Choosing the right converter/charger for a van build comes down to output amperage, LiFePO4 compatibility, and whether you want Bluetooth monitoring. Here are the best options for 2026.
For background on what a converter/charger does: RV converter/charger explained.
Our free electrical calculator shows how much each charging source contributes on your trips and sizes the battery to cover the gap.
Quick comparison
| Model | Output | LiFePO4 | Bluetooth | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/30 | 30A | Yes | Yes | ~$215 |
| Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/15 | 15A | Yes | Yes | ~$130 |
| PowerMax PM4-55A | 55A | Selectable | No | ~$180 |
| Renogy 40A DC Home Charger | 40A | Yes | No | ~$150 |
| Victron Blue Smart IP67 12/25 | 25A | Yes | Yes | ~$200 |
| NOCO Genius 10 | 10A | Yes | No | ~$70 |
Best for most van builds: Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/30
At ~$215, the Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/30A is the default recommendation for van builds. Reasons:
- 30A output — refills a 200Ah LiFePO4 bank in 6–7 hours of shore power
- LiFePO4 charge algorithm — proper bulk/absorption/float voltages
- Bluetooth — monitor charging live in VictronConnect; integrates with VE.Smart Network if you use a SmartShunt
- Victron reliability — widely trusted in the marine and van community, excellent support
- IP22 rating — splash proof, fine for a van install
The 12/30 is the sweet spot for most builds. Step up to the 12/30 IP67 (~$230) for waterproof if you're in a wet environment.
Best high-output budget: PowerMax PM4-55A
At ~$180, the PowerMax delivers 55A — more than any Victron unit at this price. Particularly good for 300Ah+ banks where you want shore power to charge the battery faster. No Bluetooth, but reliable, American-made, and widely used in the RV community. Select the LiFePO4 mode (called "Lithium" in the menu) and disable equalization.
Best small-bank: Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/15
If you have a 100Ah bank and don't need fast shore charging, the 12/15 (~$130) saves money and takes less space. 15A output charges a 100Ah LiFePO4 bank from 50% to full in about 3.5 hours.
Best if on a tight budget: Renogy 40A
The Renogy 40A shore charger (~$150) is a capable, no-frills option. LiFePO4 mode, 40A output, reasonable build quality. No Bluetooth is the main sacrifice. For a build that isn't in the Victron ecosystem anyway, it's a solid pick.
What about the NOCO Genius line?
NOCO Genius chargers (Genius 10, Genius Pro) are excellent for topping up and maintenance charging — low amperage, smart, and very portable. They're not the right choice as your primary shore power charger for a van (too slow for regular recharging), but useful as a supplemental charger or for storage.
Sizing for your bank
| Bank size | Recommended output | Expected charge time (50% → full) |
|---|---|---|
| 100Ah LiFePO4 | 15–20A | 3–4 hours |
| 200Ah LiFePO4 | 30A | 4–6 hours |
| 200Ah LiFePO4 | 55A | 2–3 hours |
| 300Ah LiFePO4 | 40–60A | 4–6 hours |
Converter, charger and inverter/charger: what is being compared?
An RV converter supplies DC from an AC source; a battery charger adds charging control appropriate to the battery. An inverter works in the other direction. An inverter/charger combines functions, but transfer arrangements and neutral/ground handling remain model-specific installation questions.
Before replacing a converter, record the battery model, supported profile, maximum combined charging current, shore-supply input allowance, existing DC distribution and ventilation space. A higher charging-current label does not prove a drop-in replacement. Check whether the old installation also powers DC loads while charging.
How long will a replacement charger take?
If the battery needs 60Ah and the charger supplies 30A while loads consume 5A, the simple net-current estimate is 60 ÷ 25 = 2.4 hours before taper and other limitations. Use that calculation to compare sizes, then verify the actual battery and charger instructions.
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Jack Kennedy is a self-builder who has built two vans. He created Roam Wired to simplify conversion planning and share free tools, supported by affiliate links.
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