Nitecore launches rechargeable AA batteries with 1.5 volts, 3.6 Wh and USB-C connectivity

Nitecore is now also a supplier of AA rechargeable batteries. Having just launched the NH2400, Nitecore aims to compete primarily with lithium-ion batteries that maintain a constant voltage of 1.5 volts. The NH2400 also offers a slightly higher capacity. Fenix's equivalent product, for example, only offers 3.3 watt hours.

Nitecore, on the other hand, specifies 2,400 mAh and 3.6 Wh for its NH2400. However, the batteries have a decisive disadvantage: they cannot and must not be recharged in chargers. The manufacturer states that the NH2400 can only be charged via USB-C and have a corresponding socket for this purpose. They are charged with a maximum of 2.5 watts.

For charging, Nitecore includes a quadruple cable whip in the scope of delivery. The batteries also have an LED that displays the charging status. Charging with the cable whip is said to take three hours, and the batteries themselves are estimated to last a total of 500 cycles. This doesn't sound like much at first, as the NiMH-based Eneloop LSD batteries from Panasonic last around 2,100 cycles. On the other hand, Panasonic states in its Eneloop FAQ that 600 cycles are more realistic under stricter testing conditions.

The NH2400 batteries appear to have just been recently launched, as they are still being delivered and are hard to find. Nitecore's US store lists the NH2400 batteries in a four-pack with a cable whip for just under $25.

New AA rechargeable batteries appear to be gaining in popularity as an alternative to the conventional 1.2 volt batteries, as they are supposed to work better in devices that require the 1.5 volts of a fully-charged AA battery. In addition to those with a falling voltage, such as the NH2400, there are also those that maintain their voltage right to the end.

The NH2400 batteries are not to be confused with 14500 round batteries, which operate at a higher voltage and are for more specialized uses as they are not electrically compatible with AA slots. However, users have to be careful here too, as Fenix sells its USB AA rechargeable batteries as 14500 rechargeable batteries with 1.5 volts and sometimes with the LR6 designation.

Nitecore also offers 14500 batteries, but only uses the term for the higher voltage. Delivering 1,100 mAh at 3.6 volts, they offer slightly more capacity than the NH2400 rechargeable batteries.