Batteries are one of those things that people barely think about until it’s time to replace them. Most modern devices will run on rechargeable batteries, but some companies still sell non-rechargeable batteries for products that don’t have an AC input. So, what is the difference between rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries?
1. Rechargeable Batteries Last Longer
The average consumer doesn’t think about how long a battery will last, but it can be a deciding factor in some cases. Your phone or MP3 player probably uses at least one rechargeable battery, but that same device also has several non-rechargeable batteries. On the other hand, most non-rechargeable battery devices have an average life of around 100 charges. It is a short life span compared to rechargeable batteries.
2. Rechargeable Are More Expensive and Less Environmentally Friendly
An important consideration is whether it is worth paying more for rechargeable batteries or whether it makes more sense to go with cheaper non-rechargeable batteries. These are batteries that you can repeatedly reuse (until they give out). When you consider that you’ll need to buy a separate charger for each device, it may not be worth the price difference to go with rechargeables.
If the rechargeable batteries are more environmentally friendly than the non-rechargeable variety, it is worth considering. But if they are just mediocre in terms of helping the environment while being twice as expensive as non-rechargeable batteries, you’re better off just buying more.
3. Rechargeable Batteries Are More Likely to Experience Failure
Rechargeable batteries are less likely to survive the rigors of a typical consumer life than non-rechargeable batteries. It is because the non-rechargeable batteries are not as likely to leak, explode or ignite when overused as some rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries may also fail when exposed to extreme conditions so that they might be more prone to problems over time. Overall, these risks make it less worth it for manufacturers and consumers to waste money and materials on rechargeables.
4. Non-rechargeable Batteries Have the Highest Energy Density of Any Battery Type on the Market
The non-rechargeable batteries used in devices today are the highest energy-density batteries you can find. A typical cell phone battery, for example, has more energy than a standard flashlight or a car battery. Because of this, non-rechargeable batteries last longer and hold much more power than their rechargeable counterparts. They also have a lower self-discharge rate, so they keep their charge for longer and aren’t as likely to drain down as quickly as rechargeable batteries. Rechargeables may not last as long and can’t hold as much charge, but they have been making progress in improving their lifespans anyway.
5. Rechargeable Batteries Are More Likely To Have the Same Voltage as Other Batteries
If you regularly use rechargeable batteries, it may be because they have a lower voltage and won’t shock you when used. It is a significant concern when dealing with something like a flashlight or a toy with moving parts or electronics that require a certain amount of extra power. If you use non-rechargeable batteries with a lower voltage, the device may not work correctly or as well. When you need a steady voltage for your device, it will be more helpful to pick up non-rechargeable batteries because they are more likely to provide that steady output.
6. Rechargeable Batteries Usually Have More Capacity
The capacities of recharging batteries are usually higher than non-rechargeable batteries. In this case, you are more likely to need a higher-capacity battery. Sometimes it makes sense because you might want to replace many older batteries in one go and don’t want to throw out all rechargeable batteries at once. It also means that rechargeable batteries like lithium-ion batteries will be suitable for some devices that require more power. The batteries have more power than disposable ones used in pocket calculators and flashlights. These devices often use more power than they would, which means a rechargeable battery option would be the preferred alternative.
In conclusion, non-rechargeable batteries are better for most devices. You are likely to want to replace your non-rechargeable batteries more often as they begin to lose their charge, but they will last longer and provide more energy than rechargeable batteries. They also don’t need a separate charger like rechargeable, making them better for devices with limited power input.