BC-700?

[CZ9mm]

So after researching and researching what flashlight to buy, I decided to just buy a Quark QT2A to replace the QP2A I just sold. I am looking forward to it!

So, I've been using Eneloops and have loved them very, very much. I think it is time to upgrade from my stock charger, what do you think?

I am looking at the BC-700 and BC-1000. I could buy two 700's instead of one 1000! Is it worth it to be able to charge faster? What is the optimal charge speed for Eneloops anyway?

Any other high quality chargers that I should research? By the way, my plan is to keep the high quality charger at home and take the stock Eneloop charger to work. WooHoo!

This also brings the question, does anyone make a flashlight that would hold one or two Eneloops that also has a built in charger? It probably wouldn't be safe to charge two in series, but something like the Nitecore MH1A, would it charge an Eneloop or are they only for Li-ion?

 

[oKtosiTe]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

I'm very happy with my BC-700 and doubt that the extra current is worth it under most circumstances.
I believe Eneloops are happy between 0.5C and 1C (1A and 2A for non XX Eneloops). I charge mine at 700mA (0.7A), which is the highest setting on the BC-700. Lower settings may cause missed terminations.

 

[mcnair55]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

I bought my charger from a diy shop,nothing special apart from you can charge cells one at a time if you wish and it has LCD.I have had it 9 years and it charges 4 Eneloops nicely in about 4 hours,not over keen on fast chargers myself that will charge in an hour or so.

 

[ven]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

Have several chargers and as mr mcnair has said I am also not too keen on very fast charging (find cells get that bit too warm for comfort).

The charger that I have used issue free for last few years is the vapex ,it's an 8 bay charger,no frills,has a digital read out in bars(up to 4 iirc) and cost under £20 at the time so around $35,probably a bit less now.

The nitecore i4 will charge nihm as well as li-ion but I am a "rather just have a separate charger or dedicated charger than a jack of all trades,master of none" kind of guy.
Have heard about the BC 700 and seems to have a good following and would maybe look into come time i need another or replacement

 

[CZ9mm]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

So I think I will snag the BC-700 unless someone wants to talk me up.

 

[hiuintahs]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

The BC-700 seems to be a great value for the price with the independent charging of bays along with the various charge rates, features, and the LCD display. I've been happy with mine. I charge AA's at 500mA and AAA's at 200mA. I've never had a missed termination. The only disadvantage that I wish it came with is the ability to use it in the car with a 12v adapter. But I've managed to come up with a 12v to 3vdc adapter for it.

 

[CZ9mm]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

Bought the BC-700. Should be here Tuesday or Wednesday.

 

[CZ9mm]

Re: Best Eneloop Charger to Buy?

Edited to new thread.