Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This Panasonic Eneloop package contains twelve eneloop rechargeable batteries (8xAA + 4x AAA), plus the latest Panasonic BQ-CC55 4-cell charger. [Batteries] I have been using eneloop pre-charged NiMH batteries since beginning of 2007, when the first-gen eneloop was introduced to the US market. Over the past ~10 years, I must have purchased over one hundred AA/AAA eneloop cells, and every single one of them is still in good working condition. Therefore I can confidently say that eneloop batteries have the highest reliability, lowest self-discharge rate, and longest lifespan among all NiMH batteries. Batteries in this package are the latest 4th-gen eneloop, which claims an amazing lifespan of ‘2100 cycles’ (up from 1800 cycles for 3rd-gen). Their capacity ratings are identical to that of earlier generations: - AA: 2000mAh typical, 1900mAh min. - AAA: 800mAh typical, 750mAh min. I have tested all generations of eneloop batteries, and can confirm that their capacity ratings to be accurate. On the other hand, I’m not convinced that there is any real difference in charge retention rate and cycle life between first-gen (‘1000 cycles’) and 4th-gen (‘2100 cycles’) eneloop batteries. Even if the improvements were real, they are not noticeable to the average users anyway. [Charger] The Panasonic BQ-CC55 is a big improvement over previous eneloop chargers, including MQN05 and BQ-CC17. It is also far better than most low-cost AA/AA chargers available in the market. - Individual Charging: The BQ-CC55 handles 1-4 AA or AAA cells independently. This is the only way to ensure each cell is fully charged but without overcharging. Majority of inexpensive battery chargers can only charge in pairs. - Fast Charge Time: The BQ-CC55 charges either 1-2 AA or AAA cells in ~1.5 hours, or 3-4 cells in ~3 hours. This is a good compromise between charge time and battery life. In comparison, majority of inexpensive chargers take 6-12 hours to finish the job. On the other hand, some ‘Ultra-Fast’ chargers claim to take 30 minutes or less, but those are very bad for battery lifespan. - Battery Status Indicator: The BQ-CC55 has four battery status indicators. Each indicator changes color according to the fullness of each cell (Red = nearly empty, Yellow = half full, Green = Full, Blinking Red = Bad cell). [Bottom Line] If you are in the market looking for your first rechargeable battery and charger kit, I highly recommend getting this package. Even if you already have some rechargeable batteries a simple charger in the house, you should still consider this package just to get the BQ-CC55, since using a quality smart charger is the key to your batteries' longevity. [Other Remarks] - All eneloop batteries are made in Japan. The charger is made in China - The same BQ-CC55 charger can be purchased separately elsewhere, but this combo package is a much better deal. - For technical details on the BQ-CC55, refer to my review here: https://www.amazon.com/review/R217YKQZZRIRTW/