Life is full of decisions. White bread or brown? Rom-com or thriller? Stay in or go out? We are faced with countless choices on a daily basis, many of which we make without a second’s thought. But what about the type of batteries we use?
It’s true that most of us have probably never given it much consideration, but perhaps that should change. When it comes to batteries, there are two main categories: rechargeable and disposable. But which is the better option? Is one superior to the other in terms of cost, lifespan and eco-friendliness? Here’s a handy guide to help you decide.
Price
In terms of an initial outlay, rechargeable batteries are more expensive than their disposable counterparts – especially when you consider you’ll need a high-quality battery charger in order to maximise the amount of juice you get out of them. However, it’s important to see the bigger picture and understand that reusables will offer greater value for money in the long run. The amount you spend on regularly going to the shops to pick up disposable batteries is likely to be greater than how much it costs to buy fewer rechargeable ones, so it makes sense to opt for the latter and save in the long term.
Lifespan
And it’s a similar story when you come to analyse the charge of the two kinds. Disposable batteries tend to last longer than rechargeable ones at first, but remember that once the former are dead, that’s it, there’ll be no life left and they’ll have to be thrown away. Rechargeable batteries, however, can offer much more in that they can be used multiple times, which amounts to a far greater accumulated lifespan.
Sustainability
Another area where rechargeable batteries offer plenty of advantages is in their sustainability. Because they can be reused over and over, they drastically reduce waste. In most areas, batteries can be taken to the nearest supermarket for recycling, but by using rechargeable ones you’ll be cutting down on how many have to be shipped off to the plants to get processed, which in turn helps to limit the impact on the environment – something we can all agree is a positive step!
Conclusion
So, it sounds like rechargeable batteries are the clear winner, but it’s not always as straightforward as that. Disposable ones can still be useful for low-drain products that only use very occasional power. These can include everyday household items such as smoke detectors, remote controls and clocks, so they certainly still have a place in our homes!