7 Best Lipo Chargers for RC Vehicles
The chances are you know the differences between NiCad, NiMH, and LiPo batteries. If not, you may want to read our article, “RC Batteries Explained in Plain English” first. Most radio control (RC) enthusiasts opt for LiPo rechargeable batteries for their models. There are good reasons for this. LiPos are flat, compact, have high-energy density, and a consistent discharge rate.
Point to note: LiPos also go by the names Lithium-ion polymer, Li-poly, LIP, and lithium-poly.
There are specific charging rules that everyone should know about. Please don’t skip the section further down if you’re unfamiliar with safe practices.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| SKYRC iMAX B6 Charger |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| Weight: 2.2 pounds |
| Dimensions: 8.9 x 8.5 x 2.5” |
| Easy-to-navigate menus, individual-cell-voltage balancer, discharge function. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Venom Pro Duo AC/DC Charger |
| 4.4/5.0 |
| Weight: 1.8 pounds |
| Dimensions: 5.3 x 3.7 x 7.5” |
| Easy menus, 5 navigation buttons, bright backlit LCD, assortment of charge leads. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| Venom Pro Quad Charger |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Weight: 4.9 pounds |
| Dimensions: 7 x 4.2 x 9.2” |
| Simple menus, 5-button navigation, backlit LCD, assortment of charge leads. |
| Check Amazon |
Types of LiPo Battery Charger
Not all LiPo battery chargers are equal. Understanding personal needs and what different models offer helps to make better buying decisions. Some are easier to use than others too.
The two kinds of LiPo battery charger include:
- Plug-and-play
- Programmable
Plug-n-play LiPo chargers are the simplest to use and the cheapest to buy. They’re most likely the best choice for entry-level RC hobby enthusiasts. Don’t decide just yet, though. Those serious about growing their hobby may opt for a programmable charger. This way, they don’t need to upgrade later.
#1 Plug-N-Play LiPo Chargers
There are some decent plug-and-play chargers around, but their only real advantage is affordability. These devices won’t meet the needs of RC enthusiasts who have multiple power-hungry models. The reviews do include a few basic plug-n-play LiPo chargers to cater for all budgets.
#2 Programmable LiPo Chargers
Programmable LiPo chargers sound complicated, but they’re not. Most have user-friendly controls and easy-to-program menus. This is how users get to customize their specific charging needs. Some devices are expensive, but most are affordable and make excellent long term investments.
I won’t go into all the programmable options here as each charger is different. Nothing is too complicated if you read the product’s instructions and never assume anything.
Battery Charging Rules
Charging LiPo batteries is a mostly straightforward process. However, there are a few rules that everyone should know. Below is a quick breakdown of the five sensible charging practices:
- Never leave charging batteries unattended
- Never try to recharge a damaged battery
- Charge batteries at 1C or less to extend their life
- Charge batteries in a LiPo safety bag or a fireproof location. Do not store batteries near flammable materials even if they are in a LiPo bag.
- Always match the charger with the correct number of cells and battery type
- Do not store your batteries at high voltage for a long period of time.
Try to remember these five LiPo battery charging rules if you’re unfamiliar with them. It’s the only way to avoid any potential charging and safety issues.
LiPo Battery Buying Considerations
There are a few things to consider before buying any LiPo battery charger. I won’t get into technicalities here as specs differ between setups. At least familiarize yourself with the points below. It’s essential that the new charger meets your personal needs and expectations:
- Device offers balance charging
- Cell compatibility (LiPo batteries supported by the charger)
- Charging current
- Power output
- Correct power supply if the charger doesn’t include one
Point to note: Some LiPo battery chargers also support multiple types of battery packs.
About this Best LiPo Charger Guide
There’s no shortage of LiPo chargers on the market. Some are okay, others are great, and a few are exceptional. There are also products that offer poor value. All the LiPo chargers on this page are excellent choices within their category. I chose the reviewed items with great care. I also took the opinions of industry experts into consideration along with real user feedback.
The first three reviews are Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top Pick. The LiPo chargers below those are in price order from lowest to high. The table here gives a snapshot of the reviewed products.
LiPo Chargers Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Weight | Dimensions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| SKYRC iMAX B6 Pro Mini LiPo Balance Charger | 2.2 pounds | 8.9 x 8.5 x 2.5” | Check Price |
| Venom Pro Duo AC/DC LiPo Balance Charger | 1.8 pounds | 5.3 x 3.7 x 7.5” | Check Price |
| Venom Pro Quad 400W 4-Port LiPo Charger | 4.9 pounds | 7 x 4.2 x 9.2” | Check Price |
| Keenstone Lipo Battery Charger/Discharger | 1.9 pounds | 5.1 x 2.4 x 4.5” | Check Price |
| Venom Racing AC/DC Lipo Balance Charger | 0.7 pounds | 5.1 x 5.6 x 1.9” | Check Price |
| Venom Pro 2 AC/DC LiPo RC Battery Charger | 1.3 pounds | 5.4 x 5 x 2.2” | Check Price |
| ISDT D2 LiPo Balance Battery Duo Discharger | 1.3 pounds | 4.7 x 4.2 x 2.8” | Check Price |
1. SKYRC iMAX B6 V2 Pro Mini LiPo Charger | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The SKYRC iMAX B6 Pro Mini LiPo Charger is an excellent budget choice. One of its standout features is the Charge Master software. The program lets you operate the device via a regular PC.
- Best feature 1: PC control software
- Best feature 2: Smartphone control
- Plus points: Easy-to-navigate menus, individual-cell-voltage balancer, discharge function
- Minus points: Cheap buttons, hot batteries
Compatible batteries include: Lipo, NiCD, NiMH, Li-ion, LiFE, LiHV, and Lead Acid.
When to Consider the B6 Pro Mini Charger
SKYRC’s iMAX B6 Pro V2 Mini is a significant upgrade to the popular iMAX B6AC. The device is product stable and accurate and boasts a host of new features and functions. It’s a worthy Lithium battery balancer choice for our Best Budget pick. It comes equipped with a battery resistance meter and a battery voltage meter. It also has Terminal Voltage Control (TVC) and program data store/load.
The B6 Pro Mini V2 offers smartphone control using iOS and Android compatible devices. The menus are well-thought-out and easy to navigate. There’s no need to connect an external balancer for charging. This product employs a convenient individual-cell-voltage balancer. The iMAX B6 V2 monitors and balances each batterie’s cells individually during discharging.
The Not So Good
The buttons seem cheap and quite out of place with what’s an otherwise quality charger. The second issue is heat. All battery chargers get hot, especially when discharging. This one tends to get hot to the point where users comment on it, though. Some have said they had to let the batteries cool down before they could pick them up. ALWAYS charge in safe, cool spaces with adequate ventilation.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 8.9 x 8.5 x 2.5” |
| Product Weight: 2.2 lbs. |
| AC Input Voltage: 100~240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| PC control software |
| Smartphone control |
| Easy-to-navigate menus |
| Individual-cell-voltage balancer |
| Discharge function |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Cheap buttons |
| Batteries get overly hot |
2. Venom Pro Duo AC/DC Balance Charger | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The Best Value pick goes to the Venom Pro Duo 80W X2 Dual AC/DC 7A balance charger. It’s a versatile, portable, space-saving unit that comes with a handle for easy carrying.
- Best feature 1: Space saving, portable design
- Best feature 2: 2 Independent, dedicated charging circuits
- Plus points: Easy menus, 5 navigation buttons, bright backlit LCD, assortment of charge leads
- Minus points: Vague instructions
Compatible batteries include: LiPo, LiHV, Li-Ion and Lithium Iron (LiFe), NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride), NiCD (Nickel Cadmium), and Lead Acid (Pb) based chemistries.
When to Consider the Venom Pro Duo Charger
There’s a lot to like with the Venom Pro Duo AC/DC balance charger. The two 80W dedicated charging circuits save valuable space on any workbench. The product is quick to set up and even easier to use. It boasts intuitive menus, 5 navigation buttons, and a brightly lit LCD. The Venom Pro Duo supports all the familiar battery chemistries (see above).
This product comes with a variety of charge leads including extra-long balance leads. The longer leads make easy work of safe charging in flame-protective LiPo sacks.
The Not So Good
There’s little to fault with the Venom Pro Duo AC/DC Balance Charger. The only complaint is with the vague instruction manual—a common failure with many chargers/dischargers. It’s not a significant concern, though, as there are a few useful ‘unboxing’ and ‘setting up’ tutorials on YouTube.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 5.3 x 3.7 x 7.5” |
| Product Weight: 1.8 lbs. |
| Input: DC 11.0V-18.0V – AC 100V-240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A. Uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Space-saving, portable design |
| 2 independent, dedicated charging circuits |
| Simple menus |
| 5 navigation buttons |
| Bright backlit LCD |
| Assortment of charge leads |
| 2 extra-long balance leads |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Vague instructions |
3. Venom Pro Quad 400W 4-Port LiPo Charger | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Our Top Pick charger is another compact, space-saving product from Venom. This one is their Pro Quad model that comes with 4 dedicated power supplies in a single unit.
- Best feature 1: 4 dedicated power supplies in a single unit
- Best feature 2: 2 powerful USB 2.3 amps charging ports at the rear of the unit
- Plus points: Simple menus, 5-button navigation, backlit LCD, assortment of charge leads
- Minus points: No master power switch
Compatible batteries include: LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Li-Ion, NiMH, NiCD, and Pb (lead acid).
Why Consider the Venom Pro Quad Charger?
This space-saving battery balance charger provides 4 x 100W 7A channels. That allows users to charge up to four batteries at the same time. It supports all the popular chemistries (see above). At the rear of the unit are two discrete and powerful USB 2.3 Amp ports. The 5-button control interface and bright backlit LCD make it easy to navigate the intuitive menus.
The Pro Duo charger comes with several charge leads. These include Alligator, Deans, EC3, EC5, HXT 4, JST, Receiver (RX), and Tamiya, XT60. There’s also a couple of long charging leads in the box that enables safe operation in LiPo sacks.
The Not So Good
Most folks are happy with their purchase, but there’s one con that irks some users. It’s the absence of an ON/OFF power switch. It’s not a huge setback, but it annoys some. It’s often the little things that can make the biggest difference with products when there’s hot competition.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 7 x 4.2 x 9.2” |
| Product Weight: 4.95 lbs. |
| Input: DC 11.0V-18.0V – AC 100V-240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A. Uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Compact, space-saving charger |
| 4 dedicated power supplies in a single unit |
| 2 powerful USB charging ports |
| Simple to use menus |
| 5-button navigation |
| Backlit LCD |
| Variety of charge leads included |
| The Cons |
|---|
| No master power switch |
4. Keenstone Lipo Battery Charger/Discharger
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The affordable Keenstone Lipo Battery Charger/Discharger comes with a low voltage checker. It’s a small desktop type unit that supports 7 battery types to meet multiple RC charging needs.
- Best feature 1: Affordable, multi-function charger
- Best feature 2: Range of safety features
- Plus points: Memorizes battery parameters, fast charge, safe storage
- Minus points: vague instructions, noisy everything
Compatible batteries include: Lipo: 1-6 cell, LiFe: 1-6 cell, Li-ion: 1-6 cell, LiHv: 1-6 cell, NiMH: 1-15cell, NiCd: 1-15 cell, PB (lead acid): 2-24V.
Why Consider the Keenstone Lipo Charger?
The Keenstone 100W 10A AC / DC Lipo Charger / Discharger is a reliable multifunction tool. It has a range of safety features and that’s always a good thing. Some of those include cutoff voltage, temperature detection, battery IR measure, and others.
Its multifunction uses include charge/discharge cycle (1-5 cycles) plus storage and charging data. Memorizing battery parameters is extremely handy for heavy users. There’s also fast charge, safe storage, and Li-ion / Lipo Balance charge. There are several connector types in the box. They include mini Tamiya, standard Tamiya; XT60, Deans, Alligator clips, and a Bare connector.
The Not So Good
Keenstone could have given their LiPo battery charger/discharger broader appeal. They’ve missed the boat on that one as the instructions are too vague for newbies to figure out. There aren’t any “official” video tutorials either. Another complaint is the noise this thing makes. The alarms are unnecessarily loud for one. The unit is also quite noisy compared to others, especially when its first turned on.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 5.1 x 2.4 x 4.5” |
| Shipping Weight: 1.87 lbs. |
| Input Voltage: AC 100 ~ 240V, DC 11.0-18.0V |
| Charging Bays: N/A. Uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Affordable, multi-function charger |
| Compact, lightweight design |
| Broad range of safety features |
| Li-ion/Lipo balancer |
| Memorize battery parameters |
| Fast charge, safe storage |
| Vague user instructions |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Overly loud alarms |
| Noisy fan when first turned on |
5. Venom Racing AC/DC Lipo Balance Charger
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.5/5
At #6 is the Racing 0683 2-4 Cell AC/DC LiPo battery balance charger by Venom. It’s a super easy-to-use product that’s compact and lightweight. The device supports JST-XH 2.5 port type connectors.
- Best feature 1: Ideal charger for entry-level RC enthusiasts
- Best feature 2: Large blue 2.5” LCD
- Plus points: Simple to use, auto-detection, auto cut-off, temperature protection
- Minus points: No discharge mode, no fan, too basic for advanced-level RC’ers
Compatible batteries include: LiPo/LiFe at the same time or 1-3 cell, 1-4 cell.
Why Consider the Venom Racing AC/DC Charger?
The Venom 2-4 Cell AC/DC Dual LiPo is a fast balance charger. It has an unusual design that’s attractive, robust, and practical. This model is an excellent choice for entry-level through to intermediate RC enthusiasts. It sports a bright 2.5” LCD and easy-to-navigate menus. The charger boasts an average charging time of 1 hour across various battery types.
One of its standout features is the automatic detection of current and the capacity of individual cells. It also has an auto cut-off safety feature and temperature protection. The temperature function automatically regulates the charge power in the event of overheating.
The Not So Good
The biggest letdown is that there isn’t a discharge feature with this product. There isn’t a cooling fan either. Still, it probably doesn’t need one such is its size and limited functionality. That brings me on to the last point. The Venom Racing 0683 is an excellent entry-level product. However, you may want something with more charging options and features if you plan to expand your RC hobby.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: LiPo/LiFe |
| Charger Dimensions: 5.1 x 5.6 x 1.9” |
| Product Weight: 0.67 lbs. (10.8 oz.) |
| Input: DC 10.0V-18.0V – AC 100V-240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A, uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Ideal entry-level charger |
| Large blue 2.5” LCD |
| Simple to use |
| Auto detection |
| Auto cut-off |
| Temperature protection |
| The Cons |
|---|
| No discharge mode |
| No cooling fan |
| Basic for advanced-level RC’ers |
6. Venom Pro 2 AC/DC LiPo RC Battery Charger
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The Venom Pro 2 is an affordable AC/DC multi-chemistry charger. It’s a general-purpose model that works well for most RC charging needs. That includes RC drones, cars, trucks, buggies, and boats, etc.
- Best feature 1: 5 recallable memory profiles
- Best feature 2: Internal resistance testing
- Plus points: Upgraded design, multiple discharge profiles, 7 charging leads, value for money
- Minus points: Vague instructions for novice users
Compatible batteries include: Lithium LiPo up to 6S, NiMH/NiCad from 1-15 cells, Lead Acid batteries from 1-10 cells (2v to 20v)
When to Consider the Venom Pro 2 RC Charger
The Venom Pro Charger 2 has had an upgrade and facelift. This version has a nice rubber-like textured to it and sports an upgraded 80W 7 amp charging circuit. It’s a multi-chemistry fan-cooled charger controlled with a microprocessor. The Pro2 boasts a plethora of high-end features including multiple discharge profiles. Its 5 recallable memory profiles and internal resistance testing are two more.
A new model comes equipped with several of the most common leads for charging. They include Tamiya, XT60, EC3, Deans, JST, and alligator clips for secure connections.
The Not So Good
Venom is a reputable name in quality chargers, but their instructions often fall short. The Pro 2 model here is no different. Most novice users would find the product guides far too vague. At least some experienced users upload helpful tutorials to sites like YouTube.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 5.4 x 5 x 2.2” |
| Product Weight: 1.25 lbs. |
| Input: DC 11.0V-18.0V – AC 100V-240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A, uses connectors |
| Status indicators: LCD |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Excellent entry-level RC charger |
| 5 recallable memory profiles |
| Internal resistance testing |
| Multiple discharge profiles |
| 7 charging leads |
| Alligator clips |
| Value for money |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Vague instruction for novices |
| Mixed reviews |
7. ISDT D2 LiPo Balance Battery Duo Charger
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
Last on the list is the ISDT D2 dual channel smart LiPo battery balance charger. It’s a quality product and one that’s compatible to use around the world.
- Best feature 1: Adaptable for global voltages
- Best feature 2: 5 safety protection features
- Plus points: Easy set-up, colorful LCD, dual fan cooling, updates via computer
- Minus points: Noisy fans, vague manual, easily scratches
Compatible batteries include: LiHv (1-6S) LiPo (1-6S) LiFe (1-6S) Lilon (1-6S) NiMH (1-16S), Cd (1-16S), Pb lead–acid (1-12S)
When to Consider the ISDT D2 Duo Charger
ISDT is an established supplier of chargers and battery related items. The company’s products have unique designs and a strong focus on high quality. The D2 is adaptable for different voltages around the world and includes a total of 4 safety features. They are short current protection (SCP), overload protection (OLP), overvoltage protection (OVP), and over temperature protection (OTP).
The bright 2.4” LCD color screen is also unique. The display gives users fast access to all the menus and charging functions. The charger is easy enough for experienced users to set up but can be a little tricky for novices (see below). The dual fan cooling is another welcome feature. However, two fans also mean more noise than similar single-fan products. Firmware updates are available by computer.
The Not So Good
The fans tend to make quite a noise with this balance battery duo charger. It’s not a serious negative, but it does place restrictions on where you do the charging. Another minor annoyance is the semi-gloss finish that scratches easily. Lastly, the manual is vague for novice users—a common issue with lots of these products. Those new to LiPo chargers may need to rely on YouTube videos for guidance.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Battery Type: Multiple battery support |
| Charger Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.2 x 2.8” |
| Product Weight: 1.32 lbs. |
| Input Voltage: AC 100-240V |
| Charging Bays: N/A, uses connectors |
| Status indicators: Color display |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Adaptable for global voltages |
| 5 safety protection features |
| Easy set-up |
| Dual fan cooling |
| Bright, colorful display |
| Firmware updates via computer |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Noisy fans |
| Vague manual |
| Easily scratches |
Contents
- Types of LiPo Battery Charger
- #1 Plug-N-Play LiPo Chargers
- #2 Programmable LiPo Chargers
- Battery Charging Rules
- LiPo Battery Buying Considerations
- About this Best LiPo Charger Guide
- LiPo Chargers Comparison Table
- 1. SKYRC iMAX B6 V2 Pro Mini LiPo Charger | Best Budget
- When to Consider the B6 Pro Mini Charger
- The Not So Good
- 2. Venom Pro Duo AC/DC Balance Charger | Best Value
- When to Consider the Venom Pro Duo Charger
- The Not So Good
- 3. Venom Pro Quad 400W 4-Port LiPo Charger | Top Pick
- Why Consider the Venom Pro Quad Charger?
- The Not So Good
- 4. Keenstone Lipo Battery Charger/Discharger
- Why Consider the Keenstone Lipo Charger?
- The Not So Good
- 5. Venom Racing AC/DC Lipo Balance Charger
- Why Consider the Venom Racing AC/DC Charger?
- The Not So Good
- 6. Venom Pro 2 AC/DC LiPo RC Battery Charger
- When to Consider the Venom Pro 2 RC Charger
- The Not So Good
- 7. ISDT D2 LiPo Balance Battery Duo Charger
- When to Consider the ISDT D2 Duo Charger
- The Not So Good