Ryobi RP4700 Tek4 4V Charger Review

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 RP4700 Tek4 4V Standard Charger Review

The Ryobi RP4700 is the definite weak link in the Ryobi Tek4 cordless tools line. This is the charger that comes with each of the battery-wielding tools (save the Tek4 LED Flashlight and Tek4 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 Ryobi RP4700 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. The Ryobi 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 of the Ryobi RP4700 may not bother you, but this is a major chink in the armor of an otherwise amazing line-up of tools.

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