First Post! I know there are lots of comparisons of these chargers. But they seem to focus on (1) vap users, (2) a heavy battery user, (3) using an array of uncommon cells, or (4) fast charging speeds
My use will be focused almost entirely on AA or AAA Ni-MH (mostly eneloops and amazon basics), with light charging needs. Also speed is not much of an issue. Rather, my focuses are (1) safety / quality, (2) ease of use
Below are my thoughts on the two for my use. If not mentioned, it’s likely that the features are the same across the board. But let me know your thoughts! Leaning toward Xtar but need your experience
Nitecore
- simpler user interface (and shows all 4 slots at the same time)
- Auto screen save LCD (I think you must manually darken the Xtar)
- Smaller (not by a larger margin, but still noticeable)
- Allows lower, safer charge for AA and AAA
shows expected charge time should take
Xtar
- More cell types (the Nitecore charges LiFePO4, but according to Xtar website, the VC4 charges more types of Li-On, Ni-MH and Ni-CD. My focus is Ni-MH, but versatility is always appreciated, right?)
- Cord simplicity (rather than a separate cord for car and home, I’ll just need a USB cell phone plug and a USB car plug (pardon my poor terminology
Because I’m sure someone will ask about the Nitecore SC4 - seems to address a lot of the differences (except the cord simplicity) but also seems to be more advanced than I need. And as for other chargers, looking to stay in the $30 range, butbif I’ve missed something let me know.
I have several chargers, amongst which are the XTAR VC4, Nitecore D4, and the new Nitecore SC4
IMHO the XTAR VC4 is not as good or as convenient to use as the Nitecore D4.
And the Nitecore SC4 is better than both the XTAR VC4 and the Nitecore D4.
What I very much like about the Nitecore chargers (amongst other features/characteristics), is that they have a mains voltage supply built into them, so you don't need an external power supply.
Whereas the XTAR VC4 needs an external USB supply.
Btw, IMHO those are really best for Li-Ion cells, and I wouldn't recommend them for Eneloops/NiMH batteries.
For Eneloops/NiMH I prefer the La Crosse BC-700 which is far more capable.
keengeorge, I’d be curious to here more about your recommendation of the La Crosse. My main concern is that this seems to be limited to strictly AAA and AA, while this is likely the “box” I will stay in, I am eyeing an Olight S1 which takes rcr123. I’d don’t see my self venturing much beyong rcr123s though. The only other exception is I’m seeing some manufacturers make aaa lights that take 10440s for additional output.
It seems like the lacrosse can’t do this. My lights are mostly headlamps (aaa) and AA or aaa handhelds (e.g. thrunite archer 1A). I use these mostly for camping, emergency, and around the house, so not everyday use. Beyond that, I’d like to get some rechargeable AAA or AA to power a few household devices so as to cease buying the gigantic costco disposable packs.
