Best Rechargeable Battery Chargers in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 11, 2024
If you have rechargeable batteries in your devices, you'll definitely need a battery charger as it is the only solution to recharge ...Read more
PROS

The Duracell Hi-Speed Expert Battery Charger that requires literally no more than 5 minutes of charge providing you with up to 4 hours of use. After it is done completely charging all of the batteries up, the charger will automatically turn off in order to prevent it from overheating.

CONS

The process of inserting the AAA batteries may seem counterintuitive at first.

OUR VERDICT

If you're looking for a device that won't waste your time and will charge your batteries as fast as possible, the Duracell CEF15UK is that fast rechargeable battery charger that you ought to look out for.

detailed parameters
Compatible Battery Types

AA, AAA, Ni-MH

Simultaneous Charging

4 batteries

Charging Current

up to 1000 mA

Power Supply

AC 100-240V

Special Features

Drop-, Vibration-, and Shock-proof, LED charge indicator, cell cooling system, 10 safety features (overheating protection, reverse polarity protection, low voltage protection etc), 4 x AA batteries included

Warranty

15 years

PROS

The model is able to detect bad/damaged batteries. It has no issues with odd numbers. You can charge 1, 2, 3, or 4 batteries simultaneously. Each slot is controlled and monitored independently. The test mode lets you check the rechargeable battery's capacity in mAh/Ah.

CONS

The housing usually starts to heat up after some time. 

OUR VERDICT

Youshiko YC4000 is as good as rechargeable battery chargers get within this price bracket. The model's functional, effective, safe, and practical. It doesn't discriminate and is able to work with most batteries. Plus, the plastic housing is surprisingly robust.

detailed parameters
Compatible Battery Types

AA, AAA / Ni-MH, Ni-Cd

Simultaneous Charging

4 batteries

Charging Current

up to 1000 mA

Power Supply

AC 100-240V

Special Features

LCD screen, 4 modes (charging, discharging, refresh, test), overheat and overcharge protection, USB port for charging mobile devices

Warranty

1 year

PROS

This versatile charger is compatible with batteries of various sizes and chemistry, and can instantly recognize batteries that have some kind of defect.

CONS

The charging unit is rather bulky.

OUR VERDICT

The EBL Universal Battery Charger can easily deal with any type of rechargeable batteries. With multiple advantageous features, this device is one of the most practical chargers on the market.

detailed parameters
Compatible Battery Types

AA, AAA, C, D, 9V

NiMH, NiCd

Simultaneous Charging

4 batteries

Charging Current

up to 1000 mA

Power Supply

AC power outlet (100-240V)

Special Features

Charge/discharge button, Intelligent protection, Smart LCD screen, Automatic cutoff

Warranty

1-year limited warranty 

PROS

The device is capable of charging four different batteries at the same time and all of the 4 battery slots monitors and charges independently. Moreover, the advanced circuitry of this model can detect the battery type and status on its own before entering the automatic charge mode.

CONS

The LCD display may be a bit too bright for some people.

OUR VERDICT

If you don't feel like dealing with subpar products and having to purchase an array of additional chargers, get the BEEWAY PRO D4. This professional device will be able to handle any type of battery and features the kind of functions you didn't even know you needed before acquiring this top-notch model.

detailed parameters
Compatible Battery Types

26650, 22650, 18650, 17670, 18490, 17500, 18350, 16340, 14500, 10440, AA, AAA, AAAA, CLi-ion, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd LiFePO4

Simultaneous Charging

4 batteries

Charging Current

375mA x 4 / 750mA x 2

Power Supply

AC 100-240V

Special Features

Integrated LCD panel, auto-detection of battery power status, side buttons for selection of specific battery types and charging parameters, over-charge prevention, reverse polarity protection, temperature monitoring

Warranty

5 years

PROS

A built-in USB port makes it possible to charge mobile devices along with rechargeable cells. Plus, it boasts built-in switching technology making it suitable for worldwide use.

CONS

The batteries can only be charged in pairs.

OUR VERDICT

Robust and portable design of the AmazonBasics Battery Charger ensures its long lifespan as well as makes it a perfect solution for trips.

detailed parameters
Compatible Battery Types

AA, AAA

NiMH

Simultaneous Charging

4 batteries

Charging Current

up to 600 mA

500 mA (USB output)

Power Supply

AC power outlet (100-240V)

Special Features

Slim travel-friendly design, USB port for charging mobile devices

Warranty

1-year limited warranty 

Trust the Bunny

The advertisement is a crucial and essential part of selling any kind of product which, in turn, allows the developers and manufacturers to create and experiment with newer, better versions of their devices. But just because it is essential, that, of course, does not mean that it's pleasant. Ads can often feel intrusive, irritable and downright annoying. However, from time to time, some companies do manage to create the kind of advertisement that doesn't just avoid aggravating their target audience but is even capable of persuading certain people to enjoy it and even look forward to the ad.

And there's never been a better example of that than the Duracell Bunny. An advertisement campaign that started over 40 years ago in 1973, this anthropomorphic pink rabbit powered by Duracell batteries was able to draw and captivate the attention of hundreds of millions of viewers all over the world and convince a multitude of potential customers to give the already exceptional at the time Duracell products a chance. Although the ad isn't as prevalent nowadays as it used to be, it still serves as a symbol and a prove that Duracell produces exceptional items that millions of people all over the world still choose to put their trust in. And the Duracell CEF15UK battery charger is another great example of that.

Rabbit Wins This Race

All of those people in charge of advertisement at Duracell did not choose a racing rabbit as their mascot at random, of course. The company has been always known for making the kind of batteries and chargers that last longer and charge much faster than the majority of their competitors. The Duracell CEF15UK carries that tradition on featuring the Duracell Hi-Speed Expert Battery Charger that requires literally no more than 5 minutes of charge providing you with up to 4 hours of use. And if you wish to charge them up entirely, it will take measly 15 minutes to charge two AA batteries making it arguably one of the fastest chargers out there. On top of that, even though the model comes with 4 AA Duracell rechargeable batteries, the device is capable of powering up all kinds of AA and AAA rechargeable batteries. After it is done completely charging all of the batteries up, the charger will automatically turn off in order to prevent it from overheating. The trickle charge current maintains the batteries’ power so they do not discharge on their own after the charger stops operating.

A Decade and a Half Guaranteed

As important as speed can be, when you're dealing with power and electricity, one of the first things you have to make sure of is that the device is completely safe and secure before you decide to actually acquire one. Fortunately, professionals at Duracell have been in this business for a long time, so they know what they're doing when it comes to that aspect as well. The device comes with up to 10 safety features including but not limited to the protection against over and low voltage or short circuits, protection against charging non-rechargeable batteries and reverse polarity. A cell cooling system delivers air around the cell utilising a fan in order to prevent it from overheating. On top of that, the charger has been rigorously tested against drop, vibration, and shock stress and is designed to withstand virtually any kind of physical and electrical damage. Although there's little to no chance you are actually going to need it, the company distributes this Duracell Expert Charger with a 15-year guarantee, so you won't have to worry about purchasing a different charger for the longest time. All in all, if you're looking for a device that won't waste your time and will charge your batteries as fast as possible, the Duracell CEF15UK is the fast rechargeable battery charger that you ought to look out for.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £34.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B008W8C6YK

Same but Different

More often than not, rechargeable battery chargers don't really differ that much from each other. Needless to say, these devices aren't that complicated. Provided the model is able to effectively and efficiently charge multiple batteries, there isn't much else to ask for, is it? Well, yes and no. Sure, the differences aren't major. But you can easily tell any quality battery charger from its mediocre peers.

Take Youshiko YC4000, for example. It is the little things but the model is able to do so much more with these things than your average charger. For one, YC4000 is able to detect bad/damaged batteries. The model has no issues with odd numbers. You can charge 1, 2, 3, or 4 batteries simultaneously. At the same time, each slot is controlled and monitored independently. But let's pivot a little and start with the model's design.

Four Different Modes

Youshiko YC4000 comes equipped with an LCD screen that is divided into four separate parts, one for each battery slot. You can apply the model's multiple modes individually as well as together.

The charge/discharge modes will let you quickly and effectively recharge/empty any battery. Using the latter, you'll be able to remove the memory effect that plagues older batteries.

Then, there's the refresh mode. This mode refreshes your rechargeable battery to its maximum capacity by charging and discharging the battery repeatedly until no further increase in the capacity is estimated.

Last but not least, there's the test mode that lets you check the rechargeable battery's capacity in mAh/Ah.

The model has no issues with any and all AA, AAA / Ni-MH, Ni-Cd rechargeable battery with maximum capacity capping at 3000 mAh.

Charge Your Phone

The model's safety mechanisms are nothing new. You have the usual overheat and overcharge protection. These work alright. At the same time, the housing usually starts to heat up after some time. The temperature remains acceptable though.

A nice little touch that we don't always see in these battery chargers is a USB port next to the 12V input that you can use to charge mobile devices. Plus, the model is able to work with your cigarette lighter plug. Just keep in mind that the necessary car adapter is not included in the package, so you'll have to purchase it separately.

Bottom line, Youshiko YC4000 is as good as rechargeable battery chargers get within this price bracket. The model's functional, effective, safe, and practical. It doesn't discriminate and is able to work with most batteries. Plus, the plastic housing is surprisingly robust.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £29.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00N7GHUH0

For Any Type of Batteries

The EBL Universal Battery Charger will satisfy any user regardless of batteries in need of charging. A huge advantage of the model is its capability to work with batteries of various types and sizes. In particular, this charging unit is compatible with AA, AAA, C, D batteries (either NiMH or NiCd). Actually, it's a great benefit since various batteries have absolutely different requirements for charging. With the EBL Universal Battery Charger, there is nothing to worry about! You can charge up to four AA/AAA rechargeable batteries at a time or up to two 9V NiMH/NiCd ones. Thanks to the special circuit design, it's possible to mix and charge different types of batteries together.

It's important to mention that the model comes with multiple protections against electrical issues. It automatically cuts off charging current when detecting improper input voltage, short circuit, or non-rechargeable batteries.

Smart and Practical

As you might know, nickel cadmium batteries (NiCd) need to be discharged completely before recharging as the frequent partial discharging leads to the “memory effect” which makes full charge no longer available. NiMH batteries are basically considered to be more tolerant to this issue, however, it's better to provide their complete discharge as well, since such approach ensures longer service life. For this purpose, the EBL Universal Battery Charger has the discharge function. To activate this mode, just press a special button. Another very useful feature is that the model comes with a large and clear display allowing you to get all data about the recharging process.

If You Bought New NiMH Batteries

To get the most out of your NiMH rechargeable battery cells, you need to completely discharge and recharge them again 4–6 times. These simple actions will allow you to maximize batteries' performance. The number of discharge/charge cycles varies depending on the manufacturing process.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £19.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B011RPXKCG

Time for a Professional to Take Over

A battery charger is an item that many could argue is an essential or, at the very least, a very useful piece of technology that most people could find a use for in their day-to-day lives. But it is also, generally speaking, a very basic product that will be able to satisfy most customers as long as it is able to serve its fundamental purpose. A variety of additional options and functions is always a nice addition but, more often than not, most people wouldn't necessarily care about them.

That is, at least, until they're finally fed up with subpar products that are unable to satisfy all of their needs one way or the other. When that finally happens, those who were none the wiser before tend to learn from their mistakes and look for a device that features the kind of professional quality that will be able to handle anything you throw its way. Of course, these products often tend to cost more than their more average counterparts, but if you'll be able to find a proper one, the years it will faithfully serve you will sure make up for the price tag. And if you don't feel like searching for one, don't worry. We already did that job for you and are glad to present you with the BEEWAY PRO D4, a professional battery charger that will be able to handle any task you throw its way.

Handles Any Type and Format

Rechargeable batteries may differ from your regular ones but there is at least one thing that does not separate them and that would be the fact that there are many different types of rechargeable batteries and a variety of different versions between those types. One of the most alluring things about the BEEWAY PRO D4 is that is capable of identifying and recharging virtually every single type and version of cylindrical batteries, meaning that you won't have to bother with purchasing another charger if some of your batteries happen to be somewhat or entirely different from the other ones. Be it lithium-ion batteries (26650, 22650, 18650, 17670, 18490, 17500, 18350, 16340(RCR123), 14500, 10440), Ni-MH and Ni-Cd (AA, AAA, AAAA, C) ones or LiFePO4 types, you can rest assured knowing that this device will be able to handle them all. On top of that, this product is even compatible with small capacity batteries, which is something that very few models out there could boast. Additionally, the device is capable of charging four different batteries at the same time and all of the 4 battery slots monitors and charges independently.

Do It Yourself or Let the Device Do It for You

Another thing that makes the BEEWAY PRO D4 so attractive is the fact that despite being so stacked with features and functions, the device is incredibly easy to operate. There are a couple of handy buttons located on each side of the model that will provide you with an opportunity to easily select the specific battery types and charging parameters. The device features an integrated LCD screen that clearly displays charging parameters and progress. And if you don't feel like doing this job yourself, you're in luck since the impressive and technologically advanced circuitry of this model can detect the battery type and status on its own before entering the automatic charge mode (CC, CV, dV/dt). Moreover, it is also capable of automatically detecting the battery's power status and selecting the appropriate voltage. Just like the majority of top chargers out there, the device stops on its own when the charging is complete without the user having to do it manually. But on top of that, it also comes with an over-charge prevention feature that will do wonders in terms of protecting the batteries from shortening their own lifespan. So if you don't feel like dealing with subpar products and having to purchase an array of additional chargers, get the BEEWAY PRO D4. This professional device will be able to handle any type of battery and features the kind of functions you didn't even know you needed before acquiring this top-notch model.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B06W2MWF7J

Elaborate Design and Wide Range of Capabilities

The AmazonBasics Battery Charger is not only the right solution for home use, this is a perfect choice for those fond of traveling as well. Its thin housing enables you to take the appliance wherever you need, it won't take much space in your baggage. In addition, the retractable AC plug also makes the charger easy to store and transport. The charging unit is compatible with AA and AAA NiMH batteries of various capacities. By the way, the model is designed for operating at 100V–240V, you'll have no problems using the charger anywhere in the world. The Amazon Basics Battery Charger is undoubtedly the perfect solution to replenish a battery charge for any of your gadgets!

Good Performance and Additional Opportunities

As we've mentioned above, this battery recharger can be used with batteries of various capacities. To charge AAA batteries, it takes 3–3.5 hours for 1800–2000 mAh, 3.5–4 hours for 2100–2300 mAh, 4–4.5 hours for 2300–2500 mAh. To charge AAA alternatives, the charger requires 2–2.5 hours for 700-800 mAh, 3–3.5 hours for 900-1200 mAh. As you can see, the charging unit really does well! You won't wait too long for your batteries to be completely charged. Another distinctive feature is a USB port that allows charging mobile devices as well. It's particularly useful when no sufficient number of power outlets are available.

How to Keep Your Phone's Battery Healthy

Taking into account the capability of the device to charge smartphones and tablets, we feel it necessary to remind you about safety precautions. Make sure not to overheat the batteries. High temperature is the worst enemy of lithium-ion batteries, so, never expose the smartphone to direct sunlight. Likewise, don’t leave your gadgets near heating appliances. The maximum permissible ambient temperatures should be within the range of 40°F to 122°F.

Last updated price £13.92
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00TS18AEA

What Is a Rechargeable Battery Charger?

If you own many battery-operated devices, you probably have to buy and replace single-use alkaline batteries often. Even though this is definitely an annoying and bothersome routine issue, there's a way to avoid it. All you have to do is purchase rechargeable batteries that can work for an extended period of time. By using them, you save your money and time! Of course, besides these batteries themselves, you need a rechargeable battery charger. The best of these chargers are described in this review.

You might find our review on best mobile power banks interesting, too.

What Features to Compare

Compatibility and Charging Ports

Compatibility with various types of rechargeable batteries is definitely one of the most important features you need to consider in advance. There are different battery standards that differ in size and shape (AA, AAA, C, and D are the main). Each of these types is typically used in particular devices, AA or AAA batteries, for example, are frequently used in remotes, while C or D cells are usually utilized in high-power devices. So, you need to decide what type of batteries you are going to charge. Depending on this, you will be able to select the charging unit which suits your needs best.
It's equally important to estimate how many charging ports you'd like to have. The more ports, the more batteries you will be able to charge simultaneously.

Technical Features

Likewise, it's reasonable to pay attention to various technical characteristics of your rechargeable battery charger. With independent charging slots, for example, it'll be possible to recharge cells individually and not in pairs. Some chargers automatically cut off current when batteries are full.
Another important benefit is selectable charging current. With this feature, you'll be able to adjust the recharging for any type of battery cells. There are chargers that allow selecting charging speed while others adjust the charging process automatically.

Specifics

Of course, charging units have additional peculiarities that contribute to practicality and ease of use. Appliances can include certain advanced safe-charging features, intuitive display, status LEDs, etc. Make up your mind as to what's most important to you!

FAQ:

Q: What is the difference between AA, AAA, С, and D batteries?

A: The most important difference lies in how the batteries deliver voltage. The AA batteries deliver more current than AAA alternatives, while D cell batteries provide more current than C ones. Another difference between the batteries is their size. AA batteries are a bit longer and wider than AAA batteries, C cells are slightly larger than AA batteries, and D cells are the largest. AA batteries are generally used in more powerful devices that require more current, whereas AAA batteries are designed for use in small, mostly portable devices consuming much less power. С cells are typically used in medium-drain applications like toys and musical instruments, and D batteries are utilized in high current drain applications, such as large flashlights and transmitters, safety systems, products with electric motors, etc.

Q: What makes a rechargeable battery charger an "intelligent charger"?

A: A battery charger is considered to be an intelligent or even smart charger if it has a microprocessor allowing the control of the recharging process and preventing batteries from being overcharged. Basically, battery chargers of this type collect necessary data from the battery and adjust the charge current and the voltage in accordance with these data. Some smart chargers come with temperature sensors, discharge and conditioning functions, and battery test features.

Q: What is trickle charge?

A: A trickle charge is a continuous, slow charge supplied to a battery to keep it in a fully charged condition. In other words, a trickle charge is the last stage in the charging process created to charge the batteries to the fullest and maintain this level. Basically, the purpose of a trickle charger is to keep the battery in good health.

Q: Can I mix batteries of different capacities and chemistry within one charging session?

A: It's best not to charge batteries of different types as well as different capacities simultaneously. Some batteries can be overcharged and larger ones not completely charged during the recharging process, which can lead to their shorter lifespan. Batteries with different chemistries like nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) also shouldn't be charged together.

Q: Is it possible to charge alkaline batteries?

A: It is not reasonable to charge alkaline batteries, after several cycles of recharging, the battery capacity drops significantly.

Sources:

1. Rechargeable battery, Wikipedia.

2. Battery charger, Wikipedia.

3. How to Buy Rechargeable Batteries, wikiHow.

4. Sarah Ingrams Battery chargers - what you need to know, Which?

5. Rechargeable Batteries — compared and explained in detail, Michael Bluejay's. March 2015.

6. T.D. Wood Batteries: How to Choose, Recreational Equipment. November 9, 2016.

7. How Long Should You Charge AA Batteries? DoItYourself.com.

8. Battery Charging FAQ, Michael Bluejay's. January 2013

9. Kimberly Hawthorne Why Not Mix Two Types of AA Batteries? Sciencing.

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