Getting your hands on the best car battery chargers is the best way to ensure a car battery will be full of electrical juice when needed, but it’s worth understanding the differences. From trickle chargers to jump starter power packs, there are plenty of options to meet your car battery charging requirements.
There are even car battery chargers that can help renew battery performance and solar battery chargers that harness the sun for a free trickle of electricity. No matter the needs of your car battery, there will be something to meet them, and we’re breaking them all down.
A dead car battery is nobody’s idea of fun, and with modern cars jam-packed with gadgets, car batteries have never been under more strain. So join Parkers in finding the best car battery charger for your needs, alongside our top picks for each type, so you know that when you’re out and about, the health of your car’s battery should be top-notch.
The best car battery chargers at a glance
How we tested
Each car battery charger was tested by merits respective to the battery charger type they are. So, for example, a jump starter has a different set of criteria to a trickle charger or a solar-powered charger.
Common ground for all the battery chargers tested includes things like value for money and extra features. Quite often, you’ll find extra little things included with battery equipment, and it’s quite neat to see. It makes them ever so more versatile and useful for different scenarios others than charging your vehicle.
Meet the experts
Ryan Gilmore
After acquiring his masters degree in Automotive Journalism from Coventry University, Ryan cut his teeth into product testing in 2020 and has since climbed the ranks to become the Deputy Commercial Content Editor, and now Car Buying Editor for Parkers. His experience in testing and writing about car products shows no boundaries, and so his opinion of battery chargers is invaluable.
Aaron Hussain
Aaron has been a Commercial Content Writer and products tester for Parkers since 2023 after graduating with a masters degree from Coventry University. From jump starters to pressure washers, and even the humble phone mount, Aaron has tested it all and since gauged a clear image of what readers are looking for with their next automotive item.
The best car battery chargers 2025
Editor's pick
As far as trickle chargers go, it's one of the best out there for long-term maintenance charging. We tried one for ourselves over last winter, and it was one of the most dependable things out there. What we found a massive shame though, was that the CTEK accessories that came with the charger (not included in a basic purchase) quickly ramped up the price. This is evident across the CTEK range and of all MXS models.
We also tried the MXS 5.0 to charge a totally flat battery. I can report that you simply just press one button after connecting the clamps, and you simply leave it to do its thing. About seven-hours later, it was on the second-to-last setting, and after fitting it back onto the vehicle, it fired on the button without fuss. Mission success and it says all you need to know about how capable the MXS 5.0 is.
You can read our full review of the CTEK MXS 5.0 here.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Great build quality with premium feel
- Helps keep a car battery well-conditioned and maintained
- Works from as little as -20°C to +50°C
Cons
- The extras quickly add up to the cost
| Dimensions | 27.2 x 14.4 x 5.4 cm |
| Weight | 0.2kg |
| Connection type | Clamps & eyelets |
| Voltage | 12V |
The best jump starter
Rrp: $159.95
Rrp: $159.95
Beyond the jump-starting abilities, this NOCO features a 100-lumen LED torch with SOS beacon mode for any night-time breakdowns. It also works as a regular power bank, while the IP65 rating means it'll survive the rough and tumble of daily life.
So, how did it fare on test? The simple answer is I would never go on a car journey without it. I've powered up multiple vehicles with the GBX45 and it's effortlessly done the task without trouble. There was a point when the override setting was needed, and it worked a treat as well.
I enjoy using it especially as a power bank. On long journeys, it's more useful than your standard unit, and if you need to search for something in your car at night, the in-built torch always has my back.
Read our full NOCO Boost X GBX45 review here.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Very robust and durable item, adding to quality points
- Flawless performance on all levels, no matter the compatible vehicle
- Is a better power bank than most power banks
Cons
- Overkill if you only own a Supermini
| Weight | 0.59kg |
| Dimensions | 17.3cm x 8.3cm x 5.3cm |
| Max engine capacity | 6.5-litre petrol/4.0-litre diesel |
| Amps | 1250A |
| Flashlight | Yes |
The best jump starter for most people
Rrp: $124.95
Rrp: $124.95
This has included a Ford Puma, MG TF, Volvo V70, and much more besides. Even away from the engine bay, I've used it continuously as a power bank for my phone and some other electronic devices.
It's great to leave on the centre console with my phone plugged in to a mount. Charging times are quick, albeit not as fast as the GBX45, but it's been a real saviour on longer journeys and commutes.
The quality is unapologetically premium. The materials feel durable and you could really place it anywhere in the engine bay without it breaking. The only reservation I have - like the GBX45 - is that without sufficient rubber padding for grip, you can't easily make it stay in any one place. I always try to place it on flat surfaces before going to start the engine.
Some competitors have magnetic bases, and this is something that NOCO could easily integrate to improve the useability of its jump starter range.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Excellent features, despite being a lower-end model
- Top quality materials used throughout
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other NOCO units
Cons
- Not as powerful as the GBX45 and other rivals
| Weight | 0.2kg |
| Dimensions | 11.7 x 20.8 x 10.7cm |
| Max engine capacity | 6.0-litre petrol, 3.0-litre diesel |
| Amps | 1,000A |
| Flashlight | Yes |
The best budget smart battery charger
It may not be quite as effective on ageing car batteries, but it should work with all battery types. It even features a cold-weather charging mode for use during the winter months.
We've tested it on a battery of a car that hasn't been charged up in three-months while in winter storage. It charges up the battery as well as it should and provided enough juice for the vehicle to be started effortlessly when re-installed.
The instructions are a slight downer; they really could've been clearer as many consumers of this charger may not be too familiar with trickle charging. Other than that, it provides great value for money for a product that's designed to do exactly what it says on the tin. The RS804 loses out on some of the extra features that pricier competitors have, but these aren't a necessity for everyone.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Simple to use and navigate, benefitting its sense of usability
- Good value for money compared to the others on this list
- A well-made machine for the price point, though loses out on outright durability
Cons
- Not the most advanced option available, but it's designed to be easy
| Dimensions | 14.7cm x (W) 8.5cm x (H) 5.3cm |
| Weight | 0.76kg |
| Current | 2-4A |
| Voltage | 6V, 12V |
| IP rating | IP65 |
| Operating temperature | N/A |
The best mid-range battery charger
The battery indicators are very simple to read, and the mode button allows for a simple navigation through the various modes. It's built to the same standard using premium materials, as per CTEK's whole range, and can handle extreme temperatures on both ends.
During testing, we found that it performs very similarly to the NOCO Genius 10 and the CTEK MXS 5.0. The mains cable is quite short, which does hinder some circumstances. But the quality of the charger, the premium feel of it, and its capability of maintaining a car's battery is excellent and can be done in most temperature conditions.
We don't necessarily see it as a worthy upgrade over the 5.0, but if you want the extra power, it's a perfect machine for you.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Can handle seven amps rather than five
- Premium-feeling build quality and materials
- Modes and battery indicators are easy to set and understand
Cons
- The same issue as the MXS 5.0, regarding the cost of the accessories
| Dimensions | 10 x 20 x 20cm |
| Weight | 0.8kg |
| Current | 7A |
| Voltage | 13.8V |
| IP Rating | IP65 |
| Operating temperature | -20 to 50-degrees |
The best heavy duty car battery charger
The standout feature of it is the ability to restore lost battery power by removing power-sapping plates within the battery. It can even charge a battery resting at zero volts, normally something a battery charger wouldn't be capable of. It does not work, however, as a jump starter.
During testing, we found a little error pop up on the device's dashboard, but after reconnecting and trying again, it fully charged the 12V battery without fuss and continued to do its job on another. Compared to the performance of the CTEK units, we found it does tend to take its time, but for maintaining batteries over a season, it's an ideal unit for the task.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Excellent, comprehensive features packed into one unit
- Versatile as a trickle charger as well as a standard battery charger
- Top-quality materials and construction, as per NOCO products
Cons
- Requires a mains socket to work, so can't be used wirelessly as a jump starter or anything else
| Dimensions | 1.17cm x 0.7cm x 0.5cm |
| Weight | 1.8kg |
| Current | 10A |
| Voltage | 12V/6V |
| IP rating | IP65 |
| Operating temperature | N/A |
The smartest car battery charger
What's more, provided you opt for the solar panel attachment, it can even run without any mains electricity at all. This is one of the most comprehensive and clever battery chargers out there, and you really can use it for multiple things.
When trying it for myself on a number of vehicles and applications, I can confirm one thing: it's one of my favourite products we've ever tested on Parkers. Not only was the boost function surprisingly effective, but the battery on the Audi 80 I used it on maintained its charge very nicely thereafter.
But what I love about it is that it managed to perform the boost function automatically without any of my input. It did so wirelessly - much like a jump starter - and to an impeccable standard. Plugged in, it can act as a conventional battery and trickle charger, and without a plug, it can be a super-capable power bank.
With the optional solar panel, you also get 60W of power, so you get ample electricity straight from the sun. This, however, is around £200, so it's a pricey upgrade should you ever want it.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Doubles as a very capable power bank for camping
- Has a boost mode for slow jump starting, which proved very effective
- Can even run on solar power, albeit after spending around £200
Cons
- It doesn't quite represent as good value as the other CTEKs
| Weight | 1.4kg |
| Dimensions | 24.8 x 9.8 x 7.8cm |
| Max engine capacity | N/A |
| Amps | N/A |
| Flashlight | No |
Best multi-function battery charger
In terms of durability, it doesn't feel as well-made as the NOCO units. But that's okay, because it scores points back with its versatility. I love the fact it's also a power bank, so if you're looking for a do-it-all unit, this won't be far off from what you're looking for.
In terms of performance, it fired up an MG TF's battery effortlessly - I just had to ensure the clamps were attached properly, and it'll do the job without hesitation. The torches are powerful, too - much more so than any of my conventional torches at home. And the inspection light is a treat when checking out a car's underside.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Versatile product with two flashlights and a magnet
- Doubled as a power bank, is easy to use and still jump starts a car
- Moderately-sized, making it easy to store in your boot or other compartment
Cons
- No USB-C ports if that's what you're looking to connect
| Weight | 0.47kg |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 8.5 x 29.5cm |
| Max engine capacity | 4.0-litre petrol, 2.0-litre diesel |
| Amps | 1,200A |
| Flashlight | Yes |
Best solar battery charger
But testing proved otherwise. I used it on a Ford Puma during 2025's heatwave. The battery was completely flat and I fired it up using a jump starter before shutting it off and connecting the panel. Two weeks on, and something spectacular happened: it fired up on the button without hesitation. It didn't even struggle, and myself and my team were astonished.
Clearly then, all 10W of the solar panel is useful in sunny weather conditions. But my criticism only extends to the absence of suction cups; it would've been much nicer to stick it onto the inside of the windscreen, but the top of the dashboard if your only option.
Other than that tiny little gripe though, it's proven itself to be a worthy solar-powered battery charger. Just be mindful that because it performed well in our test, it may not to the same for your scenario. It's primarily designed to be a charger to keep already-charged batteries topped up.
Review by Aaron Hussain
Pros
- Good power for the price and capable of recharging our test vehicle
- Eco-friendly, if that's what you're looking for
- Easy to mount on a car, although no suction mounts are provided
Cons
- Lack of suction mounts is slightly infuriating
- Should only be used as a top-up trickle charger
| Dimensions | 37 x 23.5 x 2.5cm |
| Weight | 1.34kg |
| Watts | 10W |
| Connects to | 12V socket, battery clamps |
The best budget battery charger
If your garage is prone to getting especially hot or cold depending on the time of year, this battery is equipped to detect its ambient temperature and adjust the level of charge accordingly, so as not to over or under-charge depending on the surrounding climate. It might be the baby of the Genius range, but the Genius 1 still packs a punch for a hair under £40.
Pros
- Great maintenance charging capabilities
- Small and inconspicuous, making it potentially easy to place when charging
- Great quality unit for the size and price point
Cons
- One 1A current delivery, which isn't as strong as others
| Dimensions: | 10.2 x 8.7 x 17.1cm |
| Weight: | 0.45kg |
| Charging current: | 1A |
| Trickle charging mode: | Yes |
Best battery booster for large engines
This example is also quite thin and compact, making it the perfect choice for car boots without a lot of room. For the safety of yourself and your battery, the clamps on this Gooloo booster are spark and reverse-polarity protected.
Pros
- Compact unit, making it very useful for storage
- Great value for money compared to its competitors
- Caters for very big engines (all petrol and up to 10L diesels)
Cons
- Shorter cables than its competitors, which hinders its usefulness
| Weight | 1.74kg |
| Dimensions | 26 x 13 x 11cm |
| Max engine capacity | 10L Petrol and Diesel |
| Output | 4,000A |
| Flashlight | Yes |
The best battery charger and tyre inflator
It's capable of firing up petrol engines up to 8.0-litres and 6.0-litre diesels. It can also pump up a tyre from 0-40PSI in as little as two-minutes, so it's a mighty device for getting your car going while also saving time.
You also get a year's warranty, which is helpful for any consumer. And it also has a little microfibre bag to keep it in as well as a torch to keep things illuminated.
Pros
- Caters for powerful petrol and diesel vehicles, adding to its versatility
- Doubles as a tyre inflator which can inflate from 0-40PSI in two-minutes
- Has a power bank which can charge up your devices
Cons
- Doesn't represent as good value for money as the others listed
| Weight | 4.4kg |
| Dimensions | 27 x 18.4 x 16.3cm |
| Max engine capacity | 8.0-litre petrol, 6.0-litre diesel |
| Amps | 2,000A |
| Flashlight | Yes |
FAQs
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What does each type of battery charger do?
Smart battery charger - A smart battery charger is both a trickle charger and a standard battery charger that works to maintain a car battery but features different charging modes and can help recondition an aged battery. They will not jump-start a dead battery, however. In short, the best smart battery chargers will breathe new life into an ageing car battery while also keeping it topped up.
Jump starter - A jump starter (or battery booster) is what you need if your battery is totally dead and your engine won't turn over. One of these power packs connects to a dead battery and pumps it with enough electricity to get the car going again. Think of these as jumper leads without the need for a working car.
Trickle charger - These simple devices provide a small flow of electricity to keep the battery topped up, perfect for a garage-kept car that isn't driven daily. The best trickle chargers will feature smart tech and work to maintain and recondition a car's battery.
Solar battery charger - Where most battery chargers will rely on an integrated battery or wall socket to provide power, a solar battery charger makes use of a solar panel to harness electricity coming from the sun. The best solar battery chargers will ensure your battery can be topped up no matter where it's parked, useful for those not fortunate enough to have a garage. -
What are the different types of car battery?
Would you believe there are as many as four different types of car batteries? You may decide when you change your car's battery that you'll use a different type, but it's not always that easy. Your car might require a certain type. Here are the main categories.
Lead acid - The most common type of car battery, which is found in most vehicles – they're relatively low cost to replace and durable, giving you around 20,000 starts. They'll need de-ionised water to stay healthy though.
Calcium - Slightly more durable than a lead acid battery, giving you around 30,000 starts but with a bit more starting power, perfect for colder mornings or climates, where engines often need that little bit more to get going
Yuasa Silver - The top bracket of calcium batteries, offering more power than both calcium and lead acid batteries to really get the engine turned over. It's said these batteries have 33% more starting power than ordinary lead acid batteries.
AGM/EFB (Start/Stop) - Yes, if you have a start-stop car, you need a start-stop battery. This means if the engine switches off when the car is in neutral and your foot is off the clutch. Generally more expensive but much more durable, they're able to cycle through around 360,000 starts. These require a bit more maintenance as the car will need to be told by a computer that the battery hasn't been changed. Not a job you could usually do at home.
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