I'm looking at the upfront cost of an authentic Eneloop pack plus a decent smart charger vs just grabbing a bulk pack of cheap alkalines at Costco

My wireless mouse and keyboard sip power—a single AA easily lasts 6 to 9 months. Doing the math, going through maybe 2–3 batteries a year, it would take me well over a decade just to break even on the charger and Eneloops

For those using them on low-drain devices, is the BIFL appeal strictly about peace of mind against alkalines leaking and destroying a $100 peripheral? Or is there something else I'm overlooking?