Banshee Ni-MH Battery Pack Fits Kenwood KNB-17A, KNB-16A - Reliable

In this review the reviewer looks at the Banshee Ni-MH Battery Pack as a practical replacement power source for a range of Kenwood portable radios. The bottom line is that this pack is for users who need a straightforward, compatible spare or replacement battery that restores runtime without fuss; it most appeals to field technicians, radio hobbyists, and anyone keeping older Kenwood radios in service. The review highlights compatibility, usable capacity, and predictable Ni-MH chemistry as the single biggest reason to buy for people who value dependable runtime and easy swap-in replacement.

Key Features

• Compatibility: Fits a long list of Kenwood models so you can replace worn batteries for radios such as KNB-17A and TK-190 without modifying the radio.
• Capacity: The 7.2V, 1800mAH rating provides extended run time compared with lower-capacity cells, helping users stay on air longer between charges.
• Ni-MH Chemistry: Uses nickel-metal hydride cells which are tolerant of repeated charge cycles and are easier to maintain than some older battery types.
• Direct Replacement: Designed as a drop-in replacement for KNB-16, KNB-17 and related packs, so installation is a simple battery swap.
• Wide Radio Support: Works with many Kenwood portable radios including TK-190 and TK-480 which makes it a versatile spare for mixed radio fleets.

Who It's For

This battery is aimed at technicians, amateur radio operators, security teams and industrial users who rely on legacy Kenwood portable radios and need a dependable replacement pack without the cost of upgrading the whole radio. It works best for people who prefer the simplicity of a known compatible replacement and who keep charging infrastructure that supports Ni-MH packs.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need the absolute longest possible runtime per charge or those seeking the highest energy density solutions; lithium-based replacement packs or radios with integrated modern batteries will suit them better. Also, users requiring an OEM-labeled Kenwood pack for warranty reasons may prefer to buy directly from the radio manufacturer.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good compatibility with many Kenwood models makes it easy to keep spares on hand for field use.
• The 1800mAH capacity offers reliable runtime for typical daily use without frequent mid-shift charges.
• Ni-MH cells tolerate many charge cycles, so the pack can be economical over time.

Cons

• Ni-MH is heavier and lower energy density than modern lithium options, so overall weight and runtime per mass are a compromise.

Specifications

Brand	Banshee
Battery chemistry	Ni-MH
Voltage	7.2V
Capacity	1800mAH
Compatible models	Kenwood KNB-17A, KNB-16A, KNB-17, KNB-21, KNB-22, TK-190, TK-480

Our Verdict

The Banshee Ni-MH replacement pack is a pragmatic choice for anyone maintaining older Kenwood radios who needs a dependable, compatible spare. It balances reasonable capacity and durable Ni-MH chemistry at a cost that makes sense for field crews and hobbyists; buy it if you want straightforward replacement performance rather than the lightest or highest energy option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this battery fit my Kenwood KNB-17A?
Yes. It is designed as a replacement for KNB-17A and compatible KNB series packs.

What is the battery chemistry and care?
The pack uses Ni-MH cells; they handle many charge cycles but benefit from regular full charge/discharge cycles and a charger rated for Ni-MH chemistry.

Can this replace a lithium pack?
It can replace older Ni-MH Kenwood packs but is not a lithium pack; expect different weight and energy density compared with lithium replacements.