http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/ Engadget Comments for http://www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:39AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:48AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
I bought a 4-pack of AAAs at CC for less than $4. I put them in my Logitech Harmony 550, and according to a fairly accurate review, the Duracells it came with only lasted a week with use. I've had them in there for nearly 8 weeks now and STILL they're not dead!

I absolutely love these batteries.]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:58AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:21AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
I was somewhat skeptical at first when my wife brought them home (I'd expected the Energizer rechargeables), but I'm definitely a fan now.]]>Jul 24th 2008 10:41AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:39AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:53AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:00AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:23AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
NYKO gives you different covers for the back off the wiimote that allows the contacts on the battery to pass through

http://www.instructables.com/files/deriv/FAI/VZIZ/FAQDX652/FAIVZIZFAQDX652.MEDIUM.jpg]]>Jul 24th 2008 10:27AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:29AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
You also will only need one power supply because you can "daisy chain" multiple docks together.]]>Jul 24th 2008 11:49AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/jacket/jacketrequest.jsp
You can replace the battery cover all you want, Silicone does not conduct electricity. So you still need to peel the cover back in order to charge your Wiimote.]]>Jul 24th 2008 12:39PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 12:48PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 2:41PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
There have been rechargeable battery packs since the Wii came out, what's so good about these?]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:41AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
First, they're low self-discharge, meaning that they hold a charge much longer when not in use. Various comments also state that the Eneloop batteries last longer when in use than other NiMH batteries.

The next reason these are better is the charger. The only widely known and available rechargeable battery for the Wii prior to the creation and release of the Eneloop system (there are others such as from Penguin United, however you probably won't find them in Walmart or GameStop) was from Nyko.

The Nyko battery setup was similar to the Eneloop in that it consisted of a cradle (two fused together) and internal batteries, but the way they were designed, the silicon sleeve released December 2006 and packed with all systems shipped after that has to be removed.

I have the Nyko dock myself and despite the fact that the remote's sleeve (which provides both grip and cushioning for the remote in the event that it DOES smash into something head-on unlike all others which only provide grip) can be replaced with smaller and likely thinner ones, all sleeves that exist - to my knowledge - would cause problems for the already VERY touchy contact springs even if they did have the hole that would be required for even partial contact. ...Basically, they don't make good contact, something I've noticed by the fact that the device doesn't work well on even a minute slope forward, so it has to be placed on a flat surface. The wrist strap also poses a problem for the same reason.

The Eneloop system uses a wireless contact method, so all contact issues fly out the window instantly. Despite the fact that inductive charging is point-blank, it doesn't need metal contacts to work which means you never have to remove the protective sleeve (which his a hassle, I know from experience. It's hard to get on and off, but at least it's comfortable...) .

As a side note, I would like to add that Nintendo only recommends use of Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries and discourages the use of Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd/NiCad) batteries. I don't know why this is, but it may have something to do with the voltage/amperage.]]>Jan 13th 2009 6:43AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
I wonder which I will choose...

]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:45AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:54AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
For the price of these, you can buy:
1) several sets of AA batts and a charger
2) use the same charger to charge batteries for other devices, not just a single device

Downsides (if you want to call it a downside)
1) You take out expired batts. You put in fresh ones. You put expired batts in AA charger while you play - no waiting, no hassle.

I don't see how swapping a set of batteries for another is a hassle compared to having your controllers sit powerless when you want to be playing.]]>Jul 24th 2008 11:20AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:47AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:51AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:55AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 7:19PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:16AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
Somehow it doesn't surprise me. I totally agree.]]>Jul 24th 2008 11:43AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
This means, you can leave the Wii Condom on while you charge. The battery does not have any contacts on the outside.

Does anyone EVER click the Read link?]]>Jul 24th 2008 2:18PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 11:11PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 8:56AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
1. The are contactless chargers - click the link to see one without the wiimote, it has no visible contacts.

2. The wiimote can be charged without removing the jacket

3. They charge via AC power, not Wii USB port, and can have up to four units linked in series.

So yes, while there are many other charging docks on the market, these have a few unique selling points that might make them worthwhile.

I have a couple of USB charging docks that I bought in China that do the job, but I'm not 100% happy with them for exactly these reasons. IE- I need to use an alternative back plate to make them work and I can't use jackets because they won't fit in the dock.]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:56AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:16AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
Of course it will be obsolete once MotionPlus hits the market. ]]>Jul 24th 2008 8:57AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:12AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:17AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 25th 2008 10:11AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:15AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:41AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
wii are the Borg. Lower your shields. Resistance is futile]]>Jul 24th 2008 9:26AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:29AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
While i might trust this one being Sanyo but the others i really not trust too last too long & they even low capacity 800mah for a battery pack munites worth of music :(]]>Jul 24th 2008 9:32AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:53AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 9:59AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 10:28AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 11:19AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Save your money - buy more games.]]>Jul 24th 2008 12:25PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 12:43PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
Reglar rechargeable batteries such as Energizer e2 NiMH and high end ones such as Maha's cannot hold their charge very long. Meaning if you were to charge them on Monday but don't use them at all until Friday, you'll be surprised to find out that they need to be recharged. Why do you think you have to charge them first before you use them even though you just bought them at the store or are not recommended for clocks, smoke detectors, or remotes?

sanyo's eneloop and Rayovac's Hybrid do not have this flaw. They have the same rechargeable capability yet can hold their charge when not in use almost as long as non-rechargeable batteries. They have the best of both worlds with no real flaw except currently, their capacity aren't as high. I believe they top out at 1000 mAH for size AA whereas other rechargeable AA batteries average 1200 mAH and top out at 1600 mAH. That's not a deal breaker to me since they still last a long time in use in my camera. They can be charged in any NiMH chargers.

I personally use only eneloops and Hybrids for ALL my battery needs, even clocks and smoke detectors and remotes. You bet I use it in my Wii Remote. They are all rechargeable and thus reusable for any electronic devices. Environmentally and economically friendly.]]>Jul 24th 2008 12:44PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/
I generally buy the RayOVacs because they're cheapest.

Anyway, they hold their charge so long you can even use them in TV remotes and such. In anything you don't use every day, you'll probably like them better than regular NiMHs despite the reduced capacity.]]>Jul 24th 2008 1:35PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Jul 24th 2008 12:49PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/24/wii-gets-rechargeable-battery-packs-with-sanyos-eneloop/Sep 30th 2008 4:26PM