The Best USB-C Chargers That Are Safe to Use
When looking for the best USB-C chargers, there’s one important question: Will the charger work without wrecking your gear?
No one should play Russian roulette with their expensive electronics. And with the amount of fragmentation in the USB-C market, even the best chargers may not work properly with all your devices.
With that in mind, here are the safest and best USB-C chargers you can buy today.
The Ugreen Nexode 140W USB-C Wall Charger is one of the most powerful chargers on the market. It can deliver full-speed charging to any laptop that charges via USB-C, including the latest MacBook Pros. You can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% capacity in as little as 30 minutes.
The Nexode 140W features two USB-C ports and a legacy USB-A port, allowing you to simultaneously charge two laptops as well as your phone with a combined output of 140W. With support for PD 3.1 and PPS charging, this charger can deliver fast, optimized charging to just about any device, including tablets, phones, and handheld consoles.
Built with the most recent GaN technology, the Nexode 140W runs cool the entire time and is significantly smaller than comparable chargers. It’s about 20% smaller than the original 140W charger from Apple and comes with foldable prongs, making it more compact and portable. In addition, Ugreen’s Thermal Guard technology and smart power distribution keep your devices safe.
- Up to 240W output with PD 3.1
- Foldable prongs
- Overheat, overcharge, and over-voltage protection
- Braided USB-C cable included
- Brand: Ugreen
- Output: 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A
- Input: 100-240V~50/60Hz 2A Max
- Output Power: USB-C1: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/5A, 28V/5A. 140W Max; USB-C2: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/5A. 100W Max; USB-A: 5V/4.5A, 4.5V/5A, 5V/3A, 9V/2A, 12V/1.5A. 22.5W Max; PPS: 3.3~21V/5A
- Maximum Power: 140W
- Type: GaN Wall Adapter
- Cable included: Yes
- Compact, portable design
- Plenty of power
- Fast charging for multiple devices
Ugreen Nexode 140W USB-C Wall Charger
Anker is the leading brand for trusted, high-quality mobile charging accessories, and its PowerPort III 2-Port 100W charger might be the only charger you’ll need for all of your devices. It combines a whopping 100W maximum output with Anker’s PowerIQ 3.0 technology to support fast charging on virtually any mobile device with a USB-C port.
The PowerPort III 2-Port 100W can charge a single device at up to 100W, ideal for the most power-hungry laptops, or keeping two devices charged simultaneously at 60W and 40W across its two USB-C ports. It’s very compact and portable compared to the bulky laptop chargers and even has foldable prongs, making it easy to throw into a backpack.
Anker is well known for quality, and that’s the case with the PowerPort III 2-Port 100W. In addition to durability, the charger has many safety features, such as temperature control and over-voltage protection to keep your devices safe while charging.
- Up to 100W for single device and 60W/40W for two devices
- Supports PPS, iPhone, and Samsung fast charging
- Anker MultiProtect safety system
- Foldable plug
- Brand: Anker
- Output: 2x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 3A
- Output Power: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/3A, 20V/5A
- Maximum Power: 100W
- Color: White
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: No
- Amazing output (up to 100W)
- Can charge two laptops simultaneously
- Supports fast charging on most mobile devices
- Safe to use
- Quite large than modern GaN chargers
Anker PowerPort III 2-Port 100W
Those who don’t want to pay a premium for a USB-C charger should consider the Nekteck 100W USB-C Charger. It’s the most affordable 100W USB-C charger available, and it comes with excellent safety features and enough power to charge most mobile devices and laptops at full speed.
The charger utilizes GaN technology to pack a tremendous amount of power in a small and compact form. Sure, the build quality may not match that of Anker’s, but again this is a USB-C charger that costs half the price of the PowerPort III 2-Port 100W.
In addition, you’re getting a bundled USB-C cable and USB-IF certification for added peace of mind. So, if you’re looking for one of the best USB-C chargers at a budget-friendly price, you’ll be hard pushed to find something better than the Nekteck 100W USB-C Charger.
- 100W maximum power output
- USB-IF Certified
- Over-voltage, over-current, over-heat, and short-circuit protection
- Foldable plugs for portability
- Brand: Nekteck
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.5A Max
- Output Power: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/5A
- Maximum Power: 100W
- Color: Black
- Type: AC Wall Adapter (GaN)
- Cable included: Yes
- Incredible value
- Powerful 100W output
- Lightweight and compact design
- Included USB-C charging cable
Nekteck 100W USB-C Charger
The Anker Nano II 45W is one of the best USB-C portable chargers available, measuring just 1.49 x 1.38 x 1.62 inches and 2.44 ounces. It is notably smaller than most 45W Type-C chargers in the market, and the foldable prongs make it much more compact.
The Nano II 45W can charge smaller laptops such as the Dell XPS 13 and MacBook Air at full speed. And since it supports PPS charging and works across all voltages, it makes a great travel charger for those with a combination of smartphones, tablets, and lightweight laptops that only need 45W charging power.
Whether you’re trying to reduce clutter around the home or simply need a USB-C charger that’s easy to pack in your bag, the Anker Nano II 45W is convenient, lightweight, and powerful.
- 45W total output power
- Supports PPS charging
- Meets the latest IEC 62368-1 safety standard
- Foldable prongs
- Brand: Anker
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.87A
- Output Power: – 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/2.25A, 3.3V-16V/3A (PPS), 3.3V-21V/2.25A (PPS) –
- Maximum Power: 45W
- Color: Black
- Type: AC Wall Adapter (GaN)
- Cable included: No
- Extremely portable
- Plenty of power for charging smartphones and laptops
- Safe to use with all devices
There are plenty of options (cheaper options) that support the 9V/2.22A profile required for fast-charging the iPhone 12 and later models. Still, the official Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter remains the best USB-C fast charger for the iPhone when it comes to safety.
It is made by Apple, so you can rest assured it meets the highest specifications that are compatible with iPhones. And with Apple’s stringent quality control standards, this charger is safe for use with any iPhone model, whether topping up or charging overnight.
Paired with a USB-C to Lightning cable, the Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter can recharge an iPhone 12 or the iPhone 13 up to 50 percent in around 30 minutes. It’s also the official recommended charger for the iPad Air and iPad Pro with an M1 chip.
- Official Apple product
- Supports fast-charging on the latest iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models
- Provides full 15W wireless charging with a MagSafe charger
- Brand: Apple
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 0.5A
- Output Power: 9V/2.22A, 5V/3A
- Maximum Power: 20W
- Color: White
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: No
- Fully compatible with the latest iPhones
- Compatible with Apple MagSafe charger
- Peace of mind
- The prongs are not foldable
Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter
The Satechi 108W Pro USB-C PD Desktop Charger is a perfect replacement for a desktop or laptop USB-C charger. It’s a multi-port USB-C wall charger with two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, allowing you to charge up to four devices at once for a combined output of 108W.
The two USB-C ports supply 90W and 18W, while the old-fashioned USB-A ports have a combined output of 12W. With this, you can charge anything from smartphones and wireless headphones to powerful devices like laptops.
The Satechi 108W Pro USB-C PD Desktop Charger stands out from other multi-port USB-C chargers because it can supply a continuous 90W charging power even with multiple devices plugged in. The included four-foot AC cable makes it easy to organize your devices on your desk; handy if you want to charge and use your device at the same time.
- Two USB-C charging ports (90W + 18W)
- Dedicated 90W power delivery even when charging multiple devices
- Durable, heat-resistant design
- Brand: Satechi
- Output: 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.5A (Max)
- Output Power: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/4.5A
- Maximum Power: 108W
- Color: Space Gray
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: No
- Charges multiple devices at once
- Amazing power output
- Solid build quality
- Distracting LED light in the dark
Satechi 108W Pro USB-C PD Desktop Charger
The Samsung 25W Super Fast Wall Charger is the best USB-C charger for Samsung Galaxy phones, provided you own a device from the Galaxy S10 through the S21 series. It’s the same charger Samsung included in the Galaxy S10 and later models before joining Apple in shipping their phones without a charger.
The charger fully supports fast charging on the Galaxy S21 series and delivers optimized charging for other Android phones through Power Delivery 3.0 and PPS charging at up to 25W.
The prongs aren’t foldable, but the charger is still compact and small enough to fit in a small bag or pocket. Samsung includes a three-foot USB-C to USB-C cable to easily charge your Galaxy phone or any USB-C mobile device at no extra cost, making it even better value.
- USB Power Delivery (PD) 3.0
- Supports PPS charging
- 25W fast charging for the Galaxy S21 models
- Brand: Samsung
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V
- Output Power: 9V/2.77A, 3.3-5.9V/3A (PPS), 3.3-11V/2.25A (PPS)
- Maximum Power: 25W
- Color: Black
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: Yes
- Can charge the Samsung Galaxy S21 models at the fastest speeds
- Included USB-C charging cable
- Black and white color options
- 45W version offers more versatility
Samsung 25W Super Fast Wall Charger
The Anker 726 Charger (Nano II 65W) provides enough power to charge a 13-inch MacBook Pro, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, HP Spectre X360, and other powerful notebooks with a maximum charge speed of 65W. It’s smaller too, at almost half the size of Apple’s 61W USB-C Power Adapter, making it an excellent travel USB-C charger for laptops.
There are two USB-C ports capable of supplying up to 65W when charging a single device. The power is split into 20W and 45W for the bottom port when charging two devices simultaneously, which is still plenty to charge a laptop and a phone at high speed.
Anker is a reputable brand when it comes to charging accessories, and the Nano II 65W is no exception. It meets the latest IEC 62368-1 standard for safety, and GaN II technology makes it more efficient and durable.
- Two USB-C PD ports with 65W total output
- Up to 45W and 20W for two devices
- Meets IEC 62368-1 safety standard
- Supports PPS charging
- Brand: Anker
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.8A
- Output Power: 5V/3A, 9V/2.22A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/2.25A, 20V/3.25A, 3.3V-16V/3A (PPS)
- Maximum Power: 65W
- Color: Black
- Type: AC Wall Adapter (GaN)
- Cable included: No
- High-speed charging for powerful ultrabooks
- Can charge two devices at full speed
- Foldable and small form factor for everyday carry
- No charging cable included
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Anker 726 Charger (Nano II 65W)
The Spigen ArcStation PD3.0 Car Charger PC2000 is the best USB-C charger for charging your phone and laptop at the fastest speeds in your car. Its two USB-C ports output 45W and 20W, allowing you to charge up to two devices simultaneously. The 45W USB-C port can charge lightweight laptops like the MacBook Air at full speed.
Unfortunately, none of the ports can output the 65W that flagship notebooks require. It’s an ideal option for lightweight laptops and small mobile devices like phones and tablets.
The ArcStation PD3.0 Car Charger PC2000 works across all voltages, and its Quantum Boost technology help deliver the most efficient charge possible to connected devices. If you travel with multiple devices and gear, this is the best USB-C car charger you can buy for charging on the go.
- Dual USB-C 65W output (45W, 20W)
- Overheating protection
- Intelligent power allocation
- Supports iPhone’s 9V/2.22A profile
- Brand: Spigen
- Output: 2x USB-C
- Input: 12V-24V 8.0A
- Output Power: Port 1: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/2.25A | Port 2: 5V/3A, 9V/2.22A, 12V/1.67A
- Maximum Power: 65W
- Color: Black
- Type: USB-C Car Charger
- Cable included: No
- High speed charging for laptops and phones
- Can charge two devices simultaneously
- Small enough to fit all cars
- Built with safety features in mind
- Cannot output the full 65W even with one device charging
Spigen ArcStation PD3.0 Car Charger PC2000
The Apple 30W USB-C Power Adapter is the best way to charge the MacBook Air. It’s perfect for those looking for a replacement charger for the Air or a safe, fast charger for the iPhone and iPad. The 30W is enough to charge the MacBook Air at full speed and offer fast charging to the latest iPhones and iPads.
It’s a bit pricey compared to other USB-C chargers in its class, but you can’t really put a price on your premium Apple devices. Thanks to its foldable plugs, you can easily throw the charger into a laptop bag.
It works across different voltages, so you can use it to charge other mobile USB-C accessories, eliminating the need to carry a load of chargers.
- Up to 30W of charging power
- Fast-charging for iPhones and iPads
- Foldable plugs
- Brand: Apple
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 0.75A
- Output Power: 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 15V/2A, 20V/1.5A
- Maximum Power: 30W
- Color: White
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: No
- Safe, high-speed charging for MacBook Air
- Delivers fast-charging for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 series
- Foldable design for easy storage
- It’s huge, compared to 30W GaN chargers
Apple 30W USB-C Power Adapter
The Anker PowerPort Atom III 45W Slim is designed to fit in hard-to-reach spaces like behind a couch, nightstand, or computer desk. Rather than the traditional square shape, it’s a 0.79-inch ultra-slim rectangle that easily fits into areas with tight clearance.
When it’s time to go, just fold out the prongs and slip the charger into your purse or pocket. The 45W output is enough to charge lightweight notebooks like the Dell XPS 13 and MacBook Air.
With ASUS PowerIQ 3.0 technology, the PowerPort Atom III 45W Slim can deliver optimized charging to virtually any device, including phones and tablets.
- High-speed charging with PowerIQ 3.0
- Comprehensive protection
- Ultra-Slim and foldable profile
- Brand: Anker
- Output: 1x USB-C
- Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.5A
- Output Power: 5V/2.4A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/2.25A
- Maximum Power: 45W
- Color: Black
- Type: AC Wall Adapter
- Cable included: No
- Easily fits in hard to reach outlets
- Foldable for easy storage and travel
- Powerful output
- Exclusive safety features
- No charging cable included
Anker PowerPort Atom III 45W Slim
FAQ
Q: Why Can USB-C Damage Your Devices?
The biggest problem with USB-C chargers: manufacturers don’t perform proper testing and validation. It’s the same problem we saw back when dangerous USB-C cables set devices on fire.
Unlike 10W USB ports on older devices, USB-C can push 100W. A 10-fold increase in power dramatically ratchets up the potential for explosion and fire.
Q: What’s the Future of USB-C Chargers?
As of 2019, a new and ground-breaking technology stands a chance of revolutionizing the charging industry: GaNFast USB-C chargers. Navitas Semiconductor invented a new way of building the integrated circuits that go into laptop chargers and computer power supplies based on a material called gallium nitride (GaN).
GaN-based chargers are 30 to 40 percent smaller than regular chargers while offering both Quick Charge and Power Delivery compatibility. Anker is the leading brand for high-quality GaNFast chargers, but you can also get affordable options from Belkin, RAVPower, Baseus, Hyper, and more.
Q: What Is USB Type-C Power Delivery, and How Does It Work?
USB-C (revision 2) transfers power using a standard called Power Delivery. When you connect a charger to a smartphone, both devices negotiate a power transfer which varies in amperage and voltage. Most chargers can deliver one to six combinations — multiplying amperage and voltage equals wattage. For example, if a charger uses 5V at 3A, it’s pushing 15W. If it’s using 15V at 3A, that’s 45W to your device.
When picking a charger for a device, you just need to know the maximum voltage and amperage it can use. If you grab a charger from Amazon that maxes out at 5V and 3A, it may not even charge your device. If it does work, it will deliver power at below the maximum wattage, meaning more slowly.
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