Milwaukee M12 Charger and Portable Power Source

The Milwaukee M12 Charger and Portable Power Source is a compact and versatile tool designed to keep your M12 batteries charged and ready to go, whether you're on the job site or on the move. As someone who relies heavily on battery-powered tools and devices, I was eager to see how this charger would perform in real-world conditions.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the M12 Charger stands out for its compact size and portability. Weighing just 0.20 lbs, it's easy to carry around, making it a convenient addition to your tool kit or even your daily carry bag. The charger includes a Micro-USB cable and a wall plug, which adds to its portability. However, the use of a Micro-USB port feels somewhat outdated, especially given the prevalence of faster and more efficient USB-C ports in modern devices.

The build quality is decent, with a robust plastic casing that feels like it can withstand the rigors of a job site. The included Micro-USB braided cable with metal ends adds a touch of durability, ensuring that the cable won't easily fray or break. However, the absence of a protective case or rubber connection covers for the ports means you'll need to be cautious about dust and debris getting into the connectors, especially in dusty environments.

Performance and Charging Speed

When it comes to charging speed, the M12 Charger performs adequately but not exceptionally. It can charge an M12 REDLITHIUM Compact 2.0 Battery in under three hours, which is decent but not particularly fast. The 2.1A USB output is useful for charging electronic devices like smartphones and tablets, and I found it capable of charging my phone relatively quickly. However, the charging speed is noticeably slower compared to modern USB-C chargers.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with in-vehicle USB ports, making it a handy tool for charging on the go. This feature is particularly useful for those who spend a lot of time traveling between job sites and need to keep their batteries and devices charged.

Usability and Compatibility

The M12 Charger is straightforward to use. Simply plug in the M12 battery, connect the charger to a power source using the Micro-USB cable, and you're good to go. The compact size means it doesn't take up much space, and it's easy to store in a tool bag or even a pocket.

However, I encountered some issues with the charger's reliability. On several occasions, the charger failed to recognize fully charged batteries, flashing red and green lights to indicate a fault. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially when you need to rely on the charger for critical tasks. Additionally, the charger has a tendency to overheat, which not only affects its performance but also raises concerns about its long-term durability.

Battery Life and Practicality

The M12 Charger is designed to power M12 Heated Gear, which is a great feature for those who work in cold environments. However, the charger itself seems to drain the battery relatively quickly. In my experience, a fully charged M12 battery didn't last as long as I expected when used with the charger, especially when powering heated gear.

The charger also has an auto-off feature that turns off the USB output after two hours, requiring you to press a button to reactivate it. While this feature is designed to conserve battery life, it can be inconvenient if you're relying on the charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day.

Potential Improvements

While the M12 Charger has its merits, there are several areas where it could be improved:

1. USB-C Compatibility: Upgrading to a USB-C port would significantly enhance the charger's performance and compatibility with modern devices.
2. Always-On USB Output: An always-on feature for the USB output would make the charger more versatile, especially for powering devices that need continuous power.
3. Improved Charging Speed: Faster charging capabilities would make the charger more efficient and reduce downtime.
4. Better Durability: Addressing the reliability issues and adding features like replaceable fuses or protective covers for the ports would enhance the charger's durability.
5. Additional Features: Including an LCD screen to display detailed charging information, a flashlight for added utility, and a belt clip for easy access would make the charger more user-friendly and versatile.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M12 Charger and Portable Power Source has the potential to be a valuable addition to your toolkit, especially if you already use M12 batteries and tools. Its compact size, portability, and compatibility with in-vehicle USB ports make it a convenient option for charging on the go. However, the charger is hampered by outdated technology, inconsistent performance, and reliability issues.

Given these drawbacks, I find it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend the M12 Charger. While it has its uses, the frequent reliability issues and slow charging speed make it less dependable than other options on the market. If Milwaukee addresses these concerns in a future update, the charger could become a must-have accessory. For now, it might be worth considering alternative charging solutions that offer better performance and reliability.