Camera Batteries

[Coldicote]

I need to buy some AA rechargeable batteries for a camera. There are plenty to choose from but I don’t understand the jargon. Can someone please explain mAh and NiMH. I’m looking at “2500 mAh NiMH Rechargeable 1.2V”. Previous batteries were 2000 mAh – would it matter if I replace them with 2500 mAh or some other measure such as 850, 1700, 1800?

[ChuckFickens]

To put it simply...

the higher the mAh the longer they'll last but they'll also take longer to recharge.

For cameras the higher the better because they eat batteries.

[Fitzer]

The higher the mAh number the longer they (should) last before needing a recharge so 2500 last 25% longer than 2000, going downward is therefore a bad move, mAh simply stands for milliamp hours. The NiMH is the technology (for want of a better word) of the battery, basically NiMH have less of a problem with recharging from not fully flat than the older NiCad batteries and are deemed to be 'better'.

[sunny-dave]

I'd also look at the 'good to go' nimh batteries - they hold their charge much longer if the camera is left unused for a period of time.

Panasonic Infinium/Evolta are the leading brand, but I use these

http://www.7dayshop.c...wer/batteries?cat=157

[Coldicote]

Many thanks Chuck and Fitzer for your prompt replies. You must have been ready and waiting!

[Coldicote]

Thank you also sunny-dave. It's good to have a recommendation.

[gingejbee]

I would go for the type sunny-d mentions above - they are properly called "hybrid rechargeables" and give you the best of a good alkaline disposable combined with the best of a Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable.
The best ones (according to Which?) are by Uniross, Energiser and GP Recyko+. I use the Energiser ones and they have never failed (yet!).