Cordless phones generally require specific batteries that can last for a long time and provide sufficient capacity to ensure efficiency throughout their lifespan.
The best rechargeable batteries for cordless phones are AAA batteries that have a similar capacity and voltage as the previous batteries your cordless phone used. You should also consider other factors such as their composition, density, portability and quality, among others.
If you want to find out more about these considerations in detail, you can keep reading further.
Which Rechargeable Batteries Are Best for Cordless Phones?
AAA rechargeable batteries that can match the capacity, voltage, density and efficiency of the previous or original batteries of your cordless phone would work best.
This similarity needs to be maintained so that the flow of the current can remain constant without fluctuating too much.
It is also important to ensure that the batteries have a long enough lifespan. With each charging cycle, the efficiency of the batteries will go on decreasing, after which you will need to replace them.
Moreover, batteries now generally tend to come with a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) composition that is more efficient, but you can also opt for other compositions if they meet your requirements well.
Types of Rechargeable Batteries for Cordless Phones
There are essentially three different types of rechargeable batteries for cordless phones, depending on their composition. Let’s take a look at what these are and what they can offer.
Nickel Metal Hydride
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are rechargeable and have a high energy density as well as a high capacity. AAA batteries most commonly come with this kind of composition.
They are relatively eco-friendly and can be recycled easily. They supply a charge of around 1.25 volts that can then subsequently go on decreasing the more you use up its charging cycles.
It is important not to overcharge or over-discharge these batteries as that could end up reducing their lifespan significantly. These batteries tend to have a higher rate of self-discharge, which is why it is important to store and use them properly.
Lithium-Ion
These rechargeable batteries have a high capacity. Their energy density is the highest among all the other batteries on this list, making them last for a long time before recharging.
Overall, their self-discharge rate is quite low as well, improving their lifespan and efficiency. However, over time, this rate will go on increasing, leading to eventual replacement.
Despite their effectiveness, these batteries also tend to contain flammable substances that can be dangerous in case something goes wrong with the battery. Moreover, they are also a bit expensive and may not work well if you have a budget restriction in place.
Nickel-Cadmium
Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries have sufficient capacity and energy density in them, but these tend to be a bit lower as compared to the other batteries mentioned here, due to which it is important to sufficiently and appropriately care for them.
Despite this, however, these batteries tend to be dependable and durable. They have a long lifespan and are also able to withstand damages better.
These batteries are slightly expensive as well, which is why they have been more or less replaced by NiMH batteries. Further, with higher toxicity, these batteries can be hazardous to the environment, making them difficult to recycle.
Things to Consider
Let’s take a few things that are important to consider while looking for the best rechargeable batteries for cordless phones.
Durability
It is important for your battery to be durable and long lasting. Since batteries tend to have self-discharge rates wherein they begin to lose their efficiency with subsequent charging cycles, you must choose a battery that has a lower self-discharge rate.
This will allow you to make the most of the battery for a long time before you need to replace it.
You must also look at the short-term when it comes to durability. For instance, the amount of time it takes for the battery to require the next recharge must also be long enough so that you don’t run out of battery while using your cordless phone.
Voltage and Capacity
Generally, you can expect your AAA rechargeable battery to have a voltage of 1.2 volts. The capacity should also be high enough to last you a long time.
Most of these details will clearly be stated on the battery pack, so make sure you read these properly to confirm that they can match your cordless phone. If you are unsure about this, you can refer to the details in the user manual.
These batteries should ideally be the same as the original batteries in your cordless phone. If not the same, they should be of the same voltage capacity so that the flow of the current is not disturbed too much.
This can also help prevent your batteries from overheating or leaking.
Composition
The composition can help determine the capacity, energy density and durability of the batteries as well.
We have already seen the three types of battery compositions that you can choose from depending on your requirements and the instructions that accompany your cordless phone.
Usually, NiMH batteries are commonly used now for cordless phones due to their high energy density and capacity. They are also affordable and more environmentally friendly as compared to other compositions.
Quantity
The number of batteries that come in each pack is also important so that you can easily replace your batteries whenever required. This way, you can also make good use of the remaining batteries while the previous ones are getting charged.
You can expect these batteries to come in packs of four or eight that you can pick from based on your requirements. Usually, battery chargers can hold multiple batteries while charging, making it convenient for you if you buy more packs.
It is important, however, to store these batteries in a cool and dry place so that you can maintain their efficiency and lifespan.
Cost
Batteries do not tend to cost too much per pack, but there can be certain variations depending on the kind of battery that you opt for. For instance, lithium-ion batteries are a bit more expensive than the others.
The cost can also increase based on how many packs you buy. After the initial purchasing cost, however, you also need to maintain the batteries well so that you don’t need to spend much on buying new batteries immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular rechargeable batteries in my cordless phone?
Cordless phones generally require AAA rechargeable batteries, usually with a NiMH composition that can help with charging and battery life.
It is better to stick to these specific rechargeable batteries since they are the most compatible with your cordless phone and meet their manufacturing requirements as well.
Further, since you need to ensure compatibility with the original batteries as well, you should avoid using regular rechargeable batteries.
How long do rechargeable batteries last in cordless phones?
Rechargeable batteries can have a guarantee period of 2-3 years, so they should be able to last for that long before you can replace them.
These batteries self-discharge over time, which means that their efficiency goes on decreasing with each full charge cycle. You can expect your battery to go on for around 1,000 cycles, as long as you avoid overcharging and store them properly.
You must also regularly charge your battery in order to keep it functioning well.
How should I charge the battery?
You should charge your battery fully the first time that you use it. However, make sure that you do not overcharge it beyond its capacity as this could cause it to overheat and end up reducing its lifespan.
You should recharge your battery a few times a month following the first time. Make sure you do not significantly discharge it each time as this could drain it much quicker.
Should I throw away the old batteries?
Most rechargeable batteries now have the option of being recycled that you can dispose of in recycling bins nearby. Some batteries, however, may contain toxic elements whose details you should confirm before disposing or recycling.
