Best Marine Battery Chargers Reviewed

When you are heading out on the water, you need to know that you have a highly capable marine battery. You also need the best marine battery charger to keep the power flowing as it should.

Who makes the best marine battery charger? It depends on what you need, which is why we put together these marine battery charger reviews to help you find the equipment that keeps your boat running.

Choosing A High-Quality Marine Battery Charger

Usage/Frequency

How do you plan to use your marine battery charger? Is it something that will need to be portable or an onboard marine battery charger? You must first determine when and how you will use the charger to ensure you get the model that suits your needs.

Battery Charger Type

Are you hoping to charge multiple batteries at the same time? A 2 bank marine battery charger can charge two batteries at once, while the best 3 bank onboard marine battery charger has the capacity to handle three.

Compatibility, Chemistry & Versatility

The best onboard marine battery charger must be compatible with your gel or AGM batteries. Otherwise, it could lead to permanent damage to the batteries. If you choose to use a lead-acid battery, you must also use a particular charger, or the flooded cells could boil off when overcharged. 

Durability

As you search for a deep cycle marine battery charger, there are two vital aspects you want to consider. First, it must be able to handle vibrations, especially if you will be driving over waves. Secondly, the charger must be waterproof to keep the microprocessor protected.

Charger Size & Power

When choosing a battery charger, you must consider the voltage and amperage of the batteries. You can reference this handy voltage chart. In addition, consider a higher amp rating if you want the charging time to be faster.

Recovery/Charging Time

Recovery time refers to the speed that the batteries can be fully recharged after completely drained. You are looking at anywhere from three to five hours on the top models to 12 hours or longer on budget options.

Power Source

You will power your marine battery charger by one of two methods, either continuous or intermittent power. If your boat sits at the dock with a connection to shore power, then you have continuous power. If you are spending more time on the water, then you are looking at intermittent power sources, whether it is with a generator or you need the best solar charger for marine battery

Multi-Stage Smart Charging

The smart charger will not only top off the batteries but also protect them. It has built-in microprocessors that charge in various stages safely. This feature will cause the price to go a little higher.

Safety Features

As with any battery charger, you want to spend a little more to get safety features that keep you protected. Consider the value of auto temperature compensation, which adjusts the level of charging based on ambient and battery temperatures.

Price & Warranty

Everyone wants to own a cheap marine battery charger, but cutting costs isn’t wise. Instead, evaluate the best rated marine battery chargers to find an exceptional value with an extensive warranty.

1. Minn Kota Precision

If you want maximum versatility, there is a Minn Kota on-board charger waiting for you. This particular model comes in 1-Bank, 2-Bank, 3-Bank, and 4-Bank models. Additionally, you can choose from 6-amp, 10-amp, and 15-amp capability. This waterproof charger features aluminum construction that reduces the impact of shocks and vibrations.

This system also features plenty of safety technology to keep you protected. It has automatic temperature compensation, automatic multi-stage charging, short-circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, as well as arc and ignition protection.

This model comes with a digital control and LED status display so that you will always know what’s going on. The company even tested it in saltwater to ensure it was completely corrosion-resistant.

It’s hard to find 4 bank marine battery charger reviews that are this high. In fact, it's challenging to find one negative comment about any of these Minn Kota units, proving that it makes an excellent value for the everyday boater. In addition, the company offers a three-year warranty to ensure that you won’t face premature failure of the charger. If you are looking for the best dual bank marine battery charger, it’s not difficult to find the model that suits your needs out of these selections.

2. Guest 2711A ChargePro

This particular Guest model is a 12V 10-amp 2-bank onboard battery charger. However, there are several other options available, including a powerful 3-bank charger. What sets these models apart are the safety features included. You will get reverse polarity, over-voltage, over-current, over-temperature, and ignition protection. Plus, the in-line fuses provide optimal DC wire protection.

You can use these chargers with all 12-volt AGM or flooded batteries. In addition, it is entirely waterproof and shock-resistant, for use in any saltwater or freshwater application. The intuitive LED display makes it simple to see the charger status at any time. It also indicates the status of every battery during the charging stages. The ChargePro includes a five-stage performance system that is completely automated and doesn’t require any input from the user.

This option, as the best battery charger for a deep cycle marine battery, also comes with a two-year warranty. As a 2- or 3-bank marine battery charger, customers continue to rave about the performance and reliability.

The only complaint worth mentioning is that some loyal customers don’t appreciate the heavier weight compared to older models. If this is a brand-new model for you, it’s likely you won’t notice that they are slightly heavier than they once were.

3. CTEK (56-353)

If you only need to charge one marine battery at a time, you might prefer this CTEK model. The kit comes complete with a charger, eyelets, and clamps for an easy installation. The price of this charger isn't just reasonable but makes it easy for anyone to afford optimal charging capability. It features an eight-step automatic switch charging plus four charge modes that make it simple to get the power you need without watching the charger.

You can use this unit with any 12V lead-acid battery, including gel, wet and AGM. The maintenance pulse charging increases the battery life and offers better performance. It also features a patented desulphation function that helps you recover batteries that are heavily sulphated. With the convenient mounting holes, you can attach this charger anywhere.

As with the other options, this charger comes with exceptional reviews. The only complaint is a slight clicking noise that some users experienced. However, the CTEK charger does come with a five-year warranty, which ensures that you are covered if the charger should die prematurely. While there are fewer options to choose from with this charger, we can’t help but conclude that it’s one of the best for basic marine charging needs.

4. NOCO Genius GEN3

The NOCO Genius is another charger that comes with multiple options. This particular model features three banks at ten amps per bank, but you can also select one- and two-bank options at varying amperage. Use this on-board charger to maintain three 12V batteries at the same time for maximum versatility. It safely works with many lead-acid batteries, including gel, AGM, and deep-cycle.

In addition, the NOCO Genius comes with many advanced safety features, including reverse polarity, ignition, thermal and overcharge protection, plus spark-proof technology. The charger is waterproof and rugged, so you can use it anywhere without worry.

This unit won’t just keep the batteries charged, but also helps to recover those that aren’t running properly. It will apply a high-voltage pulsing charge when sulfation, lost capacity, or low-voltage is detected.

The majority of customers can’t find enough good to say about this battery charger lineup. However, some people did experience trouble with customer support. With the five-year warranty, you shouldn’t have too much to worry about if the charger stops working prematurely. We recommend this extremely popular charger for anyone needing reliable charging that offers some advanced features. It’s ideal to use with a multitude of batteries and types.

5. ProMariner 43012 ProSport

The 2-bank charger from ProMariner offers all of the charging capability you will need to enjoy your time on the water. There’s no need to carry around a portable battery charger when this is on-board. You have access to fully charged batteries whenever you need them. The best part is that you can charge two batteries at the same time.

ProMariner is a leader in the battery maintenance industry, which is why they can offer specialized features that don’t come with other units. For example, this model includes an energy saver mode when it is not in use. It also has a storage recondition mode, which is ideal when your boat batteries need a little boost. In addition, this system has a unique digital LED display and battery type selector to charge your batteries without a lot of oversight. 

Again, the customer reviews on this model are off the charts. The only negative complaints talk about premature failure, but this isn’t a common occurrence. Plus, the company offers a two-year warranty, so you could get a replacement if this occurs. We recommend this charger if you need to keep your marine AGM batteries in optimal condition, even while in storage or not in use.

6. BMK

If you want the cheapest option possible, while still purchasing a reliable charger, we recommend the option from BMK. It is a 12V 5A smart battery charger maintainer that is also waterproof. The 72-hour safety features offer multi-safety precautions, just like the more expensive models. In addition, this model includes a Battery Rescue and Recover function to bring life back to old batteries.

The four-stage smart charging ability makes sure that the batteries get exactly what they need without the risk of overcharging. When the battery is completely charged, the unit stops automatically. The model also includes an LED indicator that displays the various charging status, so you know where your battery stands. Use this charger with your SLA, gel, or AGM battery. Plus, it works well with more than just your marine batteries but can also be hooked up to a lawnmower, motorcycle, EV, or car.

These marine battery trickle charger reviews aren’t quite as high as some other models, but you would expect that by looking at the low price. However, the majority of customers still have plenty of positive comments to say and seem to be satisfied. Furthermore, the company provides a one-year warranty, which is more than generous in our opinion.

7. MinnKota MK-105P

This MinnKota charger isn’t something you want to keep attached all the time, but it works when you need to charge your batteries on the go. It is a portable model that provides 12-volt battery charging to your marine batteries. It features one bank to charge a single battery at a time. This bank provides five amps and includes fully automatic two-stage charging.

Even though it is a lower-priced option, this charger still features maximum durability and smart systems for proper usage. You will be protected from short circuits and reverse polarity issues, so you don't need to be worried about connecting it wrong.

It features LED indicator lights that keep you completely informed about the charging status. What makes this system special is the unique molded in handle design. With this handle and the lightweight design, you can take the charger anywhere.

These marine battery charger inverter reviews suggest that it is well worth the money. However, some customers found it finicky to use. You might need to make some adjustments to get it working the way you want. On a positive note, the company offers a three-year warranty, which is exceptional, considering the lower price.

8. Dual Pro Sportman Series

Another option available with multiple choices is this Dual Pro Sportman charger. You can pick from a 2-, 3- or 4-bank model. With the highest capability, you will have the flexibility to charge up to four batteries at one time. You can use this charger indoors or outdoors, which only further adds to the versatility. In addition, it is approved for use with AGM and wet cell batteries. You want a different model for gel batteries.

This charger has been tested in both saltwater and freshwater environments. The durable, rugged, and waterproof construction keeps you protected no matter where you boat. Also, this system is fully automatic.

You won't have to watch it to ensure that charging is occurring. It also includes zero spark technology to keep you safer. Further, the temperature compensation ensures that the charger is giving off an appropriate voltage depending on the environment.

This model is a little more expensive than some of the others you can purchase, but the reviews are positive. Plus, the company is happy to offer a 3-year warranty, which is a lengthy term guaranteed to protect from premature failure. We recommend this model, whether you need 2-, 3- or 4-bank charging capability. 

9. TECMATE OptiMATE 6

The Tecmate smart charger offers the perfect balance of capability and value. It’s a fully sealed unit that works with 12V gel, lead-acid and AGM batteries. Use it for your marine batteries, or in your car and motorcycle.

The five-amp charger tests and maintains your marine batteries without any input from you. The ampmatic control adjusts the power supply based on the size of the battery. If you connect a small battery, it gets a smaller charge than a larger battery. It also works with heavily sulphated batteries with the advanced recovery program.

What truly sets this unit apart is the early warning indication of battery problems. You aren’t just charging your battery with this unit, but also watching for signs of trouble. With this capability, you save yourself money by proactively correcting what’s wrong. Plus, you won’t get stranded with a dead battery, which simply ruins the day.

Customers can’t get enough of this marine battery trickle charger. The company offers a three-year warranty, but the one source of complaints does come from the difficulty of getting the warranty honored. That’s something to keep in mind before making the purchase. Still, because of the price and functions, we recommend this for anyone that doesn’t want to heavily monitor their battery charging.

10. Powermania Turbo

At the top end of the spectrum, we have a dual-bank charger that is also completely waterproof. It features three-stage smart charging and has a fan-cooled operation. You can also choose between three charging profiles, including lead-acid/AGM, AGM+, and gel.

With the 20 amps of power, you get the charging capability you need. Plus, it has an individual bank status indicator that shows you the level of charging. Plus, the adaptive loading allows more amperage to go to the weaker bank.

Unlike many other models, it will charge fully-depleted batteries. Many tournament fishers and other boating enthusiasts trust this brand, so you know it's an excellent option for you as well. You are spending a little more to get this type of capability, but it seems to be well worth the cost.

There aren't as many reviews with this model, but the customers that have left comments were pleased with the charging ability. However, there were a few that talked about the multi-bank function, not working the way it should. However, the company is willing to offer a three-year warranty, which should provide plenty of protection. We recommend this charger if you are looking for a unit that the top professionals rely on.

Using and Testing Marine Battery Chargers

Once you finish the installation of your on-board charger, you want to know how to use it safely. To use the battery charger, make sure it has been tested first. You will run it through a complete charge cycle while noting the voltage and final float readings.

Adjust the charge regimen as needed to suit your batteries. To ensure that the charger is living up to its rating, consider turning on a DC load equal to the charger rating to see if it can maintain voltage.

Care & Maintenance of Marine Battery Chargers

Marine batteries don’t require a lot of maintenance or care, but they should never be neglected. Here are a few tips to keep your batteries running at optimal levels.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How is a marine battery charger different from other types?

The marine battery charger is different from traditional chargers because of the chemistry and construction. Marine batteries are typically AGM or deep-cycle, so the charger must be compatible. In addition, it must be waterproof and protected from vibration to use effectively in a vessel.

What happens if you charge a marine battery with a normal charger?

If you use a charger that’s incompatible with your marine batteries, you could cause permanent damage to the battery.

How do I know when my marine battery is fully charged?

When the marine battery is fully charged, it will read between 12.7-12.8 volts. If you are getting higher readings, it’s only because the charger is still operating. If the battery reaches less than 12 volts, it can start to fail.

How long should a marine battery hold its charge?

Each marine battery features its own reserve capacity. This is a spec you will want to evaluate before making a purchase.

How do I clean the battery terminals?

You can use a baking soda and water solution with a toothbrush to gently clean around the terminals and battery connections.

What does float charge mean?

The float charge turns on and maintains the battery once it has self-discharged below a particular level.

Conclusion

What is the best marine battery charger? Personally, we prefer the Minn Kota Precision On-Board Charger. It isn’t just waterproof and shock-proof but also charges up to four batteries at once. It’s the perfect tool to ensure your batteries are never dead while you are out on the water.