It's more expensive than a traditional rechargeable, but it claims to last longer. Consumer Reports checked to see if you re getting more for your money. You may be using them without even knowing it. Nickel-metal hydride batteries have been powering laptops, video cameras and cordless phones for awhile. But now they re being sold directly to you.
Some brands claim to last twice as long.
Consumer Reports tested several in the AA size, putting them up against the top-performing rechargeable and alkaline batteries. The tests simulated three different uses, a flashlight, a motorized toy and a digital camera. Sixteen batteries of each brand were used in every test conducted. For things like flash cameras and digital cameras, Radio Shack s nickel metal hydride battery proved the best. But these newest rechargeable ones aren t the best for every use.