Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger

As I stand in my garage on a chilly Saturday morning, staring at my wife’s car with its completely dead battery, I can’t help but feel grateful for the decision I made last winter. That’s when I finally invested in a serious battery charger instead of repeatedly calling for roadside assistance or begging neighbors for jumps. The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger has single-handedly transformed how I approach vehicle maintenance and emergency preparedness in my household.

Let me take you through everything I’ve learned about this powerhouse device over the past year—from technical specifications to real-world performance—and why it might be exactly what your garage needs too.

The Nuts and Bolts: Understanding the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Specs

When I first started researching battery chargers, the technical specifications seemed overwhelming. What did all these numbers and features actually mean for my everyday needs? After using the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp model for over a year now, I can break it down in practical terms.

The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger isn’t just a one-trick pony. It’s a multi-functional device that serves as:

• A 50-amp engine starter (hence the name)
• A 10-amp fast charger
• A 2-amp trickle charger for maintenance
• A battery tester that evaluates your battery’s condition

Physically, it’s a robust unit weighing approximately 15 pounds with dimensions of 11.8 x 10.9 x 7.3 inches. While not exactly pocket-sized, it’s compact enough to store on my garage shelf without taking up significant space. The unit features heavy-duty clamps with insulated handles that connect securely to battery terminals and a digital display that provides clear feedback during operation.

What impressed me immediately was the built-in safety features. The charger includes reverse polarity protection (which saved me when I accidentally connected the cables wrong during my first use), automatic voltage detection, and thermal protection to prevent overheating during extended use.

How This Beast Actually Works: The Science Behind the Power

I’ve always been curious about how these devices actually work, and the Everstart Maxx operates on some interesting principles. At its core, the charger converts AC power from your wall outlet into DC power that your battery can use to recharge.

What makes the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp model special is its microprocessor-controlled charging system. This smart technology constantly monitors the charging process and adjusts the current and voltage based on your battery’s condition and charge level. It’s like having a tiny battery expert inside the charger making real-time decisions.

The charging process typically follows several stages:

1. Diagnostic Stage: The charger evaluates your battery’s condition and voltage level
2. Bulk Charging Stage: High amperage charging that brings your battery up to about 80% capacity
3. Absorption Stage: Reduced charging rate as the battery approaches full capacity
4. Float/Maintenance Stage: Keeps the battery at optimal charge without overcharging

This multi-stage approach is far more sophisticated than the older battery chargers my father used to use, which essentially pushed a constant current regardless of the battery’s condition (often leading to damaged batteries).

The Battery Compatibility Question: Will It Work for My Vehicles?

One of my initial concerns was whether this charger would work with all the vehicles in my household. Between my truck, my wife’s sedan, our lawn tractor, and my son’s motorcycle, we have quite the variety of battery types.

The good news is that the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp is remarkably versatile. It’s compatible with:

• Standard 12V lead-acid automotive batteries
• AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries
• Gel cell batteries
• Deep cycle batteries
• Marine batteries

The only significant limitation I’ve found is with lithium-ion batteries. While some newer lithium batteries designed for vehicles may work with this charger, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp wasn’t specifically designed for them. If you have specialized lithium batteries, you might need a charger specifically designed for that chemistry.

This versatility has been incredibly convenient. I’ve used it on everything from my riding lawn mower to my boat without any issues. Having one charger that works across all my equipment has simplified my life tremendously.

The Waiting Game: Charging Times and Real-World Performance

Let’s talk about the question everyone asks: “How long will it take to charge my battery?” The honest answer is—it depends. Several factors influence charging time:

• The size/capacity of your battery
• How depleted the battery is
• Which charging mode you’re using
• The overall health of your battery

That said, I can share some real-world experiences. Using the 10-amp fast charge mode, I’ve typically charged a standard car battery from near-dead to fully operational in about 4-6 hours. When I’m in a hurry, the 50-amp engine start function can provide enough juice to start a vehicle in just 5-10 minutes of charging.

For maintenance charging (2-amp mode), I connect the charger overnight to ensure the battery reaches maximum capacity. This slower charge is gentler on the battery and helps extend its overall lifespan.

Where this charger really shines is with its engine start function. Last winter, when temperatures dropped below freezing and my truck wouldn’t start, the 50-amp boost had me back on the road in minutes. That feature alone has paid for the charger several times over in avoided tow charges.

Where to Find This Garage Essential (And What You’ll Pay)

The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger is primarily available at Walmart, as Everstart is a Walmart-exclusive brand. You can find it both in physical stores and on their website. Occasionally, I’ve seen them available through third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon or eBay, but Walmart typically offers the best pricing and warranty support.

As for cost, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp typically retails between $80-$100, depending on sales and your location. This price point positions it as a mid-range option—more expensive than basic trickle chargers but significantly more affordable than high-end professional models that can run $200+.

Is it worth the price? In my experience, absolutely. When I consider that a single tow service call can cost $75-$150, the charger paid for itself the first time I avoided calling roadside assistance. Factor in the peace of mind and convenience, and it’s easily one of the best automotive investments I’ve made.

Jump-Starting Power: A Lifesaver in Emergency Situations

One of the most valuable features of the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp is its engine start function. This isn’t technically a jump starter in the traditional sense—it doesn’t contain an internal battery like portable jump starters. Instead, it provides a powerful 50-amp boost directly from your wall outlet to help start your vehicle.

In practice, here’s how it works: When your vehicle won’t start, you connect the charger to your battery, select the engine start function, and typically wait 5-10 minutes for it to deliver enough charge to crank the engine. Then you can attempt to start your vehicle while the charger remains connected.

I’ve used this feature several times over the past year:

• When my truck sat unused for three weeks during vacation
• During a particularly cold snap when my wife’s car wouldn’t start
• When my teenager accidentally left the interior lights on overnight

In each case, the engine start function got us back on the road without having to call for assistance. The only limitation is that you need access to a power outlet, so it won’t help if you’re stranded in a parking lot or on the roadside. For those situations, I still keep a portable jump starter in each vehicle.

Deep-Cycle Compatibility: Beyond Just Car Batteries

As someone who enjoys boating during summer months, I was particularly interested in whether this charger would work with deep-cycle marine batteries. These batteries are designed for sustained power delivery rather than the quick burst needed to start an engine.

The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp handles deep-cycle batteries admirably. I’ve used it to charge:

• My bass boat’s trolling motor battery
• The house battery in our small camper
• A backup battery that powers our sump pump during outages

The charger’s multi-stage charging approach works perfectly with deep-cycle batteries, though charging times are typically longer due to their larger capacity. For my marine battery, a full charge from depleted typically takes 8-10 hours using the 10-amp setting.

What I particularly appreciate is the maintenance/float charge function. I can connect the charger to my seasonal-use batteries and leave them on float charge during the off-season, ensuring they stay in peak condition without overcharging.

The Fine Print: Warranty Coverage and Support

The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger comes with a one-year limited warranty through Walmart. This covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions.

I had to utilize the warranty once when the digital display started showing erratic readings about two months after purchase. The process was straightforward—I brought the unit back to Walmart with my receipt, and they exchanged it for a new one on the spot. No questions asked, no complicated paperwork.

Beyond the formal warranty, I’ve found that Walmart’s customer service team is generally helpful with troubleshooting issues. There’s also a dedicated support line for Everstart products, though I haven’t needed to use it personally.

While the one-year warranty is shorter than some premium brands that offer 3-5 year coverage, it’s reasonable considering the price point. In my experience, these types of devices either fail early (covered by warranty) or last for many years without issues.

Safety First: Using Your Charger Without Becoming a Cautionary Tale

Working with automotive batteries isn’t without risks, which is why I take safety seriously when using my Everstart charger. Here are the safety protocols I always follow:

1. Always ensure proper ventilation: Batteries can release hydrogen gas during charging, which is explosive in confined spaces. I always charge in my well-ventilated garage with the door partially open.
2. Connect and disconnect in the proper order: I always connect the positive (red) clamp first, then the negative (black), and reverse this order when disconnecting.
3. Avoid sparks near the battery: Batteries contain flammable gas, so I’m careful not to create sparks when connecting or disconnecting. I make sure the charger is off before making connections.
4. Wear appropriate protection: When working with older batteries that might have corrosion, I wear eye protection and gloves to prevent chemical burns.
5. Never charge a damaged or frozen battery: This can lead to battery rupture or explosion.

The Everstart Maxx has several built-in safety features that help prevent accidents, including spark-resistant clamps, reverse polarity protection, and automatic shutoff if it detects unsafe conditions. These features provide significant peace of mind, especially for someone like me who isn’t a professional mechanic.

Feature Spotlight: What Makes This Charger Stand Out

After using various chargers over the years, several features of the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp have particularly impressed me:

• Digital Display: The clear LCD screen shows battery voltage, charge percentage, and selected function, making it easy to monitor progress.
• Battery Reconditioning: This feature helps restore moderately sulfated batteries, which has extended the life of my older lawn tractor battery considerably.
• Automatic Voltage Detection: The charger automatically determines whether you’ve connected a 6V or 12V battery and adjusts accordingly.
• Multiple Charging Rates: Having options for fast charging, regular charging, and maintenance charging provides flexibility for different situations.
• Thermal Protection: The unit automatically shuts down if it detects overheating, preventing damage to both the charger and your battery.
• Adjustable Charge Rate: You can manually select lower amperage for smaller batteries or when a gentler charge is preferred.
• Battery Testing Function: The ability to test battery condition and alternator performance has helped me identify problems before they leave me stranded.

While these features might sound like technical marketing points, they’ve translated into real-world convenience that I appreciate every time I use the charger.

Comparing Models: 40 Amp vs. 50 Amp Everstart Maxx

Before settling on the 50 Amp model, I seriously considered the 40 Amp version, which is typically about $15-20 cheaper. After researching and eventually choosing the 50 Amp model, here’s what I found:

The primary differences between the models are:

• Engine Start Capability: The 50 Amp provides 50 amps of starting power versus 40 amps on the smaller model, which matters when trying to start larger engines or in very cold conditions.
• Charging Capacity: Both units offer similar 10-amp fast charging and 2-amp maintenance charging modes.
• Features: Both include core features like digital display, multiple charging modes, and safety protections.
• Physical Size: The 50 Amp model is slightly larger and heavier, though not significantly so.

For my needs, the extra starting power of the 50 Amp model was worth the modest price increase. When you’re dealing with a dead battery in below-freezing temperatures, that additional power can make the difference between getting your vehicle started or not.

That said, for someone with only small to medium-sized vehicles who lives in a mild climate, the 40 Amp version would likely be perfectly adequate and represent a slightly better value.

The Lithium Question: New Battery Technologies

With lithium-ion batteries becoming increasingly common in automotive applications, I researched whether the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp could handle these newer battery types.

The short answer is: it depends on the specific lithium battery. The Everstart Maxx 50 Amp was primarily designed for lead-acid battery chemistry. Some newer automotive lithium batteries designed as direct replacements for lead-acid may work with this charger, but many lithium batteries require specialized charging profiles.

In my personal experience, I’ve only used this charger with traditional lead-acid, AGM, and gel batteries. For my son’s motorcycle, which has a lithium battery, we purchased a dedicated lithium battery charger to avoid any potential issues.

If you’re primarily using lithium batteries, you might want to consider a charger specifically designed for that chemistry. However, for most automotive applications where traditional lead-acid batteries are still the norm, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp remains an excellent choice.

Troubleshooting Guide: When Things Don’t Go As Planned

Even the best equipment occasionally has issues, and I’ve encountered a few minor challenges with my Everstart charger. Here are some common problems and the solutions I’ve found:

Problem: Charger shows “Check Connection” error
Solution: I’ve found this usually means the connections aren’t making good contact. I clean the battery terminals with a wire brush and ensure the clamps are firmly attached.

Problem: Charger won’t turn on
Solution: Double-check the power outlet with another device. Once, what I thought was a charger issue was actually a tripped circuit breaker.

Problem: Battery won’t take a charge
Solution: If the battery voltage doesn’t increase after 1-2 hours of charging, the battery may be sulfated or damaged beyond repair. The reconditioning mode sometimes helps, but severely damaged batteries will need replacement.

Problem: Slow charging times
Solution: Check for corrosion on terminals, ensure good connections, and verify you’re using the appropriate charging mode for your battery size.

Problem: Charger overheats and shuts down
Solution: Make sure the charger has adequate ventilation. I once had this happen when I placed it on a shelf with limited airflow. Moving it to an open space solved the issue.

Most issues I’ve encountered have been connection-related rather than problems with the charger itself. Taking time to ensure clean battery terminals and solid connections eliminates the vast majority of potential problems.

Real User Experiences: What Others Are Saying

While my personal experience has been overwhelmingly positive, I was curious about the broader consensus on this charger. I’ve researched numerous reviews and talked with friends who own the same model.

The general feedback pattern seems consistent with my experience:

Strengths commonly mentioned:

• Reliable engine start function
• Clear digital display
• Versatility across different battery types
• Good value for the price
• Effective recovery of weak batteries

Criticisms I’ve encountered:

• Clamps could be slightly larger for heavy-duty applications
• Some users report longevity issues beyond the warranty period
• The cooling fan can be somewhat noisy
• Limited compatibility with specialty batteries

Overall, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp maintains a strong reputation among DIY mechanics and everyday users. Most reviewers give it 4 or 5 stars, with the occasional lower rating typically related to units that failed prematurely or specific use cases where a more specialized charger might be preferable.

Beyond Cars: RV and Marine Applications

As an occasional boater and camping enthusiast, I’ve put the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp through its paces on applications beyond standard automobiles. Here’s what I’ve learned about its performance with RV and marine batteries:

For marine applications, the charger works exceptionally well with both starting and deep-cycle marine batteries. I use it regularly to maintain my boat’s battery during the off-season and to ensure a full charge before heading to the lake. The maintenance mode is particularly useful for keeping marine batteries ready during winter storage.

With RV batteries, the results have been similarly positive. Our small travel trailer has a dual-battery setup, and the Everstart has no trouble charging either the chassis battery or the house battery. The 10-amp charge rate is sufficient for overnight charging, though larger RVs with multiple batteries might benefit from a higher-capacity charger.

One thing to note for both RV and marine applications: these typically involve deep-cycle batteries, which have different optimal charging profiles than standard automotive starting batteries. The Everstart’s multi-stage charging system handles this difference well, but charging times will be longer due to the larger capacity of these batteries.

Size Matters: Comparing Everstart’s 50 Amp vs. 10 Amp Models

Everstart offers several charger models with different amperage ratings. Before purchasing the 50 Amp version, I considered the smaller 10 Amp model, which is more compact and less expensive (typically priced around $40-50).

The key differences I found:

• Engine Start Function: The 10 Amp model lacks the 50-amp engine start capability, which is the primary feature that sold me on the larger unit.
• Charging Speed: Both offer a 10-amp fast charge mode, but the 50 Amp model can charge at multiple rates (10A, 2A) for different situations.
• Battery Testing: The 50 Amp model offers more comprehensive battery and alternator testing features.
• Display: The 50 Amp model has a more detailed digital display showing charge percentage and diagnostic information.
• Size and Portability: The 10 Amp model is significantly smaller and lighter, making it more convenient for storage or travel.

For someone who only needs occasional maintenance charging and has reliable vehicles, the 10 Amp model might be sufficient. However, if you want the ability to jump-start vehicles or need more advanced features, the 50 Amp model offers significantly more capability for a relatively modest price increase.

Retail Availability: Finding Your Charger

As mentioned earlier, Everstart is Walmart’s exclusive automotive brand, making Walmart the primary retailer for the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger. You’ll find it in the automotive department of most Walmart stores.

In my experience, availability is generally good, though I’ve occasionally seen them sell out during winter months when battery issues become more common. If your local store is out of stock, the Walmart website typically offers shipping to your home or local store pickup when inventory is replenished.

Pricing is relatively consistent across locations, though I’ve seen occasional sales that drop the price by $10-15, particularly during automotive promotional events or around Black Friday. If you’re not in immediate need, it might be worth watching for these sales.

One tip I’ve learned: Walmart often places these chargers in the automotive clearance section after season changes, sometimes with significant discounts if they’re changing packaging or making minor model updates.

Maintenance and Storage: Keeping Your Charger Ready

To ensure my Everstart Maxx 50 Amp remains reliable when I need it, I’ve developed a simple maintenance routine:

1. Keep it clean: After use, I wipe down the unit and cables with a dry cloth to remove any dust, oil, or battery acid that might have accumulated.
2. Inspect cables regularly: I check for any cracks, wear, or damage to the insulation and connections.
3. Store properly: I keep the charger on a shelf in my garage, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. I coil the cables neatly using the built-in cable management system to prevent damage.
4. Occasional function test: Every few months, I connect it to a battery just to verify all functions are working properly.

The charger itself is relatively maintenance-free, but these simple steps help ensure it remains reliable and safe. I’ve found that proper cable management is particularly important—keeping the cables neatly coiled prevents insulation damage that could create safety hazards.

For storage, I keep the original box and packaging materials. This provides additional protection if I need to transport the charger and makes it easier to store accessories like the manual and warranty information.

Resurrection Powers: Can It Bring Dead Batteries Back to Life?

One of the most frequent questions I hear about the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp is whether it can revive completely dead batteries. The answer is nuanced and depends on what “completely dead” means.

If a battery is deeply discharged but otherwise healthy, the Everstart has an excellent chance of bringing it back to functional condition. I’ve successfully recharged batteries that had been sitting unused for months and showed extremely low voltage readings.

The charger includes a desulfation/reconditioning mode that can help break down the lead sulfate crystals that form on battery plates during extended discharge—often the reason “dead” batteries won’t accept a charge. I’ve had success using this mode on batteries that initially seemed beyond hope.

However, there are limits to what any charger can do. Batteries with physical damage, internal shorts, or that have been deeply discharged and left in that state for extended periods may be beyond recovery. In my experience, the Everstart succeeds about 70-80% of the time with severely discharged batteries.

One particularly impressive resurrection occurred last fall when I found an old lawn tractor battery in my shed that had been sitting for over a year. It showed just 2.5 volts when I first connected it (well below the normal 12V). After running the reconditioning mode overnight, followed by a normal charge cycle, the battery recovered to hold 12.6 volts and successfully started the tractor.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Charger for You?

After more than a year of regular use across various vehicles and situations, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger has earned its permanent place in my garage toolkit. It combines a useful range of features with reliable performance at a price point that represents excellent value.

Is it the right choice for everyone? Like any tool, that depends on your specific needs:

• If you maintain multiple vehicles, particularly in colder climates where battery issues are common, this charger is nearly perfect.
• If you only need occasional battery maintenance for a single vehicle in a mild climate, the smaller 10 Amp model might be sufficient.
• If you work professionally with batteries or have specialized requirements (like dedicated lithium battery charging), you might need a more advanced model.

For the average homeowner with standard vehicles, however, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp hits the sweet spot of capability, convenience, and cost. It’s powerful enough to handle emergency situations yet versatile enough for routine maintenance.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing I can handle most battery issues myself—without calling for expensive roadside assistance or risking damage to my vehicles’ electrical systems—has made this one of my most valuable automotive investments.

Whether you’re dealing with seasonal vehicles, preparing for winter weather, or simply want to extend the life of your batteries, the Everstart Maxx 50 Amp Battery Charger deserves serious consideration. It’s transformed how I approach battery maintenance and eliminated the stress of unexpected dead batteries in my household.