Decide whether rechargeable or standard batteries better suit your needs.
Many portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops and MP3 players, use only rechargeable batteries. Some devices, including digital cameras, alarm clocks and certain toys, can use either rechargeable batteries or traditional ones. Consumers can decide whether or not to use rechargeable batteries by comparing their advantages and disadvantages to those of ordinary batteries.
Cost
Many consumers consider cost first when deciding on the type of battery to buy. Rechargeable batteries usually have higher purchase prices than disposable ones; this does not factor in the cost of the chargers, and ones that guarantee to extend battery life will cost more. The cost in electricity to recharge batteries is usually negligible. At first, disposable batteries appear to be cheaper. However, cared-for rechargeable batteries can last for a long time -- even years. Over time, the rechargeable batteries wind up being much cheaper than disposables.
Effectiveness
Both rechargeable and disposable batteries are highly effective at first. Rechargeable batteries often lose their ability to hold a charge over time, giving disposable batteries a clear advantage in consistent dependability and strength. Newer types of rechargeable batteries are designed to minimize this lowered effectiveness over time.
Environmental Impact
Rechargeable batteries produce far less waste than their disposable counterparts, both in packaging and in the product itself. Additionally, rechargeable batteries release an estimated 12 times less toxic waste than disposables, have less of an impact on depleting ozone levels and use fewer nonrenewable natural resources.
Convenience
Waiting for rechargeable batteries to charge fully before they may be reused can be an inconvenience. With some planning -- or by purchasing sufficient batteries to have a rotation of rechargeables -- this inconvenience can be eliminated. Rechargeable batteries are also convenient because they are already in your house; you will not need to leave the house to purchase more if you run out unexpectedly. The potential of running out of disposable batteries can also be eliminated with advance planning.
Dangers
Rechargeable batteries are less toxic than disposables, offering a limited advantage; however, they still contain some toxic materials, so consumers still should handle them with care. Neither disposable batteries nor rechargeable batteries should be discarded with your regular trash. Rechargeable batteries are more prone to exploding or starting fires than disposable batteries, especially if they are introduced to dangerous conditions such as extreme temperatures, faulty connections or sparks. Consumers must take extra care to use rechargeable batteries responsibly.
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