This review delves into the Hixon 1.5V C-sized rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (model J1055), assessing their performance and value as a replacement for traditional alkaline C-cell batteries. The package includes two batteries, each boasting a claimed 3600mAh capacity (3.6Wh) and featuring a convenient USB-C charging port. A dual USB-C charging cable is provided, enabling simultaneous charging. This review examines various aspects of the batteries, including their charging efficiency, runtime, voltage output, and overall usability in real-world applications.Key areas explored include the batteries' weight, compatibility with devices designed for alkaline C-cells, and their actual performance compared to the manufacturer's specifications. The review investigates charging times and energy consumption, offering a comprehensive analysis of the Hixon batteries' strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, this assessment aims to determine whether these rechargeable alternatives represent a worthwhile investment for consumers seeking a lighter, more environmentally friendly option.
Pros And Cons
- Significantly lighter than alkaline C batteries.
- Fits in any device that uses standard alkaline C batteries.
- Rechargeable, allowing for multiple uses.
- Charging is inefficient; takes approximately twice the rated capacity to fully charge.
- Shorter shelf life than alkaline batteries due to active internal circuitry.
- Self-discharge occurs even when not in use.
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Unboxing and Specifications
The package contains two Hixon C-sized rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. They're marketed as having a 3600mAh capacity (3.6Wh), which is quite impressive for a C-cell battery. The model number is J1055, and they feature a USB-C port for charging.
The charging cable included is a USB-A to dual USB-C, allowing for simultaneous charging of both batteries. The charging specifications indicate a 5V, 500mA input, suggesting efficient charging from a standard USB-A port. The batteries are designed as direct replacements for standard alkaline C-cell batteries.
Weight Comparison and Flashlight Test
A significant advantage of these lithium-ion batteries is their weight. A single Hixon battery weighs approximately 31g, about half the weight of a comparable alkaline C-cell battery (around 66g).
The review demonstrates the batteries' compatibility by using them in a flashlight that typically uses alkaline C-cells. The reviewer notes the flashlight operates as expected with the lithium-ion replacements, showcasing seamless integration.
Charging Performance and Capacity
Each battery took approximately 6Wh to fully charge, almost double its rated capacity of 3.6Wh. This discrepancy might indicate some inefficiency in the charging circuitry or a slightly higher actual capacity than advertised.
The charging process is observed using a USB-C power delivery adapter, showing a charging rate of around 2 watts. This indicates that the batteries charge efficiently from a standard USB-A port or a power delivery adapter.
Runtime and Voltage Output
The reviewer tested the battery's runtime in the flashlight, observing it running for a period longer than the estimated 2.6 hours based on the flashlight's power draw (2.7 watts) and the battery's rated capacity, indicating that the actual capacity might be higher than 3.6Wh.
The voltage output is consistently measured around 1.5V, although there are minor fluctuations. This is crucial as it confirms the batteries' ability to work in devices designed for 1.5V alkaline batteries, despite the internal lithium-ion cell's higher voltage.
Conclusion and Overall Assessment
The Hixon 1.5V C-sized rechargeable lithium-ion batteries offer a lightweight and convenient alternative to alkaline C-cells, providing comparable runtime and the advantage of reusability.
However, the charging inefficiency (taking almost double the rated capacity to fully charge) is a notable drawback. Also, their shelf life is likely shorter than alkaline batteries due to the active circuitry. They perform well but the efficiency concern remains.