Every RV converter charger gets a score from 0 to 100% built from four factors, which maps onto the 5-point rating shown on the site (a 0% score would be 1.5 stars; a perfect score, 5). Each factor is scored against fixed reference points, not against the other products in the list, so adding a new model never moves another model’s rating. Converters are grouped by build, standalone and panel or drop-in, on the same scales.
| Factor | Measures | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Value | price per amp of output | 35% |
| Output | rated 12 V output | 10% |
| Features | lithium mode, multi-stage charging, quiet fan and remote | 30% |
| Warranty | warranty length | 25% |
Where the numbers come from
Output, charge stages, lithium support, fan control, included accessories, weight and warranty come from the maker’s spec sheet, manual or product page. Prices are checked at Amazon and the maker’s own store, and the lowest is used.
The factors
Value is the current price divided by the rated 12 V output, on a log scale, so halving the price per amp always counts the same. $8 per amp scores zero and $1.50 full marks.
Output is the maker’s rated 12 V output: 30 A scores zero and 80 A full marks.
Features is 40% for a lithium mode, a LiFePO4 charge profile from a lithium model, automatic detection or a switch; 20% for multi-stage charging, three or four stages such as bulk, absorption, float and storage rather than one fixed voltage; 20% for a fan that runs only as needed, variable speed or temperature controlled; and 20% for a remote pendant or display included in the box. A feature counts only when the maker says the converter has it.
Warranty is the maker’s warranty: 1 year scores zero and 5 years full marks.
What isn’t scored
Build, weight and release date are listed but not scored.
Missing data
If a figure isn’t published, that factor gets the neutral middle score (50) and the product page marks it as estimated. The exception is warranty: a maker that doesn’t publish one gets no warranty counted, so that factor scores zero, the same as the shortest warranty on the scale, and is marked estimated. Features gets the neutral score only when none of the four is published either way.
Ties and discontinued models
Products are ranked by score within each group. Discontinued models stay listed but rank below every current model and can be hidden with the “Hide discontinued” filter.