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MP3 Batteries

How long do MP3 batteries last?

How long do MP3 batteries last?

The charge duration of your MP3 battery depends largely on the player and the type of battery it takes. In general, non-video players get more use out of their charges than video players. You'll also get more use out of each charge, or each battery if your MP3 player uses AA or AAA batteries, if your player isn't integrated with a phone.

A charge is usually good for 4-10 hours of continuous video, or 8-24 hours of continuous music. Some larger devices have longer charge durations because they can hold larger batteries, but the smallest and simplest devices manage to get quite a long life because they offer fewer additional features.

MP3 batteries, like all rechargeable internal batteries, will only accept between 1500 and 2500 charges, depending on the battery. Rechargeable AA or AAA batteries are closer to 500-800 charges. That means that MP3 batteries generally have a lifespan from 18 months to 4 years, depending on how heavily you use it, how long each charge lasts, and which type of battery it takes. Li-ion batteries always last the longest. Ni-Cd and Ni-MH last less time, but are cheaper than one-time-use AA or AAA batteries over the long-term, and are better for the environment.

Several recent tests have shown that replacement MP3 batteries often have longer lives and charge times than the original batteries, but your experience may vary.

If you're shopping for your first MP3 player, read technology magazine or website reviews carefully. They'll often discuss real-world battery life and charge times. If you're a heavy user, get the device with the best battery. If you're a light to medium user, let the size or features be your guide.