Free shipping on orders over $100

Skip Content

A Smarter Charger is NOT a Trickle Charger

Trickle chargers are not smarter chargers

Sometimes we hear our CTEK Smarter Chargers referred to as trickle chargers. As much as we appreciate being thought of, our chargers are not trickle chargers.

What is a Trickle Charger?


A trickle charger is basically a battery charger that uses a very low amperage (1-3A) to charge the battery. That is the common thought of what a trickle charger is, however, there is a little more to it than that. Many battery chargers have a selection that allows you to choose the amount of amperage you need. This allows you to charge a battery quickly or slowly, as is needed. Some trickle chargers also allow you to connect the battery for a long time without overcharging it.

What makes any charger a trickle charger is that it will either offer a low amperage selection or it only puts out a low charging amperage. This amperage is usually between 1 and 3 amps.

What is a Smarter Charger?


A Smarter Charger uses sophisticated electronics to charge, condition, and maintain the battery. A CTEK Smarter Charger maximizes the life of the battery, extending the life 2-3 times of its normal lifespan.

Through a series of 4 to 8 steps, a CTEK Smarter Charger maintains the battery in prime condition. By constantly monitoring the battery, the charger is able to understand the battery's condition and implement the correct step: disulphate, revive, charge, condition, and maintain. CTEK Smarter Chargers are also able to regulate the main voltage, protecting sensitive and expensive electronics throughout the vehicle. A backup power supply is incorporated into the Smarter Charger, allowing you to charge the battery, without losing any program settings in the vehicle.

Don't Confuse a Trickle Charger with a Smarter Charger


Although there are some similarities between trickle chargers and CTEK Smarter Chargers, the differences are many and vast. In some instances, a trickle charger won't give you the results you are looking for, whereas a Smarter Charger will not only charge your battery, but keep it strong and healthy.

Contact us to learn more about how a CTEK Smarter Charger can help your vehicle perform at its peak.

“Having owned several of another ‘popular’ brand of charger, the CTEK is far and above superior in every possible category. WELL worth the miniscule additional cost. ”

Testimonials