The C batteries are some of the most common portable batteries with myriad applications. They first featured in the market as non-rechargeable, single-use, and disposable batteries. But due to the call to reduce the footprints, a rechargeable version was introduced.
The rechargeable C batteries range in capacities from 3,000mAh to 9,000mAh, depending on the brand, and can last between 2 and 5 years. They are most commonly used in the following applications:
- Power electric flashlights
- Various cameras
- Radios
- Household alarms
- Clocks
- Remotes
- Musical instruments
- Numerous child toys
- Communication devices like two-way radios, etc.
As you have noticed, rechargeable C batteries have different specifications and features that set them apart. The overwhelming options can make it challenging to decide on the type to buy if you are in the market for a new one.
Continue reading for a detailed review of the best rechargeable C batteries in the market. This post also includes a buying guide and recommendations on the best choice.
Best Rechargeable C Batteries Reviews
Finding the best battery type for the intended application is challenging. It is not just enough to know the battery size. In this case, the batteries reviewed are all rechargeable C batteries. So, what sets them apart? Let’s dive deeper into their technical specs.
1. EBL Ready2Charge C Size Batteries
EBL is a reputable brand in this space and has awed the users with the quality of their batteries. The EBL rechargeable C batteries top this list for various reasons, one of which is reliability.
The EBL C batteries come in pack of 6 cells, each of which is a 1.2V Ni-MH type with 5,000mAh capacity. These battery cells are engineered for reliability through proCyco technology, giving them a super-long cycle life. The Professional Recycle technology used maximizes their performance while charging and lowers self-discharging. These EBL C batteries can keep up to 75% of their charge for up to 3 years.
These batteries also boast high durability. They are encased in a hard rubber material and a safe storage box for portability. You can buy them for powering robots, emergency lighting, industrial machinery, toys, flashlights, and remote-control units.
Buy Now!Pros:
- Longer life, even in high-drain devices
- Eco-friendly – does not contain lead and other toxic elements
- Has a durable case for convenient storage and portability
- High capacity – ideal for high-power devices
- Excellent charge or discharge performance
Cons:
- Does not come with a charger
- Relatively long recharge time
- Relatively expensive
2. Tenergy Premium Rechargeable C Batteries
The second on the list is the Tenergy Premium rechargeable C batteries. These are available in a pack of 4, 8, 12, or 24 cells, which you can buy depending on the number you need.
Tenergy is a high-power energy rechargeable Ni-MH C battery with a high capacity of 5,000mAh and a terminal voltage of 1.2V. These batteries are enhanced to deliver consistent high-power performance over a wide temperature range.
You can quickly deduce that these Tenergy batteries are expensive, but that is not true. They go for affordable price a piece but pay off after 10 uses. You can recharge them 1,200 times before thinking of a replacement. As a result, they emerge as a more environmentally-friendly option than single-use, disposable versions.
These Tenergy rechargeable C batteries are UL certified for safety. They are designed with advanced leak-proof cases and backed up with a 12-month time-limited warranty.
Buy Now!Pros:
- Delivers high power for power-hungry devices
- Delivers consistent high performance over a wide temperature range
- Reusable up to 1,200 times
- Leak-proof casing
- Certified by UL for safety
Cons:
- Long charging time
- Relatively expensive
3. RayHom Rechargeable C Batteries
If you have a little bit in your budget to spend, RayHom’s rechargeable C battery would be a good option. They are highly rated for reliability, durability, and performance, which warrant their position on this list of the best rechargeable C batteries.
RayHom is a high-capacity (1.2V, 5000mAh) Ni-MH rechargeable battery capable of delivering power to all C devices. It comes as a pack of 8 premium grade A cells that offers longer battery life without a memory effect. You can recharge these cells up to 1,200 times before becoming too weak to be used.
No other rechargeable C batteries on this list are as reliable as RaHom. These are designed to minimize self-discharge. The technology allows them to retain 80% of their power after 3 years. Additionally, they can deliver high power in a wide temperature range. Their performance is not significantly affected by the summer heat or the chilling winter weather.
Additionally, RayHom rechargeable C batteries are environmentally friendly. They do not contain lead, mercury, and other hazardous elements. These batteries have also passed safety tests for use in various applications.
Buy Now!Pros:
- Non-leakage and safe for use
- Ultra-long lasting – up to 1,200 recharge cycles
- Environmentally friendly – does not contain Hg, Pb, or Cd
- Low self-discharge
- Works in a wide temperature range
- High Capacity
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a battery charger
- Relatively expensive
4. DURACELL Rechargeable C Batteries
DURACELL is a highly reputable brand known for making different household batteries. The company has a range of battery sizes, including rechargeable C batteries. In this case, we have picked the DURACELL rechargeable C batteries to compete with other known brands.
The DURACELL rechargeable C batteries have quality and dependability that surpasses your expectations. They are long-lasting and offer cost-effective power solutions for any home or office device.
These C batteries are Ni-MH cells with a capacity of 3,000mAh. They can be recharged hundreds of times and still retain their ability to supply sustainable power to different devices.
DURACELL rechargeable C batteries come in a pack of 2 pieces. Once received, charge them before using any device.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Long-lasting
- Highly versatile – can be used on any C device
- High quality and reliability
Cons:
- Relatively low energy capacity
5. Energizer Rechargeable C Batteries
The Energizer Recharge is also a powerful C battery for different applications. These batteries are reliable, durable, and offer up to w years of battery life.
These C batteries are made with 7% recycled batteries. If you want to reduce your footprints in landfills, choose Energizer Recharge C batteries. They can be recharged and used several times over their lifespan.
Energizer rechargeable C batteries are versatile. You can use them on the radio or any other C device that demands power. They are convenient to use and have less waste.
Buy Now!Pros:
- Long-lasting and ideal everyday devices
- Ideal for high-draining devices
- Pre-charged
- Use 7% recycled battery materials
- Relatively affordable
Cons:
- Relatively low capacity of just 2,500mAh
6. LLOYTRON B016 C Size Rechargeable AccuUltra Batteries
LLOYTRON Rechargeable AccuUltra wraps up our list of the best rechargeable C batteries. This product features a rechargeable hybrid technology (Ni-MH), making them less waste compared to alkaline, single-use, disposable versions.
LLOYTRON Rechargeable AccuUltra is a large capacity (3,000mAh) suitable for many devices, such as toys, large torches, music systems, and many others. They can supply long-lasting power to these everyday devices, giving you up to 1,000 recharge cycles.
You can also buy LLOYTRON Rechargeable AccuUltra C batteries for an emergency. They can retain charge for a long time, boasting up to 80% energy retention over one year. Additionally, they are safe batteries without harmful metals such as mercury and cadmium. Besides, these batteries are leak-proof and made of corrosion-resistance components.
Buy Now!Pros:
- Many recharge cycles of up to 1,000 charges
- Leak-proof casing and corrosion-resistant components
- Safe – made with 0% harmful metals
Cons:
- Relatively low capacity
- Does not come with a charger
- Low power retention capability.
Things to Consider Buying the Rechargeable C Battery
Factors to consider before buying a rechargeable C battery exist. These will help you make an informed decision. If the products reviewed in this article are not your choice, you can use this buying guide to help you get the best for the intended purpose.
Consider the following factors when buying rechargeable C batteries:
1. Battery Chemistry
This refers to the formulation or chemical technology the battery uses to store electrical charge. The most common rechargeable battery chemistries include Nickel Cadmium (NiCad|), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), and Lithium-ion (Li-Ion). So, which of these chemistries is the best?
NiCad batteries are generally considered toxic and lead to hazardous waste when disposed of because they contain cadmium. They also suffer from the memory effect. That means they don’t discharge completely, leaving behind residual charge with every cycle. This phenomenon shortens their lifespan. Hence, NiCad rechargeable batteries are not an ideal choice.
On the other hand, Ni-MH batteries have higher capacity, are relatively cheaper, non-toxic, and suffer negligible memory effects. These qualities make them an ideal choice for many applications.
Li-Ion rechargeable batteries are another excellent option if you have more on your budget to spend. This relatively new technology leads to higher energy density than Ni-MH and does not suffer any memory effect. They are also non-toxic. However, Li-ion batteries are less tolerant to temperature variations and may spontaneously burst into flames.
2. Voltage and Amp-Hour Rating
Each C battery cell has voltage and amp-hour ratings. Typically, the voltage rating is 1.2V or 1.5V. On the other hand, amp-rating significantly varies. The ones with the least capacity can be below 1,000mAh, while the highest rating may clock 9,000mAh or more. This depends on the company and the battery chemistry. As you would expect, the Li-ion rechargeable batteries would be on the high end of the spectrum.
The amp-hour (Ah or mAh) rating defines the battery’s performance. It represents how much charge the battery can hold and gives a hint on how long it can power any device. Consider higher amp-hour ratings if you want a C battery for a power-hungry application.
When choosing these batteries, ensure you match the voltage rating to the device you intend to power with them. That is, buy a 1.2V battery for a 1.2V device and a 1.5V battery for a 1.5V device.
3. Recharge Cycles and Shelf Life
Recharge cycles of the battery describe its lifespan or the number of times you can recharge and re-use it. The higher the recharge cycle, the longer the battery will last. However, it may also mean spending more to get rechargeable C batteries with over 1,000 recharge cycles.
Shelf life refers to how long they last when not being used. And although Ni-MH and Li-Ion do not suffer from the memory effect, they degrade over time. These batteries have a shelf discharge rate, which defines their degradation over time. Some can retain about 80% of the charge over 3 years, while others have a much less retention rate.
If you are in the market for a rechargeable battery, look for ones with many recharge cycles and low discharge rates, even if it means spending more. These are much more reliable and durable.
FAQs
How long do C rechargeable batteries last?
C rechargeable batteries typically last 2-5 years and can be recharged hundreds or thousands of times. This depends on the battery chemistry and the brand. But remember that the longer the battery’s lifespan, the more expensive it will be.
Are all C batteries rechargeable?
No. Not all C batteries are rechargeable. They have their single-use, disposable counterparts, which may explode if plugged into a charger. You should check the C battery label to know if it is rechargeable or not before buying or recharging it.
What are C batteries used for?
C batteries have many uses, like any other household and office batteries. You can buy them for medium applications such as toys, robots, flashlights, communication devices, musical instruments, and many other portable electronic devices.
How long do rechargeable C batteries take to charge?
These batteries typically take 1-4 hours to recharge, depending on the battery chemistry, capacity, charger type, and brand. The higher the battery capacity, the longer it will take to juice up.
How many times can you recharge C batteries?
The number of times you can recharge C batteries depends on the battery chemistry. The disposable alkaline ones can only be reused 7-10 times, but some are not rechargeable. On the other hand, Ni-MH and Li-ion batteries can have hundreds or thousands of recharge cycles. Most manufacturers will specify this on the label.
Conclusion: Top 3 Choices
We have come to the end of the best rechargeable C batteries review, and we have a few recommendations for you. Consider the following if you are looking for a new C battery:
EBL rechargeable C batteries are the best option for what they offer. They have a longer lifespan and can supply energy to different devices during their service life. These batteries are also eco-friendly and have excellent charge and discharge performance, making them ideal for demanding applications.
The second option is the Tenergy Premium rechargeable C batteries. Like the first choice, these batteries also deliver high power and boast consistent performance over a wide temperature range. They also have a high recharge cycle of up to 1,200 and a charge capacity of 5,000mAh. The Tenergy Premium Rechargeable C battery is UL-certified for safety and leak-proof!
You can also use the buying guide to search for the best rechargeable C battery. The factors highlighted will help you make an informed decision.