XTAR MC1 Single-Slot USB-C Li-ion Battery Charger – 1A Fast Charging, 0V Activation & Portable Design for 18650, 21700 & More
Description
Overview
The XTAR MC1 is a single-slot Type-C charger built for portability — small enough to keep in a bag, a car, or a desk drawer as a genuinely useful backup, not just a compact afterthought. It charges one Li-ion cell at a full 1A with proper 3-stage charging, and includes the same "0V activation" recovery feature found on XTAR's larger chargers.
It's a good fit for anyone who wants a dependable single-cell charger without the bulk of a multi-slot unit — or as a companion to a larger charger when you need to top off one extra cell alongside a bigger batch.
Full Specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | MC1 |
| Input | Type-C, 5V⎓1A |
| Charging Current | 1A (single slot, constant current) |
| Charging Method | 3-stage charging: trickle wake-up → constant current → constant voltage |
| Charge Cut-off Voltage | 4.2V ±0.05V |
| Charge Cut-off Current | <130mA |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 40°C |
| Dimensions | L103mm x W25mm x H30mm |
| Net Weight | 27g |
| Compatible Chemistry | 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion |
| Compatible Cell Sizes | 10440, 14500, 14650, 16340, 17335, 17500, 17670, 18350, 18490, 18500, 18650, 18700, 20700, 21700, 22650, 25500, 26650 |
| Protected Cell Support | Yes — supports protected 21700 cells |
| Special Feature | "0V" activation technology for recovering some over-discharged cells |
| Status Indicator | Green = standby or fully charged; Red = actively charging; Off/unlit = reverse polarity or abnormal insertion |
| Safety Protections | Intelligent detection, automatic cut-off, overcurrent, overcharge, overvoltage, short-circuit, and reverse-polarity protection, soft-start |
| Package Includes | MC1 charger, USB-C cable, user manual |
How the Charging Process Works
The MC1 uses the same three-stage approach as XTAR's larger chargers, scaled down to a single slot:
- Trickle charge — a small preliminary current wakes up and tops off a low-voltage cell before ramping up to full current.
- Constant current — the charger holds a steady 1A while the cell's voltage climbs toward full — this is where most of the capacity gets restored.
- Constant voltage — as the cell approaches full charge, the charger holds voltage steady and gradually reduces current, topping off the last portion of capacity without overcharging.
What Makes This Charger Worth Considering
- Genuinely pocket-sized — at 103mm x 25mm x 30mm and 27g, this is small enough to actually carry, not just "compact" on paper.
- Full 1A charging, no compromises for size — despite the small footprint, it doesn't cut corners on charge current the way some ultra-compact chargers do.
- Type-C in, works anywhere — laptop, wall adapter, car charger, or power bank all work as a power source, so you're not tied to a specific plug.
- 0V activation — most basic single-slot chargers simply refuse to recognize a cell drained too far below normal cutoff voltage. The MC1's activation function can attempt a slow, controlled recovery charge on some of these cells rather than writing them off immediately.
- Broad size compatibility — from small 10440s up through 26650s, plus protected 21700 cells, one charger covers most cylindrical Li-ion formats you're likely to carry.
Where This Charger Fits
- A backup or travel charger — small enough to throw in a bag or glovebox without a second thought
- Rounding out odd-numbered battery purchases — pairing with a 4-slot charger to cover a 5th or 6th cell without needing a second full-size unit
- Anyone who only needs to charge one cell at a time and doesn't want to pay for slots they won't use
- A first charger for someone new to 18650s — simple, safe, and hard to get wrong
What to Keep in Mind
- This is a single-slot charger. If you regularly need to charge multiple cells at once, pair it with a larger charger (like the MC4S or VC4SL) rather than expecting it to cover bulk charging on its own.
- Charging handles voltage/current safety, not discharge-side protection. If you're using unprotected cells in a device, that device still needs its own low-voltage cutoff — the charger's protections don't extend to how the cell is used afterward.
- Stay within the 0-40°C operating range for safe, reliable charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to charge a typical 18650? At a full 1A, a 2,500-3,000mAh 18650 typically reaches full charge in roughly 3-4 hours, depending on the cell's starting charge level and its own charge current rating.
Can I use any USB-C cable and power source? Yes — the MC1 accepts standard Type-C input from laptops, wall adapters, car chargers, or power banks. Just make sure the source can supply at least 5V/1A.
What does it mean if the LED doesn't light up at all? That typically indicates a reverse-polarity insertion or another abnormal condition the charger has detected. Remove the cell, check its orientation, and reinsert.
Does this charge protected cells? Yes, it supports protected 21700 cells. For other protected sizes, check the cell's own length — protection circuits add length that may not fit every charger's slot depth.
Is the "0V activation" feature something I should rely on regularly? It's meant as an occasional recovery option for over-discharged cells, not a routine part of normal use. A cell that repeatedly needs 0V activation is showing signs of wear or misuse and is worth watching more closely — or replacing.
Shipping and Returns
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Free Shipping: Enjoy free shipping on all orders over $65. For orders under $65, the shipping cost is $8.99.
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Delivery Time: Once shipped, orders typically arrive within 7–15 business days.
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Easy Returns: We want you to be completely satisfied. If you're not, you can return your product within 30 days of receiving your order. Please ensure the items are unused and in their original condition. For return instructions, please contact our support team.
Payment & Security
Payment methods
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.
Security
Refund Policy
OneAndes Return & Refund Policy
At OneAndes, we are committed to providing high-quality cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for your drones, vacuums, garden tools, and other power needs. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we are here to help. Please read our full return policy below before initiating a return.
1. Return Window
You have 30 calendar days from the date you received your item(s) to request a return. Any return request submitted after 30 days will not be eligible for a refund or exchange.
2. Eligibility Conditions
To qualify for a return, all items must meet the following conditions:
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Condition: Items must be unused, undamaged, and in the same condition that you received them.
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Packaging: Items must be returned in their original packaging with all accessories, manuals, and protective covers intact.
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Proof of Purchase: A valid receipt, order confirmation email, or proof of purchase must accompany all returns.
Non-Returnable Items:
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Batteries that have been installed, used, or show any signs of wear.
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Items marked as “Final Sale” or “Clearance” at the time of purchase.
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Customized or special-order products.
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Gift cards.
If a returned item fails to meet these conditions, we reserve the right to deny the return or charge a restocking fee.
3. How to Initiate a Return
Follow these steps to return your product:
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Contact Us: Email our support team at support@oneandes.com with your order number and the reason for return. We aim to respond to all return requests within 24 hours on business days.
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Receive RMA: We will provide you with a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and return instructions. Do not ship any item without an RMA number.
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Pack Securely: Place the item in its original packaging, include all accessories, and clearly write the RMA number on the outside of the box.
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Ship to Our US Warehouse: Ship the package to the following address:
OneAndes Returns
10320 6th St
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
USA*Important: Lithium-ion batteries are classified as hazardous materials (Class 9). Please follow the shipping guidelines provided in Section 4 below. We recommend using a trackable shipping service and purchasing shipping insurance, as we cannot guarantee receipt of your returned item.*
4. Return Shipping Costs
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Defective or Incorrect Items: If the item you received is defective, damaged in transit, or different from what you ordered, OneAndes will cover the return shipping cost. In this case, we will provide you with a prepaid return shipping label.
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Buyer’s Remorse / Non-Defective Returns: If you are returning an item for any other reason (e.g., no longer needed, ordered the wrong model), you are responsible for the return shipping costs. You must prepay the return shipping cost using a trackable carrier that accepts lithium batteries. We do not provide prepaid return labels for non-defective returns.
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Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations: By law, all returns must be shipped in compliance with applicable dangerous goods regulations. We will provide guidance on proper packaging and labeling. Failure to comply may result in carrier refusal, seizure, or additional fees. We are not responsible for returned items lost or rejected by the carrier due to improper shipping.
5. Refunds
Once we receive and inspect your return at our Rancho Cucamonga, CA facility, we will notify you via email of the approval or rejection of your refund.
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Approved Refunds: If approved, your refund will be processed to your original method of payment within 5 to 10 business days. Please note that depending on your bank or credit card issuer, it may take additional time for the credit to appear on your statement.
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Partial Refunds: In certain situations, only partial refunds may be granted:
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Items not in original condition, missing parts, or damaged for reasons not due to our error.
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Items returned more than 30 days after delivery (reviewed on a case-by-case basis).
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Non-Refundable Fees: Original shipping charges are non-refundable unless the return is due to our error (defective product or incorrect shipment).
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Restocking Fee: We do not charge a restocking fee for defect-free returns, but we may deduct the return shipping cost, which will be deducted from your refund.
6. Exchanges
We replace items only if they are defective or damaged upon arrival. If you need to exchange a defective item for the same product, please contact us at support@oneandes.com. Exchanges are subject to product availability.
If you ordered the wrong battery size or model, please follow the standard return process above and place a new order for the correct item.
7. Damaged or Missing Items
If your package arrives visibly damaged, please take photos of the package before opening and contact us immediately. We will work with the shipping carrier to file a claim and arrange for a replacement or refund. Damaged or missing item claims must be reported within 7 calendar days of delivery. For immediate assistance, you may also call us at (213) 316-8849.
8. Order Cancellation
You may cancel your order without penalty if it has not yet been shipped. To cancel, email us at support@oneandes.com as soon as possible. If the order has already been processed or shipped, you will need to follow the standard return process upon receipt.
9. Warranty
All OneAndes batteries are backed by a 12-month limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, improper charging, unauthorized modifications, normal wear and tear, or use outside of manufacturer specifications. For warranty claims, please contact our support team.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions about our Return & Refund Policy, please reach out:
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Email: support@oneandes.com
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Phone: (213) 316-8849 (Mon-Fri, 9 AM – 5 PM Pacific Time)
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Mailing Address: 10320 6th St, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730, USA
We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours during business days. Please include your order number for faster assistance.