Nitecore IntelliCharger i2 Charger

Nitecore, a brand well known to torch enthusiasts, offers with the IntelliCharger i2 a universal charger that has become a reference for recharging rechargeable cells. Its principle is simple but effective: two independent bays that accept a very wide range of formats and automatically detect the chemistry of each inserted cell, with no setup.

On compatibility, it does the splits. It recharges the most common Lithium-ion and IMR cells (26650, 22650, 18650, 18490, 18350, 17670, 17500, 14500, 10440 and 16340/RCR123), widely used in torches, vaping and gadgets, but also NiMH and NiCd rechargeable batteries in AA, AAA, AAAA and D formats. You can even charge two cells of different types and sizes at the same time, each bay being managed separately.

Charging delivers up to 1000 mA on a single bay (split to 500 mA if both are occupied). The i2 monitors each cell, detects the charge state and cuts off automatically at the end of the cycle or after a 10-hour safety limit. It protects against overheating and reverse polarity, and shows progress via small LEDs (no LCD screen, but a simple, reliable readout).

Its power flexibility is an asset: it runs on mains but also on a 12V car socket, which makes it handy on the move or in a van. Rustic, compact and almost indestructible, the IntelliCharger i2 lacks the high-tech look of screen chargers, but it does the job with remarkable reliability, which explains its lasting success with users of 18650 cells.