Can a Hobby LiPo Charger Charge NiMH Power Tool Batteries?

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Updated in June 2026 | 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

John Robert is the founder of HowPowerTool and a hands-on power tool specialist with over 10 years of experience. He covers chainsaw troubleshooting, pressure washer repairs, drill guides, and outdoor power tool fixes for homeowners and DIYers of every skill level.