Rechargeable batteries are by far the most cost effective solution and although they are more expensive than their alkaline, zinc chloride or carbon counterparts, they will work out to be MUCH cheaper in the long run. For example, a rechargeable cell, such as an AAA, AA, C, D or 9V PP3 might be recharged up to 1,000 times, whereas alkaline, zinc chloride or carbon cells are used only once and cannot be recharged.

Rechargeable batteries are not suitable for all applications. For example, they prefer to be used regularly. This makes rechargeable batteries unsuitable for applications where they might only be used occasionally, such as in television remote controls. In such cases, we would recommend the use of 'alkaline' batteries, as these provide the longest life time of all non-rechargeable options.

The choice of a suitable charger is as important as choosing a good quality battery. And in the case of lead acid batteries, an intelligent charger should always be used to ensure long service life from the battery.