Amazon Basics Rechargeable Low Self Discharge NiMh Battery with 8-Bay review
Quick take
This Amazon Basics NiMH rechargeable bundle includes 8 AA (2000mAh) and 8 AAA (800mAh) batteries plus an 8-bay charger that uses a USB-C power input. It is a good fit for people who use AA and AAA devices often and want low self-discharge storage plus clear LED charging status. The key limitation is compatibility, the charger is intended for NiMH batteries only.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Includes both AA and AAA NiMH cells (8 of each) and an 8-bay charger so you can charge mixed types.
- Low self-discharge claim: maintains about 80% capacity for up to 12 months.
- LED indicators show charging, fully charged, and error detection behavior (such as alkaline or defective cells).
- Rechargeable batteries rated for up to 1000 recharge cycles.
- Convenience benefit: no AC adapter in the box, it runs from USB-C power.
Cons
- NiMH-only charger, it is not meant for alkaline batteries.
- Charging time guidance is relatively long for full packs, with AA reportedly taking up to about 10 hours when charging all 8 together.
- Some buyers mention the LED flashing/error behavior can be confusing when charging larger mixes of cells.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed but generally points to strong day-to-day usefulness and good value for households that go through AA and AAA batteries. Several reviews highlight consistent runtime once charged (including for higher-drain devices like flashlights and controllers) and appreciate the charger’s independent bay design and clear charging feedback. The most notable recurring caution is that charging behavior and LED signals can be confusing when running more bays at once, and at least some users reported needing to replace a unit over time. Overall, the evidence suggests the bundle performs well when used within its NiMH recharge intent, but buyer experience can vary depending on how fully you fill the bays and what batteries you try to charge.
Design and charging experience
The bundle pairs 16 rechargeable cells with an 8-bay charger, giving you the option to charge AA and AAA together without needing separate chargers. The charger’s LED indicators are meant to make it easier to understand what is happening per cycle. In practical terms, you get feedback for charging in progress, when a battery is fully charged, and when the charger detects an error condition.
Input power uses a USB-C port and the bundle does not include an AC power adapter. That is convenient if you already have a suitable USB power source on hand, but it also means you will need to supply the wall adapter (or other USB power) yourself.
Battery performance and storage
These are low self-discharge NiMH batteries, which is especially relevant for devices that do not run constantly, like remotes, flashlights, and household electronics that sit idle for weeks. The low self-discharge claim (about 80% capacity maintained up to 12 months) targets exactly that buyer pain point: avoiding “dead” rechargeable cells when you need them most.
In terms of cycle life, the batteries are rated for up to 1000 recharges. That is meant to support a longer-term switch away from disposable batteries, particularly if your household uses AA and AAA cells regularly.
Compatibility and limitations to know
NiMH only: The charger is designed for NiMH rechargeable batteries. It also includes error detection behavior intended to flag situations like defective batteries or alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries. If you are planning to use it as an “all battery” charger, this is not the right fit.
Charging time: Fast charging is part of the appeal, but the schedule can still be long depending on how many bays you fill. One listed estimate notes charging 8 AA batteries within about 10 hours. If you need same-day turnaround for fully empty AA sets, plan for overnight or a longer charging window.
LED feedback clarity: Charger LEDs are helpful, but some buyers found the flashing behavior can be confusing when charging larger combinations. If you like very simple, one-color-only indicators, you may need a short learning curve.
Who this battery bundle is best for
- Households that use both AA and AAA batteries (remotes, controllers, flashlights, small electronics) and want one charger for both.
- Buyers looking for rechargeables that are intended to store well, not just for continuous use.
- People who are comfortable supplying their own USB-C power adapter.
- Shoppers who want an LED-indicated charger to reduce guesswork about charge status.
Who should avoid it
- Anyone who wants to charge alkaline batteries. This charger is not intended for that use.
- Buyers who need quick, same-hour top-ups for completely depleted AA/AAA sets, especially when charging a full set of bays.
- People who prefer extremely minimal indicator complexity and do not want to interpret multi-state LED behavior.
Value and buying decision
This bundle is designed to be a straightforward “rechargeable start” kit. The value angle comes from pairing a multi-bay charger with a mixed pack of AA and AAA cells, which helps you stop buying disposables in two common sizes at once. If you already have plenty of AA or AAA rechargeables, the bundle’s value depends on how many you actually need to replace or add. If your main goal is charging convenience for both formats, the 8-bay approach can reduce daily hassle compared to buying separate chargers.
If you want the easiest way to compare against your current setup, check two things first: whether your devices use AA and AAA interchangeably, and whether you already own a compatible USB-C power adapter to run the charger.
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FAQs
Is the charger compatible with alkaline batteries?
No. The charger is intended for NiMH rechargeable batteries, and it includes error detection behavior that is meant to flag alkaline or other incompatible cells.
What batteries are included in this kit?
You get 8 rechargeable AA NiMH batteries rated at 2000mAh and 8 rechargeable AAA NiMH batteries rated at 800mAh, along with the 8-bay charger.
Does the charger come with an AC power adapter?
No. The charger uses a USB-C input and the bundle does not include an AC power adapter, so you will need to use your own USB-C power source.
How long does it take to charge the batteries?
Charging time depends on the battery type and how many bays you fill. One listed estimate says fully charging 8 AA batteries can take up to about 10 hours.
How long will the batteries hold a charge while stored?
These are low self-discharge NiMH batteries, with a claim of maintaining about 80% capacity for up to 12 months.
What devices can I use these batteries in?
They are intended for typical AA and AAA powered devices, such as remotes, flashlights, controllers, and household electronics that accept NiMH rechargeables.
Bottom line
The Amazon Basics rechargeable NiMH bundle with an 8-bay charger is a practical choice if you want one charger to handle both AA and AAA batteries, and you care about low self-discharge for infrequently used devices. The main tradeoff is NiMH-only compatibility and the reality that charging a full set can take many hours. If your household runs through AA and AAA batteries, it can be a convenient way to reduce disposable battery purchases.
Specifications
| Product Title | Amazon Basics Rechargeable Low Self Discharge NiMh Battery with 8-Bay Charger, 8 AAA 800mAh + 8 AA 2000mAh, USB C Port, No AC Power Adapter, Black |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Household Batteries, Chargers & Accessories > Battery Chargers |
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
| Manufacturer | Amazon, this product may originate from China or Vietnam |
| Model Number | HFR-AA2000-AAA800-HPTCH0036 |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 0.14 Kilograms |
| Input Voltage | 5 Volts |
| Battery Charge Time | 1E+1 Hours |
| Amperage | 8 Amps |
| Compatible Devices | Telephone |
| Connector Type Used on Cable | USB-C |
| Number of Ports | 8 |
| Mfr Part Number | HPTCH0036B |
| UPC | 840324413854 |
| Item Type Name | Amazon Basics Rechargeable AA Batteries (x8) and AAA Batteries (x8) NiMh, with 8 Bay Battery Charger |
| Unit Count | 16.0 Count |
| Charging Time | 1E+1 Hours |
Available variants
Size
- 4 AA & 4 AAA + 4 Bay Charger
- 8 AA + 8 Bay Charger
- 8 AA & 8 AAA + 8 Bay Charger
- 4 Bay Charger Only
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