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SC Size Battery Charger – Dedicated Chargers for Sub-C Cylindrical Cells, Precision Charging Management for Power Tools & Industrial Equipment
Welcome to our SC Size Battery Charger collection. The SC battery (Sub-C, approx. 22–23mm diameter × 42–44mm length) is an important cylindrical rechargeable cell format positioned between the common AA (~14mm diameter) and C (~25–26mm diameter) sizes. Thanks to its moderate volume, excellent capacity (2500mAh–4000mAh), and high-rate discharge capability, SC cells are often used as core cells in battery packs for power tools, RC models (cars/boats), emergency lighting, medical devices, vacuum cleaners, and various industrial-grade portable equipment. The main chemistries for SC cells on the market include NiMH (1.2V) and NiCd (1.2V), with some high-power applications also featuring Li-ion (3.7V) versions.
With a diameter of ~22–23mm and length of ~42–44mm, SC cells cannot fit properly in compact AA-only charging bays, nor are they always securely held by chargers designed for larger C/D cells. Therefore, selecting a charger that explicitly supports SC size and features wide-range adjustable sliders with secure spring-clamp designs is essential. This collection features high-quality chargers from global professional brands like XTAR, Nitecore, and RS PRO that are explicitly compatible with SC cells—ranging from 2-bay portable chargers to 4-bay smart and analyzer chargers—ensuring your SC batteries are recharged in the safest, most efficient, and most precise manner.
SC Battery Key Specifications
| Parameter | NiMH | NiCd | Li-ion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 1.2V | 1.2V | 3.7V |
| Full Charge Voltage | 1.45V–1.5V | 1.45V–1.5V | 4.2V ±0.05V |
| Typical Capacity Range | 2500mAh – 4000mAh | 1300mAh – 2200mAh | Varies by model |
| Dimensions (Dia. × Length) | ~22.1–23.5mm × 42.0–44.2mm | ~22–23mm × 42–43mm | ~22–23mm × 42–44mm |
| Recommended Charge Current | 0.3A – 1.0A (standard 0.1C–0.3C) | 0.1C–0.3C | 0.5A – 1.0A |
| Cycle Life | 500–1,000 cycles | ~500 cycles | 500–1,000+ cycles |
| Typical Applications | Power tools, RC models, medical devices | Power tools, emergency lighting | High-power industrial equipment |
Note: SC batteries are commonly referred to as "Sub-C" due to their size being slightly smaller than standard C-size cells. As core cells for high-power battery packs, SC cells play a vital role in power tools and industrial equipment, particularly suitable for applications requiring high-current discharge and frequent charge/discharge cycles.
SC Battery vs. Other Common Formats – Size Comparison
| Parameter | SC (Sub-C) | AA | C | 18650 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22–23mm × 42–44mm | 14mm × 50mm | 25–26mm × 49–50mm | 18mm × 65mm |
| Typical Capacity | 1300–4000mAh | 600–2800mAh | 3000–5000mAh | 1500–3500mAh |
| Diameter | 22–23mm | 14mm | 25–26mm | 18mm |
| Length | 42–44mm | 50mm | 49–50mm | 65mm |
| Key Characteristics | High-drain power cell, ideal for packs | Most standardized, universal | High capacity, lighting equipment | Li-ion benchmark |
| Typical Applications | Power tool packs, RC models | Remotes, digital cameras | Flashlights, radios | Universal across all categories |
Core Advantages of SC Battery Chargers
- Perfect Size Compatibility with Secure Fit: SC cells measure ~22–23mm in diameter and ~42–44mm in length. Standard AA chargers are too narrow, while some C/D chargers may not securely grip 43mm-long cells. Chargers in this collection are explicitly labeled as supporting SC size and feature adjustable sliders with travel that perfectly accommodates 42–44mm length and bay widths that comfortably fit 22–23mm diameter cells, ensuring secure contact and preventing charging interruptions or high contact resistance. Confirmed SC-compatible chargers include: XTAR VC2SL (explicitly supports SC NiMH/NiCd, mixed charging capable), XTAR VC4/VC4SL (supports AAAA/AAA/AA/A/SC/C/D among many sizes), XTAR X4 (microprocessor-controlled, explicitly supports SC), Nitecore D4 (compatible with SC among many sizes, HD LCD), and RS PRO 2-Bay Charger (explicitly supports SC, 500mA/1000mA adaptive current).
- Multi-Chemistry Auto-Detection & Compatibility: Chargers in this collection generally support automatic detection of multiple chemistries including 1.2V NiMH, 1.2V NiCd, and 3.7V Li-ion. The XTAR VC4 series automatically identifies Li-ion and NiMH/NiCd cells, applying CC/CV (for lithium) or -ΔV (for NiMH/NiCd) charging profiles accordingly. The Nitecore SC4 supports manually selectable charging currents from 300mA to 3000mA and is compatible with 1.2V, 3.7V, 4.2V, and 4.35V batteries—ideal for professional users requiring fine-tuned control.
- Precision Adaptive Charging Current: SC cells span a wide capacity range (NiMH ~2500mAh–4000mAh, NiCd ~1300mAh–2200mAh), with recommended charging currents of 0.3A–1.0A. These chargers support adaptive or manually adjustable currents to prevent damage from excessive current. The XTAR VC4 supports 0.5A/1.0A automatic selection based on internal resistance. The Nitecore SC4 offers 9 manually selectable current settings from 300mA to 3000mA, precisely accommodating different capacities and chemistries. The RS PRO charger supports 500mA/1000mA automatic switching based on external power supply capability.
- CC/CV & -ΔV Smart Charging Management: Utilizes constant-current/constant-voltage (CC/CV) charging profiles for lithium cells and -ΔV termination for NiMH/NiCd cells. Controlled by built-in microprocessors (MCU), the charger automatically detects battery status and precisely controls charging current and cut-off voltage. Typical cut-off accuracy reaches 4.2V ±0.05V (Li-ion) or 1.45V–1.5V (NiMH/NiCd), automatically terminating upon full charge to prevent overcharging and maximize cycle life. Some chargers also feature 0V activation to rescue over-discharged batteries.
- Multiple Safety Protections: Built-in protections against overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short-circuit, reverse polarity, and overheat ensure comprehensive charging safety. Most products feature ABS fire-retardant housing and are certified to CE, FCC, and RoHS international safety standards. The XTAR VC2SL displays "Err" on the LCD screen when reverse polarity is detected, effectively preventing damage to batteries and charger.
- Independent Charging Channels: Multi-bay chargers feature independently controlled channels, allowing simultaneous charging of different battery sizes and chemistries—mix SC, AA, AAA, C, D, 18650, and other cell sizes without interference. The XTAR VC4 features 4 independent charging slots, equivalent to four separate chargers working simultaneously, supporting mixed charging of Li-ion and NiMH/NiCd cells.
- LCD Display & Advanced Features: Mid-to-high-end models feature high-definition LCD screens displaying real-time charging voltage, charging current, accumulated capacity, and internal resistance. The XTAR VC2SL allows toggling between charging capacity (CAP), real-time current (CCR), and internal resistance (IR) via the mode button. The XTAR VC4SL supports capacity testing (Grade mode), storage mode, and manually selectable currents from 0.25A to 3A. The Nitecore SC4 features a color HD LCD display with MVA technology showing real-time charging parameters.
Popular SC Battery Charger Models – Quick Reference
| Category | Model | Bays | Charge Current | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Bay Smart Charger | XTAR VC2SL | 2 | 0.5A/1A/2A selectable | Explicitly supports SC NiMH/NiCd, LCD display, IR detection, 0V activation, power bank function |
| 4-Bay Multi-Function | XTAR VC4 | 4 | 0.5A/1A auto-select | LCD display, supports SC/AA/AAA/C/D & 18650, independent mixed charging, 0V activation |
| 4-Bay Upgraded | XTAR VC4SL | 4 | 0.25A–3A selectable | VC4 upgrade, protected 21700 support, Grade mode (capacity test), storage mode, QC3.0 input |
| 4-Bay Smart Charger | Nitecore D4 | 4 | 375mA×4 / 750mA×2 | Independent channels, Li-ion/NiMH/NiCd, HD LCD, SC compatible |
| 4-Bay Professional | Nitecore SC4 | 4 | 300mA–3000mA selectable | Color HD LCD, 1.2V–4.35V multi-voltage, -dV/dt termination, IMR optimized charging |
| 4-Bay Multi-Function | XTAR X4 | 4 | Up to 2A | Microprocessor-controlled, explicitly supports SC, LCD display, reverse/overheat/short protection |
| 2-Bay Portable | RS PRO 2-Bay Charger | 2 | 500mA/1000mA adaptive | Explicitly supports SC, 0V activation, Micro USB input, compact and portable |
Typical Specifications Range (SC Battery Chargers)
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Input Power | USB 5V / Micro-USB / Type-C / QC3.0 / AC 100–240V |
| Charge Cutoff Voltage | 4.2V ±0.05V (Li-ion) / 1.45V–1.5V (NiMH/NiCd) |
| Charge Current Range | 0.1A – 3A (adjustable/adaptive) |
| Supported Cell Sizes | AAAA / AAA / AA / A / SC / C / D / 10440 / 14500 / 16340 / 18650 / 21700 / 26650, etc. |
| Protection Features | Overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short-circuit, reverse polarity, overheat |
| Display Type | LED indicators / LCD digital display |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C – 40°C |
Typical Applications
| Application Scenario | Recommended Charger | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Travel / on-the-go charging for SC battery pack cells | 2-bay USB portable (XTAR VC2SL / RS PRO 2-Bay) | Ultra-compact, USB plug-and-charge, multi-chemistry support |
| Daily home use, charging 1–2 SC cells | 2-bay smart charger (XTAR VC2SL) | LCD display, real-time data monitoring, IR detection |
| Multi-device user; mix charging SC, AA, 18650 together | 4-bay multi-function (XTAR VC4 / VC4SL / Nitecore D4) | Compatible with multiple sizes and chemistries, one charger does it all |
| Professional user; need fine-tuned current control and parameter monitoring | 4-bay professional charger (Nitecore SC4) | 300mA–3000mA manually selectable, color LCD, IMR optimized charging |
| Need capacity & IR testing for cell matching | 4-bay analyzer charger (XTAR VC4SL) | Grade mode (capacity test), IR detection, storage mode |
| Industrial equipment maintenance using SC battery packs | 4-bay multi-function (XTAR X4 / Nitecore D4) | Independent channels, microprocessor-controlled, industrial-grade reliability |
How to Choose the Right SC Battery Charger?
| Your Requirement | Recommended Type | Suggested Model |
|---|---|---|
| I only charge SC NiMH/NiCd cells and want portability & practicality | 2-bay USB portable | XTAR VC2SL, RS PRO 2-Bay |
| I want real-time charging data monitoring and battery health insights | 2/4-bay digital charger | XTAR VC2SL, XTAR VC4, Nitecore D4 |
| I have multiple cell types (SC/AA/18650/NiMH) and need one universal charger | 4-bay multi-function charger | XTAR VC4, XTAR VC4SL, Nitecore D4 |
| I need fine-tuned current control for different capacities and chemistries | 4-bay professional charger | Nitecore SC4 |
| I need to test capacity and IR for cell matching | 4-bay analyzer charger | XTAR VC4SL |
| I need to charge multiple cells (3+) simultaneously | 4-bay smart charger | XTAR VC4, Nitecore D4 |
| I need bulk quantities or custom charging solutions | Contact our sales team | — |
⚠️ SC Battery Charger Safety Guidelines
- Verify Explicit SC Size Compatibility: SC cells measure ~22–23mm in diameter and ~42–44mm in length. Before purchase, confirm the charger specifications explicitly list SC or Sub-C support, or that the slider adjusts to ~42–44mm and the bay securely grips 22–23mm diameter cells.
- Distinguish Battery Chemistry: 1.2V NiMH/NiCd (full charge 1.45V) and 3.7V Li-ion (full charge 4.2V) require different modes—do not mix. Ensure the charger has correctly identified or manually set the appropriate mode before charging. Never charge a NiMH/NiCd battery with a Li-ion charger, or vice versa—this can lead to overheating, reduced lifespan, or even safety hazards.
- Select Appropriate Charge Current: SC NiMH cells charge best at 0.3A–1.0A, and NiCd cells at 0.1C–0.3C. If manual setting is available, select an appropriate current based on battery specifications. High currents (e.g., above 2A) may be too high for smaller-capacity NiCd SC cells and accelerate aging.
- Avoid Extreme Temperature Charging: The ideal charging temperature for batteries is 10°C–45°C. Never charge batteries below freezing (0°C/32°F)—this can cause permanent, dangerous metallic lithium plating inside lithium cells. Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight; ensure good ventilation during charging.
- Avoid Overcharge and Over-Discharge: Although chargers feature auto-termination, keeping batteries at 100% charge for extended periods accelerates aging. Avoid deep discharge below 2.5V (Li-ion) or 1.0V (NiMH/NiCd).
- Remove After Full Charge: Prolonged connection to power may still affect battery longevity. Remove batteries promptly after charging.
Why Choose Our SC Battery Chargers?
- Genuine Brand Products: Chargers from XTAR, Nitecore, RS PRO, and other global professional charger brands—reliable quality with full safety certifications.
- Precisely Compatible with SC Cells: Curated selection of models explicitly labeled as supporting SC (Sub-C) size—eliminates compatibility issues.
- Multi-Chemistry Compatibility: Select models support NiMH, NiCd, and Li-ion batteries—one charger for multiple needs.
- One-Stop Shopping: SC batteries, chargers, and accessories all in one place—save time and effort.
- Flexible Purchasing: Single-unit retail and bulk wholesale options available for both individual and enterprise needs.
- Certified & Safe: CE, FCC, RoHS certifications ensure quality and safety.
- Expert Technical Support: Guidance on charger selection, usage tips, and after-sales support.
👇👇👇 Browse the product list below to find the perfect SC Size Battery Charger for your needs. For volume quotes or technical inquiries, please contact our customer service team.













