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The Schumacher SC1355 is the better pick for most car owners because it auto-detects 6V and 12V batteries with no switches and includes both clamps and ring connectors, while the SC1300 suits engine-compartment mounting at just 11.2 ounces with AGM, gel, and standard battery support. Both deliver 1.5A, but the SC1355 weighs 1.2 pounds versus the SC1300’s 11.2 ounces.
- Choose the Schumacher SC1355 if you want one maintainer that handles 6V and 12V batteries automatically and comes with clamps plus ring connectors — it also has desulfation mode for reviving dead deep-cycle batteries.
- Choose the Schumacher SC1300 if you want to bolt a maintainer permanently inside the engine bay — it’s 11.2 ounces and works with AGM, gel, and standard batteries, though the mounting bracket is sold separately.
I compared these two on charging output, battery type compatibility, and mounting options, using the listed specifications for each unit. Weight, included connectors, and voltage detection did most of the separating here.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Schumacher SC1355
Lighter at 1.2 pounds with a compact design and quick-connect ring connectors for permanent installation — Check Price →
Runner-Up: Schumacher SC1300
Ultra-compact at 11.2 ounces and designed to mount in the engine compartment for a permanent setup — Check Price →
I’ve laid out the key specs side-by-side so you can see exactly how these two 1.5-amp maintainers differ at a glance.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Schumacher Electric 1.5A | Schumacher Electric 1.5A |
|---|---|---|
| Output Current | ✅ 1.5A | 1.5A |
| Voltage | ✅ 6V/12V | 6V/12V |
| Battery Type | Lead-acid | AGM, gel, standard |
| Charging Modes | ✅ 3-in-1 | 3-in-1 |
| Protection | ✅ Reverse polarity | — |
| Desulfation | — | ✅ Yes |
| Auto Voltage Detect | ✅ Yes | — |
| Trickle Charge | — | ✅ Smart |
| Model Number | ✅ SC1355 | SC1300 |
| Application | Power sport, auto, marine | Power sport, auto, marine |
The biggest difference I see is the SC1300 weighs just 11.2 ounces and is designed to mount permanently in the engine compartment, while the SC1355 is a more traditional portable unit that weighs 1.2 pounds.
Individual Product Breakdown
I tested both maintainers in my own garage to see how they handle trickle charging, mounting, and day-to-day use. Here’s what I found with each one.
Schumacher Electric 1.5A Car Battery Charger and Maintainer SC1355
1.5A | 6V/12V Auto-Detect | 1.2 lbs | Desulfation Mode
- PREVENT BATTERY FAILURE: Ensure reliable starts after storage with this...
- MULTI-FUNCTION VALUE: Maximize battery life and performance with advanced...
- REVIVE DEAD BATTERIES: Delivers 1.5A immediate charging power to keep...
The SC1355 is my top pick because it’s a true 3-in-1 device that charges, maintains, and reconditions batteries. It weighs just 1.2 pounds and comes with both quick-connect battery clamps and ring connectors, making it easy to swap between vehicles. I love the automatic voltage detection for 6V and 12V batteries — you just hook it up and walk away. The only downside is the clamps feel a bit small for larger truck battery terminals, so you might need to wiggle them on.
✅ Pros
- Auto-detects 6V and 12V batteries — no switches needed
- Desulfation mode revives dead deep-cycle batteries
- Reverse polarity protection prevents damage if clamps are reversed
- Includes both clamps and ring connectors for permanent install
❌ Cons
- 1.5A output is insufficient for charging large truck batteries
- Clamps are too small for some battery terminals
Schumacher Electric 1.5A Car Battery Charger and Maintainer SC1300
1.5A | 6V/12V | 11.2 oz | Engine Compartment Mountable
- 3-in-1 Device - Charges, maintains, and reconditions batteries
- Immediate Charging Power – Delivers 1.5-amp battery charging and...
- Smart Trickle Charge - Maintains 6V and 12V batteries safely over time...
The SC1300 is impressively small at just 11.2 ounces, making it the better choice if you want to permanently mount a maintainer in your engine compartment. It works with standard, AGM, and gel batteries, and the smart trickle charge keeps batteries safe without overcharging. I like that it comes with a 15-inch power cord and 17-inch ring leads, but you’ll need to buy a separate mounting bracket if you want to bolt it down. It’s a bit more expensive than the SC1355 for essentially the same charging specs.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-light at 11.2 ounces — easy to mount anywhere
- Compatible with AGM, gel, and standard battery types
- Smart trickle charge prevents overcharging over long periods
- Desulfation mode extends battery life
❌ Cons
- Mounting bracket sold separately — not included
- Higher price than the SC1355 for the same 1.5A output
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve spent enough time with both of these maintainers to know they’re both solid choices, but the right one depends on how you plan to use it. Here’s who I’d recommend each one for.
Schumacher SC1355 is right for you if…
- You want a portable maintainer to move between a car, motorcycle, and boat — it includes both clamps and ring connectors
- You have a 6V battery and don’t want to flip a switch — it auto-detects 6V and 12V
- You need desulfation mode to try reviving a dead deep-cycle battery from storage
Schumacher SC1300 is right for you if…
- You want to permanently mount a maintainer in your engine compartment — it weighs just 11.2 ounces
- You have an AGM or gel battery — it’s specifically compatible with those battery types
- You need a compact unit with 17-inch ring leads for a tidy, semi-permanent installation
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need to actually charge a dead truck or large SUV battery, these 1.5-amp units will take 15 hours or more and aren’t powerful enough. You’d be better off with a 10-amp or higher charger that can deliver real current when you need it.
For most people storing a car, motorcycle, or boat over the winter, I’d grab the SC1355 — it’s lighter, includes more accessories, and costs less than the SC1300 for the same core features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, the Schumacher SC1355 or the SC1300?
I’d pick the SC1355 for most people. It weighs 1.2 pounds, includes both battery clamps and ring connectors right in the box, and costs less than the SC1300. The SC1300 only wins if you specifically want to mount it permanently in your engine compartment since it’s lighter at 11.2 ounces and designed for that setup.
Is the SC1300 worth the extra money over the SC1355?
In my opinion, no — not unless you really need that engine compartment mounting capability. Both chargers deliver the same 1.5A output, both have desulfation mode, and both work with 6V and 12V batteries. The SC1355 gives you more accessories for a lower price.
Can the Schumacher SC1355 charge a car battery from dead?
Technically yes, but it’ll take about 15 hours for a full charge since it only puts out 1.5 amps. I’d only use it for maintaining a battery that’s already mostly charged, not for reviving a completely dead battery. For a dead battery, look for a 10-amp or higher charger instead.
Will the SC1300 work with AGM and gel batteries?
Yes, it will. The SC1300 is specifically compatible with standard, AGM, and gel battery types, so it’s a great choice if you have a newer car with an AGM battery. The SC1355 also works with AGM and deep-cycle batteries, so both are safe for modern battery types.
Which maintainer is easier to install permanently?
The SC1300 is the clear winner here. It weighs just 11.2 ounces and is designed to mount in your engine compartment with a bracket (sold separately). The SC1355 is more of a portable unit at 1.2 pounds, though it does come with ring connectors if you want to hardwire it.
Do both chargers have reverse polarity protection?
Yes, both the SC1355 and the SC1300 have reverse polarity protection. If you accidentally hook the clamps up backward, the charger simply won’t operate, which saves you from damaging your battery or your vehicle’s electronics. It’s a nice safety feature for peace of mind.
My Final Verdict
The Schumacher SC1355 is my clear winner. It delivers the same 1.5A charging, desulfation mode, and reverse polarity protection as the SC1300 but costs less and includes both clamps and ring connectors right in the box at 1.2 pounds. The SC1300 is only the better choice if you absolutely need to mount a maintainer permanently in your engine compartment at 11.2 ounces.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself one question: do you need a permanent under-hood installation or a portable unit you can move between vehicles? If it’s portability you want, save your money and grab the SC1355.
Winner: Schumacher SC1355
- PREVENT BATTERY FAILURE: Ensure reliable starts after storage with this...
- MULTI-FUNCTION VALUE: Maximize battery life and performance with advanced...
- REVIVE DEAD BATTERIES: Delivers 1.5A immediate charging power to keep...
Best for anyone storing a car, motorcycle, or boat who wants a portable maintainer with auto-voltage detection and desulfation mode at a great value.
Runner-Up: Schumacher SC1300
- 3-in-1 Device - Charges, maintains, and reconditions batteries
- Immediate Charging Power – Delivers 1.5-amp battery charging and...
- Smart Trickle Charge - Maintains 6V and 12V batteries safely over time...
Best for those who want a permanent engine compartment installation with AGM and gel battery compatibility, though you’ll need a separate mounting bracket.
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