FAQ
TL;DR: Eneloop white offers ~2000 cycles vs Pro ~500; "Pro versions can deliver a larger load but withstand a smaller number of charging cycles" — choose Pro for high‑drain, white for longevity. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726586]
Why it matters: If you’re deciding whether to pay extra for Eneloop Pro vs regular (or budget sets like Esperanza), this FAQ helps you pick the right AA/AAA for cameras, remotes, toys, and tools.
Quick Facts
- Cycle life: Eneloop white ≈2000 charges; Eneloop Pro ≈500; Pro favors current delivery over longevity [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726586]
- Low self‑discharge (LSD) cells can sit in a drawer; regular NiMH need monthly top‑ups; avoid deep discharge [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726142]
- Longevity example: 12‑year‑old white Eneloops measured ~1700 mAh after 2 months; ~1840 mAh fresh; 165 mA test [Elektroda, j570, post #20905950]
- Use‑case by resistance: white = medium and long‑lived; black (Pro) = low, high current; orange/green = higher, great for mice/handsets [Elektroda, LEDówki, #20912720]
- AA size varies by brand; some are oversized and can jam battery doors—prefer "normal" AA dimensions when fit matters [Elektroda, kocureq, post #19361099]
Is it worth paying extra for Eneloops over cheap packs like Esperanza?
Often yes if you value predictable performance. "You are basically buying blind" with many budget packs. One user found Varta 2400 weaker than Eneloop. They also reported EverActive R20 meeting capacity and holding a charge for a month. Paying more for proven cells reduces surprises. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726534]
Eneloop Pro vs regular: which should I buy?
For high‑drain gear, choose Eneloop Pro. For longest lifespan, choose white Eneloop. "Pro versions can deliver a larger load but withstand a smaller number of charging cycles." Expect about 500 cycles for Pro and about 2000 for white. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726586]
Do low self‑discharge NiMH really hold charge for months?
Yes. Low self‑discharge cells can stay ready in a drawer for a long time. Regular NiMH need monthly recharging to stay usable. "Eneloop or any others with low self‑discharge can stay in a drawer for a long time." Use LSD cells for infrequently used devices. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726142]
How long do Eneloops last in real use over years?
A 12‑year‑old white Eneloop delivered ~1700 mAh after two months of storage. Freshly charged, it measured ~1840 mAh. The user charged gently at 200–300 mA and discharged at 165 mA to 1.0 V. That shows strong long‑term durability with mild charging. [Elektroda, j570, post #20905950]
Are IKEA Ladda really the same as Eneloop Pro?
A contributor states IKEA Ladda are Eneloop Pro. This makes Ladda a popular budget route to high‑drain performance. Compare local availability and prices before deciding. [Elektroda, kosmo21, post #18726274]
What charge current should I use for AA Eneloops?
Aim for a gentle charge when longevity matters. One user reports 200–300 mA per AA with excellent capacity retention. Smart chargers like the BC‑900 or Newell C8 make that easy to set. This conservative current aligns with long‑term results shared in the thread. [Elektroda, j570, post #20905950]
What happens if I deep‑discharge NiMH cells?
Deep discharge accelerates problems. "Like all NiMHs, Eneloop does not like deep discharge. Then there are problems with them — they self‑discharge quickly." Recharge before they get that low, and avoid storing them empty. This helps preserve capacity and shelf readiness. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726142]
Are GP ReCyko+ a good alternative to Eneloop?
Yes. A user has run GP ReCyko+ for three years and calls them "reasonably good." The black professional variant gave longer camera runtime than standard cells. Fujitsu AAA also worked well in sporadic duty for two years without failures. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726142]
How do Varta or EverActive perform in practice?
Reportedly, Varta 2400 AAs were weak compared with Eneloop. The same user said EverActive R20s were fine, meeting stated capacity and not discharging within a month. They also found some GP and Panasonic cells underwhelming in performance. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726534]
Do AA batteries differ in size, and how do I avoid tight fits?
Yes, dimensions vary, and some cells run large. Oversized AAs can be hard to insert or remove, or prevent closing the door. If fit matters, choose models described as "normal" AA rather than chasing tiny capacity bumps. This avoids daily‑use frustration. [Elektroda, kocureq, post #19361099]
Did Panasonic’s takeover affect Eneloop quality?
One user says their Eneloops have been "unbreakable" in a camera for years. The same post mentions reading that post‑2014 Panasonic production could be lower quality. Treat that as a cautionary note, not a definitive downgrade. [Elektroda, Maverick73, post #19361577]
Which Eneloop color should I pick for my device?
Match cell resistance to the load. White: medium resistance, long cycle life. Black (Pro): low resistance, higher current for cameras or BP monitors. Orange/green: higher resistance, ideal for mice, keyboards, and cordless phones. Modern LSD cells can sit for years. [Elektroda, LEDówki, #20912720]
Are Fujitsu rechargeable batteries still made?
A poster notes Fujitsu no longer produces rechargeable cells. They highlight white Eneloop 1900 mAh and IKEA Ladda 1900 mAh as current options to consider. Availability can vary by market and store. [Elektroda, 78db78, post #20906034]
Best AAA (R03) picks for remotes and small devices?
A user reports Fujitsu AAA as "quite nice." In sporadic use for two years, they did not fail. That makes them a safe choice for remotes, keyboards, and small gadgets that don’t draw high current. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18726142]
