How to Choose the Right Phone Charger

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Identify your device's charging protocol

   Consult your device manual or settings to determine if your phone supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) or proprietary standards like Qualcomm Quick Charge. Modern smartphones exclusively utilize USB-C Power Delivery for universal compatibility and high-speed throughput.

   Note: Most modern flagships default to USB-PD regardless of brand.
2. 1 min

   Determine the required wattage

   Check the maximum supported input wattage for your specific phone model. While a higher wattage charger will not damage your phone, a charger with a rating lower than your device's peak capacity will result in significantly slower charge speeds.

   Note: A 30W charger is sufficient for most smartphones, while 65W+ is reserved for tablets and laptops.
3. 30 sec

   Verify cable certification

   Ensure your charging cable is USB-IF certified. Cheap, non-certified cables often lack the necessary shielding and power management chips required to handle high-wattage current, creating a fire hazard and potential damage to the phone's charging port.

   Note: Look for the USB-IF logo on the packaging or the connector housing.
4. 1 min

   Select Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology

   Prioritize chargers utilizing Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductors over traditional silicon chargers. GaN chargers are smaller, generate less heat, and maintain higher efficiency levels when converting AC power to DC for your battery.

   Note: GaN technology is indicated on the product packaging.
5. 30 sec

   Check port configuration

   Select a charger with enough ports to meet your daily requirements, but be aware of power distribution. If you choose a multi-port charger, verify how the total wattage is split between ports when multiple devices are connected simultaneously.

   Note: Check the fine print on the adapter to see if wattage drops when using all ports.