Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15
#1 in Over 5 AFull review
A long warranty, app connected charger for owners of larger lead acid or lithium batteries who value build quality over price.
NAZ Solar Electric $175.95$175.95
The Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15 is the better battery charger overall, rated 3.9 to 3.2. The Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15 leads on warranty and features. The Schumacher SC1280 wins on value. The Schumacher SC1280 costs $110.96 less ($64.99 vs $175.95).
Schumacher SC1280
#11 in Over 5 AFull review
A cheap, fast charger for lead acid car, truck and boat batteries. Lithium owners should look elsewhere.
Amazon $64.99$64.99
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 Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15 for warranty (5-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and features (lithium mode, temperature compensation, repair mode, power supply mode vs repair mode).
- Choose the Schumacher SC1280 for value ($4.33 per amp ($64.99, 15 A) vs $11.73 per amp ($175.95, 15 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 | Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15 | Schumacher SC1280 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 35% | 47 $11.73 per amp ($175.95, 15 A) | 96 $4.33 per amp ($64.99, 15 A) |
| Charge current 20% | 41 15 A | 41 15 A |
| Features 25% | 100 lithium mode, temperature compensation, repair mode, power supply mode | 25 repair mode |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Victron Blue Smart IP65 12/15 | Schumacher SC1280 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Charge current | 15 A | 15 A |
| Voltage | 12 V | 6/12 V |
| Largest battery | 150 Ah | - |
| Lithium mode | Yes | No |
| AGM mode | No | No |
| Temperature compensation | Yes | No |
| Repair mode | Yes | Yes |
| Power supply mode | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Ingress rating | IP65 | - |
| Weight | 2 lb | 2.7 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year |
| Released | - | 2018-06 |