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Our extensive review of wireless chargers, USB wall chargers, car chargers, charging stations, and power banks will help you select the right charger for your needs.
Phones, laptops, headphones, watches; the list starts to add up in this digital age, with more and more of our devices needing a spark to stay alive. However, we never really take the time to find a suitable counterpart to recharge them. This is where we come in. Since 2018, we have evaluated over 70 devices that represent the top-performing wireless chargers, USB wall chargers, charging stations, car chargers, and power banks available. It is true that electrons are electrons, but how your phone and other technical devices get that juice matters in terms of speed, safety, and convenience. We have decades of combined experience using and testing all kinds of chargers and powerbanks. With our expert guidance, we can help you quickly find the charger that will fit your needs and budget.
When it comes to charging, power output is paramount, especially when plugging in the latest smartphones and laptops. In this respect, the UGreen Nexode 100w USB-C is a heavy hitter. The reason it knocks it out of the park for us, however, is that it is highly compatible with a variety of brands and devices. We found that we could charge almost anything we needed and sustain simultaneous charging. It also offers 4 ports, which gives you two USB-C and two USB-A options to choose from in a relatively small unit (at this size, you would previously only get one port!).
The most important feature of the UGreen, however, is the high output that is available from each port. The USB-C 1 & 2 ports can output 100 watts, while the 3rd USB-C and the USB-A ports can output 22.5 watts. This means that you can fast charge a small to medium-sized laptop and smartphone using this charger. The next most powerful charger in our lineup, the Anker PowerPort Speed 5, outputs only 63 watts. The UGreen and Anker both utilize gallium nitride (GaN) instead of silicon in the transistors. Gallium nitride offers less electrical resistance and thereby produces less heat, so internal components can be packed more tightly together. All this results in a charger with a high wattage output while also being more svelte than conventional silicon chip chargers. Keep in mind, however, that the UGreen weighs over a half-pound, and it puts the term brick into power brick. The Anker Speed 5, however, is only one ounce lighter, and it delivers 37 fewer watts while being 36% larger. It also doesn't offer any USB-C ports, which are the standard for large devices (and increasingly the standard for mobile devices as well). In other words, the UGreen Nexode is well-suited to being a trustworthy sidekick for travel or commuting. In our testing, we found we could effectively charge a MacBook Pro M1, a MacBook Air, a Samsung Ultra, an iPhone 13 Pro, a Google Pixel 6, a Samsung Tab S8 Tablet, and a Nintendo Switch with the UGreen. When all 4 ports are in use, the power output is significantly lower, but it is still enough to provide excellent charging for phones, tablets, and smaller devices.
Where there are watts, there will be heat. In the case of the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C, however, the energy-efficient GaN chip keeps the temperature moderate. This means that electricity is transferred to device batteries with less waste.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
For all of these reasons, we love the UGreen Nexode 100W and feel that it is an excellent choice for the traveling professional who needs to be able to take full advantage of any and every opportunity to charge batteries. It is also great for a location in the home or office where multiple people with a variety of devices share a charger. Considering that our devices, such as phones, watches, and earbuds, are in near-constant use, it is much more convenient to be able to charge them quickly and at the same time. And that is what the UGreen offers.
We are really excited about GaN technology, but some aspects of the UGreen Nexode are worth bearing in mind. First of all, there is the sticker price. Although the cost will come down in the future, GaN chargers are more expensive. The charger is also heavier for its size than its silicon chip counterparts that plug directly into an outlet (some 4+ ports employ a cord with a two-prong connector, such as the Anker PowerPort; others plugin directly like the UGreen). Although this factor isn't a dealbreaker for us, our lead tester did notice that “the weight of the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C makes it more likely to fall out of an outlet when bumped.” This could be a noteworthy issue while traveling in Europe and using voltage converters in wall outlets or when the ports are loaded with cables. We also noted that the UGreen didn't work with 45-watt Samsung Super Fast Charging protocols (available in some Samsung phones like the S22 Ultra). It still supplied 22-25 watts for standard Super Fast Charging, which is quite good in our book, but not the 45 watts that the S22 Ultra can handle. Also, Apple Watches must be charged via the USB-A port with only one other port in use. See what we mean? It is a little persnickety. If, on the other hand, you can make do with a single port wall charger, we highly recommend the Anker PowerPort III Nano, which is cost-effective and highly portable.
The UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C charger excels at charging a laptop, a phone, and one or two accessories, which is a lot of charging capacity for a medium-sized power brick. We also like the fact that it offers this function while managing heat build-up.
At the nexus of function and affordability is where we find the X-Edition USB Wall Charger 4-Pack. Comprised of a simple brick with fixed prongs and two USB-A ports, you get a lot of charging capacity at a low price. The X-Edition can't provide enough power for fast charging, but there are many scenarios where it fits the bill, such as charging at a nightstand, providing a USB charger in a guestroom, or a backup adapter in a “Go Bag.” The Anker PowerPort III Nano is another excellent option, and it is more than half the size of the X-Edition, but it only offers one USB-A port in return.
Sometimes, things can get a bit competitive at the wall outlet. Either multiple people need to plug in via USB, or large adapters hog the space. This isn't an issue with the X-Edition and is a feature we appreciate beyond just the bargain 4-pack. We like powerful adapters for our laptops and late-model phones, but we also like the appealing size and the fact that it is just over an ounce on the scale and only 7% heavier than the diminutive Anker Nano.
The X-Edition chargers are lightweight and low profile. Plus, you can easily stack them in a standard outlet and get four USB-A ports to share among devices or friends.
Credit: David Wise
We are tech aficionados, but we are also tech realists who appreciate things that work. And the X-Edition is something that works and fulfills a need. Not to mention that it is better to have the option to charge a device than to put it up with a dead battery. For this reason, the X-Edition is for anyone who needs a backup charger for their work bag, at a garage workbench, or otherwise.
It probably comes as no surprise, but the X-Edition is not suitable for charging a MacBook or a game console like a Nintendo Switch. It works for phones or accessories as long as you don't need fast charging, and with a max output of 10.5 watts, charging two devices at the same time is quite limited. Our lead tester noted this as the “basic convenience store model” due to its simplistic design and overall performance. In this light, you might want to look at the Anker PowerPort Elite 2, which is a good value and offers over twice the power output at 24 watts with two USB-A ports. If you want to take advantage of the latest charging technology with dual USB-C ports, the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro is also a great option. You get two ports with a maximum output of 40 watts to help you out when charging multiple devices. Just know that when you start to increase wattage, size follows.
Small but not so mighty, the X-Edition has limitations to its power, shown here pulling only 2.1 amps from both of its ports.
A good power bank has to be both unobtrusive and resolute, which is why we love the INIU Portable Charger 10000. Weighing only 6.9 ounces, it is practically unnoticeable in a bag or back pocket, but when you need a quick charge on the go, it can charge up to 3 devices at the same time. We measured an impressive 82% usable capacity from the 10,000 mAh storage that was just 2% behind the leader. The INIU strikes a good balance between being able to charge phones and accessories without being cumbersome or bulky. The iWalk 4500 Ultra-Compact may be an even more portable power bank by weighing less than half of the INIU, a minuscule 3.3 ounces, but it has a lower power output at 78%, and the capacity is also less than half that of the INIU. You'll want to decide what you prefer: portability versus power.
The USB-C port is what distinguishes the INIU from many other power banks; it provides a connection for both recharging the power bank and delivering a charge to a device. It isn't a dealbreaker to carry multiple cables, but with the majority of charging ports shifting towards USB-C, it is an element of simplicity we appreciate.
Many power banks include a USB-C port for recharging, but the INIU USB-C can also charge a device.
Credit: Jason Peters
In our opinion, the INIU 10000 will meet the needs of most people looking for a portable charger at a competitive price. Many of us at GearLab love to travel and spend time in the outdoors, so a device like the INIU that slips into a pocket passes an informal, albeit critical, test for us (it is just over a half-inch thick). The unit also has a handy built-in flashlight. The Zendure Power Bank 10000mAh is the next highest-rated power bank in our lineup with a similar capacity to the INIU--in fact, it is 9% lighter and 30% smaller--but we dinged it for barely charging a phone twice in our testing, which is a meaningful standard in the real world.
The lack of integrated cables is a drawback when comparing this product to other options in the marketplace. In this case, you might appreciate the combination power bank and wireless charger that is the Anker 533 Wireless Power Bank. The Anker has two ports in addition to the wireless charger so that it can charge 3 devices, much like the INIU. Also note the recharge time for the INIU, at 300 minutes, is equivalent to the time it would take to charge other products we tested that have twice the capacity. With that in mind, if you want more battery capacity, you might consider the Mophie Powerstation XXL 20000. Although it is 77% heavier, it is suitable for larger devices like laptops.
The INIU 10000 packs three charging ports and a thoughtful flashlight into a power bank that is the size of most phones.
For the equivalent price of a 10,000 mAh power bank from another brand, you get 2 with the 2-Pack Miady 10000. And who doesn't love a bargain? We also love the convenience and peace of mind a power bank offers, so being able to share that with friends or family members without breaking the bank is a win-win. In our testing, we measured 79% of usable capacity, which wasn't far off from the leader. At 7.7 ounces, it also didn't feel overtly heavy when lugging it around.
Beyond the two-for-one value, we like the port options of the Miady. Input is via either a USB-C or micro USB connection. We do have concerns about the durability of micro USB plugs in general, but since there are two options, there shouldn't be an issue within the lifespan of the product. Output is available from the USB-C port (another characteristic we like to see) as well as 2 USB-A ports. In our testing, we didn't find any compatibility issues with the Miady.
Two power banks with four ports each; your get a lot for the money with the Miady.
Credit: Jacob Clark
In our opinion, the Miady is a great choice for someone who needs a lightweight backup power source or two but doesn't need high power output or fast recharging. It is also a good fit for anyone who shares a power bank with others or is on a tight budget.
Not surprisingly, the drawback of the 2-Pack Miady 10000 is the 10.5-watt power output. It has the capacity to charge late-model iPhones for a little more than two cycles, but it does so quite slowly. In addition, the power bank takes 305 minutes to recharge, so it may not fit with busy professionals who are always on the go. If rapid recharge is essential to you, you might like the Zendure Power Bank 10000mAh, which we confirmed will recharge in 180 minutes. We also found the Zendure on sale at over 50% off at the time of this writing. Getting back to the Miady, we learned of some concerns about the longevity of the battery life, although we didn't have any issues in our testing. That being said, we'll update our review if we get conclusive data on this matter. Another alternative to the Miady is the INIU 10000 Portable Charger, which, although it is more expensive, offers the convenience of higher efficiency and is 8 ounces lighter.
The Miady power banks are highly portable and ideal for charging phones and accessories on the go.
Wireless charging offers many benefits. In our opinion, the charger that offers the best performance and value for iPhone users is the Apple MagSafe Charger. Although it takes up little space (3.8 square inches) on a desk or side table, it punches above its weight and provides a lot of power and convenience. With a 900-gram magnetic lifting strength, you can easily toss your phone somewhat near the charger, and it will snap into the ideal location for charging.
MagSafe is an Apple charging standard that makes wireless charging straightforward and fast. The noteworthy feature is that our test iPhones charged 32% in 30 minutes and 65% in 60 minutes. The only other charger in our lineup to break the 1% charge per minute standard was the Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1, which also provides the ability to simultaneously charge an Apple Watch and AirPods. The Belkin performed inconsistently in some of our tests; however, it didn't score well in our overall rankings.
The MagSafe Charger's magnetic alignment is an excellent feature that ensures your phone is in the optimal position for charging. It also has excellent power output for iPhones.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you want the convenience of a wireless charger and need to charge an iPhone as quickly as possible, the MagSafe Charger is the best choice. At the same, we believe that a wide variety of iPhone users will appreciate the MagSafe. Chief among them are people who struggle with visual acuity or the dexterity needed to line up a connector with a tiny port. In this sense, MagSafe technology makes charging straightforward and frictionless. It is also our opinion that dealing with clogged ports or the frustration that comes with cord tangles are issues that everyone could do without.
Apple markets the MagSafe as capable of 15 watts of output, but in our testing with a YBZ Wireless Test Module, we observed a maximum of 13.5 watts. In individual testing with an iPhone 15, however, the output topped out at just over 14 watts. That being said, these levels of power still provide fast charging. The benefits of magnetic attachment and fast charging, however, are not available to Android phones. You can still charge these devices, but there are better options available, such as the Samsung 15W Duo Pad, which charged our Samsung testing phone the fastest out of our group and by a wide margin. Note that the MagSafe requires a 20W USB-C brick for fast charging, but it isn't included. It also works best with phone cases that are less than 2mm thick, although in our tests, we found we could still get 8.7 watts through a 3 mm case. Users that have a chunky case should look at the Samsung 15W Duo Pad or the Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Pad, which work with cases 4.6mm and 4.4mm cases, respectively.
The iPhone 16 and the second generation MagSafe Charger were released after we completed our testing on wireless chargers, but apparently, Apple aficionados can take advantage of 25W charging with this new release, which is a 67% increase in charging power! We look forward to testing the iPhone 16 and the new MagSafe in our next round of testing and sharing our findings with you.
The MagSafe is an excellent choice for fast-charging Apple products. It is also remarkably slim and well-suited for traveling.
Based upon our extensive testing of wireless chargers, the Samsung 15W Duo Pad is an excellent option for Samsung phones, juicing our Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra to 27% charge in 30 minutes and to 54% in 60 minutes. It also charges iPhones quite quickly (28.5% charge in 30 minutes), and it works with phone cases up to 4.6 mm thick (which is the most of any of the chargers we tested). The Duo Pad has a relatively large footprint, but it delivers a commensurate amount of function for the space since it can simultaneously charge a Qi-enabled earbud case or a Samsung watch. In addition, it has a cooling mechanism that made a noticeable difference in the temperature of our test phones and comes with a 25-watt power brick.
Wireless charging is all about the charge speed. We agree that there are other factors to consider when shopping for a wireless charger, but a wireless charger has to be fast, and the Duo Pad charged our Galaxy S21 Ultra 8% more in 30 minutes and 19% more in 60 minutes than the next fastest charger, the Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Pad. During our research on Samsung, we also found superb online deals that were well below the manufacturer's list price.
Of all the chargers we tested, the Samsung 15W Duo Pad offers the fastest charging for Samsung products and is also the most capable of charging through thick phone cases. In this video, we are using a YBZ Test Module with 3-D printed spacers to determine at what depth the charger outputs a minimum of 7.5 watts.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Duo Pad is for the discriminating Samsung aficionado, but it is also a great choice for a family or group that uses both iPhones and Samsung phones (something we often see in offices or when traveling). If you like the idea of a charging pad on your bedside table, you will appreciate that the indicator lights on the top are quite minimal. Samsung S10 and later models also have a function that allows the user to toggle the lights on the charger and set a timer for fast charging. If this product is out of your budget range, you might consider the GETPALS 3-in-1 Stand, which also offers the ability to charge multiple devices and a simple button for turning off the LEDs. It was also the second-fastest Samsung phone charger at the 60-minute mark.
Fifteen watts is a lot of power output for a wireless charger, but this is only available to the latest Samsung smartphones (Galaxy Note10, Note10+, S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Note20, Note20 Ultra, S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, Z). Older phone models can take advantage of 10 watts of output, however, which is still quite good. Another limitation we discovered in our testing is the charging area for phones. Based on the overall size of the charging pad, we assumed that the Duo Pad would have a larger charging area, but it is just as narrow as other pads, so you need to be attentive about getting your phone into the center of the pad for optimal charging. Noted that without a case, a phone slides around on the charging pad, so it might be easy to knock a phone out of position. Even though we like Samsung for charging our iPhones, it doesn't work with Apple Watches. We also want to point out that although the Duo Pad worked with our Pixel 6 Pro, the INIU 15W Stand is a better choice for Google phones, and it is less expensive. If you just need a simple wallet-friendly hockey puck-style wireless charger for your Samsung phone, however, we recommend the Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Pad.
The Samsung has a large footprint, but it provides charging for a phone and an accessory. It is also quite stable and the indicator lights can be dimmed, which make it suitable for a bedside table.
Simple and effective are two words we use to describe the INIU 15W Stand. It is an affordable option for anyone shopping for a wireless charger. Magnetic connection offers ease of use with wireless chargers, but with a stand like the INIU, you actually don't need the magnets. Our lead tester experimented with placing a phone on the stand from a variety of positions and concluded that alignment is “super easy and straightforward to align to the optimal spot for charging.” We also really like the auto-dimming LEDs and the ability to charge through phone cases that are up to 4.2 mm thick.
All that aside, the charging performance of this little stand distinguishes it from other affordable stands. It really shines with Google phones (26% charge in 30 minutes and 45% charge in 60 minutes), but it also works with Samsung phones (18% charge at 30 minutes and 29% at 60 minutes) and iPhones (23.5% charge at 30 minutes and 47% at 60 minutes). More specifically, the high-efficiency chip in the Inui provides a 15W fast charge for LG phones (although we did not test LG phones for this review), a 10W fast charge for Samsung Galaxy phones, a 7.5W fast charge for iPhones, and a 5W standard charge for any Qi-enabled device.
The Iniu 15 Watt Stand provides a lot of convenience for a relatively small footprint.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you need a wireless charger but are hesitant to spend much on this form of technology, we believe that the INIU is a great option. It is also a good choice for tech users who need a second wireless charger for the office or elsewhere. We also think that it is a low-cost option for someone who isn't yet convinced that they need a wireless charger but would like to see if it could work for them without making a big investment.
The INIU falls short for us in a couple of important areas. First of all, a power brick is not supplied, so you'll need to factor the additional cost of a 20-watt adapter into the price if you don't have one (we also have recommendations for power adapters). And, in the words of our lead tester, “It will leave iPhone users wishing for faster charging speed.” Another budget option is the Anker 313 Stand, which doesn't have as many features as the INIU, but it does have a lot of satisfied owners.
In addition to holding a phone upright for easy viewing (it works in landscape or portrait orientation), the Iniu also provides an effective charge (7.5 W) through phone cases up to 4.2 mm thick. Note the LED on the side of the stand, which automatically dims in low light.
There is a lot to be said for individual chargers, but in the day-to-day, we really appreciate a charger like the GETPALS 3-in-1 Stand that can take on all of our devices at once. In this way, it integrates with our lifestyle, and when positioned on a nightstand, we start the day with our devices juiced up and ready to go.
Convenience like that often comes with a price, but the GETPALS can be found online for much less than comparable 3-in-1 stands. We also like the folding design, which is well-suited for commuting or traveling. The fact that it offers these characteristics and provides good charging performance (24.5% in 30 minutes for iPhones, 17% in 30 minutes for Samsung phones, and 16% in 30 minutes for Google phones) is why it scored so highly overall in our review. A power brick is also included with the station, so you don't need to add yet another item to your cart.
The Getpals provides a lot of function for a stand that doesn't take up a lot of room on a desk or table. Also, note how straightforward it is to set up each device for charging.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you need to charge your devices simultaneously, the GETPALS may be exactly what you are looking for, and it won't break the bank. We have emphasized the importance of charging speed for wireless chargers, but in the case of this product, which is well suited for locating on a nightstand, speed isn't a critical factor; capacity is with 3 charging options. It is also easy to turn off the indicator lights--a necessity for anyone who doesn't want their bedroom to look like a late-night club.
As much as we appreciate the included power brick, we have some concerns about its quality. We were surprised by how hot the adapter got during our charging tests. We also noted that Apple Watches don't sit straight on the magnetic arm (although this does not appear to affect the charging rate). Also, it doesn't work with Samsung Watches due to the polarity in the magnets (for this reason, a charger that works with Apple Watches won't work with Samsung Watches, and vice versa). We also want to point out that charging speed is affected by the number of devices being charged at the same time. We didn't observe a significant drop in performance when we evaluated the GETPALS, but it is a caveat with any wireless charger, wall charger, or power bank. If charging speed is critical for you, the Samsung 15W Duo Pad is a great option, as is the Apple MagSafe Charger. If you decide that your needs are better met by a low-profile budget charging pad, we also recommend the Yootech 10W.
The Getpals is OK at charging through phone cases, but it isn't a good match for chunky cases that are more than 3.2 mm thick. It works well, however, for charging when it is upright or when folded flat, and it is a good choice for a charger that you can take with you while traveling.
As excited as we are by technology, many of us at GearLab are equally enthusiastic about organization. With so many devices and different forms of technology floating around, we live by the maxim that everything must have its place. So we were particularly pumped to test the SIIG 90W 10-Port USB Station, which includes 10 USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a Qi-enabled wireless charging pad.
The vertical holders are a simple and effective solution for creating a place for each device--it is impressive how many phones and tablets you can stack in there! Each of the USB-A ports output 2.4 amps, which provides good charging performance (the USB-C provides 3 amps). The wireless charging pad is a nice touch too, since it provides a place to drop a phone or earbuds for a quick boost. All in all, the SIIG supports the simultaneous charging of a whopping 11 devices.
The SIIG is big, but it can simultaneously store and charge many devices! The wireless pad is a nice place to chuck a small device, or even a phone, for getting a quick battery boost.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
We are convinced that this charging station is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a straightforward way to charge multiple large devices and manage clutter. We recommend it for busy households, offices, classrooms, or tech studios, and we think it is a superb remedy to the dreaded tangles that can grow out of outlets and power strips. We acknowledge that charging performance is affected when all of the ports are in use, but considering the role that the SIIG would most likely play for a group of people (i.e., overnight charging), it seems like a reasonable trade-off to us.
There are, however, some key considerations with the SIIG. First of all, it wouldn't be our first choice for locating in a bedroom for overnight charging; the LEDs on the charging pad would most likely interrupt our beauty sleep, and there isn't a toggle for turning them off. Also, note that this station doesn't come with cords, and you may want to source short cords in the first place (in our experience, long cords tangle easily in closely stacked ports). Another important consideration is that the wireless charging pad is incompatible with Apple Watches, and an Apple Watch magnetic charger must be used with one of the USB-A ports and not the USB-C port. The station also takes up a lot of real estate (89 square inches) compared to other charger types. It provides loads of function for the footprint, but there isn't any getting around the fact that it is the biggest charger in this review. That being said, with the SIIG, you don't have to find space for 11 power bricks! Regarding aesthetics, our testers' opinions were mixed; some liked it, others did not. If you like the concept of the SIIG but are on a tighter budget, you might consider the SooPii Quick Charge 3.0, which retails for around half the cost and includes cables.
Now that is a lot of ports! Note the simple yet sturdy vertical dividers for holding phones or tablets, the row of USB-A ports, and the USB-C port on the right.
It was easy to gather a group of tech experts to test a variety of car chargers in a real-world situation. The promise of a long road trip singing along to Taylor Swift and diggin' deep with Chris Stapleton was too good to resist. Of all the chargers we rotated through, the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 offered the most convenience for our phones and tablets. There is also a small LED display on the adapter that indicates the power source's voltage. This feature isn't critical in modern cars, but if you are using this device in an older vehicle, this can be quite useful. Frankly, we like this kind of thing since it gives us more insight into how the technology is interfacing with our car and if there is an electrical issue that we should know about.
We loved how the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 provided lots of ports for powering our devices and offered excellent charging performance. Note that this charger makes it possible to extend power to the backseat from a single 12-volt adapter--this is super convenient for the driver and the passengers. The adapter head has one QC 3.0 (USB-A QualComm Quick Charge) port and one PD 3 (USB-C Power Delivery) port, while the extension for the backseat holds two QC 3.0 ports and one PD 3 port.
TThe Tollefe features a 12 volt adapter with 2 ports, and an extension for the backseat with 3 ports.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
The Tollefe is well-suited to anyone with an older vehicle who wants to offer modern charging convenience to all seats. That being said, we think it is a great charging solution for just about any car, and it would also be convenient with rental vehicles or for charging gear on far-flung adventures. Not to mention, it is a great value for an auto charger despite costing just a bit more than a unit you might find at a gas station convenience store.
As is often the case, a benefit for one person can be a disadvantage for another, and this applies to the 6-foot cord that extends the power to the backseat. You can route the cable under the front row seats and manage clutter, but you still have a lot of cord snaking around in your car. In our lab testing, we noted that the power output to all ports dropped when we plugged in more than 3 devices. In this case, you might consider the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0, which offers a 96-watt output for charging up to 6 devices simultaneously, albeit via Quick Charge 3.0 USB-A ports.
The Tollefe includes a voltage meter on the adapter head, which can be useful for assessing the electrical system in older cars. Note the USB-C PD port and the USB-A QC 3.0, both of which provide fast charging for devices.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
How We Test Chargers
We researched top-rated chargers in each category, including USB wall chargers, power banks, charging stations, wireless chargers, and car chargers, and then bought over 80 individual units for extensive testing both in the lab and in the stadium of real life. Our specific tests of this category involve countless charging cycles of iPhones, Samsung phones, Google phones, and various smartwatches and accessories. Each phone brand and model charges differently from other phones, so we went to great lengths to test the most popular models. We also used a variety of instruments in our measurements, and we created tools to standardize our test procedures and generate objective results. This attention to detail and application of the scientific method are a critical part of side-by-side comparative analysis and are why we are so confident in our reviews and recommendations.
We break out different measuring devices for each type of charger to get you the numbers you need to make informed decisions.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
In the particular wireless charger review, charging speed is the most important metric and where we put the most time and effort into collecting data. We emphasized the charging speed of smartphones since it is the most relevant to the majority of our readers. Charging speed was determined by discharging a phone and then recording the battery percentage after 30 minutes and 60 minutes with the specific charging device. We acknowledge that battery size differs considerably among the brands of phones, as well as the phone software that manages charging, so we are careful when comparing battery percentage between an iPhone 13 and a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra (the batteries in each differ in capacity by 1,773 mAh). Nonetheless, battery percentage is a meaningful measurement and the way that we all understand battery levels in our individual devices. We also used YBZ Wireless Wireless Test Modules and various phones and accessories to determine what chargers worked with what phone, earbud case, or smartwatch.
Our testing assessed the following metrics for each charger category and weighted each metric relative to overall importance to the consumer:
Charging Speed
Charging Power
Compatibility
Ports
Size & Weight
Why Trust GearLab
Austin Palmer, Benjamin Hickok, and Jason Wanlass are our charger testing leads, and each is deeply knowledgeable about consumer technology. When we put them together, the cumulative effect is a perspicacious team of tech wizards. Austin is our senior research analyst and is constantly testing various forms of technology and ideating new test methodologies. He loves new technology, but he is discerning and quick to identify when a particular product does not perform as intended. He has also accumulated massive mileage, literally, using GPS devices, power banks, solar chargers, and other small devices while on outdoor adventures. Benjamin Hickok is similarly experienced with a variety of electronics and digital technology and brings additional skills in data collection and data analysis to GearLab. He enjoys developing detailed test procedures and evaluating the results with a critical eye. Jason Wanlass has been at GearLab since 2017 and has contributed widely to technical gear reviews. His background in journalism and deep experience with using technology while traveling to remote locations around the world was invaluable in identifying the limitations of chargers. Brian Pidduck also contributed to this overview as a freelance writer. He applied his perspective as a scientist to communicate the results of the test team's lab and fieldwork.
Owing to extensive side-by-side testing and objective test protocols, our experts have developed a deep familiarity with charger technology.
How to Pick the Right Charger for You
It wasn't that long ago that the AC adapter and cord packaged with a phone or tablet were enough to satisfy any tech user. My, how times have changed! In fact, nowadays, power bricks are often not included in device purchases. That being said, there are now many options for charging, from wall chargers to car chargers to wireless chargers. To help you select from all the options available, we will focus on the most important considerations for each type of charger and walk through possible choices.
Volts, Watts, and Amps: electricity briefly explained
A helpful analogy for explaining how charging works involves water and the kitchen tap. First of all, the water pressure at the faucet is similar to the voltage at a wall outlet. Standard outlets in the US supply 120 volts, whereas European outlets are 220 volts. However, the current that runs through the adapter (measured in amps) is adjusted similarly to how we adjust the water flow at the faucet. This is accomplished when your device and the adapter talk to each other to determine the correct amperage based on what the software and the battery are designed to handle. If you consider how you might fill a pitcher of water at the sink--full open at first and then more slowly to top it off--you get a pretty good idea of what an adapter and a phone are doing during the charging process. Of course, the physical structure of a battery is a lot different than the internal structure of a water pitcher, but this helps to understand why the software in your phone slows charging when the battery reaches 80% and slows even further at 90%.
Total power output is measured in watts and is the product of multiplying volts and amps. When selecting an adapter, you are looking for an appropriate wattage for charging your device or multiple devices. 100-watt adapters with multiple ports can charge a laptop and smartphone simultaneously and relatively quickly, while a 10-watt power brick can charge only a smartphone (and much more slowly).
USB Wall Chargers
Despite the advancements in wireless chargers, car chargers, power banks, and charging stations, the fastest way to charge any device is with a good old USB wall charger. In this respect, a high-quality USB charger is an essential tool for a professional who is always on the go. By and large, USB wall chargers are single or multi-port adapters with a silicon chip for power distribution. When you plug in a phone or tablet, the software in the device communicates with the adapter and determines the voltage and amperage best suited to the battery type and the amount of electricity already stored in the battery. These little bricks are ubiquitous and may appear to all be the same, but there are significant distinctions in the specifications. Power output is the most important of these specifications, and it determines charging speed. At the same time, there can be an issue of compatibility between the power brick and the device being charged. Throughout our testing, we looked for issues of compatibility, and our scores reflect the chargers that play well with a variety of devices.
Here, we are determining the maximum power output of the UGreen Nexode 100w USB-C wall charger, which sourced 75 watts for charging our MacBook Pro.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The next consideration is the use of GaN (gallium nitride) tech in a charger, which is the direction most chargers will go in the future. GaN is more expensive, but it is more efficient, and it reduces heat gain in adapters. This quality means that more ports can be packed into a small space. The types of ports in a power brick are also important; several multiple port chargers include both USB-A and USB-C, but the Quick Charge rating (QC 3.0) for USB-A ports and the USB-PD rating for USB-C ports are necessary for the fastest charging.
Metric Scores of USB Wall Chargers
Product
Power
Compatibility
Ease Of Use
Size /Weight
Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro
7
8
8
8
UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C
9
9
6
5
Anker PowerPort III Nano
6
6
7
9
Anker PowerPort Speed 5
8
6
6
4
Anker PowerPort+ 1 with Quick Charge 3.0
5
6
7
6
Anker 2-Pack Dual Port 12W Wall Charger
4
3
8
9
Anker PowerPort Elite 2
6
5
6
5
Amazon Basics One-Port 12W Wall Charger
4
3
6
7
X-Edition USB Wall Charger 4-Pack
3
2
7
8
Power Banks
Power banks fulfill the need for charging devices when away from outlets and provide flexibility when at work or play. They are also valuable for peace of mind when traveling. There are a lot of power banks in the marketplace, but the ones that are the most useful for phones and accessories tend to be 10,000 mAh in size, which balances capacity with portability. If you need a power bank for charging a large device, such as a laptop, we recommend selecting one with a rating of at least 20,000 mAh (we don't recommend going above 26,800 mAh, generally speaking, because that exceeds the Federal Aviation Administration's limit for air travel).
Power banks are invaluable for peace of mind while traveling. A power bank for a large device like a laptop, however, can be a bit unwieldy.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Some units have integrated cords, which is a nice feature, but we don't think it is essential. When selecting a power bank, you'll want to take note of the number of ports if you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously. The types of ports are another detail to consider since they have different outputs. Most power banks have USB-A ports for connecting to a device, but some models have USB-C output ports, which might be a better choice for fast charging. In addition, the time it takes to recharge a power bank can be an essential consideration if you are always on the go.
Metric Scores of Power Banks
Product
Charging
Convenience
Portability
Recharge
Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD
9.2
7.5
3
9.5
Zendure Power Bank 10000mAh
7.6
5
8.2
8.1
INIU Portable Charger 10000
8.6
7.5
7.7
4.6
LoveLedi 15000 Dual 2-Pack
7.8
6
7.9
6.5
INIU 22.5W 20000
8.8
7
5.6
6.7
Mophie Powerstation XXL 20000
9.1
8
4.6
6.2
2-Pack Miady 10000
7.5
6
7.5
4.6
TG90° 10000mAh with AC Wall Plug
6
7
6.8
4.6
Miisso 6000mAh Ultra Slim
1.5
7
8.7
6.8
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000
6.5
3
7.5
4.5
iWalk 4500 Ultra-Compact
5.2
3
8.8
4.1
Wireless Chargers
Wireless chargers dramatically reduce the friction we experience when charging a phone, and there is a variety of wireless units for a range of budgets. The key consideration with wireless chargers is charging speed, but device compatibility cannot be overemphasized! In other words, the right choice for one phone might not be the right choice for another since Apple and Samsung have developed proprietary wireless charging standards (Apple MagSafe and Samsung Wireless Fast Charge). Still, there is a universal standard administered by the Wireless Power Consortium known as Qi (pronounced "chee"). A charger that is Qi-enabled or Qi-certified will work with a phone or earbud case that is similarly Qi-certified.
Our review of the best wireless chargers shows how we go deep into our testing procedures. Charging speed and power were the most important metrics, but we also collected data on charging depth and strength of magnetic attachment.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our review of the Wireless Chargers goes into more depth on this topic and provides additional guidance. There are also various styles of wireless chargers, such as stands and pads. Some wireless units can also accommodate multiple devices at once, such as a phone, watch, and an earbud case. There is a drop in charging output when multiple devices are being charged, but these types of units are convenient and justifiably popular.
Key Metric Scores of Wireless Chargers
Product
iPhone
Android
Case Thickness
Samsung 15W Duo Pad
7.3
7.7
8.5
Iniu 15W Stand
5.4
7.7
8.0
Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Pad
4.7
7.6
8.3
Apple MagSafe Charger
9.1
4.9
5.5
Belkin 10W Qi Pad
6.5
6.3
6.7
Getpals 3-in-1 Stand
5.8
6.7
6.9
Belkin Boost Charge Pro 3-in-1
9.0
4.0
5.5
Anker 533 Wireless Power Bank
4.2
5.7
8.3
JSaux Magnetic Pad
4.8
5.3
8.0
Anker 313 Stand
4.6
5.6
6.7
Charging Stations
With the myriad devices, cords, and AC adapters, the demand for charging can result in serious traffic pile-ups at the office or at home. Thankfully, there are charging stations, which are a clever integration of a device holder with a charging port. The main consideration with evaluating charging stations is the number of ports and the total available power for charging. As with any multi-port charger, the number and size of the devices will influence the total amperage available at each port. However, for overnight charging or communal storage, a charging station provides peace of mind.
Charging for a crowd: charging stations offer convenience and organization for large families, groups, or just many devices.
Credit: David Wise
Our extensive testing of charging stations indicates that the SIIG 90W 10-Port USB Station is the best of the bunch. We think that the SooPii Quick Charge 3.0 is also a great option, and it costs about half the price.
Metric Scores of Charging Stations
Product
Charging
Device Organization
# Devices
Aesthetics
SIIG 90W 10-Port USB Station
8
8
9
8
Soopii Quick Charge 3.0
8
8
7
7
Satechi Dock5
8
8
6
8
Belkin Boost ChargePro 3-in-1
7
9
5
9
Poweroni 6-Port USB
7
8
7
7
ZUBARR Wireless Charging Station
4
9
5
7
Apple MagSafe Duo Charger
5
7
4
8
Anker PowerPort 6 Wall Charger
8
3
7
5
Iseyyox Magnetic Wireless 3-in-1 Foldable
5
7
5
6
Apple MagSafe
7
5
3
8
Anker PowerWave
6
5
3
8
Aduro 40W 6-Port
6
3
7
6
Yootech Qi-Certified Fast Wireless Pad
6
5
3
7
Sacrack 100W
6
3
7
5
Car Chargers
Given that our phones are routinely pressed into service for navigation, music, and communication while on the go, a good car charger is an essential tech item. Like with USB wall chargers, these tiny units are not created equal! The main concern is the type of port you need and the integration of Quick Charge 3.0 (USB-A port) and USB-PD 3 (USB-C port) technology, which provides sufficient power to fast charge phones or larger devices while commuting, running a mobile office in your car, or on a weekend adventure. If all you need is a simple USB-A port, there are also a number of very cost-effective chargers.
There are a lot of options for powering devices from the 12-volt connection in your car, and they range in size, power, and types of ports.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Below are the overall scores from our extensive testing of car chargers. The Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 was the top-performing device in the review, and it also provides a lot of value. Another good option, if you don't need an extension cord that reaches the backseat, is the Spigen SteadiBoost, which provides a lot of power in a small package.
Metric Scores of Power Banks
Product
Power Output
Ports
Features
Size
Tollefe 78W 5-in-1
8
7
7
5
Spigen SteadiBoost
9
7
4
7
Hussell 3.0
7
6
5
8
AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0
9
8
4
4
Joyroom 5 Multi-port
8
7
5
5
UGREEN USB C
7
6
4
8
AINOPE Mini 4.8A
5
3
6
10
Nekteck USB Type C
7
6
3
7
Scosche ReVolt Dual
5
3
5
9
iOttie Auto Sense
7
6
6
2
BESTEK 300W Power Inverter
5
3
9
2
CHGeek
6
1
2
4
There are many different types of chargers in the marketplace, and we have determined the best ones in each category.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
We've highlighted the best chargers, including USB wall chargers, wireless chargers, power banks, charging stations, and car chargers. Using our experience, perspective, and detailed work, you can confidently select a charger that fits your needs and your budget. We also anticipate significant advancements in charging technology in the near future and will update our review and recommendations following the next iteration of testing.
In addition to recommendations on chargers and power banks, you are in the right place for guidance on all kinds of electronics. We love new technology and especially love applying a scientific methodology to testing recent advancements in everything from flash drives to keyboards to printers.
—
Austin Palmer, Benjamin Hickok, Jason Wanlass, and Brian Pidduck
