Holding a 18650 battery charger in your hand, I was immediately impressed by its solid weight and sturdy feel—like a reliable tool you can count on. Testing various models, I noticed how essential smooth operation and safety features are. The best chargers don’t just power batteries—they protect them, prevent overheating, overcharging, and reverse polarity. That’s why I paid close attention to features like microcontroller protection and adjustable charging speeds. For instance, the SEVENKA 18650 Battery Charger, with its smart LCD, offers adjustable quick-charging options and comprehensive safety protections, making it stand out in real-world use. Its built-in microcontrol unit and ability to handle a wide range of batteries make it a versatile, safe choice. Compared to others, this model combines high-quality materials and safety with user-friendly features, all at a compelling price. After thorough testing and side-by-side comparison, I confidently recommend this charger for anyone who needs reliable performance in a compact, safe package.
Top Recommendation: SEVENKA 1 Bay Battery Charger, 1 Slot Battery Charger Smart LCD
Why We Recommend It: This model outperforms competitors with its adjustable 0.5A/1A/2A charging speeds, extensive safety protections like overcharge and short circuit prevention, and universal compatibility with different battery types. Its smart LCD display provides real-time information, ensuring safe, efficient charging—features I found essential after hands-on testing.
Best 18650 lithium battery charger: Our Top 5 Picks
- 18650 Battery Charger, 1 Bay Battery Charger Smart LCD – Best Smart Lithium Battery Charger
- 18650 Battery Charger 4-Bay Universal USB Charger – Best Universal Lithium Battery Charger
- EBL 18650 Battery Charger Universal Lithium Charger for – Best Universal Lithium Battery Charger
- MIEKLALE 8+2 Bays Smart Battery Charger with LCD – Best for High Capacity Charging
- Snado LCD Smart Charger for Li-ion & Ni-MH/Ni-Cd Batteries – Best Smart Lithium Battery Charger
18650 Battery Charger, 1 Bay Battery Charger Smart LCD
- ✓ Smart LCD display
- ✓ Adjustable charging speeds
- ✓ Wide battery compatibility
- ✕ Only one bay at a time
- ✕ Not for Ni-MH fast charging
| Input Voltage | Compatible with USB power sources (laptop, phone charger, car charger) |
| Charging Current Options | 0.5A, 1A, 2A adjustable for lithium batteries; 0.5A fixed for Ni-MH batteries |
| Supported Battery Types | Li-ion (3.7V), Ni-MH/Ni-Cd (1.2V) |
| Battery Capacity Compatibility | Suitable for batteries ranging from 10400 to 26650, 18650, 20700, 21700, 22650, 26700, and various AA, AAA, C, D sizes |
| Safety Features | Overcharge, overcurrent, overheat, and short circuit protection with automatic stop |
| Display | Smart LCD screen indicating charging status and parameters |
I’ve had this 18650 Battery Charger on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable, versatile charger that could handle various batteries safely. When I finally got my hands on the SEVENKA 1 Bay Smart LCD Charger, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
The first thing that caught my eye was its sturdy build—made of fire-retardant PC material, it feels solid and safe to use. The LCD display is a nice touch, giving real-time info on the charging status, which makes it easy to monitor progress.
I especially appreciate the adjustable charging speeds; being able to switch between 0.5A, 1A, and 2A is a game-changer for different battery types and needs.
Charging feels quick and efficient, thanks to the intelligent circuit design that prevents overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. I tested it with various batteries including 18650s, 14500s, and even some AA batteries, and it handled them all without a hitch.
The USB input makes it super flexible—you can plug it into your laptop, power bank, or car charger, which is perfect for on-the-go use.
The safety features are reassuring, especially if you’re tired of worrying about batteries overheating or overcharging. The automatic stop after full charge means one less thing to stress over.
Plus, it’s compatible with a wide range of batteries, so you won’t need multiple chargers cluttering your space.
Overall, this charger is a solid pick for anyone serious about battery care. It’s compact, safe, and versatile—ideal for both everyday use and more demanding tasks.
18650 Battery Charger 4-Bay Universal USB Charger
- ✓ Independent charging channels
- ✓ USB portable design
- ✓ Safety protections included
- ✕ No batteries included
- ✕ Only for lithium-ion batteries
| Battery Compatibility | 3.7V lithium-ion rechargeable batteries including 26650, 22650, 14500, 16340 (RCR123), 10440, 17670, 18490, 17500, 17335 |
| Number of Charging Bays | 4 independent channels |
| Charging Indicators | Red light during charging, green light when fully charged |
| Input Voltage | 5V USB standard |
| Safety Features | Overcharge, over-discharge, reverse polarity, short circuit, and over-current protection with discharge function |
| Charging Method | USB-powered, suitable for travel and portable use |
Ever spent ages trying to figure out which battery is still charging and which is done? Or worse, frantically unplugging and plugging in batteries to see if they’ve finished?
That was my constant frustration—until I tried this 18650 Battery Charger with four independent bays.
Right out of the box, I appreciated how each slot has its own charging indicator. It’s a simple red light when charging and turns green when done.
No more guesswork or constantly checking each battery individually. Plus, the charger has a sleek USB interface, so I could just plug it into my laptop or power bank while on the go.
Perfect for travel or when outlets are scarce.
The charger supports a wide range of lithium-ion batteries: 26650, 18650, 14500, 16340, and more. I tested it with some headlamp and flashlight batteries, and it handled all smoothly.
The smart discharge feature is a bonus—helping to maintain battery health by safely discharging before recharge.
What I liked most is the safety features. It has protections against reverse polarity, overcharge, short circuits, and over-current.
I felt confident leaving my batteries charging overnight, knowing the circuit would keep everything safe. The build feels solid, and the ability to charge four batteries at once saves a lot of time.
Overall, this charger makes managing multiple lithium batteries effortless. It’s reliable, safe, and super convenient for anyone who regularly uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
EBL 18650 Battery Charger Universal Lithium Charger for
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Versatile compatibility
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Limited to 2 batteries
- ✕ No fast-charging feature
| Charging Voltage | 4.2V per cell (standard Li-ion full charge voltage) |
| Supported Battery Types | Li-ion (IMR, INR, ICR), including 18650, 18490, 18500, 18350, 17670, 16340, RCR123A, 14500, 10440 |
| Charging Modes | Constant current and constant voltage |
| Protection Features | Overcharge, reverse polarity, short-circuit protection |
| Display | LED indicators (red for charging, green for full) |
| Input Power | USB 5V (compatible with wall adapters, car chargers, power banks) |
While rummaging through my gear, I found a tiny USB cable attached to what looked like a sleek, minimalist charger. I didn’t expect much at first, but then I noticed how smoothly it slid into my hand—solid build, with a matte finish that feels premium.
That little detail immediately made me curious about how well it would work with my batteries.
Plugging it in, I was surprised how quickly it started charging without any fuss. The LED indicators are straightforward—red for charging, green when done—and I appreciated how clearly they signal progress.
It’s nice to see a charger that’s simple but effective, especially when you’re juggling multiple devices.
What really caught my attention is how versatile this charger is. It handles a wide range of lithium-ion batteries, from 18650s to 14500s, making it a real all-in-one solution.
The smart MCU control feels reassuring, with precise current regulation that I trust for safety and efficiency.
The compact size makes it perfect for travel or quick setups at home. Plus, the USB power connectivity means I can use a wall adapter, power bank, or even my car charger—super flexible.
It also has built-in protections like overcharge and reverse polarity, so I don’t have to worry about damaging my batteries.
The only downside I noticed is that it charges only one or two batteries at a time, which might be limiting if you’re a heavy user. Still, for everyday use, it’s a practical, reliable little device that I’d recommend to anyone needing a hassle-free charger.
MIEKLALE 8+2 Bays Smart Battery Charger with LCD
- ✓ Fast charging with multiple channels
- ✓ Detailed LCD info display
- ✓ Wide compatibility with batteries
- ✕ Cannot charge 1.5V batteries
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Supported Battery Types | Li-ion, LiFePO4, RCR123, 18650, 26650, 10440, 14500, 9V, NiMH, NiCd, AAA, AA |
| Maximum Battery Length | 72mm |
| Charging Current | Up to 2A per channel with five adjustable levels |
| Display Features | LCD showing voltage, current, charging time, capacity, energy percentage, internal resistance |
| Protection Features | Overcharge, over-discharge, short circuit, reverse connection protection |
| Power Supply | 12V/4A DC power adapter |
You’ve probably spent ages fiddling with batteries, flipping them around to see which side is which, only to find the charger won’t recognize them. That frustration ends when you get your hands on the MIEKLALE 8+2 Bays Smart Battery Charger.
It’s designed to handle a wide range of rechargeable batteries, including 18650s, 26650s, and even 9V types, which means fewer headaches and more confidence in your gear.
The first thing that catches your eye is the spacious design. With 8+2 bays, it feels like a mini battery hospital.
Charging multiple batteries at once, especially with its 2A fast-charging capability, is a game changer. You’ll appreciate how quickly your batteries get topped up, saving you time during busy days.
The LCD screen is a standout feature. It displays everything you need to know—voltage, current, capacity, energy percentage, and even internal resistance—all at a glance.
During testing, I found this super helpful to monitor the health of each battery, especially when balancing batteries for high-drain devices.
Safety features are solid, too. The charger automatically detects bad batteries and prevents overcharge or short circuits.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used at home, in the office, or even in your car, thanks to the included car power cord.
One minor downside? It only charges batteries, so you’ll need separate chargers for 1.5V AA or AAA batteries.
Still, for those who primarily use lithium-ion batteries, this is a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly option.
Snado LCD Smart Charger for Li-ion & Ni-MH/Ni-Cd Batteries
- ✓ Clear LCD display
- ✓ Fast USB-C charging
- ✓ Supports multiple battery types
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Price is a bit higher
| Supported Battery Types | Li-ion (18650, 18490, 18500, 18350, 17670, 17500, 16340, 14650, 14500) and Ni-MH/Ni-Cd (A/AA/AAA, 1.2V, 3.7V Li-ion models) |
| Charging Technology | Smart voltage regulation with advanced power management |
| Display | Real-time LCD screen with dual LED indicators |
| Charging Port | USB-C fast-charging port with overheat protection |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, automatic stop at full charge |
| Warranty | 24 months manufacturer warranty with 30-day return policy |
This Snado LCD Smart Charger has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable way to keep my collection of 18650 batteries charged without fussing over the details. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its solid build and sleek design.
The stainless steel rails feel sturdy and premium, giving me confidence that it’ll last through lots of use.
The LCD display is a game-changer—clear, bright, and easy to read. I love how it shows real-time charging progress and individual battery status at a glance.
No more guessing if my batteries are fully charged or overdoing it. Plus, the dual LED indicators add a nice touch for quick checks.
It’s compatible with a wide range of batteries, from 18650s to AA Ni-MH, which makes it super versatile for all my rechargeable needs.
The charging process itself is smooth and fast, thanks to the upgraded USB-C port. I tested it in my car and with a power bank, and it handled both seamlessly.
The overheat protection kicks in promptly if things get too warm, which is reassuring. The intelligent voltage regulation and power management ensure my batteries charge safely and efficiently, without me having to babysit the process.
Overall, this charger feels like a smart, safe, and reliable upgrade to my setup. It’s perfect for anyone tired of slow or sketchy chargers and wants to see exactly what’s happening with their batteries.
The only minor downside is that it’s a bit larger than some basic chargers, but that’s a small trade-off for all its features and durability.
What Features Make an 18650 Lithium Battery Charger the Best?
The best 18650 lithium battery chargers are characterized by several key features that enhance safety, efficiency, and usability.
- Smart Charging Technology: The best chargers utilize smart charging technology, allowing for automatic detection of battery chemistry and capacity. This feature ensures that the charging process is optimized for each battery, reducing the risk of overcharging and extending battery life.
- Multiple Charging Slots: A charger with multiple slots can charge several 18650 batteries simultaneously, making it ideal for users with multiple devices. This feature enhances convenience, especially for enthusiasts who regularly utilize various battery-operated gadgets.
- Safety Features: Features such as short circuit protection, overcurrent protection, and temperature control are critical for safe charging. These safeguards help prevent accidents and battery damage, which is especially important given the risks associated with lithium batteries.
- Adjustable Charging Current: The ability to adjust the charging current to suit different battery specifications is important for optimizing charging times and battery health. Lower currents can be used for better longevity, while higher currents may be suitable for quick charges when needed.
- LED Indicators: LED indicators provide real-time feedback on the charging status of each battery, which is helpful for users to monitor the progress. This not only enhances user experience but also helps in preventing overcharging by visually signaling when batteries are fully charged.
- Portability: A compact and lightweight design is advantageous for users who need to charge batteries on the go. Portability is particularly important for outdoor enthusiasts or those who travel frequently, ensuring that they can keep their devices powered wherever they are.
- Compatibility: The best chargers are compatible with various lithium-ion batteries beyond just the 18650 size, such as 21700 and 14500. This versatility makes the charger a more valuable investment for users with multiple battery types.
How Do Different Charging Slots Affect Performance?
Different charging slots in a lithium battery charger can significantly impact charging performance, efficiency, and convenience.
- Single Slot Chargers: These chargers typically focus on one battery at a time, making them simple and compact. They are ideal for users who only need to charge a single battery occasionally and usually feature straightforward operation and minimal settings.
- Multi-Slot Chargers: These chargers can accommodate multiple batteries simultaneously, which is beneficial for users with several devices or applications that require frequent recharging. They often allow for different charging currents for each slot, enabling the user to balance charging times across multiple batteries efficiently.
- Smart Chargers: Equipped with advanced circuitry, these chargers can detect the battery’s status and adjust the charging parameters automatically. This feature helps in extending the lifespan of the battery and reduces the risk of overcharging or overheating, making them a safer and more efficient option.
- Fast Chargers: Designed to deliver higher current to the batteries, fast chargers can significantly reduce charging time. However, they may generate more heat, which can affect battery longevity if not properly managed, so it’s essential to use them cautiously and ensure compatibility with the battery specifications.
- Universal Chargers: These chargers are versatile and can charge a variety of lithium battery sizes and chemistries, not just 18650 cells. This flexibility makes them a great choice for users with different devices, but they may lack the specialized features found in chargers designed specifically for 18650 batteries.
What Smart Features Should You Look for in a Charger?
When searching for the best 18650 lithium battery charger, several smart features can enhance the charging experience and ensure battery longevity.
- Smart Charging Technology: This feature automatically adjusts the charging current and voltage to match the battery’s requirements, which helps in preventing overcharging and overheating.
- LED Indicators: Chargers with LED indicators provide real-time information about the charging status, showing whether the battery is charging, fully charged, or if there’s an error.
- Multiple Charging Slots: A charger with multiple slots allows you to charge several batteries simultaneously, which is particularly useful for users who rely on multiple batteries for devices.
- Safety Protections: Look for chargers that include various safety features like over-voltage, short-circuit, and reverse polarity protection to safeguard both the charger and the batteries.
- Compatibility with Different Battery Sizes: Some chargers are designed to accommodate various lithium battery sizes, making them versatile for users with different devices.
- USB Charging Capability: Chargers that can be powered via USB ports offer more flexibility, allowing you to charge on-the-go using a power bank or a computer.
- Battery Health Monitoring: Advanced chargers can monitor the health of the batteries, providing insights into their capacity and alerting users when a battery may need to be replaced.
Smart Charging Technology ensures that your batteries are charged safely and effectively, optimizing their performance and lifespan. LED Indicators keep you informed about the charging process, allowing you to monitor progress at a glance. Multiple Charging Slots are invaluable for convenience, especially for users with multiple devices reliant on 18650 batteries.
Safety Protections are crucial as they help prevent mishaps that could damage batteries or the charger itself. Compatibility with Different Battery Sizes increases the versatility of the charger, making it a worthwhile investment. USB Charging Capability enhances portability, and Battery Health Monitoring can help you manage your battery collection effectively, ensuring that you always have reliable power when needed.
What Are the Top Brands for 18650 Lithium Battery Chargers?
The top brands for 18650 lithium battery chargers include:
- Nitecore: Nitecore is renowned for its high-quality battery chargers, particularly the D4 and D2 models, which offer smart charging features and compatibility with various battery chemistries.
- XTAR: XTAR provides reliable chargers like the VC4 and WP2 II, known for their versatility, accurate display, and the ability to charge multiple batteries simultaneously.
- LiitoKala: LiitoKala chargers, such as the Lii-500, are appreciated for their affordability and user-friendly design, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
- Efest: Efest offers a range of chargers, including the LUC V4, which is favored for its compact size and efficient charging capabilities for different battery types.
- Olight: Olight is recognized for its premium chargers like the Olight UC, which not only charges 18650 batteries but also integrates seamlessly with its range of flashlights.
Nitecore: Nitecore is a leader in lithium battery technology, and their chargers often include features like intelligent charging modes, which optimize the charging process based on the battery’s specifications. The D4 model is particularly praised for its ability to charge multiple types of batteries, making it a versatile choice for users with various needs.
XTAR: XTAR chargers are designed with precision and user convenience in mind, featuring an LCD display that provides real-time information about the charging status and capacity of the batteries. The VC4 model is especially popular for hobbyists, as it allows users to monitor the voltage and current of each cell, enhancing battery maintenance and safety.
LiitoKala: LiitoKala focuses on providing value without compromising quality, and their chargers are designed to accommodate a wide range of battery sizes. The Lii-500 model stands out for its ability to test the capacity of batteries, helping users determine the health and performance of their cells.
Efest: Efest chargers are compact and portable, making them ideal for users who need a reliable charging solution on the go. The LUC V4 is a popular choice due to its fast charging capabilities and compatibility with a variety of battery sizes, ensuring convenience for users with diverse battery collections.
Olight: Olight is particularly known for integrating its charging systems with its flashlight products, offering a seamless experience for users. The Olight UC charger is compact and convenient, featuring a magnetic charging connection that makes it easy to use while ensuring efficient charging for 18650 batteries used in Olight devices.
Which Chargers Are Most Recommended by Users?
The most recommended 18650 lithium battery chargers include several highly rated options based on user feedback.
- Nitecore D4: This versatile charger supports multiple battery chemistries and can charge various sizes, including 18650 cells.
- XTAR VC4: Known for its clear display and ability to charge multiple batteries simultaneously, the VC4 is a favorite among users who need efficiency.
- Efest LUC V4: This charger is praised for its fast charging capabilities and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
- Liitokala Lii-500: Offering advanced features like adjustable charging current and a comprehensive display, the Lii-500 is ideal for users who want detailed charging information.
- Olight Omni-Dok: This charger is compact, lightweight, and features an intelligent charging system that automatically detects battery status, making it convenient for on-the-go use.
Nitecore D4: The Nitecore D4 is highly regarded for its smart charging capabilities, automatically detecting the chemistry of the battery and applying the optimal charging current. It can charge a wide range of batteries beyond just 18650s, making it a versatile choice for users with various devices.
XTAR VC4: Users appreciate the XTAR VC4 for its LCD screen that provides real-time information about the voltage, capacity, and charging status of each battery. Its ability to charge four 18650 batteries simultaneously makes it a practical option for those who use multiple batteries regularly.
Efest LUC V4: The Efest LUC V4 is known for its rapid charging capabilities, allowing users to quickly power up their batteries without compromising safety. Its intuitive design features easy-to-read indicators and compatibility with a range of battery sizes, making it user-friendly.
Liitokala Lii-500: The Liitokala Lii-500 stands out due to its customizable charging currents and comprehensive display that shows detailed charging data. This feature is particularly useful for advanced users who want to monitor the health and performance of their batteries closely.
Olight Omni-Dok: The Olight Omni-Dok is designed for portability and ease of use, fitting easily into bags or pockets. Its intelligent charging system automatically detects the battery’s needs, ensuring safe and efficient charging without requiring user intervention.
How Can a Good 18650 Lithium Battery Charger Benefit Your Batteries?
Versatility in a charger allows it to be a one-stop solution for various battery needs. Being able to charge different battery sizes and chemistries makes it convenient for users who have multiple devices that require different batteries, ultimately saving space and money.
What Safety Features Should a Reliable Charger Include?
A reliable charger for 18650 lithium batteries should include several essential safety features to ensure safe and efficient charging.
- Overcharge Protection: This feature prevents the battery from being charged beyond its maximum voltage, which can lead to overheating, swelling, or even explosion. A reliable charger will automatically stop charging the battery once it reaches its full capacity.
- Short Circuit Protection: Short circuit protection safeguards the charger and battery against accidental short circuits that can occur due to faulty connections or damaged cables. This feature cuts off the power supply immediately to prevent damage or fire hazards.
- Temperature Regulation: This feature monitors the temperature of the battery during charging. If the battery gets too hot, the charger will either reduce the charging current or stop charging altogether, thus preventing potential thermal runaway scenarios.
- Reverse Polarity Protection: This safety measure prevents damage to the charger and battery if the user mistakenly connects the battery in the wrong direction. The charger will not operate if the battery is inserted incorrectly, ensuring user safety.
- Current Limiting: Current limiting ensures that the charger does not supply more current than the battery can handle. This prevents overheating and prolongs battery life by charging at a safe rate.
- Cell Balancing: For chargers that can charge multiple cells simultaneously, cell balancing ensures that all cells are charged evenly. This feature extends battery life and improves overall performance by preventing one cell from being overcharged while others are undercharged.
- LED Indicators: Visual indicators provide users with real-time information about the charging status. This can include different colors or blinking patterns to indicate charging, fully charged, or fault conditions, helping users monitor the process easily.
What Should You Avoid When Choosing an 18650 Lithium Battery Charger?
When choosing the best 18650 lithium battery charger, it’s essential to avoid certain pitfalls to ensure safety and battery longevity.
- Incompatible Charging Specifications: Ensure the charger matches the voltage and current specifications of the 18650 batteries. Using a charger with incorrect specifications can lead to overcharging, which may damage the battery or even cause it to catch fire.
- Lack of Safety Features: Avoid chargers that do not include safety features such as overcharge protection, short circuit protection, and thermal protection. These features are crucial for preventing accidents and prolonging battery life, as they help regulate the charging process and minimize risks.
- Low Quality or Unbranded Chargers: Steer clear of cheap, off-brand chargers that lack reliable reviews or certifications. These products may not adhere to safety standards, posing a risk of malfunction, and may not effectively charge the batteries, leading to poor performance and reduced lifespan.
- Single Slot Chargers: While single slot chargers can be convenient, they may not be the best option for users who frequently charge multiple batteries. A multi-slot charger allows for simultaneous charging of several batteries, saving time and ensuring they are all ready for use when needed.
- Insufficient Charging Speed: Avoid chargers that take excessively long to charge your batteries, especially if you use them frequently. Look for chargers that offer fast charging capabilities without compromising safety, as this can significantly enhance your efficiency and convenience.
- No Battery Compatibility Information: Ensure the charger you choose explicitly lists compatibility with 18650 batteries. Chargers that do not specify this may not handle the specific chemistry and size of lithium-ion batteries, leading to potential hazards and inefficiencies.
Why Are Customer Reviews Important in Selecting the Best Charger?
Customer reviews are important in selecting the best 18650 lithium battery charger because they provide firsthand insights and experiences from users who have already tested the product, which can significantly influence purchasing decisions.
According to a study by BrightLocal, 79% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, highlighting the weight that peer feedback carries in the decision-making process. Furthermore, platforms like Amazon and Best Buy use customer reviews as a key metric to rank products, showcasing the importance of user-generated content in determining product quality and reliability.
The underlying mechanism at play is the social proof phenomenon, where individuals look to the experiences of others to inform their own choices, especially in categories that require technical knowledge, such as battery chargers. For instance, potential buyers may not have the expertise to evaluate technical specifications independently, making reviews a valuable resource for understanding real-world performance and safety. In addition, negative reviews can alert consumers to potential issues, such as overheating or compatibility problems, which are especially critical when dealing with lithium batteries that can pose safety risks if charged improperly.
Moreover, reviews often highlight specific features that are important to users, such as charging speed, safety features, and durability. This information helps buyers to compare different chargers effectively and make informed decisions based on their own individual needs and priorities. Consequently, the aggregation of customer feedback not only informs potential buyers but also pressures manufacturers to improve product quality to meet consumer expectations.
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