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The best battery charger for winter storage under 40 is the one that is already connected when the first hard frost arrives and the car sits untouched for weeks. We compared five 6V/12V and 12V chargers and maintainers from what their listings state: stated output, charging stages, stated protections and certifications, and warranty terms. Every figure below comes from the listings, and the focus keyword sets the price line at under $40. The LOKITHOR BC2 leads on adjustable output and charging stages, while the CRAFTSMAN and MOTOPOWER picks cover 1.5A and 800mA maintenance duty.
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Quick picks
Best Overall LOKITHOR BC2 Charger: adjustable 2A/1A/750mA currents, 10-stage charging and forced charge mode Check price on Amazon
Best Wall-Mountable CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger: 1.5A 6V/12V charging, desulfation mode and wall-mountable design Check price on Amazon
Best Two-Pack MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack: two 800mA maintainers with pulse recovery for a two-battery garage Check price on Amazon
Simplest Maintainer MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger: 800mA 5-stage charger with spark-proof leads and a 24-hour timer Check price on Amazon
Compact Pick Schumacher SC1299 Charger: 0.8A maintainer with 11-foot cables and quick-connect clamps Check price on Amazon
The picks
| # | Product | Solar Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LOKITHOR BC2 Charger | 9.7/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 | CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger | 9.7/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 | MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack | 9.6/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 | MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger | 9.6/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 | Schumacher SC1299 Charger | 9.5/10 | Buy on Amazon |

LOKITHOR BC2 Charger
A 6V/12V charger with three selectable currents, 10-stage charging, double pulse repair and a forced charge mode, per the listing.
Pros
- Three selectable currents: 2A, 1A or 0.75A for different battery sizes
- 10-stage charging program with double pulse repair stated
- Forced charge mode stated to recover batteries as low as 2V
- Clamps plus M8 eyelet terminals with a 5A fuse for permanent mounting
Cons
- No certification mark is stated in the spec table
- 1-year warranty is the smallest stated term among the top three
- Forced mode needs a manual switch back to normal charging after 5 minutes
- Bulky feature list with winter and summer modes to learn
Detailed Review
The listing states a 2A smart charger for 6V and 12V lead-acid (AGM, GEL, SLA, VRLA, flooded) and LiFePO4 batteries, with 2A, 1A and 0.75A selectable currents, a 10-stage charging program, double pulse repair and a forced mode for batteries as low as 2V. It lists spark-proof technology with short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharging, over-current and overheating protections, detachable clamps and M8 eyelet terminals with a 5A fuse, a 55-inch DC cable plus 21.7-inch clamp cables, and a 1-year warranty. The spec table lists 12 volts output against the 6V/12V title and bullets, so trust the title and bullets for the voltage range.
Who it's for: owners who maintain several battery sizes and want selectable current plus a recovery mode for deeply discharged batteries. Who should skip it: buyers who want a stated certification mark on the listing.
Its Solar Score of 9.7/10 comes from performance 33/35, build 21/25, value 22/25, safety 7/10 and warranty 3/5: 86 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 2A / 1A / 750mA selectable |
|---|---|
| Battery types | 6V/12V lead-acid and LiFePO4 |
| Charging | 10-stage, double pulse repair, forced charge |
| Cables | 55-inch DC, 21.7-inch clamps, M8 eyelets |
Figures as published on the retailer listing, collected 21 October 2026. Performance figures are manufacturer rated.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. Spark-proof technology with short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharging, over-current and overheating protections stated, so safety scores 7 of 10. 1 Year Warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 3 of 5. See How We Pick.
Match the charger. Use a charger mode that matches your battery's stated chemistry and voltage, connect in the order the manual gives, and keep it ventilated and dry.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.

CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger
A 1.5A 6V/12V charger, maintainer and reconditioner with clamps and ring connectors, wall mountable, per the listing.
Pros
- 1.5A output for 6V and 12V batteries, including deep-cycle
- Desulfation reconditioning mode stated to help extend battery life
- Wall mountable, with quick-connect clamps and ring connectors in the box
- 6-foot power cord plus 5-foot booster cables stated
Cons
- No selectable current; 1.5A is the only stated rate
- 1.5 pounds and 7.68 inches square, the largest unit here
- Only reverse polarity protection is stated beyond the UL mark
- Spec table lists 12 volts output against the 6V/12V title and bullets
Detailed Review
The listing states a 1.5A fully automatic charger and maintainer for 6V and 12V batteries, including standard, AGM, gel and deep-cycle types, with a desulfation reconditioning mode and reverse polarity protection. It states a 6-foot power cord, 5-foot booster cables, quick-connect clamps and ring connectors, a wall mountable design, 7.68 by 7.68 by 2.24 inches, 1.5 pounds, UL in the spec table and a 2-year warranty. The spec table lists 12 volts output while the title and bullets state 6V and 12V, so trust the title and bullets.
Who it's for: garage owners who want a 1.5A maintainer they can mount on the wall with ring terminals left on the battery. Who should skip it: anyone who needs selectable current or a smaller unit for tight spaces.
Its Solar Score of 9.7/10 comes from performance 29/35, build 22/25, value 21/25, safety 7/10 and warranty 4/5: 83 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 1.5A |
|---|---|
| Battery types | 6V/12V: standard, AGM, gel, deep-cycle |
| Cables | 6-foot cord, 5-foot cables, clamps and rings |
| Size | 7.68 x 7.68 x 2.24 in, 1.5 lb |
Figures as published on the retailer listing, collected 21 October 2026. Performance figures are manufacturer rated.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. UL stated in the spec table, plus reverse polarity protection, so safety scores 7 of 10. 2 year warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 4 of 5. See How We Pick.
Match the charger. Use a charger mode that matches your battery's stated chemistry and voltage, connect in the order the manual gives, and keep it ventilated and dry.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.

MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack
Two 800mA 12V automatic chargers with pulse recovery, for maintaining two batteries at once, per the listing.
Pros
- Two 800mA units in the box for a two-battery garage or two vehicles
- Pulse current recovery with automatic desulfation stated
- CEC, ETL and UL marks stated in the spec table
- 24-hour timer ends the charge and enters maintaining mode
Cons
- 800mA per unit, the lowest stated output among the ranked five
- 12V only, with no 6V support stated
- 700 grams for the pair, heavier than the single unit's 350 grams
- No selectable current or recovery mode for deeply discharged batteries
Detailed Review
The listing states a 2-pack of 12V 800mA automatic chargers that work as charger, maintainer, trickle charger and desulfator for 12V lead-acid, flooded or sealed maintenance free batteries including AGM and gel cell. It states 5 charging stages, pulse current recovery, spark-proof leads, overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection, charging to 14.4V and maintaining at 13.6V, a 24-hour timer, 2 by 1.5 by 4.1 inches, 700 grams, CEC, ETL and UL marks and a 2-year manufacturer warranty. No contradiction stands out in the listing.
Who it's for: owners with two 12V batteries to keep through winter, such as a car and a motorcycle or boat. Who should skip it: anyone with a 6V battery or a battery that needs more than 800mA.
Its Solar Score of 9.6/10 comes from performance 26/35, build 20/25, value 22/25, safety 9/10 and warranty 4/5: 81 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 800mA per unit, 2 units |
|---|---|
| Battery types | 12V lead-acid, AGM, gel cell |
| Charging | 5-stage, pulse recovery, 24-hour timer |
| Marks | CEC, ETL, UL stated |
Figures as published on the retailer listing, collected 21 October 2026. Performance figures are manufacturer rated.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. CEC, ETL and UL stated, plus spark-proof, overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection, so safety scores 9 of 10. 2 year manufacturer warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 4 of 5. See How We Pick.
Match the charger. Use a charger mode that matches your battery's stated chemistry and voltage, connect in the order the manual gives, and keep it ventilated and dry.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.

MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger
An 800mA 12V automatic charger, maintainer and desulfator with a 5-stage program and spark-proof leads, per the listing.
Pros
- 5 charging stages with automatic pulse current desulfation
- Charges to 14.4V and maintains at 13.6V with a 24-hour timer stated
- CEC, ETL and UL marks stated, the most marks in this group
- Spark-proof leads with overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection
Cons
- 800mA output, the lowest stated rate among the ranked five
- 12V only, with no 6V support stated
- Alligator clips are the only stated connector; no ring terminals
- Single unit only, unlike the 2-pack version of the same charger
Detailed Review
The listing states a 12V 800mA automatic charger, maintainer, trickle charger and desulfator for all 12V lead-acid, flooded or sealed maintenance free batteries including AGM and gel cell, with ETL safety standard listed. It states 5 charging stages, automatic pulse current desulfation, spark-proof leads, overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection, charging up to 14.4V and maintaining at 13.6V, a 24-hour timer, alligator clips, 2 by 4.1 by 1.5 inches, 350 grams, CEC, ETL and UL marks and a 2-year manufacturer warranty. No contradiction stands out in the listing.
Who it's for: owners of one 12V battery who want the most certified 800mA maintainer here. Who should skip it: anyone maintaining two batteries, who should look at the 2-pack version.
Its Solar Score of 9.6/10 comes from performance 26/35, build 20/25, value 20/25, safety 9/10 and warranty 4/5: 79 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 800mA, 0.8A |
|---|---|
| Battery types | 12V lead-acid, AGM, gel cell |
| Charging | 5-stage, 14.4V charge, 13.6V maintain |
| Marks | CEC, ETL, UL stated |
Figures as published on the retailer listing, collected 21 October 2026. Performance figures are manufacturer rated.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. CEC, ETL and UL stated, plus spark-proof, overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection, so safety scores 9 of 10. 2 year manufacturer warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 4 of 5. See How We Pick.
Match the charger. Use a charger mode that matches your battery's stated chemistry and voltage, connect in the order the manual gives, and keep it ventilated and dry.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.

Schumacher SC1299 Charger
A 0.8A 12V fully automatic charger and maintainer with 11-foot cables and quick-connect clamps, per the listing.
Pros
- 11-foot booster cables stated, the longest reach in this group
- Quick-connect clamps, with ring connectors available separately
- Multi-stage charging algorithm stated to maximize battery health
- Reverse polarity protection stated
Cons
- 0.8A output, tied for the lowest stated rate here
- 12V only, with no 6V support stated
- 1-year warranty is the smallest stated term in this group
- Spec table lists 12 volts input against the AC-powered design in the bullets
Detailed Review
The listing states a 0.8A fully automatic 12V charger and maintainer for standard, AGM and gel batteries in motorcycles, ATVs, cars, trucks, SUVs and marine use, with smart trickle charge, multi-stage charging, reverse polarity protection and quick-connect battery clamps. It states 11-foot cables, 2.88 by 3.13 by 8.63 inches, 11.2 ounces, UL in the spec table and a 1-year warranty. The spec table lists 12 volts input, which does not fit the AC-powered design in the bullets; trust the bullets that it must be plugged in.
Who it's for: owners who need long cable reach to a parked vehicle and a simple automatic maintainer. Who should skip it: anyone who wants a 2-year warranty or 6V support.
Its Solar Score of 9.5/10 comes from performance 26/35, build 20/25, value 20/25, safety 7/10 and warranty 3/5: 76 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 0.8A |
|---|---|
| Battery types | 12V: standard, AGM, gel |
| Cables | 11-foot, quick-connect clamps |
| Size | 2.88 x 3.13 x 8.63 in, 11.2 oz |
Figures as published on the retailer listing, collected 21 October 2026. Performance figures are manufacturer rated.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. UL stated in the spec table, plus reverse polarity protection, so safety scores 7 of 10. 1 Year Warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 3 of 5. See How We Pick.
Match the charger. Use a charger mode that matches your battery's stated chemistry and voltage, connect in the order the manual gives, and keep it ventilated and dry.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
More picks to compare
VibeXtr 1.5A 6V/12V Car Battery ChargerCheck on Amazon
DZPIMROI 12V 10A Car Battery ChargerCheck on Amazon
Corebox Battery Charger 6-Amp 12VCheck on Amazon
AeternaSol 10A Smart Battery ChargerCheck on Amazon
Compare the picks
| Charger | Solar Score | Output | Battery voltage | Stages / features | Warranty | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOKITHOR BC2 Charger | 9.7/10 | 2A / 1A / 750mA | 6V/12V | 10-stage, forced charge | 1 year | View on Amazon |
| CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger | 9.7/10 | 1.5A | 6V/12V | Desulfation, wall mountable | 2 years | View on Amazon |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack | 9.6/10 | 800mA x 2 | 12V | 5-stage, pulse recovery | 2 years | View on Amazon |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger | 9.6/10 | 800mA | 12V | 5-stage, pulse recovery | 2 years | View on Amazon |
| Schumacher SC1299 Charger | 9.5/10 | 0.8A | 12V | Multi-stage, quick-connect | 1 year | View on Amazon |
Specifications are manufacturer rated as listed, collected 21 October 2026.
How we scored them
The Solar Score weighs performance, build, value, safety and warranty. For winter storage chargers, safety means the protections and certifications the listing actually states: overcharge, short circuit and reverse polarity protection, spark-proof design, or a stated mark such as ETL, UL, CEC or FCC; a charger that states none scores zero on that line. All five chargers state a warranty term, from 1 year to 2 years.
| Product | Solar Score | Perf. /35 | Build /25 | Value /25 | Safety /10 | Warranty /5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOKITHOR BC2 Charger | 9.7 | 33 | 21 | 22 | 7 | 3 |
| CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger | 9.7 | 29 | 22 | 21 | 7 | 4 |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack | 9.6 | 26 | 20 | 22 | 9 | 4 |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger | 9.6 | 26 | 20 | 20 | 9 | 4 |
| Schumacher SC1299 Charger | 9.5 | 26 | 20 | 20 | 7 | 3 |
Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each product’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score.
How to choose the best battery charger for winter storage under $40
Match the volts and the chemistry
Start with what the battery needs. The LOKITHOR BC2 and the CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 both state 6V and 12V support, while the MOTOPOWER units and the Schumacher SC1299 are 12V only. On chemistry, the MOTOPOWER listings state 12V lead-acid, flooded or sealed maintenance free batteries including AGM and gel cell; the CRAFTSMAN adds deep-cycle to standard, AGM and gel; and the LOKITHOR states 6V and 12V lead-acid (AGM, GEL, SLA, VRLA, flooded) plus LiFePO4. If your needs go beyond the under $40 field, our best battery charger and maintainer roundup covers larger options.
Pick the amperage for the job
Winter storage is maintenance duty, and the stated outputs here run from 800mA to 2A. The LOKITHOR BC2 offers three selectable currents: 2A, 1A or 0.75A, with the listing positioning 0.75A for smaller batteries and 1A for routine maintenance. The CRAFTSMAN delivers a fixed 1.5A, and the MOTOPOWER and Schumacher units deliver 800mA (0.8A). A higher stated amperage charges a depleted battery sooner; a lower one is plenty for a battery that starts the season healthy. Read smart vs trickle battery charger if you are choosing between an automatic maintainer and a basic trickle unit.
Read the protections before winter
A charger that sits connected for months should state how it stays safe. The MOTOPOWER states CEC, ETL and UL marks plus a 24-hour timer that ends the charge and enters maintaining mode once voltage is above 14V. The CRAFTSMAN and Schumacher state UL with reverse polarity protection. The LOKITHOR states no certification mark but lists spark-proof technology with short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharging, over-current and overheating protections. See our best battery charger for winter storage roundup for the wider field beyond this price line.
| Charger | Stated output | Voltages | Stated protections and marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| LOKITHOR BC2 Charger | 2A / 1A / 750mA | 6V/12V | Spark-proof, short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharge, over-current, overheat |
| CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM259 Charger | 1.5A | 6V/12V | UL, reverse polarity |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C 2-Pack | 800mA x 2 | 12V | CEC, ETL, UL; spark-proof, overcharge, short circuit, reverse polarity |
| MOTOPOWER MP00205C Charger | 800mA | 12V | CEC, ETL, UL; spark-proof, overcharge, short circuit, reverse polarity |
| Schumacher SC1299 Charger | 0.8A | 12V | UL, reverse polarity |
Sizing Notes
- Match the charger voltage to the battery: the LOKITHOR and the CRAFTSMAN state 6V and 12V; the MOTOPOWER units and the Schumacher are 12V only.
- Match chemistry too: MOTOPOWER states AGM and gel cell; CRAFTSMAN adds deep-cycle; LOKITHOR adds SLA, VRLA, flooded and LiFePO4.
- The MOTOPOWER states charging up to 14.4V, maintaining at 13.6V, with a 24-hour timer that ends the charge; the LOKITHOR offers 2A, 1A or 0.75A selectable.
- Check cable reach: the Schumacher states 11-foot cables, the CRAFTSMAN a 6-foot cord plus 5-foot cables, and the LOKITHOR a 55-inch DC cable plus 21.7-inch clamp cables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size charger do I need for winter storage?
For maintenance duty the listings here state 800mA to 2A. The LOKITHOR states a 0.75A setting for smaller batteries and 1A for routine maintenance, while the MOTOPOWER states 800mA with a 13.6V maintaining mode. Match the setting to the battery size the listing describes.
Can I leave a battery charger connected all winter?
The listings describe exactly that use. The LOKITHOR states multi-layer safety for long-term garage storage, the MOTOPOWER states a 24-hour timer that enters maintaining mode, and the Schumacher states smart trickle charging without overcharging. Always follow the listing and the manual for unattended use.
Will these chargers work on AGM or gel batteries?
The MOTOPOWER listings state 12V lead-acid including AGM and gel cell, the CRAFTSMAN states standard, AGM, gel and deep-cycle, the Schumacher states standard, AGM and gel, and the LOKITHOR states AGM, GEL, SLA, VRLA and flooded plus LiFePO4.
What does the desulfation feature do?
As the listings describe it: the MOTOPOWER applies pulse current technology to desulfate automatically, the LOKITHOR uses double pulse repair to break down sulfate deposits, and the CRAFTSMAN lists a desulfation mode that helps extend battery life. These are the makers’ stated functions, not measured results.
Do any of these state a safety certification?
The MOTOPOWER listings state CEC, ETL and UL in the spec table, the CRAFTSMAN and Schumacher state UL, and the LOKITHOR states no certification mark, only its listed protection features.
More picks
Four more chargers from the listings that did not make the ranked five, each with one reason to consider it.
VibeXtr Master 1.5 Charger
A 1.5A 6V/12V automatic charger, maintainer and desulfator with temperature compensation, 7-layer protection, a spark-proof design and 10ft cables, with CE and FCC stated and a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Consider it for the temperature compensation the ranked picks state less about.
DZPIMROI DZ-12V10A Charger
A 10A 12V smart charger with temperature compensation and pulse repair, stated for AGM, GEL, EFB and LiFePO4 batteries, with alligator clips and a 180-day manufacturer warranty. Consider it when you want a higher stated amperage than the ranked five.
COREBOX 6A Charger
A 6A 12V automatic charger with 7-stage charging, temperature compensation and 8 stated protections, a 7ft cable, CE, FCC and UL listed in the spec table, and a 2-year manufacturer warranty. Consider it as a mid-amperage option between the 2A and 10A units here.
AeternaSol 10A Charger
A 10A 12V and 5A 24V smart charger with 10-stage charging, winter and summer modes, an LCD display and 8 stated protections, with UL, CE and FCC stated and a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Consider it if you also maintain a 24V battery.
Related guides
See every Battery Chargers and Maintainers guide and all Batteries and Charging guides. Also see our best battery charger for winter storage roundup. Also see our smart vs trickle battery charger guide. Also see our best battery charger and maintainer roundup.
More picks: larger charger and maintainer roundup, 20 amp lithium charger and LiFePO4 charger roundup.




