Craftsman Lithium Ion Dual-Port Charger

As a frequent user of Craftsman tools, I was particularly excited to get my hands on the Craftsman Lithium Ion Dual-Port Charger (model CMCB124). This charger promises to efficiently charge two V20 batteries simultaneously, and also comes with a handy USB port for charging devices. Having worked with a single-port charger for years, I was eager to see how this new addition would streamline my workflow.

First impressions matter, and the Dual-Port Charger certainly makes a good one. The charger is robust yet lightweight, making it easy to mount on the wall and keeping it out of the way of my workspace. It measures 12.6 inches in length, 10.8 inches in height, and 3.5 inches in width, which is fairly compact considering its capabilities. At just 3.2 pounds, it doesn't feel cumbersome, which is a significant advantage when wall-mounting or transporting it between job sites.

The real test, of course, lies in performance. I decided to put the charger through its paces with my collection of Craftsman V20 batteries, ranging from 2Ah to 9Ah. The first thing I noticed was the LED charge indicators, which offer a clear and immediate understanding of the charging status. This feature is particularly useful when managing multiple batteries and needing to quickly identify which ones are ready to go.

Charging two 9Ah batteries simultaneously was a revelation. Compared to my single-port charger, the Dual-Port Charger cut down the charging time significantly. While I can't provide exact times down to the minute, I can confidently say it charged my high-capacity batteries at least an hour faster than the single-port model. This efficiency is a game-changer for anyone who relies on multiple batteries for extended projects. The charger’s 4.0A output certainly lives up to its promise of rapid charging.

One of the standout features for me is the USB port. Rated at 2.0A, it’s powerful enough to charge smartphones and other small devices efficiently. This may seem like a minor addition, but in a world where staying connected is essential, having a reliable USB charging option integrated into your tool charger is incredibly convenient. It’s one less charger to carry and keeps everything centralized, which is a small but appreciated touch.

The build quality of the charger is solid, as one would expect from Craftsman. It feels durable and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The design is user-friendly, with intuitive slots for the batteries and a straightforward interface. Additionally, the charger’s ability to mount on the wall keeps it off the workbench, freeing up space and reducing clutter.

However, no tool is without its flaws. One issue I encountered, albeit infrequently, was a longer charging time than expected. On one occasion, two brand-new 4Ah batteries took significantly longer to charge than the advertised 60 minutes. This anomaly could be a one-off, but it’s worth noting for those who rely on precise charging times for their workflow. If consistency in charging time is critical for your work, it may be wise to monitor the charger’s performance closely.

Overall, the Craftsman Dual-Port Charger has proven to be an invaluable addition to my toolkit. It excels in areas that matter most: charging speed, reliability, and convenience. The ability to charge two batteries simultaneously cannot be overstated for anyone who uses multiple tools and needs to keep the job moving without interruptions. The USB port is a thoughtful bonus that enhances its utility.

The charger’s size and weight make it practical for both stationary and mobile use, and the LED indicators are a simple yet effective feature that adds to its user-friendliness. While there was a minor hiccup with charging time on one occasion, it did not significantly detract from the overall positive experience.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Craftsman Lithium Ion Dual-Port Charger for anyone who uses Craftsman V20 batteries regularly. Its efficiency, convenience, and solid build quality make it a worthwhile investment that will undoubtedly improve your workflow and keep your projects on track. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this charger is an excellent addition to your tool arsenal.