popular with photographers. If anyone is interested, i can post my test results of the batteries. Or I can do some testing with some other batteries to really see who the top contender is..

[jgoodstein]

I also use the Eneloops but, i didn't like the charger that came with it. Wanted something with a little more control. Does this work?


I am also an Radio Control Junky so im no stranger to batteries. I did some basic tests with the Eneloops and found out they do a very good job under high discharge. So, I can see how they are pretty popular with photographers. If anyone is interested, i can post my test results of the batteries. Or I can do some testing with some other batteries to really see who the top contender is..


I'd like to see the top 3-5 brands tested and would be willing to send a set of energizers to you so you don't have to foot the bill for all of it.

[Andrushka]

+1 for eneloops - love them...

[Andrushka]

. Or I can do some testing with some other batteries to really see who the top contender is..

YEAH DO THAT!! :D

[acousticvibrations]

i would love to see results too.

i could chip in too!

i noticed with the brands i bought, batteries just took to long to build up a charge after 50-100 shoots.

i expect batteries to last 200-300 shots.

[JBaz]

wow, this thread saves me time trying to figure out what batteries to get! I've spent tons of money on rechargeable and regular Alkaline batteries this past year that it's not funny anymore. The rechargeable I have now just suck and I have like 3 different brands and sets that I've tried. All died in the last year with low recycle times after 50-100 shots.

It seems like a number of people swear by the la crosse & eneloop batteries. Thinking about getting them since it's on sale here:

Link to La Crosse package w/ 8 eneloop batteries (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrincludes-8-sanyo-eneloop-batteriesbrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-br-p-1015.html?SP_id=67&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)
Link to 4 AA eneloop batteries (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/sanyo-eneloop-aa-2000-mah-4-battery-pack-brultra-low-discharge-nimhbr1-free-4-cell-battery-casebr35-977-per-4-pack-6-or-more-957-p-287.html?SP_id=50&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)

Any comments? I'm probably gonna order the kit and 3 extra packs. Need a lot of AA's.

[JelleVerherstraeten]

Just ordered the slow eneloop charger and 8 eneloop's AA batteries!
Thx for the tip!

[rcfury]

Im glad to see there is a lot of people who is interested. The rechargeable battery market is pretty big and most of us spend a lot of money purchasing rechargeable batteries. Ill go ahead to get my equipment set up and do some testing. I do need order another part for my battery analyzer so it may be a week or so till i can get to the hardcore testing.
I will open up a new thread for all the testing. First lets put together a list of the common, easily obtainable batteries that we could test. Here is three of what i know that is available locally. Any other batteries we should do? I do have capability to charge lithium batteries as well but, not sure if I should include them or not.

- Rayovac Hybrid
- Sanyo Eneloop
- Energizer E^2 2500's

Just a note, I do have capability to charge lithium batteries as well but, not sure if I should include them in the test or not.

[JBaz]

anyone here thinks the eneloop video on Sanyo's website to be the cheesiest marketing video ever? I'm laughing everytime the announcer say's "eneloop" with a dramatic tone.

[FociBC]

Sanyo Eneloops (http://www.eneloop.info/) ;)

+1

Love these batteries to death, I just need to get more at costco

[Chris&jess]

We have 24 rechargeable 2900mAh nickel-metal hydride impact AA batteries and a LCD rapid battery charger/discharger. The system is somewhere around 18 months old now and hasn't been used for about six months. We now use disposable batteries only.
Sorry about my giant carbon footprint, but we need dependability!
(our impact system is yours for a song)
Chris

[rcfury]

Thats a big bummer about your experiences. What might I ask went wrong? Batteries wont hold a charge?

[Bob_A]

We have 24 rechargeable 2900mAh nickel-metal hydride impact AA batteries and a LCD rapid battery charger/discharger. The system is somewhere around 18 months old now and hasn't been used for about six months. We now use disposable batteries only.
Sorry about my giant carbon footprint, but we need dependability!
(our impact system is yours for a song)
Chris

You don't use disposable alkaline AA's for flash do you? I would think that would be way less dependable than using good batteries such as eneloops.

[Galaxy99]

wow, this thread saves me time trying to figure out what batteries to get! I've spent tons of money on rechargeable and regular Alkaline batteries this past year that it's not funny anymore. The rechargeable I have now just suck and I have like 3 different brands and sets that I've tried. All died in the last year with low recycle times after 50-100 shots.

It seems like a number of people swear by the la crosse & eneloop batteries. Thinking about getting them since it's on sale here:

Link to La Crosse package w/ 8 eneloop batteries (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/la-crosse-bc900-battery-charger-w-lcd-displaybrincludes-8-sanyo-eneloop-batteriesbrdeluxe-travel-bag-accessory-kit-br-p-1015.html?SP_id=67&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)
Link to 4 AA eneloop batteries (http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/sanyo-eneloop-aa-2000-mah-4-battery-pack-brultra-low-discharge-nimhbr1-free-4-cell-battery-casebr35-977-per-4-pack-6-or-more-957-p-287.html?SP_id=50&osCsid=r13h6tfruj1j7tvkvj4ienu3p4)

Any comments? I'm probably gonna order the kit and 3 extra packs. Need a lot of AA's.

Better price at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Crosse-Technology-BC-900-AlphaPower-Battery/dp/B00077AA5Q/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230708811&sr=8-1

[Brian O.]

Better price at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Crosse-Technology-BC-900-AlphaPower-Battery/dp/B00077AA5Q/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230708811&sr=8-1
That doesn't seem to be a better deal. Has the Amazon price changed since you posted that?

[Saxi]

I have the La Crosse BC-900 as well, I got suckered into paying $59.95 but it seems like it is the best charger option available as it is able to slow charge a battery. This is critical to keep them working well for a long time.

I picked up 8x Sony 2500 NI-MH batteries (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-2500-Rechargeable-Batteries-4-pack/dp/B0007LBVHI/ref=sr_1_22?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230713008&sr=1-22) as they had great reviews on Amazon, but the first run through my 550EX, I wasn't impressed, I don't know if it was just a fluke or not and need to do some more testing.

It looks like the Eneloops are about the same price as the Sony's, are they that much better? Is it worth buying some Eneloops? I might run a test and see how many flashes I can get out of a fully charged set of Sony's with my 550EX. I really wish the BC-900 did at least 8 AA batteries at once.

I am considering Rayovak Hybrids as they can be purchased locally at a Walmart.

[JBaz]

another photog gave me this link, great review about the eneloop batteries.

http://www.stefanv.com/electronics/sanyo_eneloop.html#compare

[Saxi]

has anyone tried the new Quantaray Super Z Zinc rechargeable batteries? This looks like it may be the next new thing.

http://www.fastcompany.com/blog/kit-eaton/technomix/nickel-zinc-rechargeable-batteries-good-single-use-ones

I regretted picking up the BC-900 charger after hearing about this as I bought it only 2 months ago, I suspect these need their own charger and won't work with niMH chargers. But I am not sure what the verdict is on them and if it is worth while.

[purpletiger]

PowerEx 2700s when I know Im up for a long shoot, and Imedions to leave in the bag as spares cos they hold their charge for longer than anything else.

[msowsun]

has anyone tried the new Quantaray Super Z Zinc rechargeable batteries? This looks like it may be the next new thing.

http://www.fastcompany.com/blog/kit-eaton/technomix/nickel-zinc-rechargeable-batteries-good-single-use-ones



Overall, it is pretty hard to beat Eneloops for a flash application.

I am a little skeptical of these new Nickel-Zinc batteries. They may be 1.5V but how do they handle a load? NiMh batteries are only 1.2V, but due to low internal resistance, they maintain 1.2V under load. That is why 1.2V NiMh batteries re-cycle a flash faster than 1.5V alkalines.

Also, from what I have read, these Nickel-Zinc AA batteries are only 1500 mAh. This may be partially offset by their higher operating voltage. (if they maintain 1.5V under load)

I think the first real test will be to see how fast they re-cycle in a flash.
Secondly, how long will they last before needing a recharge?
Thirdly, what is the self-discharge rate like?

[Saxi]

I will start replacing my sony's with Eneloops and see how that goes. I wish I could just grab them locally.

[trailblazer]

Eneloops for me. I bought some and I went to a club and shot over 500 pics.
Then covered Christmas pictures a week later and pulled it out yesterday and it was still going strong with decent recycles.
I will be putting them to charge today for later though and will definitely be picking up some more!

[Saxi]

I wish I knew about that deal that had the BC-900 + 8 Eneloops, I might pick it up just to get 8 eneloops and a second charger to make my life easier.

[40Dude6aedyk]

OK, eneloops keep their charge longer when stored, but is that important for folks here? Don't you charge up your batteries the day or hour before you use them anyways?

[msowsun]

OK, eneloops keep their charge longer when stored, but is that important for folks here? Don't you charge up your batteries the day or hour before you use them anyways?

No, I don't charge them up before hand.

I am a casual flash shooter and my batteries live for weeks at a time in my flash. I may take only a few flash shots a week and I am not about to charge the batteries every day on the chance that I might need them later that day.

With my Hybrid NiMh batteries, they are always ready and if I suddenly discover they are nearing the end of their charge, I just replace them with the "standby" set that lives in my bag. They don't self discharge so I never have to worry about them being dead as well.

[Saxi]

OK, eneloops keep their charge longer when stored, but is that important for folks here? Don't you charge up your batteries the day or hour before you use them anyways?

A good charger like the BC-900 takes 8-12 hours to fully charge a battery! It is pretty difficult to fully charge all your batteries daily, especially some people with kits that require 16 AA batteries (not me).

Also, normal NiMH loose over 1% per day sitting around. I know I may go a week or two without using my flash, that's as much as 18% right there.

[Galaxy99]

That doesn't seem to be a better deal. Has the Amazon price changed since you posted that?
Hmmm... It was $39.99 last night when I post it... Darn...

[Exit]

Eneloops

[bohdank]

A good charger like the BC-900 takes 8-12 hours to fully charge a battery! It is pretty difficult to fully charge all your batteries daily, especially some people with kits that require 16 AA batteries (not me).

Also, normal NiMH loose over 1% per day sitting around. I know I may go a week or two without using my flash, that's as much as 18% right there.

The 1% per day is the "worst" case using the crappiest rechargeables out there. I suspect that Sanyo's numbers for the Eneloops is "best" case.

I have digital thermometers that have been running fine on a pair of rechargeables, not Eneloops, for 2 years without recharging.

If we use Sanyos numbers comparing their Eneloops to regular Sanyo rechargeables..which are probably more typical of NiMh batteries one would buy,

after 60 days.

eneloops +- 91%
regular NiMh +- 82%

[rcfury]

I am a little skeptical of these new Nickel-Zinc batteries. They may be 1.5V but how do they handle a load? NiMh batteries are only 1.2V, but due to low internal resistance, they maintain 1.2V under load. That is why 1.2V NiMh batteries re-cycle a flash faster than 1.5V alkalines.

Also, from what I have read, these Nickel-Zinc AA batteries are only 1500 mAh. This may be partially offset by their higher operating voltage. (if they maintain 1.5V under load)

Sounds like you know a little about batteries as well. Yes, having a low internal resistance is the key for keeping the voltage up under hi-loads. What my plan will be graphing the discharge curve under a given load. This will be under a constant load which instead of a short burst like recharging the capacitor in the flash. Which, afterwords the batteries can stabilize. Which, does bring me a question. What is a typical load put on cells during a flash recycle?

The proper test will be doing a duty cycle test where i could hit the battery with short burst of a high load then applying a very small constant load afterwords. However, my current software cant graph that so all i can do is put a constant load and watch for the voltage spikes. Of course if a given battery cannot support the load the voltage will drastically drop and the cells would heat up. So cell temp would be recorded.

I will take a look at those new nickle-zinc batteries and maybe put them through its paces to see how they real fare against the other rechargeable. I did want to keep everything to readily available cells but, it may be interesting to see the results.

[Saxi]

The 1% per day is the "worst" case using the crappiest rechargeables out there. I suspect that Sanyo's numbers for the Eneloops is "best" case.

I have digital thermometers that have been running fine on a pair of rechargeables, not Eneloops, for 2 years without recharging.

If we use Sanyos numbers comparing their Eneloops to regular Sanyo rechargeables..which are probably more typical of NiMh batteries one would buy,

after 60 days.

eneloops +- 91%
regular NiMh +- 82%

This has been tested quite extensively over a year and using different rechargeable, not specifically "the cheapest" rechargeable out there but all types. The review above has a lot of good information.

[JBaz]

^yeah, it was $40, but the deal from the battery supply is $1 cheaper and their package with 8 eneloops is a pretty good deal. I just wonder how reputable that place is though?

[Saxi]

^yeah, it was $40, but the deal from the battery supply is $1 cheaper and their package with 8 eneloops is a pretty good deal. I just wonder how reputable that place is though?

I thought the same thing, I had it in my basket, but I held off, I will probably buy it anyway as you are pretty protected with credit cards. The 4 AA plastic case sounds really helpful for keeping 4 spares neatly in your travel case.

[Flashstan]

I am using Energizer 2450s in the grip and 580EX II

Some are getting a little old so I am going to 2700s mAh not sure what brand yet.

I use a Bantam e-station BC6 charger (http://www.rcaccessory.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=241) to charge all of my batteries. This charger can charge 16 cells at a time, but I only charge 8 cells at a time. It's a bit overkill for a photographer, unless you also fly RC airplanes.:D

FYI about NiMH
-Recommended charge rate is .2 amps
-Will discharge 1% a day just sitting in your bag.

Hope this info Helps!

[JBaz]

^link fubared

[Eagle]

^link fubaredIt's got an extra http// in it.

[Flashstan]

Thanks its fixed

[Saxi]

I am using Energizer 2450s in the grip and 580EX II

Some are getting a little old so I am going to 2700s mAh not sure what brand yet.

I use a Bantam e-station BC6 charger (http://www.rcaccessory.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=241) to charge all of my batteries. This charger can charge 16 cells at a time, but I only charge 8 cells at a time. It's a bit overkill for a photographer, unless you also fly RC airplanes.:D

FYI about NiMH
-Recommended charge rate is .2 amps
-Will discharge 1% a day just sitting in your bag.

Hope this info Helps!

The grips take standard AA batteries? If so, how many? How much life do you get out of the grip compared to a standard OEM battery in the camera?

[KingViper]

Sanyo Eneloop

or

Powerex Imedion

[Flashstan]

The grips take standard AA batteries? If so, how many? How much life do you get out of the grip compared to a standard OEM battery in the camera?

The grip takes 6 standard AA batteries.

One AA Battery is 1.2 volts, Your canon battery is 7.4 volts. 6 AA batteries X 1.2 volts = 7.4 volts.

The canon BP-511A battery has 1390mAh. If you were using AAs that are 2700 mAh, that is almost twice the capacity as the stock battery, so the AAs will last approximately twice long, in theory.

I am sure that someone knows more about this than I do, so please share.
-Does anyone know the discharge rate of Li-ion?

[rcfury]

Most lithium-ION and or Polymer for that matter usually has the self discharge rate of 5% of capacity per month. I also noticed the same for my LIthium-Phosphate (A123) Cells.
Too bad you can't fit those a123 cells in a flash!

Actually, A123 has there new 18650 cells which is a 1100 mah which as about the size of a AA battery and which can support a 30C discharge. (http://www.a123systems.com/products)

[JBaz]

I always wished I could get my hands on the A123 cells to play with. I tried to do it at work, but no go by management. :(

[anshu]

I just picked up some duracell precharged
http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-Charged-Rechargeable-Batteries-4-Pack/dp/B000XSG300/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230765848&sr=8-9
they are reputed to be eneloops repacked. I got them at office max. 13 for 4 so 26 for 8 and then the 10 of 20 coupon (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=1086036&highlight=officemax) makes it 16 for 8 or 50 cents a battery and they are pretty sweet...
just bought 4 more hot shoe flashes so I needed a ton more batteries!

[Saxi]

I just picked up some duracell precharged
http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-Charged-Rechargeable-Batteries-4-Pack/dp/B000XSG300/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230765848&sr=8-9
they are reputed to be eneloops repacked. I got them at office max. 13 for 4 so 26 for 8 and then the 10 of 20 coupon (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=1086036&highlight=officemax) makes it 16 for 8 or 50 cents a battery and they are pretty sweet...
just bought 4 more hot shoe flashes so I needed a ton more batteries!

I almost bought some Duracell ones today at BJ's,, 6 for $15.99 but I held off.

[Brian O.]

^yeah, it was $40, but the deal from the battery supply is $1 cheaper and their package with 8 eneloops is a pretty good deal. I just wonder how reputable that place is though?
I checked them on www.resellerratings.com and they have excellent reviews. They sound legitimate.

[rcfury]

I always wished I could get my hands on the A123 cells to play with. I tried to do it at work, but no go by management. :(


To get the standard A123 cells you have to tear open the dewalt 32v pack. YOu get 10 cells of A123. The going ebay price is about 99 dollars. or 10 dollars a cell. The smaller 1100mah cells are in the dewalt VTX line of drills.. YOu get 2 cells for 20 bucks. Thats the cheapest way to the cells.. You can also buy them stright from A123 systems for almost 15 a cell.

[Saxi]

To get the standard A123 cells you have to tear open the dewalt 32v pack. YOu get 10 cells of A123. The going ebay price is about 99 dollars. or 10 dollars a cell. The smaller 1100mah cells are in the dewalt VTX line of drills.. YOu get 2 cells for 20 bucks. Thats the cheapest way to the cells.. You can also buy them stright from A123 systems for almost 15 a cell.

What is so significant about A123 cells?

[rcfury]

A123 Cells are more popular in the RC (radio controlled) community. The main benfit with the cells are they a cheaper / safer lithium based cell that could be fast charged with no harm. On top of that they could support a 30C (30 times capacity) discharge without a massive voltage drop.

[JBaz]

I'd want their 32 series cell to be used to power my studio flash heads on the go.

[Chris&jess]

Anyone know which are the best disposable AA's?
Chris

[JBaz]

disposable rechargeables?

[FLphotoguy]

Im using some energizer 2500mAh in my 430EX. I use a 15 min charger and Im still able to squeeze 700+ flash shots out of it.

I vote for the energizers too. While my cheap batteries from ebay have not lasted, the energizers have been very dependable.

[Bob_A]

Anyone know which are the best disposable AA's?
Chris

Lithiums are about the only batteries that will work as well as NiMH:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/569919-REG/Energizer_57_EULAA4D_Ultimate_Lithium_AA_Batteries .html

only $2.50 each :) which is why most opt for NiMH instead.

[mickeyjuice]

We have 24 rechargeable 2900mAh nickel-metal hydride impact AA batteries and a LCD rapid battery charger/discharger. The system is somewhere around 18 months old now and hasn't been used for about six months. We now use disposable batteries only.
Well, using something like a fast charger is a sure way to wreck the cells, so who's surprised?

A good charger (Powerex 9000) and good LSDs (ie Imedions) rock. Fast recycle, long-lasting - what's not to like? You just have to buy the right gear.

[papucla10]

I have energizer e2 Rechargeable betteries and they don' hold their charge very well, specially on certain devices, I have a bunch of these batteries laying around that don't work anymore, they have died only after about 8 Months, one strange thing I noticed contrary to what most people say here is that these batteries started to work better after using the 15 minutes charger I bought, I was originally using a regular charger that took about an hour or so to charge the batteries, I am going to try the Rayovac Hybrid batteries sold at walmart as they say I can use basically any charger without the fear of ruining them like these ENELOOP say they do with 15 Minutes chargers.

[S-S]

i use (for my flashes) hybrio rechargable AA batteries (by uniross)
the cool part is that they come fully charged and dont go flat when not in use

[vikingshelmut]

I just picked up a set of Sanyo Eneloop's from Costco for my not-yet-delivered 430ex II.

A quick question, anyone have any good suggestions for a "battery case"? I'd like to have a small flat container that only holds four AA batteries (in a row) so I can easily tuck it into a small flat pocket. I hate having loose batteries :-)

[S-S]

ziplock plastic baggie? thats what i use, they come in all sizes

[vikingshelmut]

ziplock plastic baggie? thats what i use, they come in all sizes

Ha ha. Yep that would work. I was just curious if there was some small cheap hard-plastic container someone is familiar with.

[Saxi]

I just picked up a set of Sanyo Eneloop's from Costco for my not-yet-delivered 430ex II.

A quick question, anyone have any good suggestions for a "battery case"? I'd like to have a small flat container that only holds four AA batteries (in a row) so I can easily tuck it into a small flat pocket. I hate having loose batteries :-)

That site listed earlier with the BC-900 for sale with Eneloops had some interesting 4 Battery AA cases, I am thinking about picking up the combo so I can get another charge, some Eneloops and a case, they also have a deal with 4x 4 Battery AA cases for $3.87 or something with +$3 credit for shipping. Ends up being $.87 for 4.

[anshu]

Ha ha. Yep that would work. I was just curious if there was some small cheap hard-plastic container someone is familiar with.

I cannot remember the exact link but someone was using a walmart medicine case that was cheap and worked well....

[mickeyjuice]

When I bought my charger and some Powerex AA NiMH from Thomas Distributing a few years ago, they came in hard plastic packs, as did the Imedions I bought a couple of months ago from Servaas here in Oz. The packs can also be bought separately, and are VERY useful.

I put the batteries in lined up if fresh, alternating ends if used.

[willstar]

A quick question, anyone have any good suggestions for a "battery case"? I'd like to have a small flat container that only holds four AA batteries (in a row) so I can easily tuck it into a small flat pocket. I hate having loose batteries :-)

Often come with batteries when bought in sets of 4 or 8 - usually basic plastic ones, but they do the job.

When I bought my charger and some Powerex AA NiMH from Thomas Distributing a few years ago, they came in hard plastic packs, as did the Imedions I bought a couple of months ago from Servaas here in Oz. The packs can also be bought separately, and are VERY useful.

I put the batteries in lined up if fresh, alternating ends if used.

I got my Imedions and Maha 801 charger from Servaas in Oz, too. I did see battery world (also in Oz, so no good for our OS cousins) sell Eneloops - have sent them an email to see if they do Imedions, too. Am about to get a 9v charger and batteries - probably from Servaas, too. And am considering changing to the 808 charger that does C and D cells, too.

V happy with Imedions so far (to answer the OP)

[mickeyjuice]

I got my Imedions and Maha 801 charger from Servaas in Oz, too.

Jeff's service is stellar. His website - www.servaas.com.au - has plenty of good comparative/explanatory info as well.

[Lotto]

Ha ha. Yep that would work. I was just curious if there was some small cheap hard-plastic container someone is familiar with.

#2 in the picture is from Frys.com for 99 cents each, holds 4 AA or 4 AAA...

http://shop4.frys.com/product/3915618?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

#1 is even better, came free from the $1 toy box vending machine :)

[willstar]

Jeff's service is stellar. His website - www.servaas.com.au (http://www.servaas.com.au) - has plenty of good comparative/explanatory info as well.

Yeah - I first came across him/them at the Brissie PMA last year

[papucla10]

#2 in the picture is from Frys.com for 99 cents each, holds 4 AA or 4 AAA...

http://shop4.frys.com/product/3915618?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

#1 is even better, came free from the $1 toy box vending machine :)

How do your energizers compare to the eneloop, I have had bad experience with the energizers.

[mickeyjuice]

How do your energizers compare to the eneloop, I have had bad experience with the energizers.
The energisers are almost univerally regarded as horrible, whereas the Imedions/Eneloops are much loved. (Especially where any proper testing is involved.)

[friz]

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/frizz1/IMG_1310.jpg
http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/frizz1/IMG_1313.jpg
Ebay filter case

[fitzfitz]

I've had a lot of good luck with the Enloops as well. Usually order from Thomas-Distributing (http://www.thomas-distributing.com/index.htm) and they usually include a battery case with each 4 pack you order.

[S-S]

#2 in the picture is from Frys.com for 99 cents each, holds 4 AA or 4 AAA...

http://shop4.frys.com/product/3915618?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

#1 is even better, came free from the $1 toy box vending machine :)

what about #3? where did you get that one?

[Lotto]

How do your energizers compare to the eneloop, I have had bad experience with the energizers.

My Energizers are great when they are new, but after 6-8 months of heavy use, they don't hold the charge like more than 2 weeks. Although a quick charge will bring the power back, but sometimes I lost track how much power left, so I ended up with carrying few spare sets with my flashes all the time.

I just started using Enoloops recently, they do last longer in my p/s cams. Only time can tell if they can help up under frequent recharging for the flashes. But I love the idea that I don't have recharge them every time before the shoot.

[Lotto]

what about #3? where did you get that one?

#3 is the Delkin tote/holder. It has soft rubber molding to hold the batteries in place that once the cover is lock down, nothing moves inside. One of best battery cases I own. I got them at Fry's store, but Thomas Distributing has them too.

http://www.thomas-distributing.com/delkin-plastic-battery-carriers-totes-cases.htm

[mickeyjuice]

http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/nexcell-4-cell-battery-holder-p-1174.html?SP_id=&osCsid=s9q5vgb6u8lnpk5v88g14ar9r5

Cheap and effective. I've got a heap of them and they work fine.

[jeigh]

I see a lot of recommendations for thomasdistributing.com on here. For those of you about to order and are unaware, coupon code GCNE561 will get you 5% off.

[rcfury]

There is some pretty bad batterys out there but, if care is not given to any battery they can turn to trash really quick. Alot of people use those plug in wall wart chargers which, usually they forget about, and the batteries will then become over charged. Any type of peak charger with an avg rate of 500 - 1000 mah would be great and wont stress batteries today. If you dont know if your charger is a peak charger or not, take the output of the charger (usually found on the transformer) and divide it by the capacity of the battery. For example if the output of the charger says 250mah and you have a 1000 mah battery it should take 4 hours to charge the battery. Also trying to push the battery to hard will also limit the life of a battery. If the voltage of a battery drops to a unsafe level, say .5 volts there a lot of stress is placed on the battery and Carbon deposits starts collecting on the annode of the battery. Any lower you could actually see a battery reverse its polarity (not good) ;)

If my stupid part i ordered for my anyalizer would get here, I should start testing some of the batteries out there.

[Saxi]

I just ordered a second charger (BC-900) and additional Eneloops. Those battery cases look nice, I ended up ordering 6 of them (#3).

Thanks for the coupon code.

[Supa Lao]

Definitely thanks for the coupon code. I'll be ordering some here soon.

[BK_Grand_Marquis]

I see a lot of recommendations for thomasdistributing.com on here. For those of you about to order and are unaware, coupon code GCNE561 will get you 5% off.

Crap!!! I should have finished reading this thread. :lol::lol::lol:

I just ordered a bunch of batteries and cases. :oops:

[anshu]

When I bought my charger and some Powerex AA NiMH from Thomas Distributing a few years ago, they came in hard plastic packs, as did the Imedions I bought a couple of months ago from Servaas here in Oz. The packs can also be bought separately, and are VERY useful.

I put the batteries in lined up if fresh, alternating ends if used.

got in on that same deal. the cases are brilliant!

[Stealthy Ninja]

I just got 3 sets of 4 ReCykos (by GP) since I hear they are very similar to eneloops and they are a Hong Kong brand (buy local and all).

4 with a charger cost $90 HKD ($11.50 USD). The other packs of 4 were $60 HKD ($7.6 USD) per pack.

[cmarion]

As usual this site, and more specifically the people associated, rock. I appreciate the input and the experience shared.

Someone could write an article with of all the info. Of course that someone wouldn't be me.

[12mnkys]

I just ordered up a Lacrosse BC-900 with 8 Eneloop AA's, 4 Lacrosse AA's, and 4 Lacrosse AAA's for $57. Seems like a good deal to me! I am gearing up to buy my 580ex2, so now I should be in good shape! This forum is definitely chocked full of good information!!

[wingit]

I also just ordered the Lacrosse BC-900 with 8 Eneloop for $57, got 4 cases to qualify for shipping discount. I used the 5% couple and a whole 1 percent off for using google checkout.

[Saxi]

I picked up my second BC-900, I already have one I paid $50-60 for alone. My father wants one after I explained it to him and I figured it was still a good deal for me. I use the C battery adapters, and I wanted 3 D battery adapters, that's $10-20 there, and the 8 Eneloops is another $20. So really it wasn't all that much in the end and now I can charge 8 at once. I bought 6 of those battery cases since it only was like $20 for 6 8 Cell cases (#3 above) and each one you buy lowers your shipping costs...

I think I bought another 16 eneloops on top of that, I only have 4 required for photography (580EX2) and another 4 if I decide to use my 550EX for strobist, but I will likely buy some Nikon flashes. But I am trying to replace most of my common battery usages at home with rechargeable, I was buying packs of 36 AA batteries every 3 months or so.

[ALT1MATE]

Eneloops.

Done.

[BK_Grand_Marquis]

I also just ordered the Lacrosse BC-900 with 8 Eneloop for $57, got 4 cases to qualify for shipping discount. I used the 5% couple and a whole 1 percent off for using google checkout.

I found out that you can buy more than one case deal and the discount accumulates.;) So it took off $9 worth of shipping. :lol::lol::lol:

[JBaz]

after buying how many cases?

[BK_Grand_Marquis]

after buying how many cases?

There were 3 packages that had a $3 off deal.

http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/special-offers.php

So I ended up with 9 cases. I happen to have a lot of loose AAs so i will make use of them. :lol::lol::lol:

[12mnkys]

Wow...not much bad I can say about Thomas Distributing. My order shipped same day, and was at my doorstep a day later! I am pleased with my purchase, and will definitely do business with them again!

[Saxi]

Wow...not much bad I can say about Thomas Distributing. My order shipped same day, and was at my doorstep a day later! I am pleased with my purchase, and will definitely do business with them again!

I should have mine today, it took about 3 days, but that is likely because of distance.

[12mnkys]

I should have mine today, it took about 3 days, but that is likely because of distance.

Yea, I am in Indiana so only a state away! You will be happy with your setup. I know I am so far...

[Saxi]

Yea, I am in Indiana so only a state away! You will be happy with your setup. I know I am so far...

Just got mine today in New Hampshire, took about 3 days I think. Everything I ordered came in perfect order.

The 8 cell cases are really nice, I picked up 6 of them, well worth it as they are only $3 something and decrease your shipping costs by buying them. They are perfect for carrying along in a bag as spares, with Eneloops it is nice as you don't have to worry about them loosing 1% a day sitting in your bag.

[Saxi]

Looks like Amazon is out of stock with the BC-900 and may not get restocked. They also raised their prices on Eneloops from 11.99 to like 13.50 or so.

[BK_Grand_Marquis]

Got my order of regular and low dischage batteries on Friday. I got a mix of PowerEx and Ansmann.

Only took a few days for delivery. :D

[rodal126]

I'm using battery cases from the Container Store.
http://images.containerstore.com/MEDIA/ProductCatalog/101687/BatteryStorageContainers_l.jpg

[tvanpeer]

If you really want to dig deep into this subject, check out this comparison (http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=79302). It shows a load of brands and how they perform. The Sanyo Eneloops are really different in that they stick to their voltage for a very long time, but they do not excel in mAh. I do not know what is better for a flash unit: constant voltage or just lots of mAh.

Never leave home without your BC-900...

My $0.02
Tom

[dc5itr329]

I see alot of people on here use La Crosse BC-900 but does anyone have Maha chargers? I'm looking at the MH-C808M, MH-C801D, or MH-C9000. Don't know which one to get.

[mickeyjuice]

I've got the C9000 and the C801D. Both excellent and do different jobs, but if I was choosing one, it'd be the C9000 for the features.

[dc5itr329]

I've got the C9000 and the C801D. Both excellent and do different jobs, but if I was choosing one, it'd be the C9000 for the features.

details please? I'm interested in them for my eneloops. Thanks in advance