Nitecore i4 charger question

[chellie]

I use the Samsung 25r 18650 batteries and just purchased one of the newer i4's that supposedly has a total output of 1500 mA.

I've only used the older nitecore where I just put my batteries on the charger and when it has 4 bars it's done.

This charger has a function that I can press the C button for 1500mA fast charging.

Should I regularly be using the C button?

It is this one

Nitecore i4 Intellicharger - 4 Bay Battery Charger | 18650 Battery Store

I just want easy and do not want to have to mess with settings - I just want to charge 1, 2, 3 or 4 batteries.

Thanks,

 

[G and C]

I'd say stick to using the fast charge when you need the batteries charged fast. Buy an extra set and just let them charge the nice, slow way.

 

[Baditude]

I just want easy and do not want to have to mess with settings - I just want to charge 1, 2, 3 or 4 batteries.

If the speed of charging your batteries is not a priority to you, then you should charge your batteries at 1.0 amp or less to slightly increase the life expectancy of your batteries. Charging at a faster rate will slightly decrease the overall life expectancy.

 

[stols001]

Slower charging is generally better (if/when you have the time to do it) so it's great that it's adjustable and sure if you know you don't need batteries quickly you should by all means charge more slowly.
Anna

 

[Beamslider]

When I first get new batteries, I normally charge them at 2 A just to see if they heat up when charged at that rate. If they don't get too warm it gives me a little more level of comfort with the new ones.

Afterwards I charge them at 0.5 A. Seem to hold the charge longer when charged at a low rate. Does take a lot longer to recharge though

 

[chellie]

Thanks all. I have enough batteries so I do not need the fast charge function and do not think I will use it much, if at all.

 

[TwistedThrottle]

For me, the lower the battery has been drained, the slower I charge it back up. If its on a mech and I only took it down to 3.8, I have no problem with a quick zip charge. If its on a regulated and its sitting around 3.2, I like to take my time with those and charge no faster than 0.5amp. From the sounds of it though, it would be smarter to zip charge those 3.8's right before use again as 3.8 is better to store batteries rather than a full 4.2 volts.