When I ordered from Fasttech last Sunday, they were in stock according to their website. 3 days later it still hasn't shipped, so I sent them a message asking them why. Here's their response. Are they full of shit or what? Are there really production problems with this unit?
" Thank you for ordering from FastTech.
We apologize that the item you purchased SKU 1450109 is currently out of stock due to the production problem, we have been looking for alternative sources of supply these days, but we could not find it from the markets or manufacturers.
Sorry for causing you such an inconvenience, the suppliers confirmed to us that they can only provide the stock in several days, would you mind wait for the stock? Or if you prefer to have a refund for this item, please let me know and I will arrange for you right away.
Thanks a lot for choosing FastTech.com, and we are sorry again for any inconveniences caused."
Maybe a silly question (but someone has to ask em right?) will there be a 4 bay version of this exact charger? Kinda like a VP1 / XP4 hybrid. XP4 seems okay, I just like the LCD display feature of the VP1.
Also, is there a chart somewhere showing ideal / optimum charging currents? eg: 10440 should be charged at 0.25 etc etc
Great charger. I ended up buying a second one a few months ago. I hardly ever use my hobby chargers anymore, except to check battery capacity.. Also, I use a single 3 amp power supply with a home made switch box so I can power them both at the same time, or separately
I agree they are expensive, but it's what I wanted because of the great reviews. They have great displays which are accurate from my own testing which is a big plus. I never charge my 18650's higher than 1 amp anyway, so these fit the bill for my needs. I always have my hobby chargers just in case I decide to go with 26650's in the future.
Plus, the Xtar can charge at .25 amps which the Efest can't. Also, having two separate chargers, I can charge 18650's in one at 1 amp, and 16340's in the other at .25 amp. I like the flexibility. That said, I'm sure the Efest is a very nice charger and at a lower price. I just feel more comfortable Xtar chargers from my excellent experience with them.