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Ive got a commuter light that takes an 18650 cell. It charges by usb into the light body.
I have used eneloop cells and a nice charger for these, so i was wondering what is the recommendation for a 2 cell 18650 charger and a couple of cells, so i can carry spares for longer jaunts.
Argos do an xtar charger that looks smart with a couple of cells for £25. The cells are brands ive never heard of so im a little sceptical.
Thanks
Ian
Xtar charger and panasonic (i think) 18650s from torchy the battery boy here. All working flawlessly here three or so years after buying them. They get used once a week for a good nightime mtb ride during the darker months.
I don't know what's good in batteries these days but xtar usually make good kit, I've used a couple of their chargers over the years. It'll be cheaper online, though.
Thanks. I will go for a xtar and some panasonic cells
Ian
Probs too late, but i find Molicell followed by Sony as the best 18650's.
I got one of these chargers, having used their AA charger for years. I have used it quite extensively with some Dive Lights and never had an issue with either of them.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0B5582NKV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have an XTAR VC2S, recommended
I've got a nitrcore D4 charger that was recommended on here. Seems to have done everything that you'd expect of it over the years.
The cells are Samsung 18650-30B, which meant 3000mAh and I presume the B related to max discharge rate somehow (10A). At the time there were better Panasonic cells, but they were only higher discharge not higher capacity, and MTB lights still don't anywhere near touble the discharge rates.
Rule of thumb was to at least double the discharge rate, so my lights drew 8A, so a 2s2p that could do 20A was fine. That's because at higher discharge rates the effective capacity drops, but below about half the rated max it's negligable.
There's probably plenty now with higher capacity, just get the best capacity from LG, Panasonic or Samsung, that can deliver enough current and get them from a reputable looking shop.
Bought an XTAR VC2 after my 6 cell XTAR packed in after many years service. It's cheaper on Amazon that Argos. I like how it tells you how much charge it's put into the cell. I've got a Fenix BC30 v2 which uses removable 18650's and has to be charged in a charger - gives me an idea of the battery use over a week