First Thoughts on the Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve relied on rechargeable batteries and chargers for years. My flashlights, headlamps, and other essential equipment often depend on 18650 lithium-ion batteries, and finding a reliable charging solution is crucial. The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 promises a complete package, including the charger and two batteries, at an attractive price point of $41.99.
Tired of juggling multiple chargers and questionable battery brands, I sought a streamlined and dependable solution. The promise of compatibility with both micro-USB and Streamlight’s traditional AC/DC power sources appealed to my need for versatility in the field and at home. I hoped this charger would simplify my battery management and provide consistent charging performance.
Upon unboxing, the charger felt solid and well-built. The inclusion of two button-top 18650 batteries was a definite plus, saving me the extra cost and hassle of sourcing them separately. Comparing it to my older, generic chargers, the Streamlight model felt significantly more robust and professional. This inspired more confidence.
I had considered other options from brands like Nitecore and Olight, but Streamlight’s reputation for ruggedness and reliability in demanding environments ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. If it performs as well as Streamlight’s other products, I’ll be very satisfied.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 on a weekend camping trip in the mountains. The weather was moderately cold, with temperatures dipping into the low 40s at night. I primarily used it to charge the included batteries for my Streamlight ProTac HL USB flashlight.
The charger worked flawlessly using a portable USB power bank in my tent. It was straightforward to use, and the LED indicators clearly showed the charging status of each battery. After the first full charge, my ProTac HL USB provided consistent and bright illumination throughout the night, exceeding my expectations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used it at home, in my vehicle with a 12V adapter, and even during extended power outages with a USB power bank. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The charger is easy to clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous multi-charger, the Streamlight offers a more consistent charging experience and appears to prolong the life of my 18650 batteries. Overall, it has significantly outperformed my expectations for a charger in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650
Specifications
- The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 kit includes two 18650 button-top lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are rechargeable up to 500 times, offering a significant lifespan.
- It features a dual-bay design, allowing for simultaneous charging of two batteries. This reduces the overall charging time compared to single-bay chargers.
- A dual input design enables the charger to accept either a 5V micro-USB or Streamlight traditional AC or 12V DC power sources. This provides unparalleled versatility for charging in various environments.
- The single bay charge time is approximately 3.5 hours regardless of which bay is used. The charging time for simultaneous charging is 3.5 hours for the left bay and 6.5 hours for the right bay.
- The kit includes the charging cradle, two 18650 batteries, and a USB cord. This provides everything needed for immediate use.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall convenience and reliability of the charging system. The ability to use multiple power sources ensures I can charge my batteries virtually anywhere. The included batteries provide a known quantity of quality cells to use.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently charges batteries to their full capacity and does so efficiently. The independent charging bays allow for optimal charging for each battery.
The charger’s primary strength lies in its versatility and ease of use. There is no complex interface, and the LED indicators clearly show the charging status. One potential improvement would be to indicate the remaining charging time.
The charger meets and even exceeds my expectations. The ability to charge quickly from multiple sources makes this an invaluable tool in my gear collection. It is a solid performing product.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 features a simple and functional design. The cradle is made from durable plastic, and the battery bays are well-sized for 18650 batteries. The charger is lightweight, making it easy to pack and transport.
The charger is exceptionally user-friendly. There is no learning curve, and the clearly marked ports and LED indicators make operation intuitive. It’s an easy-to-use design.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 appears to be built to last. The materials are robust, and there are no flimsy parts. With proper care, this charger should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. This charger is designed for demanding environments and built to withstand daily use. It is also easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 kit comes with two 18650 batteries and a USB cord. While there are no extensive customization options, the charger is compatible with any standard micro-USB power adapter and 12V DC adapters. This allows it to work with existing power supplies.
Additionally, it is compatible with various brands of button-top 18650 batteries. This makes it easy to source replacements or additional batteries. The compatibility and lack of “locked in” ecosystem is very welcome.
Pros and Cons of Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650
Pros
- Versatile dual input design (micro-USB, AC, DC).
- Includes two high-quality 18650 batteries.
- Simultaneous charging capability for two batteries.
- Simple and intuitive LED charging indicators.
- Durable and reliable construction.
Cons
- Simultaneous charging results in longer charge time for the right bay.
- No indication of remaining charging time.
Who Should Buy Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650?
The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and anyone who relies on 18650 batteries for their gear. This includes hunters, campers, survivalists, and law enforcement personnel. Anyone that needs to quickly and reliably charge batteries will find it very useful.
Those who primarily use flashlights with proprietary battery systems or those who only require occasional charging might find this kit unnecessary. However, if you need a reliable and versatile charging solution, this is a must-have.
A must-have accessory would be a portable USB power bank for charging in remote locations. Having multiple batteries is also ideal.
Conclusion on Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650
The Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 is a solid and dependable charging solution. Its versatility, ease of use, and included batteries make it an excellent value for $41.99. The product is well worth the asking price.
The price is justified by the quality, performance, and convenience it offers. The reliability is top notch.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Streamlight Battery Charger With Li-ion Batteries CR18650 to anyone in need of a dependable 18650 battery charger. Upgrade your charging setup today and experience the convenience and reliability that Streamlight is known for.