If you have a collection of Makita power tool batteries sitting around, you know they usually just collect dust between projects. Most of the time, those 18V packs are only good for drills or saws. I found a cool accessory that turns those spare batteries into a portable fan and phone charger.
This Power Tool Parts BL1830 USB TypeC Charger Power Bank Electric Fan Desktop Table Fan for Makita 18V Li-ion Battery BL1860 review covers my experience using this gadget in my workshop. It is a budget-friendly way to get more life out of the batteries you already own.
What is this tool accessory?
Think of this as a base that snaps onto your existing Makita 18V batteries. Once it is clicked into place, it acts as a small desk fan and a USB power bank. You get a steady breeze while you work, and you can charge your phone at the same time.
Since I already had several extra batteries, I figured why not try it out. The unit is simple and does not require any complicated wiring or setup. Plus, it usually comes with free shipping on sites like AliExpress, which keeps the total cost low.
How it performs in the shop
The fan speed is decent for a small desktop unit. It moves enough air to keep you comfortable if you are working at a workbench or sitting in a hot garage. You will not get industrial-grade wind, but it beats sweating while trying to finish a project.
Having the USB port is the real win here. I often forget to charge my phone before heading out to the shed, and this allows me to top it off using the massive capacity of the tool battery. It is much more practical than carrying a separate power bank that might run out of juice halfway through the day.
Honest Pros and Cons
- Pros
- Uses batteries you already own and have charged.
- Very affordable compared to name-brand shop fans.
- Dual purpose as a fan and a phone charger.
- Compact enough to throw in a tool bag.
- Cons
- The plastic casing feels a bit thin and could crack if dropped on concrete.
- Shipping from overseas can take several weeks to arrive.
- There is no official warranty if the internal electronics fail.
- It is not water-resistant, so do not use it near heavy rain or spills.
Who should buy this fan?
If you are a hobbyist who spends weekends in the garage, this is a great little addition. It is perfect for people who own a few Makita batteries and want to maximize how they use them. You do not need to be an expert to get it running.
Skip this if you are looking for a heavy-duty cooling system for a large room. It is designed for close-range use, like sitting on a table next to your laptop or workbench. If you rely on your power tools for professional work every single day, you might prefer a more rugged, name-brand solution that offers a local repair warranty.
What other users are saying
I checked around to see if others had the same experience as me. Most people seem to appreciate the convenience of the USB port, even if they agree the fan is a bit basic. One user mentioned they keep one in their camping kit to run a light and charge their devices at night.
Another buyer pointed out that the fit can be a little snug on some third-party battery brands. It seems to work best with genuine Makita packs, though it fits most clones just fine. Everyone seems to agree that for the price, it is a fun gadget to have in the toolbox.
Final verdict
This device is not going to replace a full-sized shop fan, but that is not the point. It is a smart, low-cost way to use the energy you already have stored in your tool batteries. I find myself reaching for it whenever I am doing light maintenance or just cleaning up the workshop.
If you are okay with waiting for shipping and want a practical tool accessory, this is worth the small investment. It turns a boring battery pack into a useful desk companion. Just handle it with care, and it will keep you cool and charged for a long time.
