A Basic Guide to Torch Batteries and Chargers

While there's plenty of information about torches nowadays, there's a lot of misinformation when it comes to the chargers and batteries that keep torches powered. If you're someone who wants to know how it all works. To start from scratch, the batteries I'll cover in this article aren't actually batteries, because a battery is described as something that consists of a few electrochemical cells that are connected together. For instance, a car battery consists of six 2V cells that make up a 12V battery, whereas AA batteries consist of a single 1.5V cell so you'll need two or more AA cells to make a battery. Regardless, the word battery has evolved as time has passed to include all of these types.

That being said, batteries are divided into two basic categories - primary cell and secondary cell batteries. Primary cell batteries are the non-rechargeable batteries, including AAA, AA, C, D and every other battery that can't be recharged. While some battery charger for batteries manufacturers claim that their chargers can recharge standard AA alkaline batteries, it's not an efficient solution. Secondary cell batteries, on the other hand, are all rechargeable batteries like Nickel-Metal Hydride, also known as NiMH, and Lithium-Ion batteries, also known as Li-ion. All of these batteries have different battery chemistry, which is a determining factor in the battery's voltage, making it one of the most important factors when deciding between the different battery types.

Alkaline batteries are the conventional AAA, AA C, D, Duracell or 9V Energizer batteries you find at the local supermarket. They usually produce a 1.5V per cell, are easy to find, are quite affordable, used in most devices around the house, and have a decent shelf life. But as affordable as they are, they can be an expensive long-term solution if you need to keep replacing them. Additionally, they're wasteful, because as soon as they're discharged, they go straight to the trash can. Alkaline batteries have limited output, and they won't provide enough current to power your high Lumen LED torch. That being said, alkaline batteries still have a place in the modern world, but that's typically the TV remote.

NiMH batteries are rechargeable batteries that can be made into many sizes and shapes by combining a number of cells into a single battery pack. Most NiMH batteries intended for modern LED torches are the same in size, and they produce 1.2V per cell. These batteries are available in a wide range of common sizes, and are a great value replacement for devices designed for primary AAA and AA cells. On the downside, they're more expensive, and some modern battery charger for batteries don't have the capability to recharge them. That being said, these batteries are a great alternative to alkaline batteries, but they're not nearly as powerful as lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries are the best rechargeable batteries for commercial use. Their cost has dropped significantly over the past few years, and they're now the most economical option on the market. The inclusion of built-in charging circuitry in torches and USB powered chargers have also helped boost their popularity. The nominal voltage of lithium-ion batteries is 4.2V. They have a higher energy density which gives them longer runtimes, a higher current and voltage output for brighter torch illumination, and they can be recharged very rapidly when using the right charger. On the downside, these batteries can't be used on some older devices, and they're harder to find than other types of batteries.

There are a few different popular types of chargers, and they're fairly easy to understand. Most models have adjustable charging bays and can fit common sized lithium-ion batteries.

These chargers are quickly becoming the most popular type, simply because they're extremely convenient to use and they can utilise any USB port for charging. Additionally, you can use a power bank to charge the actual charger, crazy right? Some of the newer models can act as both a power bank and utilise your spare batteries to charge other devices besides your torch. While you are limited by the 2.1A output that's supported by USBs, there are some modern models that feature 2 USB inputs that allow you to charge up to 6 batteries at the same time. External USB chargers can either charge NiMH or Li-ion batteries, but not both.

These chargers are the most commonly used type, and they're available as single chemistry models that can charge either NiMH or Li-ion batteries, or universal models that can charge both. They range in size - from being able to charge one cell, up to eight cells and beyond. Some models come with 12V vehicle adapters and some can only be powered through a mains power source.

More and more LED torches come with a built-in USB C or micro USB port so you can just plug in your phone charger and top the battery off without having to remove it. The only downside to these chargers is that it may take more time to recharge the batteries in larger torches that utilise a few batteries. Smaller torches, as well as compact headlamps, however, charge relatively quickly.