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The top 5 best car battery charger brands in 2023
Whether you’re running late for work or just popping to the supermarket, there is never a convenient time for a flat battery. If you’re unable to get help from a mechanic quickly, a portable or outlet car battery charger can be a lifesaver. Although they don’t provide the same instant surge of power as jump starters, battery chargers help to restore the battery and even extend its life. For example, regular charging can prevent the formation of lead sulphate crystals, one of the main causes of premature failure.
However, not all chargers are worth your money. It’s important to choose a high-quality product that will be able to generate enough power for fast and reliable charging. Different vehicles will have different requirements, so you’ll also need to know the type of battery and what charging modes are suitable before you purchase one. This article will give you the low-down on the best makes of 6v and 12v car battery charger, according to experts and consumers.
Top Automotive Battery Chargers Car and also for stop-start cars
OXFORD
OXFORD battery chargers is based in Oxfordshire in the UK, where it designs its market-leading innovations in-house. The brand produces mid-range chargers for all kinds of vehicles with a key focus on solutions for bikes and all-terrain vehicles. Popular models include the Oximiser 3X Advanced Battery Management System and the OXFORD Solariser charger.
It has made it to the top 5 for its user-friendly, cost effective designs which help to reduce power consumption when charging, maintaining and restoring batteries. Its solar-powered model offers an eco-friendly solution for regular charging and works reliably with or without direct sunlight.
CTEK Battery Charger
portable, trickle charger, 4A, 24V
CTEK Battery Charger
with jump starter, 20A, 12V, 12V
CTEK Battery Charger
portable, trickle charger, 5A, 12V, 1.2-110Ah
Pros:
- Weatherproof, smart devices with clear LCD screens for monitoring the voltage and charge status
- Standard 2 year warranty
- Advanced voltage and polarity sensors
- Bulk fast charging and soft start charging modes
Cons:
- Short power leads
- Not suitable for low voltage batteries (6V)
BOSCH
The world-renowned German brand’s products have long had a reputation for high quality, efficiency, and innovative manufacturing. Its automotive Bosch battery chargers are no exception. It offers automatic chargers for almost any vehicle, from tiny two-wheelers to colossal commercial vehicles.
GYS Battery Charger
portable, trickle charger, 12V
GYS Battery Charger
portable, trickle charger, 7/15/30 AA, 12V
Hogert Technik Battery Charger
2, 8, 15A, 12V, 15-300Ah
OSRAM Battery Charger
trickle charger
Pros:
- Suitable models for 6V, 12V and 24 V batteries
- The devices automatically detect the type of lead-acid battery
- The C3 has pulse charging and trickle charging capabilities, reducing the risk of overcharging
- Its C7 model has a regeneration mode for recovering deeply discharged batteries, as well as a backup power mode
Cons:
- The C3 doesn’t have a recovery mode for batteries with sulphate buildups
- Batteries must have a 14Ah rating or higher for regeneration mode and must be disconnected first
RING
A specialist in lighting and power solutions, the manufacturer ensures that all of its products meet strict quality standards at its state-of-the-art testing facilities. It offers a very wide range of chargers, from budget segment models to high-end products. Its smart Ring battery chargers are highly recommended for conventional start/stop batteries and can be used for long-term connection.
Pros:
- Straightforward smart products with large LCD screens and one button operation
- Affordable prices
- Reverse polarity and overcharge protection
- Product range includes devices with battery analysis and winter charging functions
- Offers lightweight power banks with integrated jump starters
Cons:
- Short connector leads
- User instructions could be improved
AEG
The Berlin brand has been a specialist in electronics since the 19th century. The company has survived many challenges and changes thanks to its innovative thinking and built-to-last solutions. If you’re looking for a product that does exactly what it says on the tin, AEG battery chargers may be the solution for you. The intelligent AEG 10287 Battery Charger is a popular choice due to its Bluetooth feature which enables you to control and monitor the device via your smartphone.
Pros:
- Cost-effective product range, which includes high power and trickle charging devices more expensive than average
- Basic, user-friendly designs
- Offers chargers for 6V, 12V, 24V, and even 230V batteries
- Offers full protection (overcharge, reverse polarity, short-circuit, voltage peak and overheating protection)
Cons:
- Its low amperage devices are slightly
CTEK
As a global market leader in battery management solutions, the brand develops dependable, standardised solutions which enable customers to maximise their car battery’s performance anytime, anywhere. The CTEK CS One was given the top rating by Auto Express for the best CTEK battery chargers in 2022. The multi-mode charging device was able to reach 80% charge in just under 10 hours during testing.
Pros:
- High-tech features, including Adaptive Charging technology (APTO), Adaptive Boost technology, and a handy countdown function that accurately predicts how long it will take to charge the battery.
- Designed for both lithium and lead acid batteries
- Safe, spark-free devices that are splash and dust proof and protected against short circuits
- Products feature an automatic patented desulphation programme as well as a special recondition mode for deeply discharged car batteries
- Warranty lasts up to 5 years depending on the device
Cons:
- On the pricier side