Choosing Between PowerMax and Progressive Dynamics Converter Charger

Updated 02/10/2026 | Published 02/05/2026

Products Featured in This Question

PowerMax AC to DC Converter w/ Built-In 3-2-1 Stage Battery Charger - 12V - 55 Amps

(10)

$169.00

Progressive Dynamics 9300 Series RV Converter Charger - 12V - 60A

(324)

$298.57

Question:

I am upgrading from my two interstate lead acid 88 Amp Hr. batteries to a single WattCycle 314 Amp Hr. Lithium battery with self-heat and a 200 Amp BMS. I have a WFCO 55 Amp Converter pre auto detect. So, I was looking at replacing the old converter to support the new battery with the PowerMaX PM94VR or the Progressive Dynamics PD79RR and see the large price difference. Is there any reason not to go with the PowerMax? I want to be able to set the battery profile and not worry about autodetect as I also have a small solar set up which which is Lithium Battery compatible for when I am just in storage and do not want different profiles charging the battery. Thanks for the input in advance

asked by: Angelo P

Expert Reply:

Hi Angelo; the PowerMax AC to DC Converter # PM94VR is more of a budget option but it doesn't mean it won't work well for your application. PowerMax converters are well made and ETL rated. You’ll just need to manually set the output voltage since there isn’t a dedicated lithium preset.

Progressive Dynamics converters cost more largely because of their long track record for reliability. Over the long term, they’re the option I’d expect to last the life of the RV. The PD # PD79RR also has a dedicated lithium profile you can select and forget, so it will always charge the battery correctly without any manual adjustment.

Any big trips coming up with your Solitude once you get everything installed?

expert reply by: Robin H

Progressive Dynamics 9300 Series
(click to enlarge)

Angelo P.

2/10/2026

Thank you for taking the time to give me your thoughts. We do mostly camp 3 to 5 nights locally several times per year so it will only be used when full hook ups and packing up. We have a small solar system to top the batteries off while in storage so the power max sounds like it may give us what we need.

Robin H.

2/10/2026

@AngeloP you're welcome. That sounds like a good fit for your setup. For short trips with hookups and solar maintaining the battery in storage, the PowerMax # PM94VR will work well as long as the voltage is set correctly for lithium.