You can charge a DeWalt battery without its charger using a USB power adapter, a car charger, or by borrowing a compatible charger from another DeWalt tool owner

The fastest option depends on what you have on hand right now. If your DeWalt battery has a USB port built in, a standard USB-C or micro-USB adapter (the kind that came with your phone) will work. If it doesn't have a USB port, you can use a 12-volt car charger designed for DeWalt batteries, or borrow a charger that matches your battery's voltage — 20V, 60V, or whatever your model uses. The slowest but most reliable backup is a universal battery charger that accepts multiple battery types, though these cost money upfront.

Before you try any method, check your battery's voltage and connector type. Look at the label on the side of the battery pack. It will say 20V, 60V, or another number. The connector — the metal pins or USB port on the battery — must match whatever you're plugging it into. Mismatched voltage can damage the battery or the charger you're borrowing.

Key Takeaways

  • DeWalt batteries with USB ports can charge from any USB-C or micro-USB power adapter rated for at least 2 amps.
  • A 12-volt car charger designed for DeWalt batteries works in any vehicle with a 12V outlet and charges faster than USB.
  • Borrowing a charger from another DeWalt tool works only if both batteries have the same voltage and connector type.
  • Universal battery chargers designed for lithium-ion packs can charge DeWalt batteries but take longer and cost $30 to $80.
  • Never attempt to charge a DeWalt battery with a charger rated for a different voltage, as this can cause fire or battery failure.

USB charging for batteries with USB ports

Many newer DeWalt batteries — particularly the 20V compact models — have a USB-C or micro-USB port built into the pack. If yours has one, you can charge it with any USB power adapter you already own: a phone charger, a laptop charger, or a portable power bank. The adapter must be rated for at least 2 amps of current; most modern phone chargers are 2 to 3 amps, so they work fine.

Plug the USB cable into the port on the battery, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet or power strip. The battery will usually show a light or LED indicator when charging begins. Charging time depends on the battery's capacity and the adapter's power output. A 2-amp adapter will take 4 to 8 hours for a full charge on a standard 20V battery. A higher-amperage adapter (3 to 5 amps) will charge it faster, typically in 2 to 4 hours.

USB charging is slower than the original charger, but it works in a pinch and uses equipment you likely already have. The downside is that not all DeWalt batteries have USB ports — older models and larger capacity packs do not.

12-volt car chargers for DeWalt batteries

A 12-volt car charger designed for DeWalt batteries plugs into your vehicle's 12V outlet (the old cigarette lighter socket) and charges the battery while you drive or sit in the car. These chargers are made specifically for DeWalt's connector types and are available online and at tool retailers for $25 to $50. They work with most DeWalt 20V batteries and some 60V models, depending on the charger's design.

To use one, insert the battery into the charger's cradle, then plug the charger into your vehicle's 12V outlet. The charger will draw power from your car's battery and transfer it to the tool battery. Charging time is typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the battery size and the charger's output. This method is useful if you're on a job site, in your truck, or away from home.

The main limitation is that you need to own or buy the car charger first. It is not a solution if you don't have access to a vehicle or the charger itself. Also, running a charger while the engine is off will slowly drain your car's battery, so it's best to charge while driving or with the engine running.

Borrowing a compatible DeWalt charger

If someone nearby owns a DeWalt tool, they may have a charger you can borrow. This works only if the charger is rated for your battery's voltage. A charger made for 20V batteries will not work with a 60V battery, and vice versa. Check the label on both the charger and your battery to confirm they match.

The connector type must also match. DeWalt uses different connector designs for different battery generations. A charger with the wrong connector will not fit into your battery's charging port, or it may fit loosely and fail to charge. If you are unsure whether a borrowed charger is compatible, ask the owner to check the manual or look up the model numbers online.

Borrowing is free and often the fastest option if a compatible charger is available. The risk is that you are relying on someone else's equipment, and if something goes wrong during charging, you may be responsible for damage. Always return the charger in the same condition you received it.

Universal lithium-ion battery chargers

A universal charger designed for lithium-ion batteries can charge DeWalt packs if the charger supports your battery's voltage. These chargers have adjustable cradles or slots that fit multiple battery types and brands. They cost $30 to $80 depending on the brand and features. You can find them at tool retailers, online marketplaces, and some hardware stores.

To use one, place your DeWalt battery in the charger's cradle, select the correct voltage setting if the charger has one, and plug it in. Charging time is typically 2 to 6 hours, depending on the battery capacity and the charger's output. Universal chargers are slower than DeWalt's original chargers because they are designed to work with many battery types and cannot optimize for any single one.

The advantage is that a universal charger works with any lithium-ion battery you own now or buy in the future, so it is a good long-term investment if you use multiple brands. The disadvantage is the upfront cost and the slower charging speed. If you only own DeWalt tools, buying the original charger is usually faster and more reliable.

What not to do when charging without a charger

Never attempt to charge a DeWalt battery with a charger rated for a different voltage. A 20V charger will damage a 60V battery, and a 60V charger can cause a 20V battery to overheat, catch fire, or fail permanently. Always check the voltage label on both the battery and the charger before connecting them.

Do not try to charge a DeWalt battery by connecting its terminals directly to a power source, a car battery, or a wall outlet. This bypasses the charger's safety circuits, which prevent overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. Direct charging can cause the battery to catch fire or explode. Always use a charger designed for lithium-ion batteries.

Avoid leaving a battery charging unattended for more than 12 hours, even with a proper charger. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat if left on a charger after they are fully charged. Most modern chargers stop charging automatically when the battery is full, but older chargers may not. Check on the battery periodically, and unplug the charger once charging is complete.

How long charging takes without the original charger

Charging time varies depending on the method you use. USB charging is the slowest: a standard 2-amp USB adapter will take 4 to 8 hours to fully charge a 20V battery. A higher-amperage USB adapter (3 to 5 amps) cuts that time to 2 to 4 hours. Car chargers are faster, typically 30 minutes to 2 hours. Universal lithium-ion chargers fall in the middle, usually 2 to 6 hours.

The original DeWalt charger is still the fastest option, often charging a 20V battery in 30 to 60 minutes. If you need the battery charged quickly and you do not have the original charger, a 12-volt car charger is your best bet. If you have time to wait, USB charging or a universal charger will work, though they take longer.

Battery capacity also affects charging time. A smaller 1.3-amp-hour battery will charge faster than a larger 5-amp-hour battery, even with the same charger. Check your battery's amp-hour rating on the label to estimate how long charging will take.

When to buy a replacement charger instead

If you find yourself without a charger regularly, buying a replacement is worth the cost. DeWalt chargers range from $30 to $100 depending on the model and voltage. A basic 20V charger costs around $30 to $50 and will charge your battery in 30 to 60 minutes. Faster chargers cost more but save time on job sites.

Buying a replacement charger makes sense if you use your DeWalt tools frequently and cannot afford downtime waiting for a slow USB or car charger. It also eliminates the risk of borrowing equipment or relying on workarounds that may damage your battery. If your original charger is lost or broken, a replacement is usually the most reliable solution.

Some retailers offer charger-and-battery bundles at a discount, which can be a good deal if you need both. Check online and at local tool stores for current prices and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge a DeWalt battery with a phone charger?

Only if your DeWalt battery has a USB port. If it does, any USB-C or micro-USB phone charger rated for 2 amps or higher will work. Plug the USB cable into the battery's port and the charger into a wall outlet. Charging will take 2 to 8 hours depending on the charger's amperage.

What happens if I use the wrong voltage charger?

Using a charger with the wrong voltage can damage the battery, cause it to overheat, or start a fire. Always check the voltage label on both the battery and charger before connecting them. If the voltages do not match, do not use that charger.

Can I charge a DeWalt battery in my car?

Yes, if you have a 12-volt car charger designed for DeWalt batteries. Plug the charger into your vehicle's 12V outlet and insert the battery into the charger's cradle. Charging takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. Charge while the engine is running to avoid draining your car's battery.

How do I know if a borrowed charger will work with my battery?

Check the voltage label on both the charger and your battery. They must match — a 20V charger works only with 20V batteries. Also confirm the connector type is the same. If you are unsure, ask the charger's owner or look up the model numbers online.

Is it safe to leave a DeWalt battery charging overnight?

Most modern chargers stop charging automatically when the battery is full, so overnight charging is usually safe. However, it is best to unplug the charger once charging is complete to avoid overheating the battery. Avoid leaving a battery on a charger for more than 12 hours.