Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This package (Sony Cycle Energy BCG34HLD2RN 1000 mAh Power Charger with 2 AA Pre-Charged Batteries) contains a very good value-charger, identical to that found in another SONY package (BCG34HLD4KN) I have reviewed earlier. The two AA rechargeable batteries included in this BCG34HLD2RN package, however, are the 'Lite' version of SONY pre-charged AA cells. They are only rated for 1000mAh, or 50% the capacity of batteries in the other package.
The SONY BCG34HLD is an exceptional value for such an inexpensive charger. It is a smart charger that handles each cell individually (unlike most other value chargers that only charge in pairs). It is also very compact, and works with universal AC voltage (100-240V).
Those SONY Lite batteries claim to have a '3 hour charge time'. This is because the BCG34HLD charges at 360mA, so the charge time comes to about 3 hours (1000mAh/360mA). Note that when the same charger is used to recharge those 2000mAh batteries in the other package, the charge time becomes 6 hours instead. I wish manufacturers start to rate their chargers according to charging current instead of charge time (which depends on battery capacity). That will eliminate a lot of confusion.
Considering the lower cost of this package, it may be worthwhile to purchase it just for the charger. The two 'Lite' batteries are still good for some medium to light-drain appliances, such as TV remotes or wireless mouse. Just remember that: you have to recharge them twice as often, compared to when using 2000mAh pre-charged cells. Also, be very careful not to mix up those 'Lite' batteries with full-capacity batteries, or else the capacity of the whole set will be dragged down to 1000mAh.
Physically, however, there is one important advantage for those SONY Lite cells: they are _slightly_ slimmer than the normal SONY pre-charged cells. That means they can be used in appliances with extremely tight battery compartments, such as the Microsoft Wireless Desktop 1000 keyboard and Rayovac Sportsman Xtreme 1W LED Flashlight.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for slimmer, lighter rechargeable cells, and you don't mind recharging them more frequently, then this package is for you. Otherwise, my recommendation is to get the Sony Cycle Energy BCG34HLD4KN Power Charger with 4 Pre-Charged 2000 mAh AA Batteries instead. You'll save time and reduce confusion in the long run.
[Update on Feb 27, 2011]
Just finished testing a set of SONY Lite AA cells, using my old La Crosse BC-900 charger/analyzer. Right out of the package, the average remaining charge is 671mAh, or 67% of full capacity. After two more Recharge/Discharge cycles, average capacity improved to 990mAh. This is rather disappointing, because I expect SONY to at least give us slightly higher than the rated '1000mAh'.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony Cycle Energy BCG34HLD2RN 1000 mAh Power Charger with 2 AA Pre-Charged Batteries
Sony Power Charger's compact design with flip down plug and worldwide voltage allows for charging batteries anywhere. Can charge up to 4 AA or 4 AAA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. Includes 2 AA Pre-charged, ready-to-use right out of the package batteries. Lasts 1.5x longer than Alkaline.
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