If you’re a fan of Ridgid power tools, you may have been hoping for an expansion in battery charger offerings. After all, advanced Max Output battery technology and a new generation of more compact tools have made Ridgid’s 18V lineup better than ever. There are two new offerings to satisfy your craving: a dual-port charger (Ridgid AC86095) and a 6-port charger (Ridgid AC86096). Today, we’re focusing on the Ridgid Dual-Port Simultaneous Battery Charger.
Ridgid 18V Dual-Port Simultaneous Battery Charger Design
I know, it’s just a battery charger, and how exciting can that be, right? Without diving into all the engineering details, there are a few things worth pointing out that we think make this charger worth a look.
First of all, it’s a simultaneous charger, and that’s a big win. Right off the bat, you’re getting two batteries recharged at once instead of waiting for one to finish before the other begins.
It’s also a rapid charger. Compared to Ridgid’s standard battery charger, this one is twice as fast.
Compared to what you’re used to from Ridgid’s standard single-port charger, you now get two batteries back to work in half the time it took one battery to charge. Expect a pair of 2.0Ah batteries to go from dead to 100% charge in 30 minutes with the charger’s 4-amp output.
Another element you might notice is that the design team slimmed up the profile of this charger. The dual-port charger we’ve been using has a battery interface where each pack inserts perpendicular to the base. The Ridgid AC86095 shifts so they insert parallel to the base. Whether you’re using it portably on the jobsite or mounting it with keyholes on the back, the entire package takes up less room.
Additional Highlights
- Pass-through outlet plug (on the plug itself, not the charger)
- Compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries (including Octane and Max Output)
- LED indicators offer charge status and diagnostic feedback
- Built-in energy save mode maintains battery charge and optimizes battery life
Ridgid 18V Dual-Port Simultaneous Battery Charger Price
Grab this Ridgid battery charger from The Home Depot for $109. It’s eligible Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement, so be sure to register it within 90 days of purchase to take advantage of that.
The Bottom Line
The average DIYer might not have much need for an upgraded charger. On the other hand, Pros and other serious users can gain productivity or keep fewer additional batteries on hand with the Ridgid 18V Dual-Port Simultaneous Battery Charger. If that sounds like you, it’s completely worth the price to make the upgrade.
Specifications
- Model: Ridgid AC86095
- Power Source: 120V AC
- Compatible Batteries: All Ridgid 18V batteries
- Output: 4A
- Warranty: Lifetime Service Agreement with registration
- Price: $109
