[1] The ship had two simple horizontal direct-acting steam engines, each driving a single propeller.

The engines were designed to produce a total of 900 indicated horsepower (670 kW) using steam provided by two coal-fired rectangular fire-tube boilers, but only achieved 786 ihp (586 kW) and a speed of approximately 8.5 knots (15.7 km/h; 9.8 mph) during her sea trials.

Construction was considerably delayed by late deliveries of drawings, material, and the death of her original builder.

The ship served her entire career with the Baltic Fleet and was later assigned to the Mine (Torpedo) Training Detachment.

Charodeika was reclassified as a coast-defense ironclad on 13 February 1892 and remained in service until 31 March 1907 when she was turned over to the Port of Kronstadt for disposal.