When you change batteries, you want immediate power. Most rechargeable batteries need to be charged for full capacity when used. That could be inconvenient. GE/SANYO Eneloop AAA NiMH Rechargeable Batteries are pre-charged and ready for work when initially installed. That's exciting!With normal rechargeable batteries it made sense to charge them just before you wanted to use them. Otherwise, there was too much risk that the battery would not provide full power when needed due to degradation of stored power. Therefore there was a checkpoint on every vacation checklist - Charge batteries. Then the endless wait until the batteries are finally charged. even the most advanced and most expensive chargers typically take at least 15 minutes. This can be very long 15 minutes, if the taxi is waiting at the door. Now you can forget all this. Charge the eneloop, whenever you have time for it and store them. The extremely low self-discharge of eneloop batteries saves you from all the charging stress.