Rechargeable batteries + charger

[thezeronumber]

Hello, I'm in the need of some AA batteries for my flash units and it's my understanding that they drain the things like no tomorrow so I would like to get some rechargeable ones. The most confusing part for me is the plethora of different chargers out there and I don't know what I should be going for. Slow charge, fast charge, intelligent monitoring, single cell charging, LCD screens, etc. I assume I can use different brand batteries in a charger which doesn't share the same name but I'm not sure on that either. As for the batteries I have heard good things about Eneloop and 7dayshop brands but I'm still not sold on any of them yet.

What batteries and charger do you use? Experiences?

 

[Alastair]

7DS Eneloop clones, plus a pair of 7DS V8 chargers.

 

[mike_EOS]

Technoline BL700 charger - charges 4 batteries, simultaneously, each with their own settings, and doesn't cook them once they're done. I use Eneloop batteries in my flash units and wireless triggers and can fully recommend them. 1900mha ones are good.

 

[modchild]

I've got a lot of the 7DS rechargeable batteries and a couple of Vapex chargers I bought off ebay and have no problems with them. The batteries don't lose much charge over months without use and a fully charged set took over 800 shots with a Nissin Di866 flash before the refresh time became too long. For the price I can't fault them at all.

 

[thezeronumber]

Thanks for the replies.

Seems I am on the right track when it comes to batteries. I had a closer look and decided on the "Good to go" 7DS AA (2150mAh) and AAA (850mAh) versions because the capacity is more than enough for my shooting situations, plus there's spares. I had a look for that charger and found the Vapextech 8-cell one, which I assume is the one you were describing. For £17 it looks pretty amazing, offering intelligent single-cell charges with an LCD screen. Great reviews too, thanks for the suggestion.