Sony BCG-34HRMF4 Battery Charger with LCD Display and 4 AA Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had purchased Energizer rechargeable batteries with a cute "automatic" charger included. The "automatic" part referred to an 8-hour timer built into it. You pop in the batteries, plug it in and whether the batteries wanted it or not they got a full 8-hour charge. The batteries gave outstanding performance compared to the pricey alkalines. But within six months the rechargeables lost probably half of their nominal 2400 mAh capacity.

My NiMH Energizers were advertised to be good for 1000 charging cycles, but that amount was turning more like 100 if not less. I figured that the 8-hour charge can't be too healthy for them so I decided to look for a better charger with automatic detection and adjustment of the charging times for each individual battery.

I considered several good automatic chargers that treat each battery individually. The Sony BCG-34HRMD4 seemed optimal because of the following: (1) very reasonable price with the four great batteries included, (2) universal 110-240 voltage, (3) no-frills individual indication of the charging process, (4) rejuvenate function - very handy even for NiMH batteries, (5) ease of use - it was going to be used by several people with differing degrees of tech expertise.

I didn't want a super-duper split-second blink-your-eye quick charger because I am not in a real hurry to get the batteries charged plus high charging currents heat up the batteries to a boil and shorten their life span. "Normal" was fine for my needs, so I was actually pleased to read in the reviews that the "Super Quick" is false advertisement. Shame on you Sony!

Overall: this is a very good charger, highly recommended. It carries a reputable brand name, so it is likely to last a long time without surprises. And, last but not least, it is cheap - thank to the working men, women and children of China.

===== Edit =====

I noticed that the price has changed. The price is rather crucial for my positive review. I bought this charger and rated it full 5 stars when it was $24.99 apiece with a free shipping.

===== Edit on May 26, 2009 =====

Charger still running strong after 3+ years. It is used extensively by many people, and I replaced all batteries for Eneloops which are performing really great. Nothing broke in the charger except that someone took off the top lid and lost it - no big deal because the batteries get better cooling without it. I also have BC-900 charger but prefer the Sony with single button for "refresh".

Again: a great product. Highly recommended.

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Product Description:
Sony's worldwide reputation for creating unique, attractive, high-quality, advanced technology products rests on a long line of innovations embraced by people from all walks of life. With a diverse product lineup serving a variety of lifestyles and industries, Sony continuously strives to introduce new products and technologies to meet changing market needs.PRODUCT FEATURES:Super Quick Refresh Function Charger with LCD Battery Indicator;2700 mAh-High Capacity Battery Charging;LCD Display for Battery Power Indicator;Refresh Function;Automatic Charge Cut-Off Function.

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