Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger

The Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger is a tool that promises to streamline the battery management process on job sites and workshops. As someone who often juggles multiple power tools, I was eager to see if this charger lived up to its reputation. Here’s my comprehensive take on this high-capacity charging solution.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the M18 PACKOUT charger impresses with its robust and practical design. The unit is built from durable polycarbonate material, giving it a sturdy feel that suggests it can withstand the wear and tear of various job sites. Weighing in at 7.91 lbs and with dimensions of 15.1 in x 9.76 in x 12.12 in, the charger is relatively compact for its capacity, making it easy to transport and store.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with Milwaukee’s PACKOUT modular storage system. This means you can easily attach it to other PACKOUT components, which is great for keeping your gear organized and mobile. However, it’s worth noting that while the charger clips securely onto the PACKOUT system, it lacks additional features that could have enhanced its integration, such as a mid-stack connection or more efficient cord management.

Charging Performance

Where the M18 PACKOUT charger truly shines is in its charging capabilities. This unit is designed to charge two batteries simultaneously at a rapid rate. In practice, this means you can always have a couple of batteries ready to go, which is a significant time-saver on busy job sites. The charger supports all M18 batteries, and the added USB-A port is a nice touch for charging personal electronic devices.

The rapid charging rate is particularly impressive. For instance, a 5.0 XC battery that typically takes over 10 hours to charge on a standard charger can be fully charged in about 3 hours with this unit. This speed is invaluable when you rely heavily on your tools and need your batteries to be ready as quickly as possible.

Usability

Using the M18 PACKOUT charger is straightforward. The batteries latch securely into the bays, ensuring a stable connection throughout the charging process. The charger automatically cycles through the batteries, charging two at a time until all six are charged. This sequential charging is efficient, but it does mean that if you need all six batteries charged at once, you’ll have to wait for the charger to go through its entire cycle. This might be a drawback for some users who need multiple batteries charged simultaneously.

One of the most practical features is the built-in cord wrap clip. However, in real-world use, this clip can be a bit underwhelming. It’s relatively small and doesn't manage the cord as effectively as one might hope, especially in environments where cords are prone to get tangled or caught on other equipment.

Packout Compatibility

The charger’s integration with the PACKOUT system is both a highlight and a point of contention. While it’s convenient to snap the charger onto a PACKOUT stack, the design could have been more thoughtful. For instance, it would have been beneficial if the charger could connect both on top and bottom, allowing for more flexible stacking options. Additionally, better cord management solutions would have enhanced its usability in dynamic work environments.

Overall Functionality

In terms of functionality, the Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger delivers on its promise of efficient, high-capacity charging. It’s a great asset for professionals who use multiple M18 batteries and need a reliable way to keep them charged and ready. The rapid charging capability, combined with the convenience of the PACKOUT system, makes it a valuable addition to any job site.

However, there are some areas where the charger could improve. The inability to charge more than two batteries simultaneously might be a limitation for some users. Additionally, the lack of support for M12 batteries is a noticeable omission, especially considering the price point. Users who rely on both M18 and M12 tools may find this limiting and might prefer a charger that can handle both types of batteries.

Verdict

The Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger is a robust and efficient tool that excels in rapid charging and integrates well with the PACKOUT system. It’s particularly useful for professionals who need to manage multiple M18 batteries and appreciate the convenience of modular storage solutions. The added USB-A port for charging personal devices is a thoughtful inclusion that adds to its versatility.

However, the charger is not without its shortcomings. The inability to charge more than two batteries at once and the lack of M12 battery support are significant drawbacks, especially given the higher price tag. Additionally, the cord management system could be improved to better suit the realities of job site use.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger? For those who primarily use M18 tools and need a reliable, rapid charging solution that integrates with the PACKOUT system, this charger is a solid choice. Its durability, efficiency, and convenience make it a worthwhile investment. However, if you need to charge multiple types of batteries or require simultaneous charging of more than two batteries, you might want to explore other options that offer greater flexibility and value for the price.