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Ryobi RP4700 Tek4 4V Standard Charger Review
July 23, 2011 05:55– by Everett Snyder

RP4700 Tek4 4V Standard Charger
Product: Tek4 4V Standard Charger
Manufacturer: Ryobi
Value Rating: 7
Performance Rating: 2
Price: $12.00

Pros: Inexpensive, LED light status

Cons: 5 HOUR charge time

Features & Specs
  • 5 hour charge time
  • Energy Star certified
  • LED readout of battery status
  • Weight: 3.4 oz (no battery)
 

The RP4700 is the definite weak link in the Tek4 line of tools. This is the charger that comes with each of the battery-wielding tools (save the LED Flashlight and USB Portable Power Source). While small and convenient, the charger takes FIVE HOURS to charge a completely spent battery. Seriously? In what universe does it take 5 hours to charge a 4V Li-ion battery? Of the 12V and 18V tools we use the longest charge time we've seen is 60 minutes, and most 12V tools get done in around 30-40. There is really nothing to say about this charger except that if this is what it took to get Energy Star certification, then I think "going green" should only apply to the color of these tools. Ryobi's Dual Port Rapid Charger, available separately for $35, does the job in just 36 minutes – more in line with what we've come to expect from lithium-ion technology. If you've got patience and have enough batteries to cycle them as needed, then the 5 hour charge time may not bother you, but this is a major chink in the armor of an otherwise amazing line-up of tools.

For more information please visit http://www.ryobitools.com/tek4/#/home