Should you still buy rechargeable batteries in 2026? These USB-C ones say yes

Source: ZDNet

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• These batteries are a perfect replacement for alkaline batteries in virtually every situation.
• They can be recharged from any USB port—no dedicated charger required.
• The USB‑A connector on the 4‑way charge cable feels a bit dated.

$28.49 at Amazon

Why switch to rechargeable batteries?

It’s 2026, and while we still need batteries, disposable alkaline cells no longer make financial or ecological sense. Most of us need AA cells, but we also reach for AAA, C, D, and the blocky 9 V PP3.

There are good rechargeable options from brands like Eneloop and Nitecore, but they require a dedicated charger—another piece of gear to keep track of.

“It would be cool if you could just plug a USB cable into a battery, wouldn’t it?”
— Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes, ZDNET

USB‑C and modern lithium‑ion chemistry now make that idea a reality.

Paleblue USB‑rechargeable batteries

Paleblue offers a full line of lithium‑ion rechargeable batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, and 9 V) that are identical in size, voltage, and power to their alkaline counterparts. Each kit includes:

• Four batteries (matching the kit size)
• A 4‑way USB‑A charge cable
• A plastic storage box

Key specs

The AA batteries I tested (2,550 mAh) sit comfortably within the 1,700‑2,850 mAh range of typical alkaline cells and perform excellently in devices designed for disposables.

The batteries charge rapidly (AA in ~2 h, AAA in ~1 h) and feature glowing LEDs on the charge cable that indicate charging status.

“The 4‑way charging cable means you can use one USB‑A port to charge all four batteries.” — Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes

Bottom line

• Convenient: One USB‑A (or USB‑C with an adapter) powers all four cells.
• Long‑lasting: Up to ~1,000 recharge cycles (~3 years of daily use).
• Eco‑friendly: Eliminates the need for disposable alkalines.

If you’re ready to ditch the endless stream of single‑use batteries, Paleblue’s USB‑rechargeable kits are a solid, future‑proof choice.

Also read

• This USB‑C accessory gave my iPhone and Android an unexpectedly useful super‑power
• Why doesn’t my iPhone have a solid‑state battery yet? I found out (and can’t even be mad)

ZDNET’s Buying Advice

It’s the 21st century, and there’s little reason to keep using disposable batteries—except for a few edge cases (e.g., when you need long‑shelf‑life, temperature‑resistant lithium cells). Modern rechargeable packs last for years, recharge quickly, and can be powered via USB, eliminating the need for a separate charger.

Pricing Overview

Note: These packs aren’t cheap, so keep them safe. Their long lifespan makes the upfront cost a worthwhile investment.

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