Overview
The Etronix Powerpal Pocket 2 LiPo/LiFe Balance Charger is the perfect solution for RC enthusiasts who need a compact, reliable charging device for their ready to run RC aircraft, helicopters and cars. This simple to use charger serves as an excellent replacement for the stock supplied balance chargers that come with RTF/RTR models, offering convenient mains power charging without the complications of more advanced systems. Whether you're new to the RC hobby or you're an experienced pilot looking for a pocket-sized backup charger, the Powerpal Pocket 2 delivers straightforward performance at an affordable price point. Its compact design makes it ideal for taking to the field, to events or keeping at home as a secondary charging solution for your RC collection.
Designed specifically for 2S and 3S LiPo and LiFe battery packs, this charger handles the most common battery configurations used in modern ready to run RC models across the UK market. The fixed 800mA charge rate provides reliable, consistent charging without the need to manually configure complex settings, making it particularly suitable for beginners and casual RC car, aircraft and helicopter pilots. The Powerpal Pocket 2 accepts the popular JST XH balance connectors, which are found on most contemporary LiPo and LiFe batteries, ensuring broad compatibility with your existing RC equipment. Unlike more sophisticated chargers that offer storage modes and adjustable charge rates, the Etronix Powerpal Pocket 2 strips away unnecessary features to provide pure, straightforward charging simplicity.
Available in UK plug format as the ET0223 model, this charger is manufactured by Etronix, a trusted brand in the RC hobby space. Users consistently praise its reliability, ease of use and value for money. The Powerpal Pocket 2 operates from standard UK mains electricity (110-240V AC), meaning you can use it anywhere in your home without special power supply hardware. Its lightweight construction at just 100 grams makes it genuinely portable, whilst its compact dimensions of 100 x 61 x 30mm ensure it takes up minimal space in your toolbox or charging station.
Key Features
- 2S and 3S LiPo/LiFe Compatibility — This charger is designed to charge both 2-cell and 3-cell LiPo and LiFe battery packs, covering the vast majority of RTF/RTR aircraft, helicopters and RC cars currently available in the UK market. You select the cell count and chemistry using the convenient switch located underneath the charger before you begin charging.
- Fixed 800mA Charge Rate — The charger delivers a consistent 800 milliamp charge current (with a maximum of 3 × 800mA across the system), providing reliable and straightforward charging without the need to adjust complex settings. This fixed rate approach means predictable charging times and eliminates configuration errors.
- JST XH Balance Connector Support — The charger accepts industry-standard JST XH balance connectors, the most popular connector type found on contemporary LiPo and LiFe batteries sold in the UK. This ensures broad compatibility with your existing RC battery collection without the need for adapters.
- Simple LED Status Indication — Two LED indicators provide clear charging status feedback. The display changes from red to green when charging is complete, giving you instant visual confirmation that your battery is fully charged and ready for flying or driving.
- Battery Type Selection Switch — Located underneath the charger, an easy-to-access switch lets you select between LiPo and LiFe chemistry before you connect your battery. This ensures the charger applies the correct charging profile for your specific battery type, protecting your investment and ensuring optimal battery longevity.
- Universal Mains Power Input — Operating from 110-240V AC mains electricity, this charger works with standard UK plugs and requires no additional power supply units. Simply plug it into any UK domestic socket and you're ready to charge.
- Ultra-Compact and Portable Design — Weighing just 100 grams and measuring only 100 x 61 x 30mm, the Powerpal Pocket 2 is genuinely pocket-sized. You can take it to the flying field, to RC events, on holiday or keep it as a backup charger without taking up valuable space.
- No Configuration Required — Unlike advanced balance chargers that require you to input cell counts, select charge modes and adjust current, the Powerpal Pocket 2 simply requires you to flip a switch and plug in your battery. This makes it ideal for beginners and those who want hassle-free charging.
- Perfect Replacement Charger — If you've lost or damaged the stock charger that came with your RTF/RTR aircraft, helicopter or RC car, the Powerpal Pocket 2 is a drop-in replacement that will restore your charging capability quickly and affordably.
Technical Performance
The Etronix Powerpal Pocket 2 is engineered as a straightforward balance charger with proven reliability in the RC hobby. Its fixed 800mA charge current means your 2-cell and 3-cell LiPo and LiFe batteries charge at a predictable rate, with typical charge times of around 4 hours for a 3250mAh 2S pack and approximately 6 hours for a 5000mAh 2S battery. The internal power supply converts standard UK mains voltage (110-240V AC) to the appropriate charging voltage, eliminating the need for separate PSU hardware. The charger features a built-in balance charging circuit that monitors all cell voltages simultaneously through the JST XH balance connector, ensuring each cell in your pack reaches full charge whilst preventing overcharge conditions. The two-LED display system provides simple status indication: a red LED indicates active charging, which automatically switches to green when the battery is fully charged. The switch-based battery type selection (LiPo or LiFe) applies the correct charging parameters for each chemistry, protecting your battery and ensuring you get maximum cycle life from your packs. Construction quality is solid throughout, with the charger's compact plastic enclosure protecting the internal electronics whilst remaining lightweight enough for field use.
What's in the Box
- Etronix Powerpal Pocket 2 Balance Charger unit
- UK mains power cable
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Etronix Powerpal Pocket 2 suitable for beginners? — Yes, absolutely. This charger is specifically designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it perfect for those new to the RC hobby. There are no complex menus, confusing settings or difficult configuration steps. Simply select your battery type using the switch underneath, plug in your battery via the balance connector, and let the charger do the work. The clear LED display tells you when charging is complete.
- What battery types does this charger support? — The Powerpal Pocket 2 charges both LiPo (Lithium Polymer) and LiFe (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries in 2-cell and 3-cell configurations. LiPo batteries are the most common choice for modern RTF/RTR aircraft and RC cars, whilst LiFe batteries offer alternative chemistry benefits preferred by some users. You select which chemistry you're charging using the switch on the bottom of the charger.
- How long does it take to charge a battery? — Charging time depends on your battery capacity and the fixed 800mA charge rate. As a guide, a 3250mAh 2S battery takes approximately 4 hours, whilst a 5000mAh 2S battery takes around 6 hours. Real-world charging times may vary slightly depending on the battery's condition. The charger will automatically stop charging when your battery is full, as indicated by the LED turning from red to green.
- Can I charge two batteries at the same time? — No, this charger accommodates one battery at a time only. You can charge either one 2S battery or one 3S battery, but not multiple batteries simultaneously. If you need to charge multiple packs quickly, you would need additional chargers.
- What connector type does this charger use? — The Powerpal Pocket 2 features a JST XH balance connector input, which is the industry-standard balance connector type found on most modern LiPo and LiFe batteries available in the UK market. If your battery has a different connector type (such as older JST-PH or proprietary connectors), you would need an adapter cable.
- Does this charger work with 1S batteries? — No, the Powerpal Pocket 2 is designed exclusively for 2S and 3S battery packs. If you have 1S LiPo batteries, you would need a different charger specifically designed for single-cell packs.
- Can I use this charger abroad or with European plugs? — This ET0223 model is supplied with a UK plug, designed for UK mains sockets. If you need a European version, Etronix also manufacture the Powerpal Pocket 2 with a European plug format. The internal power supply accepts 110-240V AC input, so the charger itself is voltage-compatible with most countries, but you would need a plug adapter or select the correct regional version.
- What's the difference between LiPo and LiFe batteries, and does this charger handle both? — LiPo (Lithium Polymer) and LiFe (Lithium Iron Phosphate) are different lithium battery chemistries with slightly different voltage profiles and characteristics. LiPo batteries are lighter and offer higher energy density, making them popular for RC aircraft and high-performance vehicles. LiFe batteries offer better cycle life and thermal stability, and are preferred by some users for RC cars and crawlers. The Powerpal Pocket 2 charges both chemistries correctly by using the switch to select the appropriate charging profile for each type.
- Is this a suitable replacement for my RTF/RTR charger? — Yes, the Powerpal Pocket 2 is specifically designed as a replacement for the stock chargers supplied with ready-to-fly and ready-to-run RC aircraft, helicopters and cars. If your charger has been lost, damaged or worn out, this provides an affordable and reliable alternative that works with the same battery connectors and charging profiles.
- Does the charger have a storage mode for LiPo batteries? — No, the Powerpal Pocket 2 does not include a storage charge mode. It charges LiPo batteries to full charge only. If you want to store your LiPo batteries long-term, you should consider a more advanced charger that offers dedicated storage mode functionality, which balances your battery to approximately 3.85V per cell — the optimal voltage for long-term storage. However, for regular charging to full charge for immediate use, the Powerpal Pocket 2 is perfect.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the ETRONIX POWERPAL POCKET 2 LIPO LIFE BALANCE CHARGER (UK Plug) ET0223 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
- Brand: Etronix
- Model Number: ET0223
- Product Type: AC Balance Charger
- Mains Input Voltage: 110-240V AC
- Cell Count Range: 2-3 cells
- Compatible Battery Chemistry: LiPo and LiFe
- Balance Connector Type: JST XH
- Fixed Charge Current: 800mA
- Maximum Charge Current: 3 × 800mA
- Battery Type Selection: Switch (located underneath unit)
- Status Display: 2 × LED indicators (red when charging, green when complete)
- Weight: Approximately 100g
- Dimensions: 100 × 61 × 30mm
- Plug Format: UK mains plug
- Includes: UK mains power cable
- Typical Charge Time 3250mAh 2S Pack: Approximately 4 hours
- Typical Charge Time 5000mAh 2S Pack: Approximately 6 hours
- Suitable For: RTF/RTR aircraft, helicopters and RC cars
- Charging Capacity: Single battery (one 2S or one 3S pack at a time)
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- For orders above £120, we offer delivery to most mainland UK addresses. For orders under £120, we can still deliver to Northern Ireland and the outlying isles, as long as the item can be sent by Royal Mail, weighs less than 30kg, and fits within 61cm × 46cm × 46cm. Some highland and remote areas may carry an extra delivery charge as couriers often apply surcharges in these locations. If you live in one of these areas, feel free to contact us before ordering so we can confirm the delivery options and costs for you.
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