Buying Cheap Batteries: Is It Worth The Risk?
If you're like most consumers, getting a replacement battery for your electronic device is the most cost-effective option. As you browse the web, you'll probably stumble upon dirt cheap generic batteries, but wonder: Are they worth the risk?
Want to know the truth, plain and simple? They are not worth the risk.
Below, I've compiled a list of reasons as to why you should invest the extra money on higher class batteries, which will in return, save you from burning a hole in your wallet — literally.
They Can Catch Fire EASILY
True story: I once bought a super cheap replacement battery for my portable vacuum cleaner from a sketchy Indonesian website. I saved so much money but later learned the hard way.
Within 48 hours of replacing my battery — BOOM — my vacuum had exploded and risen to flames while charging overnight. While some other factor could've caused the fire, I went back to the product's online reviews and learned it had happened to other customers too. Since then, I've learned not to mess with the dirt cheap batteries that have become so popular today, especially with millennials.
They Have LESS Power Than Advertised
According to the tech blog ZDNet, online shopping has paved the way for cheaper options, yet many fail to notice what they are really paying for, and it's sad.
For example, on eBay and Amazon, replacement batteries for Samsung Galaxy and iPhone devices can be found for less than $5. And that's a problem because once you install the new battery, it will lead to weaker charging power. Your phone will start dying more frequently and won't remain fully charged as when it first came out the manufacturer.
That problem can easily be avoided by investing the extra bucks and getting a replacement battery of higher quality, guaranteeing more battery life and most important of all, no overnight 'booms.'
Lithium ALWAYS Outperforms Alkaline
You get what you pay for: If you go after the cheap products, expect cheap results. Avoid dollar store generic name brands that contain alkaline. And always remember that lithium batteries always last longer and are more efficient than alkaline.
However, do keep in mind the voltage specifications of your product, as adding a higher voltage battery may damage your electronic if you're not careful. Nonetheless, expect extra hours of much-needed battery power if you make the switch to lithium batteries, which are a bit more expensive, but worth it!
Bottom line: Now you know, the next time you see batteries online with a too good to be true price, beware, and please, don't get ripped off.
Image credit: Syonyk
