Rechargeable batteries almost always make economic sense. There are few different devices that use AA batteries, and you want to be able to have a total of eight batteries to power them at any given time.  You also want four spares that can be charging while the other batteries are in use. It does not make economic sense in low-draw devices like battery-powered wall clocks, smoke detectors, and remote controls. And, also in devices that have long idle times(measured in months) , like emergency flashlights- unless you are willing to shell out the extra dough it takes to buy lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.

These batteries are different than the normal alkaline batteries you buy in 4-packs and 8-packs at the store in standard “customer sizes” like AA, AAA, C, D and 9-volt. Such batteries have poorer long-term performance and recharge characteristics compared to Nicads and NiMHs, and unless you’re looking for an inexpensive rechargeable battery that is ready to use right out of the package( without recharging), it is better to avoid them.

Lithium-ion batteries are very good and have excellent shelf life, i.e. their charge does not go down when they are just sitting around not being used-but they are most expensive than other types of rechargeable batteries. That means they are usually only a good choice for occasionally used emergency devices or high-drain devices like portable televisions, digital cameras, laptops and cell phones. Most solar lights use rechargeable batteries such as sanyo N-700AA battery.

Related posts:

1. What are Rechargeable Batteries?
2. Camera batteries for digital camera
3. AA batteries
4. Lithium ion Batteries – Best for your cell phones
5. The uses of alkaline batteries