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 2.7. The Schumacher Rugged SC1685 leads on features, warranty and charge current. The Schumacher SC1281 costs $20 less ($89.99 vs $109.99).
Schumacher SC1281
#13 in Over 5 AFull review
A garage charger for drivers who want engine start and fast boost charging in one box. Buyers who only need to keep a stored battery topped up can save weight and money with a small maintainer.
Amazon $89.99$89.99
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 features (lithium mode, repair mode, power supply mode vs repair mode), warranty (3-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and charge current (15 A vs 12 A).
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 | Schumacher SC1281 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 35% | 70 $7.33 per amp ($109.99, 15 A) | 69 $7.50 per amp ($89.99, 12 A) |
| Charge current 20% | 41 15 A | 24 12 A |
| Features 25% | 75 lithium mode, repair mode, power supply mode | 25 repair mode |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Schumacher Rugged SC1685 | Schumacher SC1281 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Charge current | 15 A | 12 A |
| Voltage | 6/12 V | 6/12 V |
| Lithium mode | Yes | - |
| AGM mode | No | No |
| Temperature compensation | No | No |
| Repair mode | Yes | Yes |
| Power supply mode | Yes | No |
| Engine start | - | 100 A |
| Build | ||
| Ingress rating | IP66 | - |
| Weight | 2.9 lb | 12.7 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 1 year |
| Released | 2026-08 | 2018-06 |