Published on: April 5, 2023
Written by Jonas Frank / Fact-checked by Nova Scarlett
Are you tired of the hassle of charging multiple LiPo batteries at the same time? Do you often find yourself waiting for one battery to finish charging before starting the next? Look no further, as the solution to your problem lies in a 4 port LiPo charger. Here, we’ll dive into the world of 4 port LiPo chargers, exploring their benefits, top choices, and essential factors to consider when buying one. So, let’s get started!
What is a 4 Port LiPo Charger?
How Does It Work?
A 4 port LiPo charger is a device designed to charge four LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries simultaneously. Each port operates independently, allowing you to charge different batteries with varying capacities and cell counts. By connecting the charger to a power supply and plugging the batteries into the ports, the charger balances and manages the voltage, ensuring safe and efficient charging.
Why is It Essential?
For RC enthusiasts, drone pilots, or anyone using multiple LiPo batteries, a 4 port LiPo charger is a game-changer. It simplifies the charging process, reduces downtime, and increases efficiency, making it an indispensable tool for your hobby or profession.
Benefits of Using a 4 Port LiPo Charger
Time-saving
One of the most significant advantages of a 4 port LiPo charger is its time-saving nature. By charging four batteries simultaneously, you can drastically reduce the time spent waiting for batteries to charge, freeing up more time for your hobby or profession.
Versatility
Another benefit of 4 port LiPo chargers is their versatility. Most chargers support various battery types, including LiPo, LiFe, LiHV, NiMH, and NiCd, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Additionally, each port functions independently, allowing you to charge different battery capacities and cell counts without any hassle.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when it comes to charging LiPo batteries, and 4 port chargers often come equipped with numerous safety features. These include short circuit protection, overcharge protection, and temperature monitoring, ensuring that your batteries are charged safely and efficiently.
Top 4 Port LiPo Chargers in the Market
1. BGUAD 100Wx4/10Ax4 AC/DC 4 Port RC LiPo Charger
- Brand: BGUAD
- Manufacturer: BGUAD
- Color: Black and Red
The BGUAD 100Wx4/10Ax4 AC/DC 4 Port RC LiPo Charger Discharger Intelligent is a great product that allows you to charge and discharge your LiPo batteries quickly and easily. It has four ports that allow you to charge up to four batteries at once, and its intelligent design ensures that each battery is charged evenly. If you need, you can charge LiPo with a phone charger.
This charger is very easy to use, and it comes with a clear instruction manual that walks you through the process step-by-step. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a fast, efficient way to keep their LiPo batteries charged and ready to go.
Advantages
The BGUAD 100Wx4/10Ax4 AC/DC 4 Port RC LiPo Charger Discharger Intelligent is a high-quality and reliable charger that can be used to charge and discharge four Lithium Polymer batteries at the same time.
It is an intelligent charger that can automatically detect the type of battery being charged and adjust the charging parameters accordingly.
It features an LCD display that shows the voltage, current, and capacity of each battery being charged.
TheBGUAD 100Wx4/10Ax4 AC/DC 4 Port RC LiPo Charger Discharger Intelligent is equipped with over-voltage, over-current, and short-circuit protection, ensuring safety during use.
It is a compact and lightweight charger that is easy to carry around, making it ideal for use on the go.
Pros
- Easy to use and set up
- Can charge multiple batteries at once
- Charges batteries quickly
- Independent charging/discharging settings for each battery
- Good build quality and packaging
Cons
- Noisy fan
Why We Love
This charger is great! I have four batteries that I use for my RC car and this charger charges them all at the same time. It’s very fast too- I can charge all four batteries in about an hour. The best part is that it has a built-in balancer so I don’t have to worry about overcharging my batteries.
2. Spektrum S44 Micro 4-Port 1S LiPo Battery Charger
- Brand: Spektrum
- Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby
- Color: Clear, Multi-color
- Dimensions: Height: 2.0 Inches Width: 3.9 Inches Length: 5.2 Inches
- Weight: 1.0 Pounds
This is an amazing charger! I have never had any problems with it and it charges my batteries very quickly. You can read also, how to charge the Zeee LiPo battery.
Advantages
- The Spektrum S44 Smart Charger is a micro 4-port 1S LiPo battery charger that can charge up to four 1S batteries at the same time.
- It has an integrated balance port that can be used to balance the cells in your 1S batteries, ensuring that they are evenly charged and providing longer life for your batteries.
- The charger includes four different charging adapters to fit a variety of popular 1S batteries, making it convenient to use with multiple types of batteries.
- The built-in USB port on the charger allows you to easily connect it to a computer or other USB power source for easy charging.
- The compact design of the charger makes it easy to take with you on the go, so you can always have a way to charge your 1S batteries when needed.
Pros
- Supports many different battery connectors
- Can charge 4 batteries simultaneously
- Easy to use
- Charges small batteries quickly
- Good quality product
Cons
- No way to see how many mah the battery took after charging
Why We Love
The Spektrum S44 Smart Charger is a great charger for micro 1S LiPo batteries. I love that it has four ports so I can charge multiple batteries at the same time. The charges are very fast and the batteries last a long time. This charger is definitely worth the money!
3. E-flite Celectra 4-Port 1S 3.7V 0.3A DC Li-Po Charger
- Brand: E-flite
- Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby
- Dimensions: 8.7 x 3.7 x 2.1 inches
- Weight: 4.5 ounces
The E-flite Celectra 4-Port 1S 3.7V 0.3A DC Li-Po Charger is a great way to quickly and easily charge your Lipo batteries. But, don’t charge for a long time. This charger is straightforward to use and only takes a few minutes to charge your batteries.
The E-flite Celectra 4-Port 1S 3.7V 0.3A DC Li-Po Charger is a great value for the money, and it is a great product for anyone who needs to quickly and easily charge their Lipo batteries.
Advantages
Some benefits of the E-flite Celectra 4-Port 1S 3.7V 0.3A DC Li-Po Charger EFLC1004 include:
Its four ports can charge up to four 1S 3.7V Li-Po batteries at once, making it a convenient way to keep multiple batteries charged and ready to use.
The charger includes an automatic shut-off feature that helps conserve power and prevent overcharging, meaning that your batteries will last longer overall.
The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to take with you on the go, so you can charge your batteries even when you’re away from home or the office.
The clear LED indicator lights let you know at a glance when each battery is done charging, so there’s no need to constantly check on the status of the charger.
The reasonable price makes it a great value for those who need to frequently charge multiple 1S 3.7V Li-Po batteries.
Pros
- Charges batteries well
- Separately controls each of the four charging ports
- Top quality
- Great way to keep flying
- Keeps my plane up in the air
Cons
- Does not come with required batteries or wired connector
- Expensive
Why We Love
This is a great little charger for 1S batteries. I’ve used it to charge my micro quadcopter batteries and it works perfectly. The four-port design means I can charge multiple batteries at the same time, which is very convenient. The fact that it’s so small and lightweight makes it easy to take with me wherever I go.
4. E-Flite Celectra 4-Port 1-Cell 3.7V Li-Po Battery Charger
- Brand: E-flite
- Manufacturer: E-Flite
- Weight: 1.0 Pounds
This charger is the perfect way to keep your 1-Cell 3.7V Li-Po batteries charged and ready to go. The four-port design means you can charge multiple batteries at once, and the AC adapter means you can charge anywhere there’s an outlet.
Advantages
- It can charge four batteries at once, which is very useful for people who have multiple devices that use lithium-ion batteries.
- The charger is very lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- It has a built-in AC adapter, so you don’t need to worry about carrying an extra power cord with you.
- The charging indicator lights let you know when each battery is fully charged, so you can keep track of your devices’ battery levels easily.
- The price is very reasonable, especially considering the features and benefits of the charger.
Why We Love
This is an excellent charger for those who need to charge multiple 1-cell 3.7V Li-Po batteries. It is very easy to use and the four charging ports make it quick and convenient to charge multiple batteries at once.
The AC adapter makes it easy to plug in and start charging right away. I highly recommend this charger for anyone with multiple 1-cell 3.7V Li-Po batteries!
Factors to Consider When Buying a 4 Port LiPo Charger
Charge Rate
When purchasing a 4 port LiPo charger, it’s essential to consider the charger’s charge rate, measured in amperes (A). A higher charge rate allows for faster charging, but it’s crucial to ensure that the charger’s rate is compatible with your batteries to prevent overcharging or damaging the cells.
Compatibility
Before buying a 4 port LiPo charger, check its compatibility with the battery types you’ll be using. Most chargers support a range of battery chemistries, but it’s always best to confirm this information to avoid any disappointment.
Safety Features
As mentioned earlier, safety is crucial when charging LiPo batteries. Look for a charger with built-in safety features, such as short circuit protection, overcharge protection, and temperature monitoring, to ensure a safe and efficient charging experience.
Price
Lastly, consider your budget when choosing a 4 port LiPo charger. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it’s essential to balance affordability with quality and performance. Remember that investing in a reliable and efficient charger can save you time and money in the long run.
Maintaining Your 4 Port LiPo Charger
Proper maintenance of your 4 port LiPo charger is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Keep the charger clean and free from dust, store it in a dry and cool environment, and periodically inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for usage, maintenance, and safety.
Wrap Up
A 4 port LiPo charger is an invaluable tool for anyone using multiple LiPo batteries, whether for RC hobbies, drones, or other applications. By understanding the benefits, top choices, and factors to consider when purchasing one, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect charger to suit your needs.
FAQs
1. Can I charge different types of batteries simultaneously on a 4 port LiPo charger?
Yes, most 4 port LiPo chargers support various battery types, including LiPo, LiFe, LiHV, NiMH, and NiCd. However, it’s essential to check the charger’s compatibility before attempting to charge different battery chemistries.
2. Is it safe to leave my LiPo batteries charging unattended?
It’s not recommended to leave LiPo batteries charging unattended, as this can increase the risk of accidents, such as fires. Always monitor your batteries while charging and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
3. How can I determine the right charge rate for my LiPo battery?
To find the appropriate charge rate for your LiPo battery, divide the battery’s capacity (mAh) by 1,000 and multiply by the recommended charge rate factor (usually 1C). For example, if you have a 2,000mAh battery with a 1C charge rate, you should charge it at 2A (2,000mAh / 1,000 x 1C = 2A).
4. Can I use a 4 port LiPo charger to charge non-LiPo batteries?
Yes, most 4 port LiPo chargers support multiple battery chemistries, including NiMH and NiCd batteries, in addition to LiPo, LiFe, and LiHV batteries. Always check the charger’s compatibility with your battery types before charging.
5. How long does it take to charge a LiPo battery using a 4 port charger?
The charging time depends on the battery capacity, charger’s charge rate, and the battery’s state of charge. To estimate charging time, divide the battery capacity (mAh) by the charger’s charge rate (mA) and multiply by 1.2 to account for inefficiencies. For example, charging a 2,000mAh battery at 1,000mA would take approximately 2.4 hours (2,000mAh / 1,000mA x 1.2 = 2.4 hours). Keep in mind that these are estimated values and actual charging times may vary.
