Can a Hobby LiPo Charger Charge NiMH Power Tool Batteries?

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

The answer is no. Hobby lipo chargers are not designed to charge Ni-MH batteries, and doing so can damage the batteries. Ni-MH batteries require a different charging voltage and current than lipo batteries, and using a hobby lipo charger can overcharge the Ni-MH batteries, causing them to overheat and potentially catch fire.

If you need to charge Ni-MH batteries, you should use a charger that is specifically designed for Ni-MH batteries.

Can A Hobby Lipo Charger Charge Ni-Mh Power Tool Batteries

No, a hobby LiPo charger cannot charge NiMH power tool batteries. LiPo batteries have a different chemistry than NiMH batteries and require a different charging method. Using a LiPo charger on a NiMH battery can damage the battery.

Can a Hobby Lipo Charger Charge Ni-MH Power Tool Batteries?

Lithium-ion (LiPo) batteries are becoming increasingly popular for use in power tools, as they offer a number of advantages over traditional nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. LiPo batteries are lighter, have a higher capacity, and can be charged more quickly than Ni-MH batteries. However, LiPo batteries are also more expensive and can be more dangerous if not handled properly.

Can a Hobby Lipo Charger Charge Ni-MH Batteries?

The short answer is no, a hobby LiPo charger cannot charge Ni-MH batteries. This is because LiPo batteries and Ni-MH batteries have different charging requirements. LiPo batteries require a constant-current, constant-voltage (CC/CV) charging profile, while Ni-MH batteries require a constant-current (CC) charging profile.

If you try to charge a Ni-MH battery with a LiPo charger, it will damage the battery. The LiPo charger will apply a CC/CV charging profile to the Ni-MH battery, which will cause the battery to overheat and eventually catch fire.

How to Charge Ni-MH Batteries

To charge Ni-MH batteries, you will need a Ni-MH charger. Ni-MH chargers are available in a variety of different sizes and capacities. You should choose a charger that is compatible with the size and capacity of your Ni-MH batteries.

Ni-MH batteries should be charged at a rate of 0.1C to 0.5C. This means that a 1,000 mAh battery should be charged at a rate of 100 mA to 500 mA.

Ni-MH batteries should not be charged for longer than 12 hours. If you need to charge your batteries for longer than 12 hours, you should charge them at a lower rate.

Conclusion

It is important to use the correct charger for your Ni-MH batteries. Using a LiPo charger to charge Ni-MH batteries can damage the batteries and create a fire hazard. To charge Ni-MH batteries, you should use a Ni-MH charger that is compatible with the size and capacity of your batteries.

Also Read: Can A Hobby Lipo Charger Charge Nimh Power Tool Batteries

FAQs

Can a hobby lipo charger charge Ni-MH power tool batteries?

No, a hobby lipo charger cannot charge Ni-MH power tool batteries. Hobby lipo chargers are designed to charge lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, while Ni-MH batteries are a different type of battery chemistry. Ni-MH batteries require a different charging voltage and current than Li-ion batteries, and using a hobby lipo charger to charge a Ni-MH battery can damage the battery.

What is the difference between a hobby lipo charger and a Ni-MH charger?

Hobby lipo chargers and Ni-MH chargers are designed to charge different types of batteries. Hobby lipo chargers are designed to charge lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, while Ni-MH chargers are designed to charge nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. Li-ion batteries and Ni-MH batteries have different charging voltages and currents, so using the wrong type of charger can damage the battery.

Can I use a Ni-MH charger to charge a Li-ion battery?

No, you should not use a Ni-MH charger to charge a Li-ion battery. Ni-MH chargers are designed to charge nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, which have a lower voltage and current than Li-ion batteries. Using a Ni-MH charger to charge a Li-ion battery can damage the battery.

What are the signs of a damaged Li-ion battery?

There are a few signs that a Li-ion battery may be damaged. These include:

The battery swelling or bulging
The battery leaking fluid
The battery emitting a burning smell
The battery not holding a charge
The battery getting hot to the touch

If you notice any of these signs, you should stop using the battery immediately and dispose of it properly.

How do I properly dispose of a damaged Li-ion battery?

Li-ion batteries are considered hazardous waste, and should be disposed of properly. You can take your damaged Li-ion battery to a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility. You can also contact the manufacturer of your battery to see if they have a battery recycling program.

About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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