I bought an Energizer battery charger about 6 years ago. It was around $20 at that time and 4 AA batteries cost nearly $15. I debated on the expense, but after adding up how many batteries I used in a month's time, I went for it. I go through lots of batteries listening to books on tape. Well those old batteries are still working even after 1000's and I do mean 1000's of charges. I have puchased more AA'a for digital cameras and AAA's for the MP3 players along with smaller chargers. The prices have come down quite a lot since my first purchase, but the oldie has paid for itself many times over. I think any of them are a good investment for the money ... View related article.