Energizer Power Plus AA Batteries Review: 9/10 Verdict
Digging into hundreds of user reports, the Energizer Power Plus Rechargeable AA Batteries (8 Pack) consistently lands high marks for longevity, cost savings, and eco-friendliness, earning a solid 9/10 score from cross-platform feedback. While marketing touts up to 500 charge cycles and year-long storage retention, actual user experiences show these claims hold true for most—but not all—scenarios. For households with high battery turnover, from gaming controllers to kids’ toys, these NiMH 2300 mAh cells prove to be a dependable replacement for disposables, though voltage limitations can hinder performance in certain devices.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting charge retention in storage | Lower 1.2V output can affect some electronics |
| Up to 500 recharge cycles saves money | Voltage drop impacts high-voltage-required gear |
| Made with recycled materials, eco-friendly | Heat build-up during fast charging |
| Leak-proof design protects devices | Some users receive lower mAh than advertised |
| Works well in high-drain devices like cameras | Initial cost higher than disposables |
| Compatible with multiple charger brands | Performance varies in extreme temperatures |
| Strong durability over years of use |
Claims vs Reality
Energizer markets these as “lasting up to 4x longer in digital cameras” compared to Energizer Max. Digging deeper into Reddit and Amazon reports, this claim resonated with photographers. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “I charged them and put them to work… one month ago and I have yet to need to recharge any of them!” For wedding photographers, the savings are tangible—one user calculated over $500 avoided in disposable purchases over two years.
Another claim is “retains charge up to 12 months in storage.” Multiple Reddit users confirmed this for seasonal devices like holiday decorations and backup remotes. Reddit user Lisa*** shared: “I charged them hundreds of times already, and they still hold power like champs. No leaks, no weird battery explosions—just reliable juice every time.”
However, the advertised 2300 mAh capacity occasionally falls short. Several Amazon reviews point out receiving batteries marked at 2300 mAh instead of the 2500 mAh listed in some product descriptions. While the difference is minor for most, high-drain device users—particularly in professional equipment—noticed reduced runtime.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Trustpilot, and Amazon, longevity is the most celebrated feature. Gamers repeatedly highlight uninterrupted playtime. Reddit user Mark*** reported: “I’ve tossed them into everything from my game systems to my wireless mouse, and they keep powering through like champs.” Parents also find them indispensable—one Amazon review states: “As a new parent, these rechargeable batteries have helped us save money and the environment… now we keep a set charging and replenish our baby’s toys and remotes quickly.”
Photographers are another beneficiary group. A wedding photographer on Amazon calculated extensive cost savings using these for camera flashes, noting consistent performance throughout long shoots. The leak-proof design is a lifesaver in gear-heavy setups, preventing costly damage.
Common Complaints
Voltage output is the main sticking point. At 1.2V compared to alkaline’s 1.5V, some devices underperform or fail entirely. One Amazon reviewer warned: “If something doesn’t work when you have put them in, it might just require higher than the 1.3–1.4 volts these tend to put out.” This makes them less ideal for certain flashlights or legacy electronics.
Another recurring frustration is heat during fast charging. While the 15-minute charger option appeals to impatient users, some report batteries getting “very hot in the charger and need to cool before using.” Long-term, high-heat charging can reduce cycle life.
Divisive Features
Fast-charging capability splits opinion. Enthusiasts praise the convenience—Reddit user Jake*** enthused: “I charged up my AA batteries in just 3 hours—faster than I can decide what to watch on Netflix.” Others caution against overcharging, noting capacity drop if left on the charger too long.
The use of recycled materials is celebrated by eco-conscious buyers, but some skeptics question quality control. One Amazon reviewer bluntly stated: “These batteries are recycled, not new… complaints about these batteries may be justified.”
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Reddit reports show strong reliability over years. One Amazon user mentioned having a set since 2004 “still going strong.” This durability builds trust, especially in households with ongoing high battery demands. Even with minor capacity discrepancies, users rarely report complete failure within the expected lifecycle.
Scam concerns are minimal—complaints mostly revolve around mislabeling mAh capacity rather than counterfeit products. The consistent performance across multiple recharges reassures buyers that the product meets most advertised standards.
Alternatives
Within the same brand, Energizer’s “Universal Rechargeable” AA batteries offer more charge cycles (up to 1000) but at lower capacity, suiting low-drain devices better. High-drain users, like photographers and gamers, lean toward the Power Plus despite fewer cycles, valuing runtime over sheer recharge count.
Competitors like Panasonic Eneloop are mentioned in eBay discussions, with Eneloop praised for voltage stability but often at lower mAh ratings. For extreme temperature resilience, Energizer’s “Ultimate Lithium” disposables still outperform rechargeables, but at higher ongoing cost.
Price & Value
Currently priced around $17.99–$24.76 for the 8-pack on Amazon and eBay, with resale listings in the $16–$23 range, value is tied to usage frequency. Heavy users recover the upfront cost quickly; one Amazon photographer documented savings exceeding $500 versus disposables. Bundling with an Energizer charger often reduces per-unit cost and ensures optimal charging compatibility.
Buying tips from community feedback include watching for holiday sales, verifying mAh rating before purchase, and avoiding overcharging to preserve capacity.
FAQ
Q: Can these be used in high-drain devices like digital cameras?
A: Yes, many photographers use them successfully, reporting long shoot times and reliability. However, voltage-sensitive gear may prefer lithium disposables for maximum performance.
Q: How many times can they be recharged?
A: Up to 500 full cycles are typical, though careful charging and avoiding full drain can extend lifespan.
Q: Will they work in devices expecting 1.5V batteries?
A: They output 1.2V, which works in most electronics but may cause issues in gear requiring constant higher voltage.
Q: Do they come pre-charged?
A: Yes, they arrive ready to use, holding charge up to 12 months in storage.
Q: Can I use a non-Energizer charger?
A: Yes, but ensure it supports NiMH chemistry and proper voltage/current to avoid damage.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a high-use household, gamer, or photographer looking to cut battery costs and reduce waste. Avoid if your devices demand strict 1.5V output or you need performance in extreme climates. Pro tip from the community: invest in a quality smart charger to maximize cycle life and prevent overheating.
