Should you still buy rechargeable batteries in 2026? These USB-C ones say yes

"It's 2026, and yes, we still need batteries. But it no longer makes financial or ecological sense to keep using disposable alkaline batteries. For me, I need mostly the good old AA battery, but I also need AAA, C, D, and even the blocky 9V PP3. There are some great rechargeable batteries out there from companies such as and , but the drawback there is that you need a specific charger, and who needs "yet another thing" in their life, am I right?"

"Also: This USB-C accessory gave my iPhone and Android an unexpectedly useful superpower It would be cool if you could just plug a USB cable into a battery, wouldn't it? Well, USB-C ports and battery charge circuitry are small enough, and battery chemistry is good enough to let that happen. I've been testing a lot of USB rechargeable batteries, and the brand that's consistently been a winner for me is ."

"The company offers a wide range of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, AAA, AA, C, D, and 9V, as well as assorted bundles. These are superior to the older nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries, which need their own chargers. Each kit comes with the batteries, a 4-way charge cable, and a plastic box to hold the batteries. The batteries are identical in terms of size, voltage, and power to the alkaline batteries they replace. This is important, and you'd be surprised how variable some poor-quality batteries are -- I've literally seen some that are too big or too small to fit properly."

USB-C rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are available in AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V sizes and eliminate the need for disposable alkalines. Kits include batteries, a 4-way charge cable, and a plastic storage box. The batteries match alkaline size, voltage, and power, avoiding poor-quality dimensional variability. AA cells tested show 2,550 mAh capacity. Paleblue claims about 1,000 recharge cycles, approximately three years with daily charging or many years for intermittent use. USB-C ports and compact charge circuitry enable direct charging without a separate charger, reducing clutter and improving financial and ecological sense.

Read at ZDNET