Milwaukee Six Bay Daisy Chain Rapid Charger

Managing multiple battery packs can be a significant challenge, especially if you're working with a variety of tools that require constant power. The Milwaukee Six Bay Daisy Chain Rapid Charger (Model 48-59-1817) is designed to alleviate this issue by providing a centralized charging solution for up to six M18 batteries. With its dual charge modes and ability to handle up to 60 battery packs on a single circuit, this charger aims to streamline your workflow both in the shop and on the go.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about this charger is its robust and compact design. It’s built to last, with a sturdy construction typical of Milwaukee products. The unit is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport between job sites or within a workshop. However, the batteries only rest in their slots and do not securely attach, which can be a drawback if you plan to move the charger around frequently or mount it in a mobile setup like a trailer.

Charging Capabilities

One of the standout features of this charger is its versatility in charging modes. It offers both rapid daytime charging and slower overnight charging, allowing you to choose the best option based on your needs. This flexibility is particularly useful for those who may not need rapid charging all the time but appreciate having the option.

However, it's important to note that this charger operates sequentially, meaning it charges one battery at a time in a clockwise order. This might be a deal-breaker for those who need multiple batteries charged simultaneously. For most users, though, the sequential charging is not a significant issue. You can load up your batteries at the end of the day and find them fully charged by morning, which is a considerable convenience.

Performance

In terms of performance, the charger does exactly what it promises. It efficiently charges M18 batteries, ensuring that you always have a power pack ready to go. The piggyback plug is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to save outlet space by daisy-chaining multiple chargers. This feature is particularly useful in crowded workshops or job sites where outlet space is at a premium.

One issue I encountered was with the larger 12Ah batteries. Occasionally, the charger would indicate a problem with these batteries when all six bays were occupied. This issue didn’t occur when the 12Ah battery was the only one being charged, suggesting that the charger might struggle under a full load of high-capacity batteries. While this is not a deal-breaker, it's something to be aware of if you frequently use larger batteries.

Convenience and Usability

The convenience of having a single charger for multiple batteries cannot be overstated. Before acquiring this charger, I had multiple single-battery chargers scattered around my workspace, which was both inefficient and cluttered. This charger has significantly streamlined my battery management, making it easier to keep track of which batteries are charged and ready to use.

The lack of a USB port or Type-C charging option is a minor downside, especially when compared to some newer models that offer these features. While not essential, having a USB port for charging other devices would have been a nice addition.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is a mixed bag with this charger. While the build quality is excellent, some users have reported issues with the charger’s longevity. My own experience has been positive so far, but it's worth noting that some users have experienced overheating issues and early failures. Milwaukee’s customer service is generally reliable, so any issues should be addressed promptly, but it's something to keep in mind.

Efficiency

The charger is designed to be efficient, and it largely succeeds in this regard. By allowing you to set it and forget it, the charger saves you the hassle of constantly swapping out batteries on a single charger. This "set it and forget it" feature is particularly useful for those who have a large number of batteries and tools in constant rotation.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Six Bay Daisy Chain Rapid Charger is a highly effective tool for anyone who uses multiple M18 batteries. Its dual charging modes, compact design, and ability to manage up to six batteries at once make it a valuable addition to any workshop or job site. While it has a few drawbacks, such as the sequential charging and the lack of secure battery slots, these are minor issues compared to the overall convenience and efficiency the charger offers.

Would I recommend this charger? Absolutely.

For those who need to manage multiple batteries efficiently, this charger is a game-changer. It simplifies your workflow, saves outlet space, and ensures that you always have a charged battery ready to go. While it’s not perfect, its benefits far outweigh its shortcomings. If you’re heavily invested in Milwaukee’s M18 system, this charger is well worth the investment.