 
CTEK MXS 5 vs CTEK Time To Go
CTEK is a leading brand in battery care, offering a range of chargers for various needs. Two popular choices are the MXS 5 and CT5 Time To Go. While both effectively charge and maintain 12V lead-acid batteries, they cater to slightly different user preferences. This comparison guide delves into their key features, functionalities, and potential user scenarios to help you pick the right charger.
Core Functions and Technology
Both chargers share CTEK’s core technology, ensuring safe, automatic, and spark-free operation. They come with crocodile clips and eyelet connections for easy battery attachment. They also feature:
- Overcharge and reverse polarity protection: Prevents damage to the charger and battery.
- Automatic shut-off: Ensures safe operation when charging is complete.
- Maintenance charging: Keeps the battery topped up during long-term storage.
Feature Breakdown (Table)
| Feature | CTEK MXS 5 | CT5 Time To Go |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum output current | 5 Amps | 5 Amps (automatic) |
| Battery capacity range | 1.2 – 110 Ah | 14 – 220 Ah (optimized for 20 Ah+) |
| Charging programs | Normal, AGM, and Recond (battery reconditioning) | Normal, AGM, and Recond (battery reconditioning) |
| Charging time estimation | No | Yes (approximate time remaining displayed) |
| Battery diagnostics | LED indicator for charging status | LED indicator for charging status and error codes |
| Start Option | None | Yes** |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Price (typical) | 11,400* | 11,400* |
** The option to test if the battery can Start the vehicle.
Deep Dive into Features:
- Maximum Output Current: Both chargers provide 5 Amps, suitable for maintaining and charging most car and motorcycle batteries.
- Battery Capacity Range: MXS 5 caters to a wider range (1.2 – 110 Ah), making it ideal for smaller batteries like those found in motorcycles or seasonal vehicles. The CT5 Time To Go is optimized for batteries with a minimum capacity of 20 Ah, focusing on car and larger vehicle batteries.
- Charging Programs: MXS 5 offers Normal, AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) and Recond functions. CT5 Time To Go features Normal, AGM, and Recond programs. Recond helps recover slightly sulfated or discharged batteries, extending their lifespan.
- Charging Time Estimation: MXS 5 does not provide an estimated charging time. CT5 Time To Go displays an approximate time remaining until the battery is fully charged, offering valuable information for planning purposes.
- Battery Diagnostics: Both chargers use LED indicators to show charging status. MXS 5 offers basic status indication. CT5 Time To Go goes a step further with error codes displayed via LEDs, helping identify potential battery issues.
CTEK MXS 5 is designed for people who like to know what stage the charger is at while CTEK Time To Go is for users who would like to know how much time is left to charge. In effect, both chargers have the same chassis and only the display is different with Time To Go offering an advanced version with the calculation of charging time.
Choosing the Right Charger:
- MXS 5 is a good choice for:
- If you need a charger for various battery sizes (motorcycles and cars).
- If you prioritize a wider range of charging programs (including Supply mode).
- If you enjoy technical details like what is happening under the hood. Let’s say a geek!!! Users who prefer more detailed battery diagnostics.
- CT5 Time To Go is a good choice for:
- If you have larger car or light truck batteries (ideally 20 Ah or more).
- If you value a time estimate for charging completion rather than what stage it is at.
- If you want an extra option see if you can try for a jump start without the battery fully charged. Please note this is not a jump starter but just an indication that the battery has been charged enough to try an engine start!
Additional Considerations:
- Portability: Both chargers are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and store.
- Ease of Use: Both chargers are known for their user-friendly operation. Simply connect the charger to the battery and a power outlet, and the automatic charging process begins.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Both chargers can be left connected indefinitely in maintenance mode without overcharging the battery. This is ideal for seasonal vehicles or those in storage.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and battery type. If you have a variety of batteries or prioritize a wider range of charging programs, the MXS 5 might be a good fit. If you have a larger car battery, value a charging time estimate, or want the Recond program for battery recovery, the CT5 Time To Go might be the better option.
**In conclusion, both CTEK MXS 5 and CT5 Time To Go are excellent choices for maintaining and charging 12V lead-acid batteries.
