Makita DC18RD Lithium Ion Optimum Charger Review

I just received this and verified that it works and read the instructions. This is a genuine Makita product. This will charge 2 batteries in series at the same time if you use all ports. Ports 1 and 2 are not loaded at the same time, ports 3 and 4 are not loaded at the same time, port 1, then 2, port 3, then 4 or vice versa are loaded. Just know that it charges 4 batteries 2 at the same time and then switches to the other 2 ports. Just wanted to try and explain this to people who might think…

I have a collection of cordless devices. The only Makita tool I have is the variable speed drill this charger was designed for. Well, in this case at least, you get what you pay for. My other tools take a lot longer to charge, they don't perform as well as the Makita, and they don't last as long on a single charge. Given that you can get an entire set of Ryobi tools for less than the price of a single Makita tool, I would argue that most casual DIY users would be better off with Ryobi. But if…

This charger is awesome! I have a charger, a double and this one. I have a lot of batteries as I use them all the time and have invested heavily in the Makita 18v line. At the end of the day when I leave in the morning I take all my batteries out of the chargers and put in another set of batteries. I carry a dual charger with me and take it to work, but keep it as mine. now installed on the wall of my shop. This is great for leaving batteries behind when you're not in a hurry to charge them…

This charger has a new function. When the battery reaches 80%, both indicators remain lit. In related news, Makita has launched 4.0Ah and 5.0Ah battery packs in addition to 1.5Ah and 3.0Ah battery packs. some real info on maximum battery life and failure avoidance. This is an extremely complex topic, so I'll try to keep it to a minimum. First, a few general rules that apply to all common lithium batteries, and then I'll talk specifically about Makita 18V batteries. The most important thing to…