Our portable devices often run out of power when it’s least convenient: in the middle of an important meeting, as you step on the bus, or when you’re stranded in a new place. A portable phone and laptop charger can be a lifesaver in such situations.
The best charger isn’t the one that’s shipped with your laptop. Sure, it works great, but there are often superior options available. And because most premium laptops today charge via USB-C, it’s become easier to find powerful third-party chargers for your phone and laptop.
It’s crucial to get the right third-party charger because an incompatible charger may damage your device’s battery, cause it to overheat, and impact its warranty. Before you buy a new charger, check if it’s compatible with your device by referring to the specifications.
Understanding Charger Types and Specifications
USB-A
Before USB-C was introduced, these chargers were the most common. USB-A chargers are generally used with computers or power outlets. The USB-A side of the charger attaches to the USB plug of a device when charging. A USB-A connector isn’t reversible, and the USB symbol shows which side connects to the device. But USB-A chargers only accommodate USB-A ports which are getting phased out in modern host devices.
USB-B
These chargers are less common as they are only compatible with printers, scanners, external hard disks, and a few other devices. USB-B connectors can charge devices like smartphones and tablets, but they can’t send data to and from a device to a computer. Type B chargers are smaller than Type A chargers.
Mini-USB
Now obsolete, the mini-USB connector was once used to connect phones, cameras, and smaller devices to computers and other devices. It supported charging and data transfer between digital devices. The mini-USB has been replaced by different chargers.
Micro-USB
Micro USB connectors are used for powering mobile devices and transmitting data between them. The fast-charging cables connect smartphones and other small devices to chargers, computer peripherals, external hard drives, and electrical outlets. But like USB-A cables, the connectors only work with compatible devices.
USB-C
This is the latest connector for charging smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other compatible devices. The industry-standard connector transmits both data and power via a single cable. USB-C connectors are different because they are reversible (can transfer power and data both ways). USB-Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging technology that’s supported by some Apple and Android devices. It provides much higher performance than standard charging methods. USB-C to Lightning cables support super-fast charging for Apple devices.
Lightning
This reversible 8-pin charger for Apple devices features a Lightning connector on one end and a USB-A connector on the other end. It replaced the 30-pin dock connector used on the iPhone 3 and iPhone 4. The charger is designed to work with all the major Apple products and also hosts computers, external monitors, cameras, and other peripherals.
Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Charger
Voltage
It’s important to match the voltage between the charger and the device. A charger that provides less current will slow down charging and may damage your device. One that provides more current than a device requires can also work.
Amperage
A charger with the same volts as your device but lower Amps will charge it slowly or not at all. It may also overheat or fail entirely. 3-amp chargers charge devices faster than the standard 1-amp chargers. But make sure you use a higher amp charger with compatible devices.
Wattage and Power Output
It’s crucial to match the charger’s output with your device’s requirements. Small devices such as smartphones draw between 5W and 20W, while larger ones such as laptops can pull 60W to 100W. To achieve the fastest charging speed, the charger and charging cable must both support the device’s wattage.
Can a high-power charger damage your phone’s battery? Most devices draw current based on their needs, so you can use a charger with a higher wattage without damaging your device. But this depends on how the charger is built.
Charging Speed
This is dependent on the power output, as higher output means faster charging times. A fast charger saves time, preserves battery life, and is adaptable to different devices.
Charger Brand and Manufacturer
Buy a charger from a reputable brand with plenty of good reviews online to avoid buyer’s remorse. Read reviews and research the company’s customer service to make an informed buying decision.
4 Phone and Laptop Chargers We Recommend
30W USB-C Wall Charger (RP-PC132)
With 30W potential, this compact USB-C wall charger can power smartphones and most mid-sized laptops. Thanks to PD 3.0 fast charging, it takes an iPhone 11 Pro from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes. It’s compatible with the latest phone models.
The RAVPower wall charger has two USB-C ports, an 18-watt USB-C port and a 12W USB-A port. It supports Power Delivery 3.0 and is speed-ready for most devices. It also supports international voltages and has safety features that protect it from over-voltage, over-heating, and short-circuiting.
65W 4-Port GaN Tech Desktop Charger (RP-PC136)
This RAVPower desktop charger uses GaN tech and is small but powerful. GaN technology maximizes charging efficiency without producing excess heat. The charger features 4 USB-C PD ports and distributes 65W intelligently. When 4 devices are connected, it ensures they all enjoy high-speed charging.
The desktop charger can power a MacBook Air and iPad Pro simultaneously. Connect your MacBook Pro 15.4” to the USB-C port, and it will go from 0 to 100% in just 2 hours. The USB-C charger is compatible with most USB-C and USB-A devices and delivers the fastest possible charge.
120W 4-Port USB Charging Station (RP-PC146)
This USB charging station is efficient and saves you time. It has multiple ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once. Its 2 USB-C PD ports deliver 60W each and can charge two 13-inch MacBook Pros simultaneously. The unit intelligently distributes 120W of power, charging 4 devices at a time.
GaN II technology makes this RAVPower charging station ultra-compact. The technology features added circuity to increase efficiency and reduce heat and size. This charger is more powerful than most chargers in its category and doesn’t overheat as it charges devices. It’s compatible with almost all USB-C and USB-A devices, from phones to laptops and more.
100W GaN II USB-C Wall Charger RP-PC151
Need a USB-C wall charger that can recharge your gadgets in a hurry? This is it. With a massive 100W capacity, it can charge a laptop and a phone simultaneously. Its 2 USB-C PD ports cleverly distribute the power to charge two devices at a time. In just 25 minutes, your iPhone 12 pro will go from 0%-50%.
GaN II tech makes this wall charger smaller and lighter than Apple’s 96W charger. It supports USB PD 3.0 and PPS and can fast-charge both smartphones and laptops. It beautifully stands out from portable chargers in its category.
Choose the Best Phone and Laptop Charger and Never Get Disconnected
Portable USB-C chargers keep getting better by the day, and some new models now offer reverse connectors to keep your smartphones and laptops juiced. Get a RAVPower USB-C charger for your home, office, or school. Most feature compact designs and are the perfect traveling companion.