What is the recommended charging rate for new model white AA & AAA Eneloops? I didn't see anything on their website or the packaging. I'm using a Maha MH-C9000 charger.

You'll get a wide variety of opinions on the matter. But a middle-of-the-road suggestion would be around 700mA for AA and 400 mA for AAA Eneloops (or the closest choices that your charger offers). I don't know about the AAA's, but even a full 2A current for the AA is acceptable although it may somewhat degrade the overall longevity of the cells if they get very hot during charging.

For the exhaustive details, you should look up the fine folks at candlepowerforums.com -- but search existing threads first because they get a little testy when the same question is asked over, and over, and over again. For purists, there's a surprisingly complex charging profile, over time, for these cells.

My (very primitive) understanding is that both too high and too low a charge rate have negative impacts on the performance and longevity of a cell. This is all based on a percentage of the individual cell's capacity. The c9000 (I have one too) won't take you astray since it's a smart charger, but I lean toward 500mA vs. the default 1000.

But I must confess that I mostly use the maha as a diagnostic or forming charger (and high-powered night light). My go-to charger for cells in constant use is the under-appreciated Duracell CEF23 with the 12VDC plug. IMO it's a pretty sweet companion (I have three actually) with my solar setup.

Is there anything wrong with the charger that is sold with the batteries? I've been using it and not experiencing any difficulties.

Chaos,my experience is they will last longer with a smart charger,and very helpful to see how much capacity is left in a cell over time,amongst other things. Im very pleased with the ....
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La Crosse Technology BC-700 Alpha Power Battery Charger
by La Crosse Technology
4.4 out of 5 stars See all reviews (537 customer reviews) | Like (120)
List Price: $49.95
Price: $39.32 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Details

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RSOV50/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i01


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I heartily recommend this item as eneloops are costly I feel it pays for itself.

That said,I charge at the 700 ma rate,I dont think Ive killed a single eneloop yet since they came out,amazing!!!!
Oh,and Bud with cheapo charger,using eneloops shorter time than me,has killed some.

I keep a cheapy sold with batts charger around,if cell is too discharged the charger above wont see it,30 secs on dumb charger,into smart charger and you are good to go,plus the dumb charger is a very viable backup.

What I do,FWIW,seems to work OK.

The Eneloop charger works. More expensive smart chargers work better. Either one gets the job done.

a little off topic, but if you are looking for a microprocessor charger that works with multi input voltages... 12v, USB, as well as 120v... I've been very happy with my Fujicell SCH808F... the ad is UK but got mine off Amazon

http://www.rapidbatteries.com/Fujicell-AAA-AA-SCH808F-rapid-1-hour-battery-charger.html

I bought a bulk pack of 16 w/o a charger.

NICE

For 5v & 12v charging I've got a couple of the Goal Zero chargers.

For anyone looking for a 12v - 5v converter, I saw one at Lowe's at the customer service counter that has USB sockets for 1A & 2.1A on Tuesday.