The box is surprisingly small but there are indeed 16 batteries inside. They are cellophane wrapped in groups of 4 which keeps them nice and manageable (unless of course you open up all the cellophane). Checked them all to ensure that there were no dead on arrival. Have used four so far in a light which is on for 2-3 hours a day. Still going strong after a week so they seem to be quite long-lasting. The charge seems to be quite constant with no initial surge and then a dulling.
Shelf life claimed is 10 years -so look out for the amended review in 2030 (that, of course, was a joke!).
A nice price for decent batteries with good performance and excellent shelf life. Overall very pleased with purchase and will no doubt have to buy more due to all the electronic gadgets around the house nowadays.