TOP 15 best battery chargers: 2021-2022 rating by price/quality

Today's rating of battery chargers on our portal Tekhnik.top is the best way to quickly select the right model.

For quick navigation, we have divided the rating into categories:

• The best battery chargers by price/quality for 2021-2022.
• The best chargers for AAA batteries.
• Best Chargers for AA Batteries.
• The best battery chargers with short circuit protection.
• The best car cigarette lighter chargers for batteries.

Using rechargeable batteries instead of classic batteries is a modern, economical and somewhat environmentally friendly solution that allows you to cause less harm to the environment and at the same time not lose the comfort of the usual use of numerous battery-powered devices.

However, such batteries require periodic recharging, which requires a special charger. And to make it easier for you to choose a charger that suits your needs, we have analyzed a wide variety of models of such devices, studied their features and characteristics, and present to your attention a rating of the best chargers in 2021-2022, among which even the most demanding owner will surely choose the device that best meets all his requirements.

Rating of the best battery chargers

How to choose a battery charger in terms of price/quality ratio?

When choosing a battery charger, you should evaluate:

• type of device - it can be a simple charger, which is inexpensive, but requires manual control of the charging duration, or an automatic charging option - more expensive, but able to turn itself off when the battery reaches a full charge, or a modern smart device that allows you to assess the condition of the battery and extend period of its effective operation;
• type of battery - the charger you purchase must be able to charge exactly those batteries that their owner uses - these can be either the widely used Li-Ion, Ni-Mh, Ni-Cd batteries, or other, not so popular types;
• capacity and size - this parameter is determined by the indicators indicated on the batteries themselves: online stores offer a wide variety of chargers designed for charging finger-type (AA) or little-finger (AAA) batteries with different capacities, Crohn-type batteries, and also found and combination chargers that can be used with several types of batteries;
• capacity - the number of batteries that the charger can charge simultaneously: this parameter ranges from 2 to 16, with chargers for 4 batteries being the most common;
• charging duration - a parameter that can range from 2-4 to 7-10 hours, depending on the current required for charging and the battery capacity;
• input connection - chargers can work from the mains, from a car cigarette lighter or using a USB port, and each type of connection has its fans and opponents;
• additional functionality - it is worth giving preference to chargers with independent charging channels, which will allow you to fully charge all the batteries placed in it; it is also more advisable to purchase a device equipped with protection against overheating and incorrect polarity connection, or a model that has a pre-discharge option, which significantly extends the service life those batteries that are subject to the “memory effect”;
• modern features - premium chargers can be equipped with informative displays, allow you to test and train batteries, display the charge and discharge current on the screen and have many modern and quite useful functions that greatly simplify the use of such devices.

How to charge lithium screwdriver batteries

A lithium battery-powered screwdriver is almost always an upgrade. If Ni-Cd cells had the same charging requirements, now they have become opposite. First of all, you need to purchase or assemble a charger specifically for energy-intensive lithium screwdriver batteries with a form factor of 18650. The charging circuit is used in two stages CC/CV.

Charging the lithium battery of a screwdriver is optimal when 20-50% of the capacity remains - one stick on the indicator. The more often you charge, the more stable the voltage at the terminals and the longer the life of the energy source. The smoother the voltage at the terminals, the more cycles the lithium battery of the screwdriver will withstand.

If the screwdriver has 2 batteries, remove one, charge it to 50-60% and keep it in reserve. But always charge the second one after finishing work, even by 10%. The best temperature for charging is +15-25 0 C. At minus, the screwdriver battery will not charge, but it can work down to -10 0.

How to charge a lithium screwdriver battery with a charger depends on the pattern of collecting batteries from cans. In any case, the voltage on the charger should be equal to that declared for the device, and the current should be 0.5 C at the first stage. On the second, the terminal voltage is stable, and the current drops until the end of the process.

The best battery chargers by price/quality for 2021-2022

The best battery chargers, the price of which fully corresponds to their excellent quality, in 2021-2022 were the following models.

ROBITON ProCharger1000

A modern, functional and intelligent charger that works with the most common batteries such as Ni-Mh, Ni-Cd and at the same time can charge both finger and little finger batteries.

The model allows you to significantly extend the useful life of batteries, thanks to the presence of 4 operating modes designed for different battery charging needs, this can be traditional charging with automatic shutdown when a sufficient charge level is reached, charging with preliminary discharge to minimize the “memory effect”, repeating charge and discharge cycles to increase the battery capacity and measuring the capacity value.

The easy-to-read LCD display shows the owner detailed and complete information on each battery, including accumulated capacity, voltage, charge current and charging time.

There is protection for batteries from overheating and the ability to identify faulty batteries. There is a USB output for charging a variety of USB devices.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AA (finger);
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - car cigarette lighter, mains power supply;
• current range - 200 mA - 1000 mA;
• charging time - from 1 to 15 hours;
• functionality - charge, discharge, training, testing, selection of current value;
• Features: USB output.

pros

• charges both AA and AAA;
• multifunctional.

Minuses

• does not charge completely discharged batteries;
• There are no temperature sensors.

LiitoKala Lii-500

The universal and safe smart charger can work with cylindrical Li-Ion, Ni-Mh and Ni-Cd batteries, which are the most common types of batteries.

The model has 4 slots for different types of batteries and supports simultaneous charging. The charger allows you to choose one of 4 charging current options (from 300 mA to 1000 mA), has independent channels that allow you to set individual charging current for different batteries, and is equipped with a backlit LCD display that displays the main indicators of the device’s operation such as voltage, current and charging time.

There are charge and discharge cycles to determine the battery capacity.

For the safety of the device, there is a set of protective functions, such as protection against overdischarge, short circuit, rejection of damaged batteries, and protection against incorrect connection.

It is possible to use the charger in PowerBank mode with a standard USB 5D/1A output.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AA, AAA, others;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• max charge current - 1000 mA;
• functionality - display, discharge-charge, moving contact, USB output.

pros

• easy to use;
• great job.

Minuses

• no Russian-language instructions;
• Springs are too elastic.

GP РВ420

A classic charger, ideal for charging Ni-Mh batteries of AA and AAA sizes, which is characterized by increased safety, maximum simplicity and ease of use.

A distinctive feature of the model is its light weight and compact size, which allows you to take the charger on trips and travels without fear that the bulky design will significantly weigh down your travel bag.

The device is equipped with a bright and clear indication that indicates an unfinished charging cycle and allows the owner to assess at a glance whether it is worth removing the batteries from the device.

At the same time, the charger has an option to recognize ordinary disposable batteries - when they are installed, the model simply will not work with them. Likewise, the device will not charge faulty or damaged batteries.

It is worth noting that this charger is intended for use exclusively indoors at temperatures above 0ºC and is not protected from moisture, water or dirt, the contact of which with the device can lead to its breakdown.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AA, AAA;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• charging duration - from 9 to 12 hours;
• functionality - capacity restoration.

pros

• price;
• Simultaneous charging of different batteries.

Minuses

• long charging period;
• not a well-thought-out indication.

Types of chargers

Currently existing chargers can be divided into several types:

• Single use devices are those that are capable of charging a specific type of battery;
• The devices are universal - they are assembled from special components, thanks to which it is possible to recharge most types of batteries.

A rechargeable battery charger is a special device that is capable of completely replenishing the expended energy charge in a specific battery. This device, thanks to a transformer, controls the level of forward current, and then redirects it to the appropriate rectifier, which prevents uneven current flow.

Chargers can be differentiated based on their appearance and the presence of important features.

Dimensions

In modern times, there are models that boast quite compact sizes. Considering that they are really small in size, you can easily take them with you. A device of this size can easily be carried in a hand bag.

Devices with small dimensions are mainly made of plastic and similar materials. Externally, they are a small case, in the front part of which there are four special compartments. Batteries are placed directly into these compartments and will be charged. For complete accuracy, the polarity is indicated on the slots, in principle the same as on rechargeable batteries. Thanks to this, it is impossible to make a mistake when connecting, but it is worth checking the pole relationship once again. After this, the devices can be connected to the network and the battery can be charged.

Best AAA Battery Chargers

Those who are choosing a charger for “little finger” batteries should take a closer look at the following models in 2021-2022.

LiitoKala Lii-PD4

An intelligent classic premium charger will delight its owner with a bright and informative digital display and the ability to recognize and charge almost all types of cylindrical batteries.

The model is equipped with 4 independent channels, each of which has its own control button numbered from 1 to 4, and offers 3 charging current options ranging from 500 mA to 2000 mA.

The backlit display shows the battery type, charge level (percentage), voltage, time and charge current.

It is worth noting that the device automatically turns off when the batteries are fully charged, the presence of protection against short circuits, overheating and overcharging, and even against incorrect installation of cylindrical batteries.

There is a mode for activating completely discharged batteries. There is automatic adjustment of the charge current, which depends on the type, quantity and location of batteries in the slots.

Characteristics:

• type - LiFePO4, Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• max charge current - 2000 mA;
• functionality - built-in display.

pros

• informative display;
• works from the network and from an adapter.

Minuses

• does not measure internal resistance;
• 1 operating mode.

Fenix ​​ARE-A4

A modern and functional device from a Russian manufacturer is designed to charge 9 types of batteries, which makes the device truly universal and suitable for use with most common forms and sizes of batteries.

The model is carefully protected from accidental damage, is lightweight and is equipped with an informative display that helps to exercise full control over the charging process of any batteries.

It is possible to simultaneously charge different types of batteries, which makes it easy to take the device with you on the road or travel, while the device works both from a standard outlet and from a car cigarette lighter.

It is also worth noting that this model operates in the widest temperature range - from -20 to +50ºC, and the device can be stored at higher thermometer readings. The device is not afraid of humidity in the range from 5 to 90%.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA, others;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the network, from the car cigarette lighter;
• functionality - built-in display, capacity measurement, short circuit protection.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• independent channels.

Minuses

• batteries heat up when charging;
• poor form of detachable contacts.

GP PB320GS-2CR1

A universal charger, made in a non-standard design, is intended for charging Ni-Mh batteries of various shapes and belongs to a fairly budget, but very high-quality series in the manufacturer’s line.

The model allows simultaneous charging of 1 to 4 batteries of different types and a crown type element, while the charging time depends on the shape and capacity of the battery and can vary from 3 to 15 hours.

In addition to the main function, the model allows you to test the charge level, is equipped with a timer and has a clear indication of readiness for use and the end of the battery charge.

The device operates with a low charge current, which eliminates the possibility of damage to the batteries, and the top protective cover makes it difficult for children to access the operating device and protects the owner in the event of battery failure. There is protection against overheating.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA, others;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• functionality - operation indication, protective cover, overheat protection.

pros

• does not heat up;
• there is a timer.

Minuses

• no charge level indicator;
• bad mode switch.

Brief information

In the modern world, every home has various appliances and devices that are powered by batteries. Be it children's toys, flashlights, photo and video equipment, a radio or a table clock - all this will require a certain amount of power.

Basically, the charge of an ordinary battery has a small amount of energy and after its consumption this source can be thrown away. In the case of a large energy consumption, which is consumed by a device needed in everyday life, you will often have to buy a large number of batteries, and in this case the costs will be serious.

There is one way that will help you deal with this problem and save your home budget in the future. To do this, you just need to purchase batteries suitable for translation recharging. Most likely, this method will cost more at first, but in the future it will save a lot of money, since discharged batteries can be charged as needed.

Best Chargers for AA Batteries

Those who prefer to own a charger that allows them to charge classic AA batteries should give preference to the following models in 2021-2022.

ROBITON MasterCharger Pro

A semi-professional charger will delight its owner with the ability to charge a wide variety of types and shapes of batteries and the presence under each slot of a large and informative LCD display, which displays complete and sufficient information about the charge current, elapsed time, voltage, accumulated capacity and internal resistance of the battery.

The model has 3 operating modes - traditional charge, discharge with testing and power supply to connected USB devices, while the device allows you to simultaneously charge batteries and power the connected device.

It is possible for the owner to independently select the amount of charging current for each battery within the range of 300-1000 mAh.

The automatic operating principle eliminates damage to the battery, since when it is fully charged, the device will turn off on its own.

It is worth noting that the time it takes to fully charge the batteries with this device ranges from 1.5 to 6 hours - and this is a very good indicator for such devices.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA, others;
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from USB, from a car cigarette lighter;
• max charge current - 1000 mA;
• functionality - display, charge-discharge function, capacity measurement, short circuit protection.

pros

• Works with almost any battery;
• independent channels.

Minuses

• only automatic charging mode;
• no voltage regulation.

Fenix ​​ARE-D2

The universal and functional model is distinguished by its compact size, which is determined by the presence of only 2 slots, allowing you to simultaneously charge no more than 2 batteries.

At the same time, the device recognizes and charges up to 9 types of batteries, has independent channels and is equipped with a Power bank function that allows you to quickly charge a smartphone, fitness bracelet or any other suitable gadget.

The model independently determines the type of battery installed in the slot and selects a suitable program for charging it, giving the owner the opportunity to select the required current strength.

Full information about the charging process is reflected on the display, the same for both slots, while the channel is switched cyclically by clicking on the button located next to the corresponding slot.

The model has a 5-lamp indication that reflects the battery charge level, and has protection against short circuit and overcharging.

A distinctive feature of the model is the ability to connect the device not only to an external drive, laptop or stationary source, but also to alternative energy sources, such as a tourist solar panel.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA, others;
• capacity - 2 slots;
• power supply - from USB, from the network, from the car cigarette lighter;
• max charge current - 2000 mA;
• functionality - display, short circuit protection.

pros

• good assembly;
• functional device.

Minuses

• large dimensions for 2 batteries;
• Inconvenient screen switch button.

SPACE KOC501

The compact and neat charger is made of durable heat-resistant plastic and does an excellent job of charging the most common types of batteries used in modern household appliances and gadgets.

The device is compact in size, easy to operate, runs on mains power, and is in an affordable price category.

The model is designed for simultaneous charging of 1-2 cylindrical batteries or Krona batteries, the duration of a full charge of which is from 7 to 15 hours, depending on the size and type of battery.

There is an LED indication of operation, reverse polarity protection and independent channels that allow you to fully charge both batteries when they are placed in the device at the same time.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA, Crown;
• capacity - 2 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• functionality - compact size.

pros

• good instructions;
• low price.

Minuses

• crooked clamps;
• ill-conceived light indication.

How long to charge a lithium battery

The battery charging time is determined by the process of capacity restoration. A distinction is made between full and partial charge.

Capacity is measured in ampere hours. This means that if you apply a charge numerically equal to the capacitance, then within an hour the required voltage will be created at the terminals, and the energy reserve will be 70-80%. If the capacity is measured in units of C, a current of 1C-2C should be applied when fast charging. Fast charging time is about an hour.

For a full charging cycle of batteries from several cells connected in series, 2 stages are used - CC/CV. The CC stage lasts until a voltage equal to the operating voltage appears at the terminals, in volts. Second stage: at a stable voltage, current is supplied to the jar, but with increasing capacity, it tends to zero. Charging time takes about 3 hours, regardless of capacity.

Best Battery Chargers with Short Circuit Protection

Short circuit protection is designed to preserve the functionality of both the device itself and the batteries placed in it. Those who care about the safety of their charger should pay attention to the following models in 2021-2022.

Camelion BC-1001A

Compact, practical and neat, the charger allows you to simultaneously charge 2 batteries, one of the most popular types of rechargeable batteries.

The model is convenient and easy to use, operates from a traditional electrical network and is equipped with indicators, separate for each channel and reflecting the readiness of the device to place discharged batteries in it.

The device has 3 charging channels and will pleasantly please its owner with the presence of a folding plug, which allows you to easily take the device with you on trips and trips, as well as ergonomically store the device outside of periods of use, without fear of accidentally breaking delicate parts.

It is worth noting that the use of the device is completely safe, since it has protection against reverse polarity, short circuit and faulty batteries.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - AAA, AA;
• capacity - 2 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• max charge current - 200 mA;
• functionality - short circuit protection.

pros

• clear indication;
• safety of use.

Minuses

• tight springs;
• long charging period.

Liitokala S-4

The innovative 4-channel charger is designed to charge the most common types of batteries.

A distinctive feature of the model is the ability to automatically determine the polarity of the battery placed in the device and the ability to adjust the charge current.

The charger operates from a standard outlet, has independent channels and is equipped with a digital display that displays the necessary information about the charge channel, battery type, its voltage and accumulated capacity, time and charge current.

When the battery is fully charged, the device automatically stops operating, which significantly extends the useful life of the battery. There is a function for activating completely discharged batteries, there is protection against short circuits, battery overheating, overcharging and incorrect installation of elements. The device can also detect completely faulty batteries, displaying a corresponding message on the screen.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - universal (AAA, AA);
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• functionality - protection against short circuit, overheating, overcharging.

pros

• stylish design;
• high-quality assembly.

Minuses

• one display, common (requires switching between slots).

Charger for batteries with LCD screen type AAA, AA, 18650

A compact and stylish universal charger, made in a durable and convenient plastic case, is designed to charge standard rechargeable batteries and is equipped with an informative LCD display and a charging indicator light.

The model allows you to simultaneously charge 2 cylindrical batteries of type AA (finger) or AAA (little finger).

Thanks to its small size and mains power via a long cord, the model ensures comfortable and convenient use by all household members, because to start the charging process there is no need to search for a dedicated outlet into which you can insert a fairly large device for a long time.

The model has short circuit protection, which significantly extends the effective use of both the charger itself and the batteries charged with it.

Characteristics:

• type - Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - universal (AAA, AA, others);
• capacity - 2 slots;
• power supply - from the network;
• max charge current - 2400 mA;
• functionality - short circuit protection, display, indication.

pros

• charges quickly;
• small size.

Minuses

• does not show charging percentage;
• not high quality plastic.

Battery type

There are currently several types of batteries:

• Primary type. The most ordinary batteries that can be purchased at any store for pennies. Such an energy source has a certain level of charge consumed over a certain time.
• Secondary type. This type includes just those batteries that, in case of depletion, can be easily charged. As a rule, special devices are used for this, which will be discussed in this article.

It is worth taking into account the fact that such batteries are much more expensive than regular ones and will most likely have a lower charge level, but this is compensated by the possibility of recharging. The advantage of such an energy source is that they have a long service life.

Further, it is worth noting that batteries come in different sizes - this depends on the need for use in various devices. Batteries are:

• AA class are ordinary AA batteries, which are often used in cameras, toys, watches, etc.;
• AAA class - little finger batteries used in TV remote controls, players, toys and other similar devices. Naturally, they have less energy;
• 9 V - more serious batteries, which are a battery connected from two or more nodes.

The best car cigarette lighter chargers for batteries

A modern car is not a luxury, but a way to get from point A to point B with minimal loss of time and maximum convenience. Those who spend a lot of time in cars and constantly need charged batteries for various gadgets should take a closer look at the following charger models in 2021-2022.

Nitecore NEW i2

A stylish, compact and modern charger is designed to charge or restore completely dead batteries, while the model recognizes and charges almost all currently existing models and types of batteries.

The device is quite easy to use, versatile and has high quality materials and workmanship. The device is equipped with a built-in microprocessor that regulates the voltage supplied to the batteries and can simultaneously charge different types of batteries, which is achieved thanks to charging slots that are independent from each other.

The built-in LCD display allows you to monitor the charging process and displays all the necessary information about the status of the process.

It is worth noting that this model is equipped with a unique function for restoring completely dead batteries and works effectively both from a traditional electrical network and from a car cigarette lighter, which makes this device the optimal solution for long business trips and long journeys.

Characteristics:

• type - LiFePO4, Li-Ion, IMR (Li-Mn);
• standard size - universal (AAA, AA, others);
• capacity - 2 slots;
• power supply - from the car cigarette lighter, from the network;
• max charge current - 1000 mA;
• functionality - display, capacitance measurement.

pros

• charges well;
• easy to connect.

Minuses

• not European cord;
• There are no Russian instructions.

LiitoKala Lii-600

A modern multifunctional charger has one of the highest current levels on the market for similar devices.

At the same time, the model allows for flexible adjustment of charging parameters, makes it possible to measure internal resistance, has manual and automatic modes and a battery training mode, which makes it an ideal device for any owner of gadgets and equipment that require rechargeable batteries.

6 touch control buttons and a high-quality LED display with switchable backlight provide convenient selection of the necessary settings, and many functions will allow you not only to charge a sufficient number of batteries, but also to restore old batteries, measure the actual battery capacity and eliminate the “memory effect”.

The model is equipped with multi-level protection against overcharge, overheating, reverse polarity and short circuit.

Characteristics:

• type - Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh;
• standard size - universal (AAA, AA, others);
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the car cigarette lighter, from the network;
• max charge current - 3000 mA;
• functionality - display, capacity measurement, charge-discharge, capacity restoration.

pros

• informative display;
• thoughtful design.

Minuses

• price;
• does not regenerate old batteries.

ROBITON MasterCharger 850

The universal automatic charger can easily cope with simultaneous charging of up to 4 batteries of different types, while the device independently recognizes the type of battery and selects the optimal charging program that ensures the highest capacity and long service life.

The device is equipped with a unique microprocessor that constantly monitors and monitors the charging process. There is a fast charge function with subsequent auto shut-off, allowing you to spend less time fully recharging the battery.

There is an option to recognize non-functioning batteries.

It is also worth noting the presence of protection against reverse polarity, short circuit and a safety timer (up to 10 hours). The model operates both from a traditional electrical network and from a car cigarette lighter.

Characteristics:

• type - LiFePO4, Ni-Cd, Li-Ion, Ni-Mh, IMR (Li-Mn);
• standard size - universal (AAA, AA, others);
• capacity - 4 slots;
• power supply - from the car cigarette lighter, from the network;
• max charge current - 850 mA;
• functionality - fast charging function, short circuit protection.

pros

• many types of batteries;
• fast mode.

Minuses

• overpriced;
• Thick batteries do not fit into the slots.

Which company should you choose?

All experts agree that you should not save on purchasing a high-quality and reliable battery charger; it is better to choose a suitable model among the products of such popular brands as LiitoKala, Duracell, GP, Energizer, Panasonic, Varta and Technoline, which are characterized by optimal combination of price and quality.

Among budget models, it is worth giving preference to the brands Camelion, Philips, PowerPlant, but products from the Apple and Sony brands, of course, will delight their owners with excellent quality, but the price will also be significantly higher than that of analogues produced by other brands.