Milwaukee M18 & M12 Super Charger

As a long-time user of Milwaukee tools, I was particularly excited to get my hands on the Milwaukee M18 & M12 Super Charger, model number 48-59-1811. This charger promises to significantly cut down on the time it takes to recharge batteries, which can be a game-changer for anyone who relies heavily on their tools throughout the day. After putting this charger through its paces, I have some thoughts to share.

First impressions matter, and the Super Charger certainly makes one. It's a sturdy, well-built unit, typical of Milwaukee’s attention to quality and durability. However, it is noticeably bulkier and heavier than the standard chargers, measuring 7.08 inches in length and weighing 3.38 pounds. This size and weight could be a drawback if you're short on storage space or need to transport it frequently. The integrated hang holes are a thoughtful addition, allowing for easy wall mounting and saving valuable bench space.

One of the standout features of the Super Charger is its speed. Milwaukee claims it can charge batteries up to four times faster than standard chargers, and my experience suggests this is not far from the truth. With high output batteries, such as the M18 HD12.0, the charging times are indeed impressive. I was able to fully charge a depleted HD12.0 battery in just about an hour, which is a significant improvement over the standard chargers. For those who use tools that drain batteries quickly, like rotary hammers or high-drain power tools, this reduction in downtime is invaluable.

However, it's important to note that not all batteries benefit equally from this speed boost. The Super Charger is optimized for high output batteries, and while it still charges standard batteries faster than a regular charger, the difference is less pronounced. For instance, my M18 XC5.0 batteries took about an hour to charge, which is quicker than the standard charger but not as dramatically fast as the high output batteries.

Another noteworthy feature is the charger’s cooling system. The built-in fan activates during charging to keep the batteries and charger cool, which helps to protect the batteries from overheating and potentially extends their lifespan. The fan is not overly loud and shuts off once the charging is complete, which is a nice touch. The charger also features status lights that indicate the charging progress, including a helpful green flashing light when the battery is at 80% charge. This allows you to get back to work even if the battery isn't fully charged yet.

The Super Charger supports sequential charging, meaning it charges the second inserted battery only after the first one is fully charged. This is a minor inconvenience if you're looking to charge both an M12 and an M18 battery simultaneously, but it’s a trade-off I can live with given the speed and efficiency of the charger.

While my overall experience with the Super Charger has been positive, it’s not without its flaws. A few users have reported issues with durability, such as the charger failing after a couple of years of use or the M12 side becoming non-functional. These issues are certainly concerning, especially given the premium price of the Super Charger. It's worth noting that Milwaukee offers a five-year limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind, but it's still disappointing to see durability concerns in a tool from such a reputable brand.

Another issue I encountered was occasional false fault indications. There were instances where the charger indicated that a battery was faulty when it was, in fact, perfectly fine. This required me to unplug the charger and reset it, which was a bit frustrating. While these instances were rare, they did disrupt the otherwise smooth experience of using the Super Charger.

Despite these minor hiccups, the Super Charger has proven to be a reliable and efficient tool in my arsenal. It significantly reduces charging times, particularly for high output batteries, and its cooling system is a smart addition that helps protect battery health. The bulk and weight of the charger are minor inconveniences compared to the benefits of rapid charging and reduced downtime.

In conclusion, do I recommend the Milwaukee M18 & M12 Super Charger? Yes, but with some caveats. If you primarily use high output batteries and need a charger that can keep up with your demanding workload, the Super Charger is an excellent investment. Its speed and efficiency will save you valuable time and keep your tools running longer. However, if you mainly use standard batteries or are concerned about potential durability issues, you might want to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a purchase. The Super Charger is a powerful and efficient tool, but it’s essential to consider your specific needs and usage patterns to determine if it’s the right fit for you.