Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger

Managing multiple batteries for power tools can be quite the juggling act, especially on a busy job site or during extensive DIY projects. The Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger (model 48-59-1806) promises to streamline this process, offering a centralized solution for charging up to six batteries sequentially. Here's my comprehensive take on this charger based on my experience.

Design and Build Quality

The Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger is designed with practicality in mind. Its compact size and integrated hang holes make it easy to mount vertically, saving valuable space in a crowded workshop or job site. The pass-through plug is a thoughtful addition, conserving outlet space by allowing another device to be plugged into the same outlet.

One of the standout features is the convenient carrying handle, which makes it easy to transport the charger around the site or between locations. The build quality is robust, as expected from Milwaukee, known for their durable tools and accessories.

Charging Performance

Let's talk about performance, which is where the rubber meets the road. The charger handles 18V batteries from Milwaukee's M18 line, charging compact batteries in about 30 minutes and extended capacity batteries in roughly 60 minutes. The sequential charging mechanism means it charges one battery at a time, moving to the next once the current one is fully charged.

While this might initially seem like a downside compared to simultaneous charging, it actually suits my workflow well. Rarely do I find myself needing all six batteries fully charged at the same time. By rotating batteries in and out of use, I've always had enough power to keep my tools running without interruption.

Practicality on the Job

For those with numerous M18 tools and batteries, this charger is a game-changer. Before using this Six Pack Charger, I had several single chargers scattered around, which made battery management a hassle. Now, I can keep all my batteries in one place, reducing clutter and making it easier to keep track of which batteries are charged and ready to go.

The pass-through plug is a small but significant feature that highlights Milwaukee's attention to detail. It allows you to plug another charger or device into the same outlet, which is incredibly useful in environments where outlet availability is limited.

Limitations and Considerations

Despite its many strengths, the Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger isn't without its flaws. One notable issue is that the batteries are not locked into place; they merely rest in the slots. This can be problematic if the charger is mounted in a mobile setup, such as a trailer, where vibrations can cause the batteries to dislodge.

Additionally, the lack of a USB port for charging other devices is a missed opportunity. In today's tech-driven world, having a USB port to charge phones or other gadgets would have been a nice touch.

Another consideration is the charging speed. While it suits my needs, those who require rapid charging might find this charger a bit slow, especially when dealing with larger batteries like the 12Ah ones. If rapid charging is a priority, Milwaukee does offer a rapid multi-charge version, albeit at a significantly higher price.

Durability and Reliability

Over the months I've used this charger, it has proven to be reliable. However, I have heard concerns about overheating, particularly when charging multiple batteries in succession. While I haven't experienced this issue myself, it's something to be mindful of, especially in high-temperature environments.

Overall Value

In terms of value, the Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger is a solid investment for anyone with a substantial collection of M18 batteries and tools. It simplifies battery management, reduces clutter, and ensures that you always have a ready supply of charged batteries. The sequential charging mechanism, while not the fastest, is efficient enough for most workflows.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Six Pack Sequential Charger? Absolutely, with some reservations. If you're a professional or serious DIYer with multiple M18 batteries, this charger can significantly streamline your workflow and keep your projects running smoothly. The convenience of having a centralized charging station far outweighs the minor drawbacks, such as the lack of simultaneous charging and the absence of a USB port.

However, if rapid charging and secure battery placement are critical for your setup, you might want to consider Milwaukee's more expensive rapid charger or look into alternative solutions. For most users, though, the Six Pack Sequential Charger offers a practical, reliable, and efficient way to keep your batteries charged and ready to go.