Best rechargable batteries

I'm having a problem wiht the rechargable batteries that I am using in a 550EX not holding on to a charge as long as I feel that they should. I think that I might better get away from over the counter brands and step up to a better make. What do you guys think are the best recharable AA out there?
Thanks
Matt

I've been using the Sunpak rechargeables, but I'm not sure they are worth the trouble. I keep two sets charged at all times, but usually have a set of alkalines in the camera bag just in case.

If I did even photography for money, I would want my batteries to last at least twice as long as what the event needs. With the 550, that means I'd use the belt-pack. I haven't found any AA's that last a long time when I'm using a lot of wide-angles and long distances.

By the way, I'm not sure the rechargeables even claim to last as long as alkalines, so I don't usually expect much.

Rick "who ends up using alkalines more often than not" Denney

Get Sanyo.

Thaanks guys.
Right now it just fits my style to keep going with the rechargable batteries, but, I have to admit I have not really given alot of thought to a belt worn battery. What do you think about the PowerEx 2200mah batteries? They seem to be priced about right.

I struggled with this for a number of years. I wanted long lasting batteries and rechargables just never seemed to cut it. Alkalines are great but costly. I finally broke down and spent the money on a Quantum Turbo battery and cable. I have never looked back.

Is it heavy? Yes.

Does the cable get in the way sometimes? Yes.

Do I get full power flash recharge in about one second from the first shot to the last? Yes!

Do I get over 400 full power flashes per charge? Yes!

Can I shoot hundreds of images with my 10D using auto E-TTL flash without the battery going dead? Yes.

Can I use the Quantum turbo to power my flash and my 10D at the same time? Assuming I buy the extra cables....Yes!

If you use your flash more than 50% of the time then I really thing that some sort of external power pack it worth looking into.

Good Luck to you.

In my sometimes humble opinion, the Powerex 2200mAh AA batteries outlast any others, especially when paired with a quality charger like the MAHA C401-FS.

Three things I like about the charger:
1. It lets you charge in slow (5-hour) cool mode when you've got time..easier on the batteries...gives the maximum charge, and fast (100-minute) charge (that's not too hot) when you need 'em quick.
2. Includes a 12-volt auto adapter for charging in the car (no transformer)
3. Charges each cell individually (doesn't require pairs)

Check out http://www.thomas-distributing.com for batteries and chargers

Dave {My 10D came today..waiting for UPS with the Lens} Bell

I bought the Powerex batteries and Maha Charger from Thomas Distributing. They are very nice people. They were quick to offer a replacement shipment when Fed Ex Ground misdirected my package. The batteries and charger work well. I use the batteries in my F5 and my flashes when I don't feel like lugging around my Quantum Turbo Z.

Got the PowerEx 2200 mAh today--I'll let you guys know something on them this weekend.

Stay Safe
Matt

I just bought the 1800mAh Monster Powercells.

They are from the same company that makes the Monster Cables. So far I really like them.

Has anyone looked at or tried the rechargeable Lenmar NiMH 2300 mAh batteries?

http://www.lenmar.com …ases/NiMH_AA_05​-21-03.asp

http://www.dpreview.co​m …050601lenmarbat​teries.asp