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We bought 9 top usb chargers to test head-to-head and determine which one reigned supreme. We charged device after device, looking at how much power each product could provide and what charging standards they meet to rank and score their performance. We even pushed these products to their limits using a multimeter and dummy loads to see just what they could do. Keep reading to find out which chargers we think are the best of the best, whether you are looking for a top-tier power brick for high-power devices, a multi-port solution for all your electronics, or a compact travel option.
High power output, compact, supports all brands/protocols, stays cool, folding plugs
Excellent charging specs, dual ports, very compact, GaN technology makes it more efficient and eco-friendly, folding plug
Extremely compact, Doesn't hog the outlet, lightweight, portable
Inexpensive, solid charging specs, capable of charging five devices at once, two Quick Charge 3.0 compatible ports, detachable power cord, sits flat on a desk or table
Fairly inexpensive, QC 3.0 compatible, decent power
Inexpensive, powers two devices at once, decent charging specs,
Compact, folding plugs, comes in packs of two, inexpensive
Low cost, acceptable power output, inexpensive, folding plugs
Compact, inexpensive, bargain four-pack, two ports
Cons
Heavy for its size, expensive, prone to fall out of outlet, slightly finicky with some higher-end devices
Slightly blocks adjoining outlet, only 30-watt max solo charge, Expensive
Plug doesn't fold, less powerful than some of its peers, easy to misplace or lose
All ports are USB-A, charging wanes when fully loaded, slightly older technology
Larger than most single port chargers, fixed plugs, USB-A port only
Not very compact, doesn't support the very latest charging protocols,
Not compatible with QC 3.0, doesn't stick well to outlet, USB-A ports only
Very basic, not fast-charging
Limited power output, fixed plugs, older charging technology
Bottom Line
It's ready for any charging party. It can charge nearly anything, even if there's more than one, making this beast a perfect all-in-one option
It's one of the smallest dual USB-C charger on the market, but its higher-end technology comes at a higher price
This petite USB-C power supply is hard to beat. It's super compact, and powerful for its size — just don't forget where you've placed it
A great choice for a desktop or counter. It offers an impressive five USB-A ports, but power is so-so, and parking space is very limited
If you're seeking a simple, no-fuss adapter that can charge your Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 capable device, this model is a great inexpensive option
For more basic devices, it offers solid, 2-port, charging performance at a great price
It's a relatively small charger when compared to other dual-port options, making it quite portable, but it doesn't do as well at powering up the latest gadgets
A great bargain option that delivers acceptable power, but not the fastest charger on the block
If you're trying to get the most chargers for your money, it's hard to go wrong with this bargain pack
If there's a UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C in the house, it can only mean one thing: a charging party. This half-pound brick has a long list of credentials that make it powerful and compatible enough to charge nearly any modern device needing a spark. Individually, its four ports provide an impressive amount of power. The top two USB-C ports max out at 100 watts, while its third USB-C port provides up to 22.5 watts. Lastly, its fourth port is a USB-A port, which has a maximum output of 22.5 watts. We tested each port individually with a USB multimeter and found plenty of power to charge our MacBook Pro M1, MacBook Air, Samsung S22 Ultra, iPhone 13 Pro, Google Pixel 6, Samsung Tab S8 Tablet, and Nintendo Switch. When completely loaded with four devices, the UGreen Nexode 100W's power capacity drops to 45 watts, 30 watts, 10.5 watts, and 10.5 watts (ports C1, C2, C3, and A4, respectively). This decrease does limit the ability to charge several high-power devices simultaneously, but it still leads the industry and is substantial enough to quickly charge multiple phones, tablets, headsets, and more. Additionally, it is compatible with all of the latest charging protocols, which allows the charger to communicate with each device in order to better supply it with the proper amount of fast-charging current. It also employs gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology, which distributes electricity more effectively, keeps the charger cooler, and allows it to be more compact. The UGreen measures 2.72" x 2.72" x 1.3", making it one of the more compact four-port chargers on the market — and literally one of the coolest. Even when completely loaded with four devices, our charger maintained a temperature of 95-98 degrees F.
Sorry to crash the charging party, but we don't love everything about the UGreen Nexode 100W. First, this device can sometimes be a little finicky with high-end Samsung phones that support 45-watt, Super Fast Charging. A sliver of phones, like the Samsung S22 Ultra, can accept this amount of power during charging. But, despite 100 watts of power, we could only source 22-25 watts, which is only comparable to Samsung's Standard 25-watt Super Fast Charging. Second, the UGreen has a very specific process for charging Apple Watches. The watch must be charged through the USB-A port, and you can only charge one other device at the same time. Third, the latest GaN technology allows internal components to be crammed closer together. This makes GaN chargers much more compact, but the trade-off is increased weight and density. Lastly, the charger weighs more than a half-pound, so it doesn't sit in the outlet as well as it should. It can sit a little loose or unstable when under the added weight of multiple USB cables. If the charger happens to get bumped accidentally, this can be an issue. Despite these shortcomings, there is much to love about the UGreen, earning it our top spot. It's powerful and can charge a wide variety of devices and accessories at the same time. Before making your purchase, we recommend scrolling the manufacturer's product page to study this charger's multiple power configurations. We also highly recommend a high-capacity USB or Lightning cable if you plan to charge larger devices. But if you merely need a compact device without a ton of power, the X-Edition USB Wall Charger 4-Pack is an inexpensive option that works for all budgets.
Getting its charge on. The UGreen Nexode 100w can keep a cool head when things get complicated. Thanks to the latest GaN technology, our charger never went above 98-degrees, even when loaded with multiple devices for long periods of time.
If you're trying to get the most chargers per dollar, look no further than the X-Edition USB Wall Charger 4-Pack. While this product might not have the most impressive power output or conform to the newer quick-charge standards, it's hard to argue with getting four separate chargers at a comparable price to some of the other chargers we tested. Each of these compact chargers has a pair of USB-A ports and can output a total of 2.1 amps.
Unfortunately, these chargers aren't the best for charging larger devices that require more power, like large tablets or consoles. You can still charge these devices, but it will take considerably longer than a charger with more power output. Though this probably isn't ideal for a new Macbook or Nintendo Switch, it's a great budget buy for those who need a lot of chargers for small devices and don't mind waiting longer for a complete charge. If you're shopping for a charger better suited for larger devices, the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C can charge your MacBook and more.
Our X-Edition 4-Pack freshly out of the box. We sometimes get excited over small things, like getting a great deal on wall charges.
Only provides max of 30 watts during solo charging
The Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro can be compared to having a two-car garage; sometimes you don't need all of the space, but it's sure nice to have it just in case. If you need to charge two USB-C devices at once, you can't go wrong with this charger. It's an excellent choice for quickly charging nearly all of the latest smartphones, tablets, or accessories available. It can even charge a MacBook Air in a pinch. It offers two USB-C ports that can provide up to 30 watts of power during solo charging. However, it's important to note that despite this wattage, it doesn't support the charging protocols needed for Samsung's 25-watt Super Fast Charge protocol. We confirmed this by charging a Samsung S22 Ultra, which sourced only 15 watts. It wasn't a perfect match, but it was still enough to provide a quick charge. When both ports are used simultaneously, the ArcStation Pro's 40-watt maximum is divided equally between each device. We confirmed this by charging two Google Pixel 6s. Both simultaneously drew a little more than 19 watts. This charging block is one of the most compact dual USB-C models on the market. It measures 1.91" x 1.09" x 1.86" and weighs 2.5 oz. It also employs gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology, which allows it to stay cooler when charging and disperse current in a more eco-friendly manner. Lastly, its folding plugs are a great plus and add to its overall appeal.
The ArcStation Pro touts 40 watts of power; however, the small print makes it clear that it will only provide a maximum of 30 watts to any one device during solo charging. This is a little misleading. As previously mentioned, it also does not support Samsung's 25-watt Super Fast Charging, and it takes up a little more outlet space than we would prefer, making it more difficult to squeeze in a larger neighboring charger. However, in the end, it is well-built, powerful, and allows two modern USB-C devices to charge at the same time. That's still a great bargain. If you don't want to shell out so much money, take a look at the Anker PowerPort III Nano, which only offers one USB-C port, but it's a great charger for a fraction of the price.
Docking a second USB-C cable is a breeze. The ports are nicely spaced and well configured. However, we recommend placing the charger on the bottom outlet, so there's room for a second plug.
If you're looking for a very compact USB-C charger, the Anker PowerPort III Nano is our favorite. This pint-sized charger packs a punch with the ability to source up to 18 watts from its sole USB-C port. It meets nearly every fast-charging protocol out there (USB Power Delivery, Samsung Fast Charging, and Apple Charging) with its PowerIQ 3.0 charging standard. It's compact and the perfect travel companion for all your charging needs. The main body of this charger measures approximately 1" on either side and only weighs about 1 oz - perfect for slipping into your backpack, camera, or laptop bag.
We only found a few flaws with the Anker PowerPort III Nano, starting with its lack of a folding plug. It's small and compact, but the fixed plug makes it more prominent and a little less ergonomic when not plugged in. Also, this charger only works with USB-C cables, so iPhone users may need to invest in USB-C to Lightning cables. However, these are trivial flaws in the end, and we absolutely love this little charger and highly recommend it. Those who prefer a folding plug with a little more power should check out the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro.
This pint-sized USB-C product is the perfect option for anyone who wants a high-end compact charger.
From what we can tell, Anker stopped making this model, but we have tested the Anker PowerPort 6 Wall Charger in our charging station review and found it to be a great value. It features 6 USB-A ports and 60W of power, with a max charging rate of 2.4A for a single port and 2A when all ports are in use.
If you're on the hunt for a charger that can handle several basic to moderate devices simultaneously, we feel the Anker PowerPort Speed 5 is just the ticket. The Speed 5 is an updated version of the Anker PowerPort 4. In addition to offering five charging ports, this model's top two ports (light blue) are Quick Charge 3.0 compatible, which is nice if you own a device that requires Qualcomm Technology. This charger's five USB-A ports offer a combined power output of 63 watts. Enhanced by Anker's PowerIQ and VoltageBoost, this is generally plenty of power to charge most devices fairly quickly. It is larger than its peers but still seems relatively compact. This 7.2 oz brick does not plug directly into the wall. Instead, it's powered by a 5-foot, detachable power cord, which allows it to sit nicely on a desk, counter, or end table.
Slightly older charging technology was the first drawback we noticed, especially when we compare it to some of its newer Anker siblings. It lacks USB-C ports, which can be circumvented by using USB-A to USB-C cables. However, as technology continues to standardize solely to USB-C charging, this product could become outdated. Additionally, the Speed 5's charging ports are too close together. USB-A plugs are one-directional and attach more firmly than thinner, dual-sided USB-C plugs. Attaching and detaching the larger A-cables in such a tight space is more difficult than necessary and quite annoying. Additionally, when five devices are plugged in at once, the power output drops, so don't expect to get peak charging speed if you have five tablets or high-power phones plugged in simultaneously. However, having access to 5 ports is convenient and less expensive than buying five individual chargers. For basic charging, this product is a good deal. If you need a device with multiple types of charging ports, we recommend the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C.
The PowerPort Speed 5's five USB-A ports are too close together. It's great for saving space, but parking can sometimes be a nightmare.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
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Trying to max out our UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C. We play with the gear, so you can spend less time playing the guessing game.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Test USB Wall Chargers
We bought all the models in this review, influence free, for hands-on testing. We looked at each charger's different voltage and power output capabilities and the fast-charging protocols each one can achieve, comparing their performance with a digital USB multimeter, simulated Power Delivery trigger, and a dummy resistive load. We also considered the number of ports, overall ease of use, convenient features, and real-world performance with various devices when determining our scores. Our testing of USB wall chargers is divided across four rating metrics which were weighted as follows:
Power(35% of overall score weighting)
Compatibility(35% weighting)
Ease Of Use(20% weighting)
Size & Weight(10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
David Wise takes the helm of our USB wall charger testing process and hands-on review. He has spent over four years rating and ranking consumer products side-by-side, working in detail with all sorts of USB power products, from portable power packs to wireless chargers. He has in-depth knowledge of all the latest and greatest USB charging standards and specifications. He also brings his background as a mechanical engineer with expertise in subsea electronics and lithium batteries into the design of our testing procedures. Review Editor Jason Wanlass has been part of the GearLab team for more than six years. An avid adventurist, he has written numerous reviews on camping gear, as well as many reviews on home gadgets and kitchen appliances. Jason tries to study products through the eyes of the average consumer. He loves examining the details and likes to find the little things that make a product particularly great.
The RAVPower can increase its voltage output depending on the device, able to output the requisite 15 volts to fast-charge a Nintendo Switch.
We conducted extensive side-by-side testing to compare charger performance.
We used a variety of different devices to see the real-world charging performance of these products.
Analysis and Test Results
We split our testing processes into four metrics, scoring each product on its power, compatibility, ease of use, and size and weight. Some of the most notable products in each metric are highlighted below.
What's the Best Value?
We always purchase our gear at full price and test it without considering the cost. We revisit the price only once we have scored each item across our board of metrics. This helps us ensure that we provide unbiased, relevant information to you.
The world of USB wall chargers is constantly changing as consumer demand for quicker, more efficient charging increases. What was once the lead charging protocol can sometimes become second or third tier within just one year. These factors, and more, make it difficult to determine value, so we took two distinct approaches. First, we looked at price versus function, or put simply, getting the most for your dollar. In this application, the chargers with the most value are the Anker PowerPort III Nano and the Anker PowerPort Speed 5. These have exceptional value because they offer decent charging features at an attractive price.
However, there is something to be said for going big or going home. Sometimes, value can be found in buying the best product, regardless of cost. If this is more your style, we feel the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C and the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro are two of the best values on the market. Both offer the latest charging protocols as well as leading GaN semiconductor technology. Even better, they can rapidly charge nearly any device and can even charge two or more simultaneously. If you want to know more about our testing, continue reading to see how each product was examined and how they stacked up against one another.
Power
The first and most important thing we looked at when rating and ranking USB wall chargers is their ability to produce power. We looked at a product's stated overall maximum power output in watts and then compared this against its actual capacity while powering a wide range of devices. We accomplished this with the help of a multimeter. Likewise, if the charger offered multiple ports, we confirmed their maximum capacities and compared them against what the manufacturer stated.
When we look at overall power, the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C takes the lead. The Nexode accommodates every fast-charging protocol, and it is capable of sourcing up to 100 watts during solo charging, which is enough to charge a MacBook Pro M1. During our solo charging tests, we sourced the following: MacBook Pro M1 (75 watts), iPhone 13 Pro (20 watts), Samsung S22 Ultra (23 watts), Samsung Tab S8 Ultra Tablet (23 watts), Google Pixel 6 (21 watts), and Valve Steam Deck (35 watts). When multiple ports are drawing current simultaneously, each port's capacity is diminished; however, we still saw excellent results. We charged a 13-inch MacBook Pro, Google Pixel 6, Samsung S20, and a gaming headset at the same time, and the UGreen was still able to produce 45 watts, 21 watts, 15 watts, and 6 watts, respectively.
Even when loaded down with four very different devices, the UGreen Nexode 100W provides plenty of power. Even better, its GaN semiconductor technology keeps it cool.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Anker PowerPort Speed 5 has a combined maximum power output of 63 watts, which includes two Quick Charge 3.0 compatible ports. It can charge up to five devices at once and is a great choice for basic charging. During our tests, we sourced about 8 watts of power per port on our Google Pixel 6 or similar-sized devices. When testing the Quick Charge 3.0 ports, we were able to source about 15 watts on our Samsung S20. Additionally, when the Speed 5 is fully loaded with devices, its charging power noticeably decreases; however, it is still decent enough to give several basic devices a decent simultaneous charge.
As we added additional cables, we noticed a decrease in overall power output per port. However, the Anker PowerPort Speed 5 still performed well enough to charge several devices at once with relatively good speed.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
In terms of overall power, the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro is next in line. This pint-sized, dual USB-C charger can charge two devices at once with relative ease. We plugged in a Google Pixel 6 and an iPhone 13 Pro at the same time and saw perfect results. Both shared the difference of their 40-watt maximum, charging simultaneously at 19 watts apiece. During a solo charge, either port has a max output of 30 watts.
Even when loaded with two fast-charging devices, this pint-sized charger provided 20 watts of power to both devices.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Anker PowerPort III Nano did well in our charging performance tests, especially given its small size. This is a USB Power Delivery charger with a maximum voltage output of 9 volts. This pint-sized charger can output up to 3 amps at 5 volts and will fast charge nearly all fast-charging devices that require 20 watts of power or less.
Yeah it's small, but it's amazingly powerful for its size.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Anker PowerPort+ 1 with Quick Charge 3.0 is a Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 charger with a maximum current output of 3 amps at 5 volts and a maximum voltage of 12 volts. While this isn't a USB Power Delivery option, the Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 makes this model a great choice if you plan to power a wireless charger with it, as QC 3.0 is required for wireless fast charging of certain phones.
If you need a charger with the QC 3.0 standard, this is a great option.
Credit: David Wise
The remaining chargers — the Anker PowerPort Elite 2, the Anker 2-Pack Dual Port 12W Wall Charger, the X-Edition 4-Pack, and the Amazon Basics One-Port 12W Wall Charger — don't really meet any of the newer fast charging standards. However, these chargers can output up to 2.4 amps for a single USB port, except for the X-Edition 4-Pack and the Anker 2-Pack Dual Port 12W Wall Charger, which are limited to 2.1 amps and 1.2 amps, respectively.
Compatibility
After looking at how much power each product produced, we examined each charger's charging protocols in an effort to find whether each had the ability to charge the latest fast-charging devices. The world of fast charging is changing rapidly, so we wanted to find devices that could meet those demands with modern technology and charging ability.
The clear frontrunners in this metric are the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C and Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro.
The UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C takes the lead as the most compatible charger on our list. It can charge everything from computers to earbuds, but its four charging ports give it the ability to also charge them all at the same time. Additionally, the UGreen supports all of the latest charging protocols. From Power Delivery 3.0 PPS to Qualcomm Quick Charge 4.0 to all of the Apple charging requirements, this charger does it all. It also has the latest semiconductor technology that allows it to charge more efficiently and stay much cooler while it's working.
Getting its charge on. The UGreen Nexode 100w can keep a cool head when things get complicated, thanks to the latest GaN technology. However, this technology also makes it more dense and heavier. When loaded with cables, its overall weight makes it a little unsteady on the outlet.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
When it comes to doing two things at once, the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro takes the cake. This dual USB-C charger supports Power Delivery 3.0 charging protocols and offers the latest in Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology. It can charge a wide range of the latest devices, but it does not support Samsung's Super Fast Charging protocol. However, it will still charge newer Samsung products quickly.
Ease Of Use
Our next metric's results are based on how well each charger functions. We noted any value-adding features and then looked for simple things like indicator lights, folding plugs, and overall design.
Our favorite charges in this metric are the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro and the Anker 2-Pack Dual Port 12W Wall Charger. These models offer an appealing design, are simple to use, and have soft-glow indicator lights and folding plugs.
Size & Weight
This metric carried the least weight out of all of our metrics; however, we still feel that each charger's overall mass is an important factor to consider. We measured each product and then weighed them to see which was the most compact, lightweight, and portable.
The clear winner in this metric is the Anker PowerPort III Nano. This minuscule charger only weighs around 1.1 oz. and measures approximately 1.08" x 1.08" x 1.18", with the outlet sticking out another 0.5" or so. Unfortunately, you can't fold the prongs in, but we did like that this charger doesn't block the outlet underneath it when plugged into a power strip or typical outlet, though it will block the one above it.
The PowerPort III Nano is one of the smallest chargers we have ever seen.
Credit: David Wise
The X-Edition is another charger worth mentioning if you are looking for a compact charging solution. A single charger of this 4-pack tips the scales at only 1.18 oz, though they are a bit larger than the Anker PowerPort III Nano regarding volume. These chargers have a fixed plug and measure approximately 1.32"x1.32"x2.22". We also like that this charger usually doesn't block the outlet above or below this charger.
You can use two of these chargers at the same time with a standard outlet.
Credit: David Wise
If you are looking for a small, dual USB-C charger, the Spigen PowerArc 40W ArcStation Pro is the most compact dual charger on the market. It has a folding plug and weighs just 2.5 oz. It offers 30 watts of power for a single charge, which is reduced to two 20-watt charges when two devices are charging simultaneously.
Grabbing a quick dual charge. Despite its small size, the Spigen sits firmly against the outlet, even when weighed down by two heavy, braided USB cables.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Anker Dual Port 12W Wall Charger is a bit larger, tipping the scales at around 1.28 oz. We liked that this charger has a foldable plug, but it is somewhat frustrating that this model blocks the plug above it when used on a bottom outlet.
Many of the other chargers are designed for charging multiple devices at once and are a bit larger, sticking out about 2" or more from the wall when plugged in. The Anker PowerPort Speed 5 is one of the heaviest, weighing in at 7.2 oz. The PowerPort Speed 5 does come with a 5-foot detachable power cord, allowing the charging brick to lay flat on a desk or table. The standard plug also keeps power outlets less cluttered. Many of the other multi-port chargers block access to the outlet above and below them when plugged in. However, they all have folding plugs, which is nice.
A detachable power cable increases the Speed 5's clutter, but is also allows it to be placed just about anywhere.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The heaviest in the test fleet is the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C, weighing 8.29 ounces. However, it received a slightly higher score in this metric due to its compactness, especially considering its capacity. Newer technology allows this device's components to be packed into the surprising dimensions of 2.72" x 2.72" x 1.3". It also has folding plugs.
No matter what you need to charge, we hope one of these chargers is the perfect option for you.
Credit: David Wise
Conclusion
USB wall chargers come in all shapes and sizes. They can vary significantly in their charging capabilities, power outputs, charging speeds, and abilities to charge more than one device at a time. We hope this has been a helpful comparison of all the top USB power adapters currently available and that it's been helpful in your quest for a new charger, whether you want a compact travel option or a top-tier high-power option for larger devices.
