How to Choose the Best Battery Charger
- by Joe Weber - updated on 7/18/2025
Regularly charging your vehicle's battery keeps it reliable and long‑lasting. Whether you drive a car, truck, boat, RV, motorcycle, or powersports vehicle, selecting the right charger is key. This guide breaks down charger types, shows you how to match your battery specs, and helps you discover the best charger at Batteries Plus.
Key Takeaways
- Know Your Battery: Always match your charger's voltage and chemistry to your battery type.
- Pick the Right Type: Choose from standard chargers, trickle chargers, or smart maintainers based on how you'll use it.
- Look for Smart Features: Automatic shutoff, float mode, and safety protections help prevent overcharging.
- Get Expert Help: Batteries Plus carries top charger brands, and our in-store experts can help you find the perfect fit.
1. Battery Charger Types & When to Use Them
Standard Charger (Constant Current/DC)
Delivers steady DC power until manually turned off. Many include float modes, but it's essential to monitor during charging to prevent overcharging
Trickle Charger
Supplies a low current over a long period. Great for slow charging, but still needs supervision—extended use may lead to overcharging.
Smart Battery Maintainer
Advanced "smart" battery chargers that automatically switch on/off to maintain optimal voltage. Ideal for long-term battery storage. You can safely leave your battery connected indefinitely.
2. Match Charger to Battery Specifications
Voltage Compatibility
Ensure your charger matches your battery's voltage:
- 12V for most cars and trucks
- 6V for some golf carts
- 24V for larger applications like marine and RV systems
Chemistry Compatibility
Choose a charger compatible with your battery's chemistry:
- Flooded (Wet Cell)
- AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
- Gel Cell
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
Using the wrong charger or mode may shorten battery life or cause damage to the battery.
3. Smart Buying Tips at Batteries Plus
Batteries Plus offers a huge selection of battery chargers, including multi‑volt and multi‑chemistry smart units, available online and in-store. Explore our selection of car and truck chargers, marine chargers, and motorcycle chargers now. Still have questions? Our expert staff can help you find the perfect match for your vehicle or device.
Stop by your local store or shop online for top battery charger brands and accessories.
Buying Cheatsheet: Is This Charger Right for You?
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Voltage | Matching the battery's voltage prevents mismatches and wiring damage |
| Chemistry | Using a charger that is designed for your type of battery ensures safe, efficient charging |
| Charging Mode | Standard = manual control; Trickle = slow; Maintainer = worry-free upkeep |
| Smart Features | Look for float mode, auto-switch, temperature compensation, and reverse polarity protection |
FAQ: Battery Charger Basics
Q: Can I leave a trickle charger connected overnight?
A: We don't recommend it. A trickle charger can overcharge your battery if left plugged in too long. A smart battery maintainer is a better choice for long-term storage.
Q: Is it safe to use a 12V charger on a 24V battery?
A: No. Always match your charger's voltage to your battery's voltage. Using the wrong voltage can damage both your charger and your battery.
Q: Do AGM batteries need a special charger?
A: Yes! AGM batteries charge differently from flooded lead-acid batteries. Always use a charger with an AGM setting for best results.
Q: What's better: a standard charger or a maintainer?
A: It depends. A standard charger is great for regular charging when you're nearby to monitor it. A maintainer is perfect for storage or occasional use since it automatically turns on and off to keep the battery at the right level.
Q: Can I use a lithium charger on an AGM battery?
A: Not unless the charger has selectable modes. Lithium chargers use different charging profiles. Always use a charger that's compatible with your battery's chemistry.
Keep Your Battery Ready to Go
Need help finding the right charger? Visit your local Batteries Plus and talk with one of our experts. We'll help you pick the perfect charger for your needs so you can charge on with confidence.