Thomson's USB-C rechargeable batteries are one of those inventions that don't seem revolutionary until you think about how many times you've opened a drawer looking for a battery. AA or AAA batteries, and all you've found are used, loose, or of dubious origin. They don't reinvent home technology, but they do address a very common problem: relying on disposable batteries or specific chargers that always end up lost.
The idea is so straightforward that it's almost surprising it's not already the norm. Instead of using an external charger, each battery integrates its own USB-C port. Simply connect them using the included cable and charge them just like you would headphones, a controller, or a power bank. It's a clean, easy-to-understand solution, and especially practical for those who don't want another accessory taking up space at home.
Design and everyday use
The main appeal lies in convenience. These batteries They maintain the classic AA or AAA format, So they're useful for controllers, toys, flashlights, cameras, mice, keyboards, or small household appliances. The difference is that when they run out of battery, you don't have to throw them away or put them on a charging base. You just plug them directly into the USB-C cable and you're good to go.
They also include an indicator that alerts you when charging is complete, a small but useful detail. With products like these, the experience depends heavily on eliminating any doubts: knowing if they're charged, if they're still working properly, and if you can use them without having to consult the instructions every time.
Performance: the key is in the 1,5V
One major advantage over many traditional rechargeable batteries is that These lithium batteries maintain a stable voltage of 1,5V during the discharge cycle. It might sound technical, but in practice it matters quite a bit. Some devices become erratic when the voltage drops, even if the battery still has power. With a more consistent power supply, they should work better in sensitive devices like cameras, game controllers, or blood pressure monitors.
The promise of up to 1.500 charging cycles also makes them an interesting long-term alternative. They're not cheap compared to a regular pack of batteries, but the cost changes if you use them for years in high-power devices.
The good and the not-so-good
Simplicity is key. There's no dedicated charger, no unusual formats, and nothing to learn. New. USB-C is almost everywhere now, so it fits in well with the current trend.
The least convincing thing is the starting price. A pack costing around 25 euros may seem expensive for something as basic as batteries. Furthermore, in very low-power devices, such as a TV remote, it might take a long time to recoup the cost of the batteries. In those cases, standard alkaline batteries are still sufficient for many users.