There are three types on Chemistry used in radio batteries:
- Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) which is used in all professional quality radios manufactured since at least 2010.
- Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) used on all other radios manufactured since about 2005.
- Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd) not used on radio batteries since around 2005. (Since 2008 an EU directive has banned ALL manufacturers and distributors from importing Ni-Cd batteries into Europe.)
The majority of radios currently use Li-Ion batteries. They are lighter for the same capacity. Easier to charge and generally perform well under all but extreme cold. (Colder than normally experienced in the UK)