2500mAh AAs


Vanson

In the last Arrivee (p23) I tested some 2300mAh NiMH batteries and
gave them a cautious thumbs-up, at least for commuting purposes.

I've now had an opportunity to try some 2500mAh AAs, branded HFR -
like Vanson thats not a name that means anything to me, but both brands of
battery are made in China.

Within half an hour of going on test, it was obvious that these new
HFR cells are in a different league altogether. They are simply better
overall than any other AAs I've used, except Energizer Lithiums - and
that's straight out of the bubble pack - if they improve with a few
charge cycles, as I would expect, they'll outperform the Lithiums as
well.

If you already have a smart NiMH charger (ie NOT one that works on a
timer) then I feel confident in recommending these NiMH cells.

The price is right too, at £3.95 for 4 AAs,
from www.batterysave.co.uk - though unfortunately if you buy a single
set then the p&p of £2 adds 50% to this.
Also via ebay apparently but that is beyond my wit.

Some figures below for 2 good brands of alkaline, plus one rubbish
brand for comparison, for 2 brands of NiMH, and for the lithiums - all
tested in the same controlled rig (a Cateye Micro, which is why the
voltages quoted are for 4 cells in series)

Initial V Time to 4.8V Time to 4V Time to 3V
under load = good light = useful = run time
Alkalines:
Energizer Ultimate 5.75 0h37 3h05 4h05
Boots E.L.L. 5.82 0h47 3h07 3h40
Duracell Ultra 5.82 0h32 2h15 2h40

NiMH:
Vanson NiMH 2300mAh 5.00 1h05 2h20 2h28
HFR NiMH 2500mAh 5.36 2h00 3h57 4h03

Lithium:
Energizer Lithium 6.24 3h10 4h10 4h35




Francis

Posted: Tue - December 14, 2004 at 02:41 PM          

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