One of the biggest challenges that we all face on the road is a dead battery. It wastes our time and leaves us at a standstill on the road. The only thing that can save us from this unpleasant situation is a portable car battery charger. Portable car battery chargers are the quickest way to get your car run again. It saves your time by jump-starting your car without needing any other vehicle. However, you will find choosing the best portable car battery charger quite tough as there are plenty of options in the market.
In this review, we have enlisted some of the best portable car battery chargers models available in the market to help you find the best deal for you. Portable car battery chargers have become more popular in recent years as they can serve many additional purposes. They don’t only charge your dead battery but also jump-start them and work as battery banks. Some of them come in a very compact body letting you keep them inside your glove box to jump start your car instantly. To know more about the best portable car battery charger models, keep reading this article.
Table of Contents
List of 7 Best Portable Car Battery Charger
Best Portable Car Battery Charger Reviews in Details
1. NOCO GENIUS2X4 Battery Charger Review
The first product that we want to include in this list of the best portable car battery charger models is the NOCO GENIUS2X4 Battery Charger & Maintainer. This multi-bank NOCO GENIUS2X4 battery charger, maintainer, and desulfator is exactly what you need to get your dead battery going again.
This battery charger is compatible with 6V and 12V lead-acid and deep-cycle batteries. You can use it for your flooded, gel, AGM, and lithium-ion batteries. It is a four-bank battery charger maintainer and rated 8 Amps- 2 Amps per bank. The GEN2X4 comes with an integrated thermal sensor. This feature detects the temperature to prevent overcharging in hot weather and undercharging in cold weather. It can also detect battery sulfation and acid stratification to restore lost battery performance and therefore, extends battery life.
It has a special sensor that can distinguish batteries that may even have only a 1-volt charge left. You can also choose between smart charging mode and manual mode to have a charging operation with more accuracy.
My favorite feature about the NOCO GENIUS2X4 is it is 40% smaller than the G4 model but delivers 140% more power. So, it is really a compact unit that you can carry anywhere you want.
Pros
- Supports both 6V and 12V batteries
- Prevents overcharging and undercharging
- Integrated thermal sensors
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- The clamp eyelets may not always fit the battery
- Expensive compared to other
Battery Charger Specialty
The NOCO GENIUS2X4 Battery Charger is really an all-in-one solution for any car owner. It can serve as a battery charger, battery maintainer, trickle charger, plus battery desulfator at the same time. This device comes in a very compact size and occupies very little space in your trunk or garage. With its temperature compensation function, this device is highly suitable to be used in any weather condition.
Bottom Line
The NOCO GENIUS2X4 battery charger, maintainer, and desulfator can be your reliable assistant when your battery is dead. Because it is promised to provide the utmost performance with multi-functionality.
2. Schumacher SC1309 Battery Charger Review
One of the best portable car battery charger models from Schumacher is the Schumacher SC1309 Battery Charger. Keep reading this review to know why.
You can use this device with standard and AGM batteries. It offers a 40 Amps quick boost mode and a 200 Amps engine start for automobiles, trucks, SUVs, marine vehicles, and RVs. The SC1309 is designed with a microprocessor that can automatically adjust the amperage rate. This processor detects the battery’s current and voltage needs and adjusts them according to the battery’s requirement.
This charger features a float-mode operation to maintain an optimum battery charge. This feature prevents damages due to overcharging. The built-In alternator tester is another great feature of the SC1309. It aids in the diagnosis of any issues and keeps you notified regarding any problem.
The SC1309 comes with the brand’s patented reverser hook-up protection. This is a special safety measure that prevents the battery from working If the clamps are connected in reverse. You will be provided with a LED display too. This display allows you to monitor every operational process. Moreover, the start/stop button in the center of the display is very helpful for instant starting and stopping. The SC1309 comes with compact wheels offering easy transport and storage. The housing is robust material built that has a durable retractable handle.
Pros
- Light and portable
- Easy to read digital display
- Reverse hook-up protection
- Alternator tester
- Safe from overcharging
- Robust casing
- Fully automatic battery
- Built-in smart microprocessor
Cons
- Clams are not very durable
- Wires aren’t particularly powerful
Battery Charger Specialty
The SC1309 is one of the safest battery chargers due to its built-in reverse hook-up protection and auto voltage detector. The multi-stage charging procedure provides more accurate charging and longer battery life. The power-saving floating mode assures an improved life for your battery too. More so, the retractable handle adds mobility in addition to other good features.
Bottom Line
We believe the Schumacher SC1309 will never give you any chance to question its performance. This is genuinely a good product that comes with all those features a good battery charger should have.
3. Renogy DCC50S On-Board Battery Charger Review
Now we are going to review the Renogy 12V 50A DC On-board Input MPPT Charger. It is truly one of the best portable car battery charger models because it comes with multiple amazing options. It can charge a vehicle’s service battery from the vehicle’s alternator or directly from solar panels attached to the battery charger. It favors the service battery over your starting battery and allows the solar panel to charge the service one first. It’s an advanced idea that keeps your battery in a good condition for years. In contrast, it can handle a wide range of batteries like Flooded, Gel, AGM, or Lithium. The charger can be used with both traditional and smart alternators.
The Renogy DC-DC On-Board Battery Charger is built with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) that can charge the batteries using maximized solar power. Also, this device comes with 3-phase charging (Bulk, Boost, and Float) that allows you to have an accurate charging procedure.
Bluetooth Monitoring comes included with the DCC50S. With the RJ45 Communication Port Feature, this charger can be monitored remotely using the BT-2 Bluetooth Module accessory and Renogy DC Home App.
The Renogy DC-DC On-Board Battery Charger is engineered with some intelligent safety features. These safety features include battery isolation, over-voltage protection, over-current, and overheat protection, reverse polarity protection, and so on. In addition, it has a voltage-sensitive relay that works equally fine with most alternators.
Pros
- Built-in Voltage Sensitive Relay (VSR)
- Temperature and voltage control
- Silent and efficient heat dissipation
- Built-in MPPT
- Multiple protections
- Multi-alternator Compatibility
- Sturdy design
Cons
- Manual is not very helpful
Battery Charger Specialty
The Renogy DC-DC On-Board Battery Charger has a maximum output of 50 Amps which is not very common for most portable battery chargers. Another benefit of the DCC50S is it can work with both solar and alternator DC power. With the 3-phase MPPT charging technology and other smart safeguards, this device provides a very safe and accurate operation.
Bottom Line
If you ask me whether you should buy it or not, I would definitely say yes. Though it is more on the expensive side, you will never be disappointed by its service.
4. CHARGE IT! 4735 Wheeled Battery Charger Review
The CHARGE IT! 4735 is another favorite pick of us that we are going to talk about in this best portable car battery charger review. If you need a fast, beneficial battery charging and boosting at a very cost-saving and space-saving way, you should try this one.
This device is compatible with a versatile range of 6 and 12 Volt batteries and vehicle systems. The best feature of the CHARGE IT! 4735 is it comes with multiple charging rates. It can provide up to 200 Amps to your 6 or 12-volt batteries. With a charging rate of 40 Amps, this charger can even charge the largest vehicle batteries. The 200 Amps engine start mode of this device can boost depleted batteries within the fastest time possible.
The slimline design of the CHARGE IT! 4735 makes it very convenient to store in limited spaces. Not only this, it comes with a wheeled design that offers easy mobility. Moreover, the angled control panel enables the users to monitor service progress during the application from almost any angle.
Pros
- 6 and 12 Volt Charging
- 40 Amps 12V fast charge rate
- Budget-friendly
- Compact design
- Offers great mobility
Cons
- Not very suitable for larger repair shops
Battery Charger Specialty
With multiple charging rates the CHARGE IT! 4735 is highly suitable for 12-volt batteries. It is capable of providing 6V operation for various purposes too. It comes with a wheeled design that enables it to move around easily. Finally, the EZ View control panel facilitates users to observe service procedures from different angles.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a cheaper but more efficient battery charger for regular use, the CHARGE IT! 4735 could make a good match in this case. This charger is not only an economical unit but also quite space-saving and convenient that can serve multiple purposes.
5. Black & Decker BC15BD 15 Amp Battery Charger Review
In this best portable car battery charger review, we’ll take a look at the Black and Decker BC15BD 15 Amp Battery Charger and Maintainer. In the event that your car doesn’t start or your battery needs to be serviced, this device will have you back on the road in minutes. To charge a battery, you just need to connect the charger clamps to the battery terminals and push the charge button on the battery charger. This bench battery charger takes care of the rest, ensuring the best possible results.
An all-in-one high-frequency charger, the Black & Decker BC15BD 15 Amp Bench Battery Charger is a completely automated device. It provides three-stage charging by alternating between rapid charge, top-off, and trickle charge automatically.
Motorhomes, jet skis, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and other vehicles that sit inactive for long periods of time can all benefit from this bench battery charger. It can maintain and charge any 12 V AGM, GEL, or WET battery in a car or boat. It has a digital LCD panel with an easy-to-understand symbol. This LCD shows whether or not the device is charging or running low on energy. To ensure that the battery voltage is not depleted while driving, it features an alternator test.
Battery type and size can be entered automatically, and the charger charges up to 40% quicker than traditional chargers. When you need to get back on the road fast, the Black & Decker BC15BD Battery Charger and Maintainer also offers a 40 Amps engine start. It’s easy to use and store this battery charger thanks to the built-in cord management, wire wrap, and clamp storage. Its performance and safety have been certified by ETL and the California Energy Commission (CEC).
Pros
- Reverse polarity protection
- Fully automatic
- Battery reconditioning feature
- A patented alternator check feature
Cons
- After some months of use, the battery might become hot
Battery Charger Specialty
Battery reconditioning mode is an excellent feature you would love to find in a battery charger to keep your battery safe. This Black & Decker BC15BD Battery Charger includes this feature which makes this battery charger more valuable.
Bottom Line
This ETL-certified battery charger can be a great option if you are more concerned about your battery life.
6. Clore Automotive Intelligent Battery Charger Review
Our next product is a battery charger that is capable of charging a wide variety of battery types while also being totally autonomous. The Clore Automotive’s SOLAR Pro-Logix PL2320 20/10/2 Amp 6V/12V battery charger is our next pick for the best portable car battery charger review.
All of the battery types can be charged with this SOLAR Pro-Logix Battery Charger. AGM, Gel Cell, Conventional, Deep Cycle, Spiral Wound, and Marine batteries are all compatible with this charger. The PRO-LOGIX chargers are capable of delivering the proper sort of charge for each battery type.
In terms of functionality, it has a completely automated mode. The charger can do all the work for you. All you have to do is set the voltage, battery type, and charge rate. Because it knows how to charge a certain battery, the charger can provide the best possible charging experience every time.
Soft start and reconditioning modes are available as part of the advanced technology. When the charger is connected to a very depleted battery, Soft Start Mode is engaged. When the battery’s voltage climbs to a more normal level, this mode safeguards the battery and is good for the battery’s long-term health. If the charger detects battery sulfation during the Energizing Phase, the reconditioning mode will be activated. As the charger works to restore the battery, the charge time will be prolonged.
Pros
- Beneficial, safe, and versatile
- Automated operating system
- Advanced technology
- 2/10/20 Amp charge rates for added versatility
Cons
- 110v/240v selector switch is absent
Battery Charger Specialty
The Clore Automotive’s SOLAR Pro-Logix PL2320 20/10/2 Amp 6V/12V Battery Charger is popular for its versatility. Advanced technology features of soft start mode and reconditioning mode have taken this battery charger a level up from other ones.
Bottom Line
For its versatile advanced features, we highly recommend this one. We assure you that the SOLAR Pro-Logix Battery Charger will never give you any chance to regret buying this unit.
7. Michael Pro 12V Battery Charger Review
Our very last product in this best portable car battery charger review is Michael Pro 12V Battery Charger. With a completely automatic charging rate of 2 Amps, 8 Amps, or 15 Amps, the Michael Pro 12V Battery Charger is an excellent choice. GEL, AGM, and STD 12 Volt lead-acid batteries are all supported by their completely automated high-frequency charging. It charges and maintains batteries at the most efficient pace possible. You can manually select the charging rate while using smart charging. Additionally, it can automatically pick the charging rate that is most appropriate for your battery type.
Michael Pro 12V Battery Charger comes with various safety features. Safety features like multi-stage charging are controlled by a microprocessor for improved precision, safety, and battery life. Using this battery, you won’t have to be concerned about issues like overcharging, short circuits, or reversed polarity or voltage. In addition, it comes with a one-year warranty period.
It has a 6-step charging program including Desulphation, Soft Start, Bulk Charge, Absorption, Battery Test, and Floating. It is designed specifically for charging batteries in cold weather to extend battery life and ensure proper charging. An advanced LCD display is included in this battery charger. It helps to keep track of charge status, current, voltage, battery type, and fault information.
Pros
- Smart battery charger
- Personal safety protection
- Advanced LCD display technology
- 6-step charging program
Cons
- A little fragile
Battery Charger Specialty
A high-frequency auto charging rate for all types of batteries is an amazing feature of this battery charger. 6-step charging program is also a special feature you will find in this battery charger.
Bottom Line
If you want a complete package within a short budget, we recommend you to buy this one.
Final Words
Owning a good portable battery charger can really be a lifesaver in times of need. That’s why we have made this list of the best portable car battery charger models you can buy from the market. All of them are dependable and you may find some of them very cost-effective too. These battery chargers are compatible with most modern battery types from lithium-based cells to high-output batteries. These units are portable meaning you will find them useful on your campaign trips or any emergency situation when you need to keep everything charged.
Frequently Asked Question for Best Portable Car Battery Charger
-
Do portable chargers ruin your battery?
Answer: A portable charger from a good brand will never ruin your battery as long as the voltage output matches your battery’s voltage requirements.
-
What is the difference between a power bank and a portable charger?
Answer: Well, there is no difference between a power bank and a portable charger. Power bank and portable charger basically refer to the same thing.
-
How long do portable battery chargers last?
Answer: Portable battery chargers can last anywhere between 1.5-3.5 years. But the portable charger’s health depends on many factors like battery capacity, building quality, brand, type of battery, and how often you are using it.
-
Is it normal for a portable charger to get hot?
Answer: When you are charging your battery using a portable charger, the charger and the device will heat up slightly which is normal. But if it gets too hot, unplug the charger and wait till the temperature gets down to room temperature.