A household charger built for readability
The Varta LCD Smart Charger+ combines an informative LCD screen, convenient USB power, and a contained price. It suits a household wanting a clear, versatile charger for NiMH AA and AAA rechargeable batteries.
An LCD screen that saves the guesswork
The LCD screen is the real advantage over a simple-LED charger: it shows, for each bay, the charge state and an estimated remaining time, saving you from guessing where each battery stands. It holds up to 4 batteries, each individually managed, letting you mix AA and AAA at different charge levels.
USB-C power, a real flexibility plus
Its USB cable power is a flexibility plus: plug it into a wall adapter, a computer's USB port, or a power bank, handy while travelling. It also includes a backup USB-A output, a function several direct rivals don't offer.
Not the fastest charge, but honest batteries
Automatic detection sets the current according to the battery, and protections (overcharge, short circuit, non-rechargeable batteries) keep the whole thing safe.
AA and AAA in NiMH only
Like the Panasonic Eneloop BQ-CC55, the Smart Charger+ is limited to NiMH batteries in AA and AAA sizes. No internal resistance testing or discharge function is offered, unlike chargers for Li-ion cells such as the Nitecore UMS4.
Against the BQ-CC55 and the GP ReCyko AR02
In the mainstream AA/AAA charger segment, the Smart Charger+ positions itself on display and warranty.
| Criterion | Smart Charger+ | BQ-CC55 | GP ReCyko AR02 |
|---|---|---|---|
| LCD screen | Yes | No (4 LEDs) | No |
| Warranty | 3 years | Not stated | Not stated |
| Included batteries | 4x AA 2100mAh | 4x AA 2000mAh | 2x AA 2000mAh |
| Price found | ≈ £32.29 | ≈ £32.57 | ≈ £8.54 |
The GP ReCyko AR02 remains the cheapest way to get started. The BQ-CC55 leans on the eneloop reputation of its batteries. The Smart Charger+ adds a screen and a 3-year warranty for essentially the same price as the BQ-CC55.
