The best fast chargers for 2024
To determine which is the fastest charger available on the market with various power outputs, we conducted tests with 14 adapters on five different devices. Here ...
Currently, mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops require fast charging, which has transitioned from being a convenient accessory to an essential necessity. Many devices, like the iPhone 16, no longer include chargers in the box, making it crucial to have a reliable wall charger to avoid the hassle of searching for one when the battery is close to 1 percent. Additionally, having a fast charger can help reduce clutter at home since a single device can charge multiple gadgets.
Fast chargers come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from wall chargers for home use to power banks for on-the-go charging, and even hubs that allow for charging multiple devices simultaneously. Chargers with Type-C ports are gaining popularity due to their fast charging capabilities and compatibility with most new devices. Not all fast chargers need to be plugged into the wall; there are also wireless charging options that eliminate the need for cables in moments of urgency.
Recently, new charger options have been launched on the market. Pluggable introduced a 40W USB-C adapter, while UGreen launched a line of devices that includes a 160-watt GaN charger, capable of distributing power among several devices or charging a laptop at 140 watts. Satechi has also unveiled a 145-watt charger that includes adapters for various international plugs, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers.
In the 30-watt charger category, the Anker 711 stands out as a favorite due to its compact size and fast charging. However, Apple’s 20-watt charger showed inferior performance compared to its competitors, especially when trying to charge more powerful devices like the XPS 13.
60-watt chargers have also been evaluated, including options like Nekteck and Belkin, which produced varied results when charging specific devices. The Anker 735 has been rated the highest in this category thanks to its efficiency and broad compatibility with more devices.
When it comes to high-capacity chargers, it's crucial to check the charging specifications, as some models labeled as 100 watts may limit their ports to a lower power. Razer's 130-watt charger has emerged as the best in its category for its compact design, high wattage, and useful extras like international adapters.
The testing experience of chargers included a range of devices, from smartphones to laptops, evaluating performance and charging speed. The charging process was conducted using properly rated cables and measuring battery increments at regular intervals.
It is important to note that chargers based on gallium nitride (GaN) were found to offer a smaller size and greater efficiency compared to traditional silicon models, which is advantageous for those looking to reduce the weight of their accessories while traveling.
