What makes a good solar light battery? Is it the type, brand, capacity, or packaging? A lot of people struggle with this question. The way you answer it might affect your final decision when making your purchase. However, one or two elements cannot guide you on how to buy the best solar light batteries.
We’ve looked at 37 different options and picked the 10 best ones, out of which, in our opinion, the Rechargeable AA Battery by Minetom is the top pick. While it’s important to consider the size of a battery before buying, it’s also critical to have the capacity and voltage in your mind. The size is crucial because you want a fitting battery. Capacity and voltage, on the other hand, determine the efficiency of the batteries. Other features that we’ve considered include package, pre-charge, and certification. Find an in-depth discussion in our buying guide towards the end of this article.
More features: UL listed; multiple uses; air freight standard; recyclable
Just like Mr. Batt, these batteries fit in any device that takes size AA. They are widely used in outdoor solar lights, flashlights, game controllers, toys, portable audio devices, among others. While disposable batteries are usually harmful to the environment, Brightown is not only friendly but also recyclable. Besides, they’re UL listed hence safe. What’s exciting is that you can recharge them for over 500 times. Although they come pre-charged with only 30% power, the batteries boast high capacity and hold well during long uses. However, ensure to charge them before your first use. They’re not fully charged because of transportation safety. Note that the maximum capacity of these batteries is not lost regardless of staying idle for a long period.
Re-charging the batteries is pretty fast when compared to other brands. It’s even faster when you use a fast charger. We know fast chargers can damage batteries. However, it’s a better choice for these batteries because of their high capacity. Purchasing a pack of twelve batteries also helps with saving money and having a longer usage time. Always ensure your solar panel is in good condition to have a better experience with Mineton batteries. When it comes to longevity, the batteries perform based on the device and usage. However, they hold well for several hours. Note that they do not come with a charger.
More features: all-purpose; long-lasting; can be recharged up to 400 times; 10-year storage time
Duracell Rechargeable AAA Batteries are probably the best triple-A solar light rechargeable batteries on the market. While these batteries boast up to 400 recharges, they require fewer recharges because they’re long-lasting – 50% longer. Besides, they guarantee ten years in storage. Also, the high-quality batteries will hold a charge for one year when not in use. They are ideal for household or business use. You can use them in video game controllers, wireless electronics, toys, and any other compatible device. When it comes to recharging, Duracell NiMH batteries have a quick recharge time. The batteries automatically stop charging when they reach full charge. However, you must unplug the charger for safety. It’s crucial to know that you can only charge two or four batteries – not one or three.
Duracell charger accepts 100-240V, 50/60 Hz; hence you can use them overseas with a matching plug converter. However, you can use any compatible charger to recharge your Duracell batteries. But the manufacturer recommends using the original charger for better results. While you can charge other NiMH batteries in a Duracell charger, you cannot charge non-NiMH batteries. The charger holds well, but it depends on how often you use it. Note that the cells do not come with the charger. It’s worth the money and ideal for everyone looking for a rechargeable battery to serve them longer.
More features: long battery life; easy to use package; 1-year warranty
Amazonbasics AAA rechargeable battery is a no-contest choice for anyone who relies on dependable power. They’re suitable for daily devices such as digital cameras, toys, remote controls, and more. When it comes to battery life, the 8-pack provides an extremely gradual self-discharge. It retains up to 80% of its power for at least two years. What’s more? The batteries can provide up to 1000 cycles. While the Amazonbasics come pre-charged and ready to use out of the box, it’s ideal for charging them before using. However, it’s not mandatory. Also, the batteries are of high-quality and recyclable – making them environment friendly. The capacity of the batteries improves after several cycles – something that’s impressive. Note that they’re always slightly higher than the rated capacity even after the first cycle.
Understand that the capacity might change from pack to pack. You can use a device like AccuPower IQ-338XL battery analyzer or LaCross to test the cells. It’s worth mentioning that the batteries’ self-discharge is quite high during the first few cycles but gets better afterward. The fact that these batteries are high-quality doesn’t mean they can’t fall short. It’s quite unfortunate that some of them misbehave after a few uses. They’ll either stop charging or hold the charge as before. However, it’s prudent to always be vigilant when making your purchase to ensure you order the right pack. Also, the size of these batteries seems not to be standard and might not fit in some devices.
More features: longer run time; multiple uses; solar or standard charging
Do you prefer NiCd batteries to NiMH? If you do, then Tenergy AA rechargeable battery should be your first stop. Replace all your disposable alkaline AA batteries with Tenergy that you can reuse as many times as possible. It’s also money-saving when you use rechargeable batteries that do not become useless after one-time use. When it comes to longevity, these batteries do not disappoint, either. The 1000mAh capacity rating allows you to use your device longer. If you’re looking for the best garden solar batteries, then you better try the Tenergy AA. These batteries are ideal for solar garden lights such as Malibu and Intermatic. Besides, you can use them in popular devices such as wireless mice, remote controls, toys, flashlights, keyboards, digital cameras, smoke detectors, among others.
What makes these batteries provide reliable operation is that they support both solar and standard charging units—no worries when there’s no enough sunlight. Switching to rechargeable batteries not only helps you save money but also the environment. For instance, you could charge the Tenergy batteries up to 500 times. That’s saving the environment from 500 disposable batteries. Note that pre-charging your batteries before first use is critical for your solar lights. That said, the pricing of these batteries is also good, given the value you get. They’re a perfect AA size and would fit in most AA-size devices. Always keep your solar panels clean to ensure the batteries charge well.
More features: perfect for Intermatic and Malibu Solar Garden light; easy to use
Having batteries on standby is critical for anyone with solar lights or any device that might need them. Relightable AA is perfect for those who want nothing but a battery with average capacity. While these 1.2V batteries have a capacity of 600mAh, their expected lifetime is 1000 cycles. That’s a long time for such batteries. What’s more, is that you get a pack of 20 pieces – just enough to power your solar lights. They’re excellent for solar garden lights such as Intermatic and Malibu lights. Also, these batteries hold well for household devices such as remote controls, smoke detectors, mice, and more. You can use them as a replacement for your kid’s toys, for digital cameras, and keyboards.
While the batteries offer great value, results will always vary according to the way you use them. The batteries last throughout the entire night for some users and would stay for several hours for others. The same thing happens for people with several lights. The batteries might have a slight output difference. However, the inconsistency is not a dealbreaker because they get the job done. They’re excellent for the price. A pro tip is to always ensure that the solar panels are clean and are receiving enough sunlight. If you’re looking for rechargeable solar batteries that can do the job at a lower cost, then get the Relightable.
More features: high capacity; money-saving; eco-friendly
Geilienergy rechargeable battery is a great alternative for Malibu and Intermatic garden light. They’re excellent for lawn and landscaping lights. Besides, they’re perfect as standard rechargeable household AA batteries. You can use them in your remote controls, wireless mice, gaming controller, keyboard, and RC remotes. The 1.2V 600mAh battery is a perfect replacement for many alkaline AA 1.5V batteries. Just like other solar light rechargeable batteries, Geilienergy is reusable and recyclable. It takes approximately between five and six hours to charge a single battery to its maximum capacity. That’s reasonable since they keep your solar light on throughout the entire night. The manufacturer recommends using up the power before recharging the battery to maintain its capacity and lifetime. When compared with other traditional batteries, they can be recharged up to 1000 times.
A standard charge is all they need to power up your lights. It’s possible to use these batteries for up two years straight. Their efficient operation makes them one of the most reliable batteries on the market. However, their capacity may drop over time if you don’t use them. The best way to store is by popping them out of the device. In general, they’re versatile based on their capacity and life cycle. Note that they do come with the charger. On the downside, the batteries may fail to charge properly, leading to poor performance. They can be a better option than buying a new light.
More features: storage cases included; great performance; long-lasting; fast charge; prevents leakage; low self-discharge
EBL AA rechargeable batteries boast a high capacity of 1100mAh hence long-lasting. The solar lights replacement batteries are also ideal for gaming controllers, remote controls, wireless mice, keyboards, among others. You can also use them in your landscaping and lawn lights. When it comes to performance, the batteries hold pretty well in high temperatures. On the contrary, they perform even better under extremely low temperatures. Users can charge the batteries by both the solar lights or battery chargers. It’s ideal to use the original EBL charger when there’s no enough sunlight. Unlike many other brands, the EBL series are certified by CE and ROHS. Certified brands improve trust among its users. They’re also safe and environment friendly.
EBL batteries focus on low self-discharge technology. Their batteries hold up to 75% of power after 36 months when not in use. That’s not all, they boast a super long life – up to 1200 cycles. When we look at their construction, they’re among the few with superlattice alloy. That’s why their electric charge retention rate is high and capacity loss is low. Note that the batteries will not overcharge and there’s no need for using an IC protection or a charge controller. The batteries come pre-charged and will work excellent on the first night – however, you might want to recharge them before your second use. When the batteries are charged to maximum capacity, they’ll go strong for all night. However, they’d go for between five and six hours on rainy days. Get them if you want the best AA solar light batteries. They’re worth every single coin.
More features: UL certified; 5+ years performance; durable outdoors; solar pro-technology; clean power; 10-month warranty; recyclable
Tenergy Solla rechargeable batteries are unique. The high capacity batteries neither leak due to overcharging nor die due to over-discharging. What makes them a reliable power source is their ability to withstand all weather conditions. They boast ultra-long battery life with 2000 cycles. The manufacturer claims the batteries are capable of powering your lights for up to five years. Tenergy Solla is ideal for remote controls, gaming controllers, wireless mice, keyboards, toys, and garden lights. If you’re looking for solar light batteries that can last overnight, then look no further. Note that these batteries are designed specifically for solar lights. You are sure to get the best from them throughout all seasons. They ship pre-charged and ready to use out of the box.
Anybody looking for their NiCD or NiMH replacement should give Solla a shot. If you don’t know the difference between NiCD and NiMH, we’ve you covered in our buying guide section. The standard AA size batteries are mercury and cadmium free, giving you clean power. Besides, they are recyclable. The batteries hold perfectly within the first six months – they’re stable and hardly dim the lights. In particular, the batteries charge fast when compared with similar batteries that have the same capacity. On the downside, some of these batteries will not hold past a few months.
More features: especially fit for Intermatic and Malibu Solar Garden light; quick to charge
Our last product on the list is the Geilienergy NiMH Rechargeable Batteries that are Eco-friendly when compared with traditional alkaline one-time-use batteries. They’re not only ideal for solar lights but also perfect for other devices such as wireless mice, keyboards, scale, gaming controllers, toys, among others. If you’re looking for 100% sheer batteries, then this is it! Unlike some brands, these batteries do not have a problem with recharging them using a regular charger. They perfectly fit in the most AA-size devices. While the capacity of these batteries is just 600mAh, they have a longer life cycle of up to 1000 cycles. Very Impressive.
The batteries come with a full charge and will work out of the box. Charging speed vary from user to user, while some say they take long, others claim they charge fast. However, their charging time is standard. What’s exciting is that they’re a good replacement for 800mAh. Understand that two similar products exist – the NiMH(green) and NiCD(yellow) from the same brand. Get the difference clearly, and do not confuse them. You should try these if you’re looking for the best solar light NiMH batteries to use in your Intermatic or Malibu garden lights. However, if you should look elsewhere if you need rechargeable batteries with over 600mAh capacity.
More features: low self-discharge; up to 1200 cycles
Mr. Batt is a high-performance rechargeable double A solar battery. It’s widely used and will work with any aa device such as portable audio players, children’s toys, remote controls, shavers, flashlights, among others. What makes the battery unique is its low self-discharge feature. The battery holds a 75% rate capacity after three years of no use. Also, it comes with a capacity of 60% solar energy pre-charged. While you could use the battery out of the box, it is ideal to first fully charge it. The 1600mAh battery does not contain Hg, Cd, or Pb, making it pollution free and environment friendly. What’s more, is the battery gets to its peak after about three cycles. The best of it all is that its 1200 cycles help you save more money.
It’s worth mentioning that you can’t beat the price of Mr. Batt because of the quantity and value you get in one pack. However, several things are crucial to note. It takes quite a long to recharge them. But that’s not a dealbreaker because they hold for long after a single recharge – probably the reason for long recharging time. A clever trick is to always keep an extra pack with you so that you don’t get stranded when recharging them. Also, it’s critical to use a specified charger – unfortunately, they do not come with one. Lastly, avoid reverse connection or mixing with other types.
Sometimes life gets busy. You have a lot to do, but there’s never enough time. Lack of time can affect your choices when shopping for products. Buying the best solar light batteries is no different. The market is full of brands. What’s even worse is the number of reviews available. Our buying guide will help you make quick viable decisions while not compromising on anything.
Solar light batteries have several benefits. Check them below.
The market is full of solar light batteries. Finding the best solar light rechargeable batteries can be a daunting task. However, knowing what to look for in one is the best way to skip all the time-consuming process. Also, you don’t have to go through the trial and error path. We concentrated on the type, voltage, capacity, package, pre-charge, and certification while making our selection. All the mentioned features are crucial when looking for a solar light battery. More details below.
Type is the first place to start. Different types of solar batteries exist. Understand that one type is not identical to another. Acknowledging this fact is essential when making your decisions. You’ve seen NiMH and NiCD types on our list, and you probably have no idea what they are or mean. Maybe you did not pay attention to them, either. Well, the chemistry of each type is different. Nickel-metal hybrid batteries (NiMH) arrived the other day, and many consider them the best choice. They hold more electric charges as well as environmentally friendly. Mr. Batt Rechargeable AA Battery is an ideal example on our list. Nickel-cadmium (NiCD), on the other hand, has been around for a long time now. They’ve been and still are one of the best rechargeable batteries on the market. They’re lightweight and excellent for portable devices. Check out the EBL AA Rechargeable Batteries if you’re interested in them.
Have you ever asked yourself why we have batteries with different voltages? It’s because each device is unique in terms of how it functions and how much voltage it can accept. That’s why you must consider the voltage of a solar light battery that you want to buy. The first starting point is checking the voltage of your previous batteries. Replacing your battery with one that’s not compatible may result in a fried circuit board, or the device might never work.
Most solar light batteries have a voltage of between 1.2V and 1.5V. Avoid buying batteries that do not have the same voltage as what the manufacturer recommends.
While some might work right, they’ll eventually break your device in the long run. Some retailers do not specify the voltage of the batteries. Do not buy them before confirming. For instance, the Duracell Rechargeable AAA Batteries are excellent, but we’ve no idea about their voltage.
The battery’s capacity is an essential feature to consider. Again, just like the voltage, each device accepts different capacities. Some require batteries with high capacities, while others do not. It’s crucial to note that using a battery with extremely high capacity in a solar light or device that needs, maybe half of that, may result in breaking your device. Always check the mAh rating of your battery before making any replacement.
While you could use a battery with a slightly different capacity, the voltage should always be exact. The majority of the batteries have a capacity of between 600mAh and 1000mAh. However, some provide up to 1600mAh and beyond.
If you’re looking for batteries with high capacity, try Mr. Batt Rechargeable AA Batteries or the Duracell Rechargeable AAA Batteries. Geilienergy NiMH Rechargeable Batteries, on the other hand, are the best low capacity batteries.
Solar light batteries come in different packages – a pack of 12 and 8 being the most common. While the packaging is not a critical feature, you cannot wish it away. Your needs should always lead when deciding on this element. There are a lot of factors to consider when looking at the packaging – pricing being one of them. Also, you want a pack that will be enough for you based on the number of solar lights in your garden. For instance, a pack of 4 won’t be sufficient for someone with several solar lights. A pack of 20, on the other hand, might be too much for someone looking to replace his remote-control batteries. However, it’s a good practice to always have an extra for backup, especially during rainy seasons. Check out the RELIGHTABLE Rechargeable Batteries if you’re looking for a large package and the Duracell Rechargeable AAA Batteries for two pairs only.
Pre-charge is a feature that comes into play if you’re for a battery to use on the go. Most of the solar light batteries come pre-charged. However, it’s quite hard to get one with a full charge. One reason a battery cannot come fully pre-charged is because of transportation safety. A good example is the Rechargeable AA Battery by Minetom. It comes with only 30% power. Tenergy Solla Rechargeable Battery, on the other hand, is ready to use out of the box. They come fully pre-charged and will last throughout the entire night. Other batteries, such as Mr. Batt Rechargeable AA Batteries come with 60% power. While you could use them immediately, it’s critical to always charge them to avoid altering their life cycle and performance.
The last aspect you want to check is certification. You must be aware by now that there are sub-standard batteries on the market. They not only underperform but also harmful to the environment and human health.
Finding out whether or not a brand is certified will help you evade unwanted problems. Although most of the solar light batteries are eco-friendly, it’s essential to confirm with the relevant bodies.
UL-certified or UL-listed batteries meet the specified nationally recognized standards for safety and won’t harm you. Also, they’re of high quality and efficient. An example of a certified battery is the Tenergy Solla Rechargeable Battery. Check the UL website for more information about battery certification.
Not all solar light batteries are compatible with any solar light or device. That’s the first mistake you want to avoid when making your purchase. We’ve already taken you through everything you need to know to avoid wasting money on the wrong batteries. Our buying guide should serve as a benchmark and help you spend the minimum time possible when shopping. The best solar light batteries are practical, efficient, and economical. Our editor’s choice, the Rechargeable AA Battery by Minetom, has a high capacity, is versatile, recyclable, and UL listed. We love our ready-to-use option, Mr. Batt Rechargeable AA Batteries, because it has a high capacity, low self-discharge, and long life. Finally, we picked the Duracell Rechargeable AAA Batteries as our best value because, regardless of it being a high-end battery – it’s affordable, long-lasting, and an all-purpose battery.
