mh9162013
Well-Known Member
Some of them can be charged directly by plugging the cell into a USB cable, with no other charger at all.
Yes, that's another rechargeable lithium AA cell option to try. I'm not very familiar with those, but I think they should work for basic Estes launch controllers, like the Electron Beam. My guess is that they'll be easier to charge (and might be a bit cheaper) than the Tenavolts, but could have less capacity and be heavier. Increased weight probably isn't a concern, but reduced capacity might be.
I've only used my Tenavolts for about a dozen launches. When I finally have to recharge them, I'll provide an update.
Oh, another benefit of lithium cells in launch controllers over alkaline or NiMHs: better cold weather performance.
I use Eneloops almost exclusively for any device in my home that requires a AA or AAA cell. But certain devices really benefit from the extra 0.1 to 0.3 in extra volts per cell, so that's where my Tenavolts come in.