Amazon Basics Rechargeable AAA NiMH Batteries

Amazon Basics Rechargeable AAA NiMH Batteries

Reliable, reusable power for compact devices. These pre-charged, low self-discharge AAA NiMH cells offer a nominal 1.2 V and typical capacities in the 800–900 mAh range, making them a practical replacement for single-use batteries in remotes, LED flashlights, headlamps, wireless mice/keyboards, toys, and sensors.

When to choose these batteries

• Use if you replace AAA batteries often and want to cut costs and waste.
• Use for devices that see daily or weekly use (flashlights, input devices, toys, clip-on lights).
• Use where steady voltage under load is helpful (NiMH holds voltage better than alkaline at higher currents).
• Avoid for rarely used, ultra-low-drain devices stored for a year or more without charging; primary alkaline or lithium may hold charge longer.
• Avoid if the device explicitly requires 1.5 V primary cells or warns against rechargeables.

Compatibility notes

• Voltage: NiMH is 1.2 V vs. 1.5 V alkaline. Most modern devices work fine; some battery indicators may show “low” earlier.
• Chargers: Use a charger that explicitly supports NiMH. Do not use lithium-ion–only or alkaline chargers.
• Do not mix: Use batteries of the same brand, capacity, and age together. Replace and charge in matched sets.
• Life-safety devices: Follow the device manual. Many smoke/CO alarms specify primary batteries only.

Quick runtime estimates

Actual runtime varies by device draw, settings, and temperature. Use these examples as ballpark guidance.

Rule of thumb: charge time (hours) ≈ capacity (mAh) ÷ charger current (mA) × 1.2. Example: 850 mAh ÷ 250 mA × 1.2 ≈ 4 hours.

Charging and care

• Use a smart NiMH charger with -ΔV or temperature monitoring for safe, complete charging.
• Charge at 0.2–0.5C for longevity (e.g., 170–425 mA for an 850 mAh cell). Fast charging increases heat and wear.
• Avoid deep discharge. Recharge when performance drops; do not run cells to exhaustion.
• Top up every 3–6 months if stored idle; store cool and dry. Avoid high heat and direct sun.
• Keep cells in labeled pairs/sets and rotate them together to maintain balance.
• Recycle responsibly at approved collection points at end of life.

Planning your pack

• Home setup: 8–12 cells typically cover remotes, a flashlight or two, and input devices.
• Teams/classrooms: 24–36 cells plus 2–3 smart chargers prevents downtime.
• Field kits: Keep one charged spare set per device you carry.

Alternatives

• Primary alkaline: Best for devices used only a few times per year.
• Primary lithium (non-rechargeable): Better cold-weather performance and longer shelf life for emergency kits.
• Higher-capacity NiMH AA: If your device supports AA, consider AA for longer runtime.

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