Choosing an RC charger

Common models compared

This table uses specific models as examples. B3 and B6 chargers come in different versions; verify the complete model number and manual before purchase or use. Scroll the table horizontally on smaller screens.

B3: a simple entry-level balance charger

Common B3 / B3 Pro chargers are intended for conventional 2S and 3S LiPo packs. They charge through the matching balance port and use LEDs to indicate status. The imaxRC B3 Pro manual instructs you to power the charger, confirm standby status and then connect the appropriate balance port. Having separate 2S and 3S sockets does not make it a dual-channel charger: do not connect two packs simultaneously.

These chargers suit beginners who use one battery specification and charge infrequently, but generally lack adjustable current, individual cell voltage displays and Storage mode. Even a fixed current must fit the battery’s permitted charging current, especially for small packs. Current ratings and LED meanings can differ between products with the same name. Use your charger’s own manual and disconnect the pack after charging.

References: Original imaxRC B3 Pro Manual Archive (PDF, English)

B6: a single-channel charger for learning the settings

B6-family chargers add a display and buttons for setting battery type, cell count and charging current, and monitoring progress. A B6 usually needs a compatible external DC supply; a B6AC includes an AC supply for mains operation. B6, B6 V2, B6AC V2 and Neo models differ in power, inputs and functions, so do not choose solely by the name “B6”.

For example, the SkyRC B6AC V2 supports 1–6S lithium packs, with up to 50 W charging power and 6 A current. Balance charging, discharge and storage modes make it suitable for learning settings and maintaining individual packs. For multi-cell LiPo balance charging, connect both the main and balance leads as instructed and verify the cell count.

The 50 W and 6 A figures are separate limits and cannot both be reached at every voltage. Higher cell counts reduce the current available at the same power. Single-channel chargers also handle packs sequentially. Check the brand, full model number and source, and use the manual for that exact version.

References: SkyRC B6AC V2 Official Specifications and Manual

D6 Pro: dual channels for multiple packs

The HOTA D6 Pro has two independent channels, each supporting 1–6S lithium packs with separate chemistry, current and task settings. One pack can charge while the other runs a storage task. Connect each pack’s main and balance leads to its own channel. Dual channels are convenient when rotating several packs or maintaining different battery types.

On AC mains, total charging power is limited to 200 W shared between both channels, not 200 W each. With DC input, the manufacturer specifies up to 325 W per channel and 650 W total. Reaching that level requires more than 24 V input and a compatible supply and wiring with sufficient capacity. Current is limited to 15 A per channel, and actual output is also constrained by power and other conditions.

High charging power does not imply high discharge power. Reducing a full pack to storage voltage may still be slow using internal discharge. External discharge requires a separate load and the specified wiring; never short the output terminals. Beginners benefit most from first mastering balance charging and Storage mode.

References: HOTA D6 Pro Official Specifications · HOTA Manual Downloads

Other options: the B6ACneo

If you prefer a smaller charger and mainly charge one pack at a time, consider newer single-channel models with color displays. The SkyRC B6ACneo supports 1–6S lithium packs, up to 60 W on AC, 200 W on DC and 10 A charging current, with balance charging and storage modes. It is a different model from the traditional B6AC V2; do not mix their specifications.

Compare chargers using the power source you will actually use. If you only use mains power, judge charging capability by the AC rating. Reaching the DC rating requires a suitable external supply. Decide whether you need two channels before focusing on the highest advertised wattage.

References: SkyRC B6ACneo Official Specifications and Manual

Calculate power requirements before comparing maximum current

Charging current (A) = capacity (Ah) × charging C rate. Output power (W) ≈ battery voltage (V) × charging current (A). Estimate using the fully charged voltage and allow a margin. The following 1C examples apply only to conventional LiPo packs approved by their manufacturer for 1C charging.

• 3S, 2200 mAh: 1C is 2.2 A; at 12.6 V, approximately 28 W is needed.
• 6S, 5000 mAh: 1C is 5 A; at 25.2 V, approximately 126 W is needed.
• A 50 W charger charging a 6S pack is limited to about 2 A near full voltage.
• On AC, charging two 6S, 5000 mAh packs at 1C with a D6 Pro requires approximately 252 W, exceeding its 200 W total limit, so the actual current will be reduced.

Actual charging is also affected by supply capacity, cooling, balancing and tapering current near completion. More power helps only when the battery permits it and the supply is sufficient. Never substitute the discharge C rating for the charging rate, or promise a full charge time by dividing capacity by current alone.

First charge: check in this order

1. Inspect the battery, wiring, connectors and voltage. Stop using swollen, damaged, leaking, overheating or severely over-discharged packs.
2. Connect power and complete the self-check as instructed before connecting the battery. Use the matching balance port on a B3; on a B6, D6 Pro or similar charger, connect main and balance leads as required, checking polarity and channel.
3. Select the correct balance charging task for conventional LiPo and verify chemistry, cell count, cutoff voltage and current. With a fixed-current charger, first confirm compatibility with the battery.
4. Start only after confirming settings and detected values. Supervise throughout, keep flammable materials away, use a suitable lithium battery protective container and keep cooling vents clear.
5. Stop the task and disconnect the battery as instructed when finished. If it will not be used soon, use a compatible Storage mode to reach the manufacturer’s specified storage voltage.

Never force-charge a lithium pack rejected by the charger by switching to NiMH or another chemistry. If you are unsure about cell count, C ratings or storage voltage, first read the RC LiPo Battery Guide。