Schumacher Rugged SC1685
#5 in Over 5 AFull review
A rugged 15 A charger for drivers and boaters who want fast charging, lithium support and a service mode in one weatherproof unit.
Amazon $109.99$109.99
The Schumacher Rugged SC1685 is the better battery charger overall, rated 3.7 to 2.6. The Schumacher Rugged SC1685 leads on value and features. The Schumacher Rugged SC1685 costs $177 less ($109.99 vs $286.99).
Optima Digital 1200+
#14 in Over 5 AFull review
A well built 15 A charger for OPTIMA battery owners who want the maker matched profiles. Buyers without OPTIMA batteries can get the same current for far less.
Amazon $286.99$286.99
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Schumacher Rugged SC1685 for value ($7.33 per amp ($109.99, 15 A) vs $19.13 per amp ($286.99, 15 A)) and features (lithium mode, repair mode, power supply mode vs lithium mode).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every over 5 A battery charger; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Schumacher Rugged SC1685 | Optima Digital 1200+ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 2.6/5 |
| Value 35% | 70 $7.33 per amp ($109.99, 15 A) | 22 $19.13 per amp ($286.99, 15 A) |
| Charge current 20% | 41 15 A | 41 15 A |
| Features 25% | 75 lithium mode, repair mode, power supply mode | 25 lithium mode |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Schumacher Rugged SC1685 | Optima Digital 1200+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Charge current | 15 A | 15 A |
| Voltage | 6/12 V | 12 V |
| Lithium mode | Yes | Yes |
| AGM mode | No | Yes |
| Temperature compensation | No | No |
| Repair mode | Yes | No |
| Power supply mode | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Ingress rating | IP66 | - |
| Weight | 2.9 lb | 8 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | 2026-08 | 2024-12 |