Charging slots
The number of separate slots for batteries provided in the design of the charger.
The more such slots, the more batteries can be charged in the device at a time; “multi-charge” models (
charges for 4 batteries or more) will be especially useful in cases where you have to intensively use a large number of batteries. On the other hand, this feature significantly affects the dimensions, weight and cost of the “charger”. However, it is not so significant, therefore
there are models with 1 battery or
2 batteries less and they can be characterized as a tourist option.
Independent charge channels
The number of independent charging channels provided in the design of the charger.
If the voltage, charging current and other parameters in this model are regulated on all battery slots at the same time, this means that the device has only one channel. The presence of several charging channels allows you to set your own operating parameters on separate slots and, accordingly, simultaneously charge different types of batteries in one device. In this case, the channel can cover both one slot and several: for example, many models for 4 batteries have only 2 channels (one for every 2 slots).
The abundance of channels expands the capabilities of the "charger" and will be especially useful in cases where you often have to charge different types of batteries; on the other hand, it significantly affects the cost of the device.
Min. charge current
The smallest current that the device can provide in charge mode. If this parameter is specified in the specifications, this means that this model has the ability to adjust the charge current (otherwise, only the maximum current is indicated).
Charging current is one of the most important parameters for any charger: see “Maximum charge current. And the general range of current adjustment depends on this indicator: the lower the minimum value (with the same maximum) — the more extensive the possibilities for setting up the "charger" for the specific specifics of work.
Max. charge current
The highest current that the device can provide when charging the battery (or the nominal value of the charging current, if it is not adjustable).
Charging current is one of the most important parameters for any charger: it determines the speed of the process and compatibility with certain batteries. In general, the higher the current, the faster the process, the less time it takes to charge. At the same time, some batteries may have recommendations for the optimal current strength and restrictions on its maximum values. Therefore, mindlessly chasing a powerful charger is not worth it: at first it's ok to clarify how justified such power will be.
Note that in multi-channel devices (see "Independent channels"), the maximum current strength can be achieved when only part of the channels are operating. The indicators provided when all channels are operating simultaneously are indicated separately for such models (see "Charge current (all channels)").
Charge current (all channels)
The highest current provided by a multi-channel charger (see "Independent channels") at full load, with all slots (and, accordingly, channels) operating. In fact, a guaranteed maximum current provided by a multi-channel charger, regardless of the number of channels involved.
For the total charge current, see “Maximum charge current. Here we note that the full load is a rather complex mode in which the current strength can decrease. Therefore, this parameter is specified separately.
In box
In addition to the main charger, the package may include
batteries,
cigarette lighter adapter,
adapter to another type of battery and
bag (case). More about them:
- Battery. Some modern chargers can be equipped with batteries - of course, the latter are best suited for this model. Buying such a kit is often more convenient than buying a "charger" and batteries separately (at least it's faster).
— Cigarette lighter adapter 12 V. Presence of a charger adapter for connection to a car cigarette lighter socket. For more information about this connection, see "Charging from the cigarette lighter"; here we note that not all models with the possibility of such charging are initially equipped with auto adapters. Therefore, if it is important for you to be able to connect the charger to the cigarette lighter out of the box, you should pay attention to the models in the appropriate configuration.
- Battery adapters. Such adapters allow you to use the charger with batteries of "non-native" sizes (see above), and, as a rule, larger than standard ones. For example, a model for AA and AAA batteries can be equipped with adapters for C or even D. This is more convenient than using a charger that was originally designed for large sizes: the device turns out to be more compact, and if necessary, a large battery is connected...without problems through an adapter.
- Storage bag. The bag plays the role of a protective cover and can be used not only for storage, but also for transporting the charger. At the same time, it often provides additional compartments for various items - both complete, such as an external power supply, and additional, such as batteries. Therefore, and also because it fits optimally in size, a complete storage bag is much more convenient than impromptu cases.
