In this review, we will check out the VIFLY ToothStor 2S LiPo Charger. This charger boasts the user-friendly features, portability, and reliability you've come to expect from VIFLY's reputable lineup. Perfect for FPV pilots who primarily fly 2S FPV drones, ToothStor makes charging more efficient.
What is a ToothStor Charger?
Vifly ToothStor is a special charger exclusively used for 2S LiPo batteries.
The design is mainly geared towards batteries equipped with a BT3.0 connector. As of this writing, only BetaFPV offers these batteries. See my post about what BT3.0 is: https://oscarliang.com/betafpv-bt3-0-connector/. The ToothStor also accepts standard 2S batteries with standard balance leads (XH2.54), conveniently eliminating the need to connect XT30 discharge leads.
Of course, exclusive support for 2S batteries may seem limited compared to existing smart chargers, which typically support 1S to 6S batteries. However, ToothStor's ability to charge four batteries simultaneously makes up for this limitation by providing a more efficient charging experience. For drone pilots who primarily fly 2S, this charger can save a ton of time in the field.
Now let's get into the review.
Where to buy?
Vifly ToothStor charger can be purchased from AliExpress (https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDvdcO1).
To power this charger via USB-C, we recommend purchasing a power adapter such as the Anker 65W (https://amzn.to/3VE3yro).
The package includes simple instructions and a USB-C cable to power the charger and update firmware.
main function
- 4 individual charging ports: Unlike parallel charging, it maintains charge balance for up to four 2S batteries at the same time, so there is no need to adjust the voltage or capacity of the batteries.
- Colorful LCD screen with intuitive interface: Equipped with a color LCD screen, ToothStor clearly displays charging status, providing a user-friendly experience.
- Compatibility with XH2.54 and BT3.0 batteries: Accepts a variety of 2S batteries to ensure wide compatibility.
- efficient heat dissipation: The combination of a fan and a large heat sink efficiently dissipates heat, improving the performance and speed of the charger.
- Various power input options: The charger supports multiple power inputs, including Type-C with XT60 and PD3.0.
- Convenient memory function: ToothStor remembers your last used settings, streamlining the setup process for subsequent charging sessions.
- buzzer notification: The built-in buzzer notifies you when the charging cycle is complete. If you prefer a quieter environment, you can disable this buzzer.
Specification
- Input connector: XT60, DC (5.5 x 2.1mm), USB-C (PD3.0)
- Input voltage range: 10V-26V
- Minimum input power: 65W
- Maximum charging current: 1.5A per port
- Supported battery connectors: XH2.54 3Pin & BT3.0
- Battery Type: LiHV / LiPo
- Storage voltage: 3.80V/cell and 3.85V/cell
- Maximum discharge current: 0.2A per port
- Balance current: 0.2A
- Size: 109 x 56 x 30mm
- weight:
142g143.3g
build quality
The ToothStor's case is sturdy and inherits the build quality of the WhoopStor series. Having used VIFLY chargers over the years, their reliability has been consistent. It just works without any fuss. And ToothStor continues this tradition, delivering reliable performance during testing.
Provides compatibility with the commonly used XH 2.45 3-pin connector (balanced lead) and BetaFPV's latest BT3.0 connector.
Variety of power options
Where ToothStor really stands out is the variety of features it offers. The included XT60 connector allows for a wide input range from 2S to 6S batteries. For those with access to PD power, USB-C input is a convenient feature provided by WhoopStor V3. The ability to power from a USB power bank is a huge advantage, especially for pilots who need to charge their batteries in multiple locations.
User experience: Charging made easy
Using ToothStor was very easy. Controlled by just two buttons, the user interface is intuitive even for beginners.
When connecting a battery, each port accepts a BT3.0 or XH2.54 connector (balanced lead). To stay safe and avoid the risks associated with parallel charging, you should only use one type of connector per port.
A big advantage is that the four charging channels operate independently. This allows batteries of different voltages and capacities to be charged simultaneously, a feature that is usually not possible with parallel charging. Channels share the same final voltage and charge current settings that cannot be adjusted individually, but these shared settings simplify the charging process.
Pressing the right button allows you to cycle through the final voltage per cell, giving you four options:
Current selection is very simple with options cycling from 0.2A up to 1.5A. If you need to reduce the current, you should cycle it up to the maximum first and then back down to the minimum setting. If you need to reduce the charging current, we recommend stopping all four channels and restarting the process to set the desired current.
To start or stop charging, press and hold the left button. When you start charging, the cooling fan starts spinning after about 1 to 2 minutes, but it is relatively quiet compared to a smart charger of this size.
A built-in buzzer alerts you when a charging cycle begins and ends, but can be turned off if you prefer quiet operation. To mute/unmute the charger, press and hold the right button.
Limitations and Considerations
When charging at the ToothStor's maximum current of 1.5A across all channels, the charger consumes 56W of input power, accounting for losses. To ensure safety and optimal performance, Vifly recommends using a 65W power adapter. If you plan to take advantage of the USB-C power option, we recommend using a powerful power adapter like the Anker 65W. Buy it on Amazon (https://amzn.to/3VE3yro).
The charger also includes a discharge function, which is useful when storing and charging a fully charged battery. The discharge rate is a bit slow at only 0.2A, but not too bad considering 2S batteries typically have lower capacities. For example, it takes less than an hour to fully charge and discharge a 2S 450mAh battery to 3.80V, allowing four batteries to be used at a time.
However, there are some differences in the accuracy of reaching the target final voltage. In my experience, when discharging to 3.85V, the cell stops processing at about 3.87V to 3.88V. Likewise, when charging at 4.20V, the charger tends to stop prematurely at around 4.19V. The same goes for all ports. This isn't necessarily a safety issue since it doesn't lead to overcharging, but a little improvement could definitely improve precision.
voltage accuracy
We tested the charger's accuracy using a calibrated multimeter. The results were satisfactory, showing excellent consistency between the charger readings and the digital multimeter.
source | charger report | DDM |
---|---|---|
port 1 cell 1 | 4.19 | 4.191 |
Port 1 Cell 2 | 4.18 | 4.186 |
port 2 cell 1 | 4.19 | 4.191 |
Port 2 Cell 2 | 4.18 | 4.186 |
port 3 cell 1 | 4.19 | 4.191 |
port 3 cell 2 | 4.18 | 4.186 |
port 4 cell 1 | 4.19 | 4.191 |
port 4 cell 2 | 4.18 | 4.186 |
Slight discrepancies are negligible, giving you confidence in the charger's voltage accuracy.
final thoughts
The VIFLY ToothStor will be an invaluable tool for those flying 2S FPV drones, especially when using BT3.0 batteries. The ability to charge multiple 2S batteries simultaneously and individually, combined with ease of use and multiple power input options, makes this a great product.
The Vifly ToothStor charger can be purchased through AliExpress (https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDvdcO1).
However, this is a niche product. Batteries other than 2S are not supported. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution, nor does it aim to be. Vifly isn't trying to reinvent the wheel with this product. Instead, we're making improvements to ensure 2S battery charging is as smooth and efficient as possible.