Charger by battery type
Chargers for AGM Batteries
AGM batteries need chargers with an AGM mode or profile. Wrong voltage or charge algorithm can damage them.
Charging AGM batteries correctly
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are used in many modern cars and vans with Start/Stop and high electrical loads. They require a charger that can deliver the correct absorption voltage (typically 14.4V–14.8V for 12V) and then switch to a float stage (around 13.2V–13.8V). Chargers that are 'lead-acid only' or that use a single fixed voltage can overcharge or undercharge AGM, shortening life or causing internal damage.
Always select the AGM mode (or AGM profile) on your charger. Do not use a 'standard' or 'wet' setting. In the UK, most quality smart chargers now include AGM; if yours does not, replace it with one that does when charging an AGM battery.
- Use only chargers with a dedicated AGM mode or profile.
- Absorption voltage typically 14.4V–14.8V; float around 13.2V–13.8V.
- Wrong profile can reduce life or damage the battery.
Related charging guides
Related charger types
Related use cases
Compatible battery types
Recommended chargers
Smart chargers and maintainers that work with car, van, motorcycle and leisure batteries. Check AGM/EFB compatibility for Start/Stop vehicles.
CTEK
CTEK MXS 5.0 Smart Charger
Advanced 8-step charging with automatic reconditioning for dead batteries. The gold standard for battery maintenance.
Best for:
- •Vehicles parked for weeks at a time
- •Maintaining battery during winter
- •Recovering deeply discharged batteries
Prices and availability vary by supplier. Always check compatibility with your battery type.
CTEK
CTEK CS ONE Battery Charger
Compact APTO adaptive charging for cars, motorcycles, leisure and marine. One-button operation, AGM/EFB compatible.
Best for:
- •Start/Stop and AGM batteries
- •Motorcycles and leisure batteries
- •Simple one-button charging
Check compatibility with your battery type (AGM/EFB/lead-acid).
NOCO
NOCO Genius 5 UK Smart Charger
6V/12V 5A smart charger with Force Mode for dead batteries and desulfation. Works with AGM, lithium and leisure.
Best for:
- •Recovering very flat or dead batteries
- •AGM, EFB and lithium batteries
- •Cars, bikes and caravans
Ensure correct voltage (6V/12V) and battery type setting.
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links. If you choose to buy through them, BatteryScout may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Next steps
Match your battery type and use case with our charger sizing guide. For product options see our best car battery chargers UK. If the battery is beyond charging, use our Battery Fitment Finder. Not sure what’s wrong? Run battery diagnostics, or browse our battery guides.