Shel, Some people have already responded to you. I haven't done, nor have seen comprehensive comparative test results for various batteries. I wish... Let me share some thoughts at a "educated speculation" level.
I have used NiMH recharge able AA batteries since late 2000, first in a simple 3MP digital P&S of the first generation, then in some other P&S's, and then recently in the DS. First that I had were Monster Power (1800 mAh) with their charger. It was a relatively slow charger, and was working well with new batteries, but did not seem to work as well when they became older. I also saw some strange behavior with the higher capacity batteries. Than I had Duracell Recahrgeable (1800 mAh). They are ok, but nothing outstanding. I had less experience with them. Most recently I purchased "Ultralast" 2600 mAh (at Fry's Electronics for $9.99). The thing is they have the "2600" rating only on the package, but don't have that on the batteries. They also sell similar rechargeable batteries with the rating varying from 2100 to 2600, I believe. So, I suspect, they might be all the same, and the rest is just a marketing ploy. I read recently (maybe even on this list or on photo.net) that those ratings aren't worth much, and the performance can vary widely. As for the chargers, there are two major types: "quick" and "slow" ones. (NB: the charging speed can vary widely within each of the categories) My impression is that with the quick chargers the battery life (the number of cycles, but maybe even duration of one cycle) is shorter compared to the same ones charged with the slow chargers. There is one important parameter of convenience that I was looking at: dual voltage option (US and Europe: 110/220-240 V), and (secondary),- car-adapter (12 V) option. Most of the "quick" chargers do not have dual voltage capability. At the same Fry's I purchased "X1 chrage pro" for $12.99. It has both options and it uses 1000 mA with 2AA batteries or 500 mA with 4 AA. I've been using it for only 2 months, so I don't have comprehensive opinion yet, but so far I like it. Disposable alkaline batteries: There are two types (as you probably know yourself) that are available from Energizer and Duracell in the US: "long lasting" and "more powerful". Having been using those in the flash, I have found that the difference is noticeable, and it is not just a marketing thing. Indeed, the flash recharge time is better (and stays that way longer) with the "more powerful" ones. About 5-7 years ago somebody was really happy with Varta batteries. They are usually not widely available, but sometimes can be found cheap at some strange places. I don't remember where - maybe Costco? I seem to remember that Ritz camera might carry them as well. Lithium are better (and more expensive), I haven't used them that much. I hope this helps. Igor > Date: Tue, 30 Aug 2005 10:54:15 -0700 > From: "Shel Belinkoff" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Message-ID: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > > Subject say it all. What are YOU using, what works well, what doesn't? > What sort of battery life are you getting, and under what conditions? > Will the camera work on household electricity with a converter of some sort? > > Shel >
