XTAR VC2SL Battery Charger
Key Summary
The XTAR VC2SL is a compact 2-bay USB-C battery charger designed for photographers and divers using rechargeable Li-ion cells like 18650 and protected 21700 batteries, plus common 1.2V Ni-MH cells. For underwater shooters, that makes it a practical charger for many video lights, focus lights, and travel backup kits where simple charging, battery status visibility, and compact size matter more than a large desktop charger.
In real-world dive travel, this is the kind of charger that is easy to pack alongside spare light batteries and a USB power source, especially when you want better feedback than a basic LED charger.
- Best for: divers and underwater photographers charging 18650 or protected 21700 cells for lights and accessories.
- Main advantage: USB-C convenience with a display that shows charging status and internal resistance information.
- Compatibility note: compatibility is based on battery chemistry and size, not camera brand—confirm your light or accessory uses supported cells.
- Why choose it over basic chargers: more useful readout, support for protected 21700 cells, and power bank functionality.
- Tradeoff: this is a 2-bay charger, so high-volume shooters with many batteries may prefer a 4-bay model.
Quick Specs
Compatibility
Works With
- 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion batteries including popular underwater-light sizes like 18650 and 21700
- Protected 21700 batteries
- 1.2V Ni-MH batteries
- Travel charging setups using USB power sources
Requires
- A supported removable battery cell (no batteries are included with the charger)
- USB-C power input
- Battery size and chemistry confirmation before charging
- Proper battery handling and dry storage between dive days
Optional Gear
- Spare 18650 or 21700 batteries for multi-dive days
- USB wall adapter or power bank for travel charging
- Battery cases for safe transport
- Backup charger for expedition or liveaboard use
Compatibility varies by system — Contact Bluewater Photo to confirm your setup.
Why This Product Stands Out
The XTAR VC2SL hits a sweet spot for divers who want something better than a bare-bones charger without stepping up to a larger analyzer. It gives you USB-C charging, support for protected 21700 cells, and a more informative LCD display than simple indicator-light chargers.
For many underwater shooters, that means easier battery management when rotating cells for video lights, focus lights, or backup power accessories. If you only charge a couple of batteries at a time and value portability, the VC2SL makes a lot of sense. If you are running a larger light kit with more cells, a 4-bay model can be the better fit.
Related Underwater Gear Categories:
Specifications
Build
- 2-bay battery charger
- LCD status display
- Portable format
- Dimensions: 136.5mm x 67.6mm x 33.5mm
- Weight: 115g
Power
- Input: USB Type-C
- Charging current: 1×2A, 2×1A, 2×0.5A
- Portable power bank function
- Input voltage: 5v / 2.1A
- USB output: DC5v / 1A
Battery Support
- 3.6V / 3.7V Li-ion compatible
- 1.2V Ni-MH compatible
- Supports protected 21700 batteries
- Internal resistance test
- Multiple charging protections
Compatibility
- Common Li-ion sizes include 18650 and 21700
- Common Ni-MH sizes supported
- Not camera-brand specific
- Best matched by battery size and chemistry
- Contact Bluewater Photo to confirm your battery setup
- Xtar Charger
- USB-C Cable
- Manual
FAQ
Will the XTAR VC2SL work with my underwater camera system?
This charger is usually matched to the batteries used in your lights or accessories, not to the camera or housing itself. Check your battery size and chemistry first, then contact Bluewater Photo if you want help confirming the setup.
Can it charge XTAR 18650 batteries?
Yes, the VC2SL supports 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion batteries, including common 18650 cells. Always confirm the battery chemistry and make sure the cell is in good condition before charging.
Does it support protected 21700 batteries?
Yes. One of the key advantages of the VC2SL is support for protected 21700 batteries, which is useful for some higher-capacity light setups.
Is this a good charger for travel?
Yes, especially if you want a compact USB-C charger instead of a larger four-bay model. It is a practical option for destination diving, liveaboards, and backup kits.
What makes it better than a basic battery charger?
The VC2SL gives you an LCD display, internal resistance testing, protected 21700 support, and power bank functionality. That makes it more informative and more flexible than simple indicator-light chargers.
Can I use it for Ni-MH batteries too?
Yes, the VC2SL supports 1.2V Ni-MH batteries in addition to Li-ion cells. That is helpful if you want one charger that covers more than one battery type.
When should I choose a different charger?
If you regularly charge more than two batteries at a time, a 4-bay charger will usually be more efficient. If you only need a compact charger for a smaller kit, the VC2SL is often the better choice.
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