The new ToolkitRC Q6AC LiPo charger is a game-changer for those who need to charge multiple batteries simultaneously. With four independent charging ports, it offers the convenience of parallel charging without the usual concerns. This powerful, do-it-all smart charger has compelling features that have led me to consider it for regular use, potentially replacing my long-time favorites.
New to FPV? Check out our charger buyer’s guide and recommendations: https://oscarliang.com/choose-lipo-battery-charger-power-supply/
Where to Buy?
Get your ToolkitRC Q6AC Charger from these vendors:
Specifications
Here’s a quick rundown of its key specs of the Q6AC:
- Dual input options: AC (400W) and DC (1,000W).
- Supports a wide range of battery types: LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, LTO, NiMH, Pb.
- Four charging channels for 1-6S LiPo/LiHV/LiFe/Lion/LTO, 1-16S NiMh, 1-10S Pb.
- Maximum charging power: AC 100W per channel (4 channels) / DC 300W per channel (4 channels).
- Maximum charging current: 250W per channel.
- Customizable power supply output: 1-28V, 5-15A.
- XT30/XT60 compatibility.
- USB and USB-C ports for charging devices: USB-A (30W), USB-C (up to 65W).
- Top-mounted wireless charger.
- 3.5-inch wide ISP display with 480×320 resolution.
- Automated fan speed control for noise reduction.
- Plug options: EU, US, UK, AU.
- Input voltage: AC 100-240V MAX 100W 5.0A, DC 7.0-30.0V @MAX 50A.
- Balance current: 800mA @ 4.2V.
- Discharge power: 250W @MAX 15A (Recycle mode), 12W@3A (Normal mode).
- Supports multiple charging protocols: PD, QC, PPS, AFC, FCP, SCP, PE, SFCP.
- Dimensions: 220mm x 113mm x 82mm.
- Weight: 1120g.
- Package dimensions: 260mm x 220mm x 120mm; weight: 1600g.
- Supports multiple languages and voice packs.
- Upgradable firmware.
Design and Features
At first glance, the ToolkitRC Q6AC charger bears a striking resemblance to the Tesla Cybertruck.
The Q6AC is a robust four-port charger, measuring 220x113x82mm and weighing approximately 1.1kg. It’s quite bulky, partly because it has a built-in power supply, allowing you to plug it directly into a wall socket and use AC power. Alternatively, it can be powered by a large battery or external power supply through an XT90 socket. When using AC power, it delivers 400W (100W per channel), and an impressive 1000W (250W per channel) when powered by DC. For most users, the 400W AC option should suffice, and the DC input option makes it a versatile choice for field charging.
It features a power switch (a rare but useful addition), a DC input port with an XT90 connector, and dual USB outputs (USB-A and USB-C) for quick device charging.
The 3.5-inch color display with a resolution of 480×320 is clear and easy to read. It provides detailed information on individual cell voltages and charging status, enabling easy monitoring of the charging process.
The Q6AC is compatible with a wide range of battery types, including LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Li-ion, NiMH, and Pb, and offers charging, discharging, and storage functionalities like most smart LiPo chargers on the market.
A standout feature is the 15W wireless charger on the top, which adds the convenience of wirelessly charging supported smartphones. The charger’s interface includes a main screen, a channel/back button, and a jog wheel, which is typical for ToolkitRC chargers. Additionally, two large fans at the back efficiently cool the device during operation.
What really impresses me is its dual functionality – the ability to charge both FPV batteries and USB-powered devices like GoPros, DJI controllers, and goggles.
Charging Capabilities
Each of the four channels on the charger comes equipped with a balance port for up to 6S, as well as both XT60 and XT30 connectors. This versatile design accommodates charging a diverse mix of battery types and sizes simultaneously, eliminating the need for adapters.
The charger is further enhanced with a classic 30W USB-A port, a more powerful 65W USB-C port, and even includes a wireless charger.
The internal resistance display during charging is a valuable feature for monitoring battery health.
User Interface and Experience
Navigating the Q6AC’s menu is remarkably intuitive. You can easily select the battery type, cell count, charging mode, end voltage, and current. The charger smartly recognizes the number of cells when the balance lead is connected.
One cool aspect is the array of front LEDs indicating the charging status – red for charging and blue for standby or charged batteries.
Operating the Q6AC is straightforward. The display isn’t a touch screen, navigation is done via the scroll wheel which is easy. You can monitor and adjust settings for each port, including battery type, charging mode, voltage, and current. It’s intuitive and user-friendly, even for beginners.
The convenience of charging both XT60 and XT30 LiPos without needing adapters is a significant advantage.
In the system settings menu, you can adjust input settings, security limits (like temperature and battery capacity), and other preferences such as backlight brightness and buzzer volume. I appreciate these small touches that enhance the overall user experience.
The Q6AC also serves as a bench power supply, which is a great addition. The side USB ports are a boon for charging additional gadgets. The wireless charging pad on top is efficient and a clever use of space.
Voltage Reading Accuracy
Coming soon…
Q6AC vs HOTA F6+: Key Differences
| Specification | Q6AC Charger | HOTA F6+ Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage | AC 100-240V / DC 7.0-30.0V | AC 100-240V / DC 6.5-30V |
| Max Charge Current | 15A per channel | 15A per channel |
| Charge Power (AC) | Max 400W (100W per channel) | Max 500W |
| Charge Power (DC) | Max 1000W (300W per channel) | Max 1000W (250W per channel) |
| Discharge Power | Internal: 12W @3A; External: 250W @MAX 15A | Internal: 12W x 4; External: 250W x 4 (1000W) |
| Battery Type | LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Lion, LTO, NiMh, Pb | LiHv, LiPo, LiFe, Lilon, Lixx, NiZn, Nicd, NiMH, Pb |
| Cell Count | 1S-6S | 1S-6S |
| Output Connectors | XT60 & XT30 | XT60 |
| Balance Current | 800mA | 1000mA |
| USB Output | USB-A (30W), USB-C (up to 65W) | 5V / 2.1A |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | No |
| Display | 3.5-inch ISP, 480×320 resolution | 2.8-inch IPS, 320×240 color display |
| Dimensions | 220mm x 113mm x 82mm | 115mm x 126mm x 87mm |
| Weight | 1120g | 935g |
Conclusion
The ToolkitRC Q6AC stands out with its unique design and versatile charging capabilities. It’s so far the most powerful charger from ToolkitRC I’ve tested.
Its ability to charge a variety of battery types, combined with user-friendly features and additional functionalities like wireless charging, positions it as a top choice for those in the FPV and RC hobby world.
It is set to replace the M6DAC as my new daily driver.
Get your ToolkitRC Q6AC Charger from these vendors:
However, it’s worth noting that the balance current is a bit low and charging can be somewhat slower than expected, which could be a factor if you’re often in a hurry. Nevertheless, the built-in AC power supply significantly simplifies the charging setup, offering considerable convenience.
Considering Getting Two Hota D6 Pro?
The HOTA D6 Pro has been a popular choice in the FPV world, known for its affordability and power. It’s a dual-port charger, leading to the question: would buying two D6 Pros be more advantageous than one Q6AC?
Pricing two HOTA D6 Pros would total approximately $283, compared to the Q6AC’s sale price of $239.99. (prices lasted checked on RDQ, Dec 10th, 2023).
With the HOTA, there are only XT60 ports and no XT30, meaning you would have to get extra adapters/cables for charging smaller batteries. Dimension wise, two HOTA units are only marginally smaller in all measurements, but they require extra wiring.
So if you were gonna charge 4 batteries at the same time without parallel charging, getting the Q6AC might be a better idea?
