The XTAR L4 Pro is a 4-slot smart charger for rechargeable AA and AAA batteries, specifically 1.2V Ni-MH and 1.5V Li-ion cells. For underwater photographers, that matters because a surprising number of critical accessories still depend on AA/AAA power between dives, including many focus lights, some compact accessories, triggers, remotes, and backup torches. It is specifically designed to handle 1.2V Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) batteries, which includes all generations of Eneloop cells (often recommended for a number of underwater strobes that still use AA batteries). The charger features smart detection that automatically identifies when an Ni-MH battery is inserted and applies the correct charging method.
Where this fits best in a complete setup is as your topside battery-management tool. We can help you confirm whether your light, trigger, or other accessory is better matched to Ni-MH or 1.5V Li-ion batteries before you order.
Why it may be a good choice for Eneloop batteries:
- Refresh Mode: This is a standout feature for Eneloop users. If you have older Eneloop batteries that aren't holding their charge as well as they used to, the L4 Pro can perform a "Refresh" cycle (discharging and recharging) to help restore lost capacity and boost their performance.
- Safe Charging: The charger uses XTAR’s CVSA (Constant Voltage and Stable Algorithm) technology to ensure your Ni-MH batteries stay cool while charging, which helps extend their overall lifespan.
- Independent Slots: You can mix and match different types or capacities of batteries across the four slots, and each one will be charged independently based on its specific needs.
BEST FOR
Traveling underwater photographers and videographers using AA/AAA-powered accessories.
MAIN ADVANTAGE
One charger supports rechargeable AA/AAA Ni-MH and 1.5V Li-ion cells with independent slots.
WHY IT STANDS OUT
Ni-MH discharge and refresh modes add practical battery-care value beyond basic charge-only models.
TRADEOFF
This is not a universal charger for 18650/21700 cells, proprietary camera batteries, or disposable alkalines.
WHY BUY THIS FROM BLUEWATER PHOTO
- We can help you confirm whether your underwater accessory wants 1.2V Ni-MH or 1.5V Li-ion cells.
- We understand how chargers like this fit into a real travel kit, not just a tabletop spec sheet.
- We can point you toward spare batteries and related gear that make sense for underwater use.
Compatibility varies by system — contact Bluewater Photo to confirm your setup.
Quick Specs
Brand
Xtar
Model
L4 Pro
Charger Type
4-slot smart AA/AAA charger
Supported Cells
AA / AAA
Supported Chemistry
1.5V Li-ion & 1.2V Ni-MH
Input
5V / 2A
Charge Current
0.5A x 1 / 0.5A x 4
Battery Management
Charge, DisCHG, Refresh
Display
LCD status screen
Operating Temperature
0–40°C
Dimensions
102 x 80 x 27.5 mm
Net Weight
87 g
Compatibility
Important: This charger does not connect directly to your camera, housing, port, or lens. It works with the rechargeable AA/AAA batteries used by compatible accessories.
WORKS WITH
- Rechargeable AA and AAA 1.2V Ni-MH batteries
- Rechargeable AA and AAA 1.5V Li-ion batteries
- Mixed charging of 1 to 4 compatible cells in independent slots
- Many underwater accessories that specifically use rechargeable AA/AAA batteries, such as some focus lights, compact accessories, triggers, remotes, and backup torches
System example: Camera → Housing → AA/AAA-powered accessory → Spare batteries → XTAR L4 Pro charger
REQUIRES
- A stable 5V / 2A power source
- Rechargeable batteries only
- Confirmation that your accessory supports the chemistry you plan to use
- Battery labels or a charging routine if you want to keep matched sets organized for dive travel
Not for: Disposable alkaline batteries, proprietary camera battery packs, or larger cylindrical Li-ion cells such as 18650 or 21700.
OPTIONAL GEAR
- Spare AA/AAA battery sets for multiple dive days
- Battery storage cases for charged and used cells
- Travel USB power adapter or charging hub
- A simple label system so you know which cells are refreshed, charged, or ready for rotation
Best practice: If your light or accessory manual specifies Ni-MH, stick with Ni-MH unless the manufacturer explicitly approves 1.5V Li-ion cells.
Why Buy from Bluewater Photo
Content reviewed by Bluewater Photo staff with real-world experience supporting, selling, and configuring underwater camera systems.
We approach a product like this the same way we approach housings, ports, and lighting: by helping you figure out whether it actually fits your setup and your shooting workflow.
If your question is really, “Will this charger work for the batteries in my focus light, trigger, or other underwater accessory?” we can help you sort that out before you commit.
Ready to Add This to Your Kit?
Expert support from underwater photographers.
Related Gear
- Shop rechargeable batteries for underwater accessories
- Browse underwater focus lights
- Explore underwater lighting systems
- See another XTAR charger option for different battery needs
These links are most useful if you are still building out the battery and accessory side of your underwater kit.
Guides & Articles
Bluewater Photo Guide
A buyer-oriented look at focus lights and how they fit into underwater shooting setups.
Bluewater Photo Blog
Useful travel advice if you are building out a charging kit and do not want to forget critical accessories.
Underwater Photography Guide
A helpful overview of why focus lights matter and how they affect underwater shooting.
Specifications
Build
- 4 independent charging slots
- LCD battery status display
- Compact body for travel use
Connector type: USB-C
Power
- Input: 5V / 2A
- Constant charge current: 0.5A x 1 / 0.5A x 4
- Charge cutoff voltage, 1.2V Ni-MH: 1.45 ± 0.1V
- Charge cutoff current, 1.5V Li-ion: ≤100mA
Additional cutoff values and charging behavior vary by chemistry.
Compatibility
- AA / AAA rechargeable batteries
- 1.5V Li-ion rechargeable cells
- 1.2V Ni-MH rechargeable cells
- Charge, DisCHG, and Refresh battery-management modes
Refresh-related functions are intended for Ni-MH cells.
Physical Specs
- Dimensions: 102 x 80 x 27.5 mm
- Net weight: 87 g
- Operating temperature: 0–40°C
Depth rating: not applicable — this is a topside charger.
- 1pcs L4 Pro Charger,
- 1pcs USB C Cable,
- 1pcs manual.
FAQ
Will this charger work with my underwater camera system?
It works with the rechargeable AA/AAA batteries used by compatible accessories, not with the camera or housing directly. The key question is whether your light, trigger, or accessory uses 1.2V Ni-MH or 1.5V Li-ion AA/AAA cells.
Can I charge both Ni-MH and 1.5V Li-ion batteries in this XTAR battery charger?
Yes, that is one of the main reasons to choose it. Your accessory still needs to support the chemistry you plan to use.
Does the refresh mode work on all battery types?
The refresh-related functions are intended for Ni-MH batteries. Compatible 1.5V Li-ion cells are charged normally rather than refreshed in the same way.
Can I use this with disposable alkaline batteries?
No. This charger is for compatible rechargeable batteries only.
Is this a good choice for strobes?
Only if your strobe or related accessory actually uses rechargeable AA/AAA cells. Many underwater strobes use proprietary battery packs, in which case this is not the right charger.
What power source do I need?
Use a 5V / 2A power source. A reliable wall adapter or travel USB power solution is the safest approach for consistent charging.
How does this compare to a basic AA charger?
The L4 Pro is more appealing if you want support for both compatible Ni-MH and 1.5V Li-ion AA/AAA batteries, plus Ni-MH discharge and refresh functions. A basic charger may be enough if you only need simple charging for one battery type.
What should I pair with it for dive travel?
We usually recommend spare battery sets, a case or organizer, and a dependable USB power source. The right battery chemistry for your accessory matters just as much as the charger itself.
