Duracell Rechargeable StayCharged review

If you’re using rechargeable batteries for low-drain devices, such as clocks and remote controls, you’ll want low self-discharge cells. OTherwise the charge will drain from them far quicker than you actually use it, which means lots more charging. With its Rechargeable StayCharged brand, Duracell has one of the most promising set of batteries for these kind of devices.

According to Duracell, the batteries can hold around 80 per cent of their charge for a year when not in use, which means they’ll last well in devices that are infrequently used, such as remote controls. They’re also potentially useful where you need backup batteries, as you can charge them up and leave them in a cupboard.

Our sample batteries had a relatively low rated capacity of 2,000mAh, although our rapid-drain tests measured a final capacity of 2,145mAh. At 107 per cent of the rated capacity, this is quite an achievement. That said, for high-drain uses, such as digital cameras, these batteries are a little on the low-capacity side and you’re better off looking for higher-capacity regular NiMH rechargeable cells.

If you’ve got a NiMH charger and need batteries for long-term low-drain use, it’s hard to find any cells that are better value than these. However, if you just need batteries for low-capacity use, the iGo Green Rechargeable Alkaline batteries, which keep their charge for seven years, could prove to be a better long-term investment.