iMax B6 80W Battery Charger: Features, Specifications and Buying Guide
, by UMW Media, 8 min reading time
Choosing the right RC battery charger helps you maintain your batteries and prepare your models for use. The iMax B6 80W battery charger is a multifunction charger and discharger designed for several battery types, including LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, NiMH, NiCd and lead-acid batteries.
This model includes balance-charging functions for compatible lithium battery packs, an LCD display, adjustable charging current and storage-related features. It can be useful for RC hobbyists who want one charger for different supported battery chemistries.
Available from Hobby Inn, this version comes with several charging cables and connectors. However, it does not include a power adaptor or mains power supply, so you will need a suitable DC power source before using it.
What Is the iMax B6 80W Battery Charger?
The iMax B6 is a microprocessor-controlled battery charger and discharger designed for RC and other hobby applications. It supports multiple battery chemistries and provides charging, discharging and balancing functions within its specified limits.
The supplied listing describes this as a generic iMax B6 charger and specifically states that it is not a SKYRC-branded product. This distinction is important when comparing it with genuine SKYRC models, which may have different specifications, build quality, support and included accessories.
The 80W version listed by Hobby Inn offers a maximum charging current of up to 6A, depending on operating conditions and the selected settings.
Key Features of the iMax B6 80W Charger
1. Multi-Chemistry Battery Support
The charger is designed to support several battery types:
- LiPo — lithium-polymer
- Li-ion — lithium-ion
- LiFe — lithium iron phosphate
- NiMH — nickel-metal hydride
- NiCd — nickel-cadmium
- Pb — lead-acid
Each battery chemistry has different charging requirements. Always select the correct battery type and programme before starting a charging cycle.
2. Balance Charging for Lithium Batteries
Balance charging helps manage the voltage of individual cells in compatible multi-cell lithium battery packs.
The product description specifies balance-charging support for compatible Li-ion, LiPo and LiFe batteries. This function can be useful when maintaining multi-cell battery packs, provided you use the correct cell count and charging settings.
Balance charging does not make a damaged or swollen battery safe to use.
3. Up to 80W Charging Power
The listing specifies a maximum charging power of up to 80W for this version, with a charging current of 0.1–6.0A.
Actual charging performance depends on the battery voltage, input power and selected settings. The charger cannot necessarily deliver its maximum wattage and maximum current in every situation.
Use a compatible DC power source within the charger's specified input range of 11–18V.
4. Charging and Discharging Functions
The iMax B6 can charge and discharge compatible batteries. Its listed maximum discharge power is 5W, with a discharge current range of 0.1–2.0A for the 80W version.
These functions allow hobbyists to manage their batteries using the appropriate programmes. Follow the battery manufacturer's instructions and avoid discharging a battery below its permitted limits.
5. Storage Function and Data Memory
The charger includes a storage function for compatible batteries and can save settings for up to five battery packs.
Saved settings can make repeated charging sessions more convenient. However, always check the selected profile before starting, especially when switching between batteries with different chemistries, cell counts or charging requirements.
6. Additional Charging Functions
Other listed features include:
- Microprocessor-controlled Delta-peak sensitivity
- Time-limit function
- Input-voltage monitoring
- Battery break-in and cycling functions
- Support for compatible LiFe batteries
These features provide additional charging controls, but correct battery selection and safe charging practices remain essential.
iMax B6 80W Battery Charger Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Generic iMax B6 80W charger |
| Maximum charging power | Up to 80W, as listed |
| Maximum discharge power | 5W |
| DC input voltage | 11–18V |
| Charging current | 0.1–6.0A for the 80W version |
| Discharge current | 0.1–2.0A for the 80W version |
| Li-ion, LiPo and LiFe batteries | 1–6 cells |
| NiCd and NiMH batteries | 1–15 cells |
| Lead-acid batteries | 2–20V |
| Battery balancing | Supported for compatible lithium batteries |
| Data memory | Up to five battery profiles |
| Display | LCD |
| Power adaptor | Not included |
| Mains power supply | Not included |
Check the manufacturer's documentation and the product listing for any additional operating limitations before use.
What Comes in the Box?
The supplied product description lists the following accessories:
- One generic iMax B6 LiPo battery balance charger
- One multifunctional extension wire
- One XT60 wire
- One universal crocodile clip
- One JST plug
- One instruction manual
Important: This version does not include a power adaptor or mains power supply. You must obtain a suitable DC power source separately.
The listing also states that this is not a SKYRC-branded charger. If you specifically want an original SKYRC product, check the brand and exact model before purchasing.
Which Batteries Can the iMax B6 80W Charger Charge?
LiPo batteries
LiPo batteries are widely used in RC cars, aircraft and other hobby models. This charger supports compatible LiPo packs from 1S to 6S.
Select the correct cell count and charging current, and use balance charging where required by the battery manufacturer.
Li-ion batteries
The supplied specifications list support for compatible lithium-ion packs from 1 to 6 cells. Check the battery's voltage and charging requirements before connecting it.
LiFe batteries
The charger supports compatible lithium iron phosphate batteries, with a listed range of 1–6 cells. Select the correct LiFe programme rather than using settings intended for another lithium chemistry.
NiMH and NiCd batteries
The charger supports compatible nickel-metal hydride and nickel-cadmium packs containing 1–15 cells in series.
Make sure you select the correct battery type and follow the manufacturer's charging instructions.
Lead-acid batteries
The listed supported lead-acid voltage range is 2–20V. Confirm that your battery is within the supported range and use the appropriate charging programme.
Generic iMax B6 vs SKYRC iMax B6: What Should You Know?
Hobby Inn lists both this generic iMax B6 charger and separate SKYRC-branded chargers. Although their names are similar, they should not automatically be treated as identical products.
| Feature | Generic iMax B6 80W | SKYRC models |
|---|---|---|
| Brand identification | Listing states it is not SKYRC-branded | Branded SKYRC products |
| Charging power | Up to 80W, as listed | Depends on the exact model |
| Battery support | Multiple chemistries, as specified | Depends on the exact model |
| Power supply | Not included with this version | Varies by model and bundle |
| Accessories | Cables and connectors listed | Varies by product listing |
If you are comparing chargers, check the exact model, specifications, power requirements, warranty and included accessories rather than relying on the iMax B6 name alone.
Safe Charging Tips for RC Batteries
Follow these precautions whenever you charge or discharge a battery:
- Inspect the battery, wiring and connectors before use.
- Confirm the correct battery chemistry and cell count.
- Use a charging current recommended by the battery manufacturer.
- Charge in a suitable, well-ventilated area on a non-combustible surface.
- Never leave charging batteries unattended.
- Stop charging if a battery becomes unusually hot, swollen or damaged.
- Keep batteries away from flammable materials.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage and disposal.
A charger's monitoring functions do not eliminate the risks associated with rechargeable batteries. Never attempt to charge a damaged battery.
Is the iMax B6 80W Charger Right for You?
This charger may suit RC hobbyists who need charging, discharging and balance-charging functions for several supported battery types.
It may be worth considering if you:
- Use compatible LiPo batteries up to 6S.
- Maintain different supported battery chemistries.
- Need charging power of up to 80W.
- Want storage functions and memory for multiple battery profiles.
- Already have a suitable DC power source.
However, it may not be the best option if you want a complete plug-and-play bundle with a mains power supply included. In that case, compare it with a charger bundle that explicitly includes a compatible power adaptor.
Buy the iMax B6 80W Battery Charger from Hobby Inn
Hobby Inn lists this generic iMax B6 80W battery charger for £17.99 including VAT.
The product is currently marked out of stock, with an estimated availability of 2–3 weeks in the supplied listing. Stock and delivery estimates may change, so check the product page for the latest information.
Before ordering, confirm that you are happy with the generic branding, that your batteries are compatible and that you have a suitable DC power source.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What batteries can the generic iMax B6 80W charger support?
The supplied specifications list support for compatible LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, NiMH, NiCd and lead-acid batteries. Each battery requires the correct charging programme and settings.
2. Does this iMax B6 charger include a power adaptor?
No. The product listing explicitly states that the power adaptor and mains power supply are not included. You will need a compatible DC power source within the charger's specified input range.
3. Can the iMax B6 80W charger charge a 6S LiPo battery?
The listed specifications support compatible LiPo packs from 1S to 6S. Confirm your battery's requirements and use the correct balance-charging settings.
4. Is this an original SKYRC iMax B6 charger?
No. The supplied product description states that this is not a SKYRC-branded product. If you require a genuine SKYRC charger, check the branding and model details on the relevant product listing.
5. What is the maximum charging power of this iMax B6 charger?
The listing specifies up to 80W of charging power and a charging current of up to 6A for the 80W version. Actual performance depends on the battery, input power and operating settings.
