If we move up price wise we would compare C-teks new Mus4.3 test and charge that I found for $109.
It is the same as the 4.3 but with test features
"Three easy to use programs to test battery voltage, start power and alternator performance to provide a complete picture of battery and vehicle charging system health."
I think we may have a winner here, This one sounds useful.
Lets compare to Noco's next offering in that price range the G7200 at $99
It offers 12 step charging and is a beast for charging 14-230ah batteries.
The 7200 offers
"Step 12: The 16V BOOST mode is used to recover battery capacity from a stratified (sulfated) battery by applying a specialized high 16.5V (17V Max) voltage to soften and melt down sulfate from the battery plates so that the material becomes usable again."
This one is too strong for my 5ah agm battery for my rc crawlers.
I have the Noco750 for that. ( it maxes out at 30ah)
It would be cool to be able to use the extra battery recovery features like desulfation that aren't on the 5 stage g750 I currently own though.
It has a charge rate of 4.4/28.8V, 14.7/29.4V (Cold/AGM)
starting at the lowest rate of all the chargers mentioned here but having the highest rates by a lot.
http://www.geniuschargers.com/G7200/specs
http://smartercharger.com/2013/12/c...y-alternator-testing-functions-one-charger-2/
Looks like Ctek 4.3 test and charge is going to be the winner out of this price range.
hmm.. C-tek makes a mxs 5.o $92 that seems to be similar to the 4.3 with variable charge automatically adjusted relative to ambient temperature.
It also comes in the test and charge model as well for $175
If you don't need the test gimmick the 5.o seems to be the best value with the most features.
here is a cool video of the test features Ctek now offers. ( im sure they can be done cheaper with a multi meter?) this looks easier for one person and convenient enough to get done more often.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TI6DVMWl7CI