Rechargeable batteries have lower total cost of use and environmental impact than disposable batteries.

Some rechargeable battery types are available in the same sizes as disposable types.

Rechargeable batteries have higher initial cost, but can be recharged very cheaply and used many times.

Rechargeable batteries come in many different shapes and sizes, ranging anything from a button cell to megawatt systems connected to stabilize an electrical distribution network.

Several different combinations of chemicals are commonly used, including: lead-acid, nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), and lithium ion polymer (Li-ion polymer).