Table of Contents
Introduction
Having a good dual battery charger is essential for any RC enthusiast who owns more than one model. Dual chargers allow you to charge two packs simultaneously, saving a ton of time at the end of a long day of running your RC cars or trucks. There are many options on the market, but I’ve rounded up the top dual chargers available based on charging performance, safety features, balance charging capability, ease of use, reputation and cost.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find reviews of the best dual battery chargers along with tips for how to select the right one for your needs and models. With the right dual charger, you’ll optimize charging speed, convenience and safety.
Key Takeaways:
- Look for a charger that can handle the voltage and chemistry of your battery packs, including lithium polymer (LiPo), nickel metal hydride (NiMH) and more.
- Make sure it has a suitable charge rate (amperage) for your battery capacities.
- Safety features like temperature sensing, automatic shutdown and more are essential.
- Balance charging ensures all cells charge evenly for maximum performance.
- Aim for a charger that’s easy to use and provides charging status information.
- Reputation of the brand and quality of construction also come into play.
Reviews of the Best Dual RC Battery Chargers
Traxxas EZ-Peak Dual
This dedicated dual LiPo charger is designed specifically for Traxxas models, making it plug and play simple to use.
Key Stats:
- Charge Rate – 8 amps per port, 16 amps total
- Chemistry – LiPo only
- Display – Green/Red LEDs
- Balance Charging – Yes
- Safety – Temperature sensing
The EZ-Peak Dual provides reliable high performance charging right from your Traxxas battery. Conveniently powered direct from the charging port. Easy to understand LED indicators. Compact size but lacks detailed data display. Overall an excellent first charger choice.
Venom Pro Duo
This full featured charger is popular for its wide compatibility and charging options.
Key Stats:
- Charge Rate – Up to 7 amps per port, 15 amps total
- Chemistry – LiPo, LiFe, NiMH, Pb
- Display – Backlit LCD
- Balance Charging – Yes
- Safety – Full suite like temp sensing
With adjustable settings, battery memories, full data display, and comprehensive protection, the Venom Pro Duo makes an ideal charger for hobbyists. Provides very versatile charging capabilities across chemistries and battery brands. Easy to navigate menu system.
GoolRC U8800 Duo
Offering great performance at a budget friendly price point, GoolRC hits a nice balance with the U8800.
Key Stats:
- Charge Rate – Up to 8 amps per port, 16 amps total
- Chemistry – LiPo, LiFe, NiMH, Pb
- Display – LED
- Balance Charging – Yes
- Safety – Standard protections
While not as full featured as some pricier competitors, the GoolRC U8800 Duo provides very reliable dual charging capabilities at an affordable cost. Gets all the basics right – decent charge rate, balance charging, safety features, simple controls. A great value pick.
Hitec X4 Duo Plus
The X4 Duo Plus is a compact and portable dual charger packed with features.
Key Stats:
- Charge Rate – Up to 7 amps per port, 14 amps total
- Chemistry – LiPo, NiMH, Pb
- Display – Backlit LCD
- Balance Charging – Yes
- Safety – Full monitoring and cutoff
Hitec packs a ton of functionality into the X4 Duo Plus. Wide chemistry support, detailed data views, battery memories, full protection suite, field-ready design. Provides premium performance charging in a small and lightweight footprint.
SkyRC Q200 Dual
As a premium brand in RC chargers, SkyRC built the Q200 to meet even expert hobbyist demands.
Key Stats:
- Charge Rate – Up to 14 amps per port, 26 amps total
- Chemistry – LiPo, LiIon, LiFe, NiMH, Pb, NiCd
- Display – Vivid LCD touchscreen
- Balance Charging – Yes
- Safety – Very comprehensive
With color touchscreen interface, huge 26 amp total output, PC connectivity, battery rebuilding capabilities and every feature imaginable, the SkyRC Q200 satisfies advanced users. But also remains intuitive enough for beginners. The last charger you may ever need.
What to Look for in a Dual Charger
Beyond the top picks reviewed, keep these factors in mind while choosing a dual battery charger for your RC needs:
Charge Rates and Power
The charge rate, specified in amps, indicates how quickly each charging port can charge. For example, a “5 amp” charger can charge at up to 5 amps per channel. Faster charge rates allow you to get going quicker.
Make sure to size appropriately – low capacity battery packs don’t need high amp chargers. But hungry high capacity packs require extra juice during charging sessions.
Dual chargers range from about 25W on the lower power end up to 200W+ for specialty high voltage packs used in extreme applications.
Supported Battery Chemistries
Ensure the charger works with all the battery types you need to charge:
- LiPo – Lithium Polymer, the most popular modern battery chemistry
- NiMH – Nickel Metal Hydride, an affordable chemistry used in many entry level RCs
- NiCd – Nickel Cadmium, an older heavy chemistry being phased out
- LiFe – Lithium Iron Phosphate, a stable chemistry growing in popularity
- Pb – Lead Acid, used in some hobby grade RC cars
Ideally get a charger supporting the common LiPo at a minimum, with flexibility for other chemistries.
Balance Charging
Balance charging is essential for lithium batteries to ensure the cells all charge evenly for maximum performance, life and safety.
LiPo and LiFe packs require special connectors for balance charging. Ensure the charger is compatible with the balance leads on your packs.
Display Type
A backlit LCD provides the most detailed stats like battery voltage, current capacity, time remaining etc.
LED displays are simpler – different color codes indicate charge state and warnings. Ideal for beginners.
Safety Features
Lithium batteries require careful charging to avoid damage and fire risks if handled improperly. Look for:
- Temperature monitoring and automatic shutdown
- Voltage limits to prevent overcharging
- Fire resistant casing
- Internal fan to dissipate heat
- Automatic cutoff when full to prevent overcharging
Advanced safety mechanisms provide essential protection and peace of mind.
Reputation and Reliability
Stick with established RC brands known for quality chargers. Ask fellow hobbyists for recommendations of models they’ve used reliably for years.
A reliable charger from a trusted brand goes a long way for safety and effective charging cycles.
Charge Rate Recommendations
Match your battery capacity needs to an appropriately specced charger:
Battery Capacity – Max Charge Rate
500-3000mAh – Up to 5 amps
3000-5000mAh – 5-8 amps
5000-10000mAh – 8-10 amps
10000mAh+ – 10 amps+
Charging at 1C (battery capacity = charge amps) is ideal. Never charge at rates higher than the battery’s rated maximum charge current.
Using Your Dual Charger Safely
While modern RC chargers contain protections, always practice safe charging habits:
- Never exceed the battery manufacturer’s recommended max charge rate
- Keep batteries in a fireproof bag or container when charging
- Avoid charging unattended – monitor periodically
- Ensure room ventilation and avoid charging near flammables
- Use the right charger settings and modes for your particular battery type
- Stop use if batteries heat up or swell abnormally
With proper charger precautions and handling, you can safely charge batteries worry-free for hundreds of cycles.
Conclusion
A good dual battery charger saves time and provides convenience when charging multiple packs for RC applications. Models from trusted brands like Traxxas, Venom, and Hitec offer excellent performance and safety. Seek out balance charging, suitable power levels, intuitive displays, and support for your required battery chemistries. Used responsibly, a quality dual charger simplifies keeping your packs charged and ready for action.
FAQ
Should I get a charger with more than 2 ports?
For most hobbyists, a dual 2-port charger provides ideal charging flexibility without unnecessary complexity. However power users with many battery packs may appreciate 4, 6, or even 8 port chargers to keep up with demand.
How long does an RC battery take to charge typically?
Charge times depend on the charger’s power level, battery type, and capacity. But roughly 1-3 hours is typical for full charges. Smaller batteries under 5000 mAh may fully charge in under an hour with faster chargers.
What should I look for in a portable field charger?
Key features for portable chargers are small footprint, lightweight construction, 12V DC capability to charge from a car battery, and an easy to read display when charging in daylight conditions.
Are all RC battery connectors compatible, or are there different types?
Pay close attention to connector styles – major types are Traxxas, EC3, XT60, Deans and others. Ensure your charger’s discharge leads match the battery connector style. Adapters can be purchased if not.
What should I do if my battery starts to puff up or swell while charging?
Immediately stop charging and discharge the battery outside or in a fireproof container. Never use or recharge a battery that has puffed or swollen – the gases indicate a damaged internal cell. Disconnect and properly dispose of it.
How can I tell if my RC battery charger is damaged or needs replacing?
Signs of damage include scorch marks on the casing, rattling internal fan, jiggling connector prongs, damage to cords, screen abnormalities, or if batteries are no longer charging fully despite good health. Stop using it.
Should I worry about overcharging my batteries if leaving them on the charger?
Quality modern chargers automatically stop charging when the battery is full. Just don’t leave highly discharged batteries charging unattended – have reasonable supervision the first hour.
What safety gear should I use when charging RC batteries?
As a minimum safety precaution, have a fire extinguisher nearby and avoid flammable fumes. For LiPo charging, use a fireproof charging bag. Some hobbyists use welding gloves, safety glasses and acid neutralizing agents in the unlikely event of a fire.
How can I get maximum lifespan out of my RC batteries?
Avoid running batteries all the way down each use, store them 40-80% charged, don’t expose to temperature extremes, charge at moderate rates between .5C-1C, and balance charge lithium packs. Also letrest before recharging if hot.
