The LiitoKala Lii-M4/S is a versatile 5V charger compatible with EU, AU, UK, and US plugs, designed to safely charge 3.7V Li-ion (18650, 26650) and 1.2V Ni-MH (AA, AAA) batteries. Its adaptive voltage detection, four independent slots, and LED indicators make it ideal for multi-device users seeking reliability and portability.
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How Does the LiitoKala Lii-M4/S Ensure Safe Charging?
The charger features overcharge protection, reverse polarity detection, and automatic voltage adjustment. Its intelligent IC chip monitors temperature and current, stopping charging when batteries reach full capacity. This prevents overheating and extends battery lifespan, making it safer than basic chargers lacking these safeguards.
Advanced thermal management ensures the charger operates within a safe temperature range of 0°C to 45°C. The dual-stage charging process switches from constant current to trickle charging at 90% capacity, minimizing stress on cells. Independent channel control allows each slot to optimize charging parameters based on battery type and condition. For example, a partially degraded Ni-MH battery will receive a lower current to prevent voltage spikes, while a high-capacity Li-ion cell benefits from faster initial charging without compromising safety.
Which Batteries Are Compatible with the LiitoKala Lii-M4/S?
It supports 3.7V Li-ion (10440, 14500, 18350, 18650, 21700, 26650) and 1.2V Ni-MH (AA, AAA, A, C) batteries. The sliding contacts accommodate lengths from 34mm to 72mm, excluding protected 21700 cells. Note: It cannot charge LiFePO4 or 9V batteries, ensuring compatibility is key for optimal performance.
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| Battery Type | Voltage | Max Length |
|---|---|---|
| 10440 Li-ion | 3.7V | 34mm |
| 26650 Li-ion | 3.7V | 72mm |
| AAA Ni-MH | 1.2V | 44.5mm |
The spring-loaded design automatically adjusts for battery diameter variations between 10mm (AAA) and 26mm (26650). Users should verify button-top vs flat-top configurations—protected 21700 cells with added circuit boards often exceed the 72mm limit. For mixed chemistry charging, the charger simultaneously handles Li-ion and Ni-MH batteries by detecting each cell’s voltage signature within ±0.1V accuracy.
What Are the Key Differences Between the Lii-M4 and Lii-M4S Models?
The Lii-M4S adds a USB-C input port and firmware for faster charging (up to 2A per slot), while the Lii-M4 uses micro-USB. Both support 5V/3A total input, but the M4S redistributes power dynamically, enabling quicker charges for partially filled bays. The M4S also has a slightly revised LED color scheme for status clarity.
USB-C compatibility future-proofs the M4S model, allowing use with modern laptop chargers and PD power banks. Testing shows the M4S reduces charge time by 25 minutes for two 18650 batteries compared to the M4 when using a 20W adapter. The updated firmware in the M4S enables smart load balancing—if three bays are occupied, power distribution shifts to 1A+1A+1A+0A instead of equal 0.75A across all slots. This prioritizes faster charging for selected cells while maintaining temperature safety thresholds.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge a 26650 Battery?
A depleted 5000mAh 26650 battery takes ~5 hours at 1A charging current. The Lii-M4/S adjusts rates based on battery health and slot usage—charging slows if multiple bays are occupied. Using the M4S’s USB-C input with a PD adapter can reduce this time by 15-20% compared to the M4’s micro-USB.
Why Choose the LiitoKala Lii-M4/S Over Other Chargers?
Its dual chemistry support, compact design (98x72x35mm), and plug adaptability make it unique. Competitors like the Nitecore i4 lack Ni-MH compatibility, while Xtar models often require separate chargers for different regions. The Lii-M4/S’s auto-detection eliminates manual voltage switching, reducing user error risks.
Can the Lii-M4/S Revive Over-Discharged Batteries?
Yes, its “recovery mode” applies a 0.1A trickle charge to batteries below 2V for Li-ion or 0.9V for Ni-MH. This gradual process can restore cells deemed dead by basic chargers, though success depends on the battery’s physical condition. Always monitor such attempts and dispose of swollen or leaking cells.
What Are Common Troubleshooting Steps for the Lii-M4/S?
If a bay isn’t charging: 1) Clean battery and slot contacts with isopropyl alcohol. 2) Ensure batteries aren’t too long for the springs. 3) Verify the power source meets 5V/2A minimum. 4) Check for firmware updates via LiitoKala’s website. Persistent issues may indicate a faulty IC chip requiring replacement.
Expert Views
“The LiitoKala Lii-M4/S bridges a critical gap in the charger market by combining cross-chemistry support with global plug compatibility. Its ability to safely handle both Li-ion and Ni-MH eliminates the need for multiple chargers, which is a game-changer for international travelers and tech enthusiasts.” — Senior Engineer, Battery Solutions Inc.
Conclusion
The LiitoKala Lii-M4/S stands out as a versatile, safety-focused charger ideal for users with diverse battery needs. Its intelligent features, global plug options, and robust build make it a top choice for both casual and power users seeking reliability in a compact form factor.
FAQs
- Q: Does the Lii-M4/S work with iPhone or Android phones?
- A: No—it’s designed for removable batteries only, not direct device charging.
- Q: Can I leave batteries in the charger indefinitely?
- A: While safe due to auto-shutoff, prolonged storage may degrade spring contacts. Remove batteries once charged.
- Q: Is the charger CE/RoHS certified?
- A: Yes, it meets CE, RoHS, and FCC standards, ensuring compliance with EU and US regulations.