Replacement for Kenwood TK-380 Battery and Charger - Compact 1800mAh

In this review the reviewer looks at the Replacement for Kenwood TK-380 Battery and Charger kit and who will benefit most from it. The bottom line: this is a practical, no-frills replacement kit for users of Kenwood radios who need a reliable spare battery and a dedicated charger. It is clearly labeled as an Upstart Battery brand replacement and not an OEM product, which matters if you want a lower-cost alternative that charges NiCd and NiMH packs and includes a EU adapter for immediate use in European outlets.

Key Features

• Compatibility: Designed to work as a replacement for Kenwood KNB-17A batteries and chargers so it fits radios that accept those packs.
• Complete kit: Ships with one battery, one charger and one EU adapter so you get everything needed to keep a radio powered while traveling or on standby.
• Battery capacity: The 1800mAh, 7.2V Ni-MH battery provides respectable runtime for typical two-way radio use without the premium cost of name-brand cells.
• Charger type: The included charger is intended for NICD and NIMH batteries only, giving a simple charging solution for the supplied pack.
• Brand clarity: Upstart Battery supplies its own warranties for this replacement part and clearly states it is not an OEM item, which makes expectations about support straightforward.

Who It's For

This kit is best for radio owners who need an affordable replacement battery and charger that work with Kenwood KNB-17A compatible radios. It suits technicians, event staff, or anyone maintaining a fleet of two-way radios who wants a ready-to-use spare and a European plug option.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who require an OEM-branded part or need to charge Lithium-Ion batteries, since the charger is only for NiCd and NiMH chemistries. Also, if extended runtime beyond 1800mAh is essential, a higher-capacity OEM or specialized pack may be preferable.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable replacement option that restores radio runtime with a full 1800mAh Ni-MH cell.
• Includes a compact charger and EU adapter so it is usable right away in European outlets.
• Clear branding and warranty path through Upstart Battery rather than implied OEM support.

Cons

• The charger will not charge Lithium-Ion batteries, so it is limited to NiCd and NiMH chemistries.

Specifications

Brand	Upstart Battery
Compatible models	Replacement for Kenwood TK-380 / KNB-17A compatible radios
Battery capacity	1800mAh
Voltage	7.2V
Chemistry	Ni-MH (for NiCd & NiMH charging)
Kit contents	1 Battery, 1 Charger, 1 EU Adapter
Warranty	Warranty provided by Upstart Battery (not OEM)

Our Verdict

This Replacement for Kenwood TK-380 Battery and Charger kit is a sensible value choice for users who need a direct, cost-conscious replacement pack and a charger with a EU adapter. It performs the expected duty for NiMH two-way radio power needs and is a practical spare for work crews or travelers, as long as the 1800mAh capacity and chemistry limitations match the user's requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this charger work with Lithium-Ion batteries?
No. The charger is intended for NiCd and NiMH batteries only and will not charge Lithium-Ion packs.

Is this an OEM Kenwood part?
No. This is an Upstart Battery brand replacement and is not affiliated with or warranted by the original manufacturer.

Does the kit include a plug for European outlets?
Yes. The kit includes an EU adapter so the charger can be used with European mains sockets.