Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I purchased the product in this review.

[wpcd_coupon id=8449]

Model: A2019

Tech Specs:

• Ports: USB-C
• USB-C Output:
  • 18W USB-C Power Delivery 2.0 (5V/3A, 9V/2A)
• Input: 100V–240V, 1.1A, 50/60Hz
• Size: 2 x 1.7 x 1.1 inches | 51 x 43 x 29 mm (including prongs)
• Weight: 2.1 oz | 60 grams

Learn more about Fast Charging.

Included In Box:

• Anker PowerPort PD 1
• Anker PowerLine II USB-C to Lightning Cable, 3 feet

Good For:

• Additional charger for home or work
• Commute
• Travel
• iPhone
• Android
• 18W USB-C PD Power Banks
• Nintendo Switch (handheld)
• iPad Pro (pre-2018)

First Impression

The Anker PowerPort PD 1 is a bit larger and heavier than the 5W USB power adapter included with most iPhones. But it offers three times as fast of a charge for iPhone 8 through 11 models. And packaged with a USB-C to Lightning cable is a great add-on for iPhone users.

Of Anker’s 18W USB-C PD chargers this is the only model with folding prongs. A must-have feature for some. With that perk comes a larger size. But you won’t notice the difference in your bag. Unlike Anker’s similar chargers the PD 1 also has an LED indicator. Which glows blue when connected to power.

The unit I received is a light gray, not white. An unusual color for Anker. As they typically do black or white.

The included USB-C to Lightning cable is 3 feet long and white. It is MFi certified, meaning Apple has approved it for use with the iPhone and iPad.

 

Compared To Similar Chargers

Prices are from Amazon Product Advertising API, last updated on 2024-04-25.

 

You can see more USB-C chargers here.

Device Testing

Check with your device’s manufacturer to verify which charging standards it supports.

USB Power Delivery & Quick Charge 4+ Phones

• Apple iPhone 8/X/XR/XS
• Essential Phone
• Google Pixel
• LG ThinQ/V30
• Razer
• Samsung Galaxy S8/S9/S10
• Samsung Galaxy Note 8/9
• Xiaomi Mi 8/9
• ZTE Axon Pro 9/10

 

Using an iPhone 8 for testing we find USB PD phones will fast charge over the USB-C port. iPhones will need to use a USB-C to Lightning cable, which is included in this bundle. And Android phones will need a USB-C to USB-C cable, which isn’t included.

Lack of Apple 2.4A means this isn’t a great charger for older iPhone 4-7. It’ll charge them, but no fast charging.

Quick Charge 3.0 Phones

• HTC
• LG
• Motorola
• Nokia
• Samsung Galaxy
• Sony
• Xiaomi Mi 5/6
• ZTE

 

Using a Moto G6 for testing we get normal charging rates. As no Quick Charge or compatible fast charging, the standard is supported that’s as fast as it goes. Still, 9-10W is a decent charge rate.

Nintendo Switch

 

In all cases, it’ll fast charge while you play. And charges at its max rate while asleep. The original Switch underdraws from 9V/2A chargers, while the new Switch and Lite correct that issue.

Learn more about charging the Switch.

Folding vs Fixed Prongs

A big selling point for the older PowerPort PD 1 is it has folding prongs. Anker’s new 18W USB-C chargers have fixed prongs. If you look at user comments on either you’ll see some demand for folding prongs. While others are more concerned with other aspects.

Folding prongs pack up neater. And don’t leave protruding metal out to snag on other items in your pocket or bag. But to do this a hinge has to be housed inside the charger. And the housing has to belong and tall enough to encompass the prongs. This increases the size and weight of the charger. It also introduces moving parts, which could fail.

Fixed prongs leave ~0.66 inches of metal sticking out from the charger’s housing. Potentially snagging or scratching other items in your bag. So you’ll need to be careful where you store them. But the upside is a smaller and lighter charger can be produced. And no moving parts to worry about.

There’s no right answer and it comes down to consumer choice. Apple, Samsung, and Google phone chargers have fixed prongs with no issues. While there’s enough demand for folding prongs Anker and others fill that need. So the debate will continue without any clear winner. Go with whichever design you prefer. And barring a preference buy based on the best value for you.

Summary

The Anker PowerPort PD 1 is the OG 18W USB-C PD charger from Anker. It shares more design features with their newer 30W and higher wall chargers. With the blue LED and form factor. The gray is also a standout look among Anker chargers.

For phones, it fast charges iPhone 8/X/XR/XS/11, Samsung Galaxy S8 and newer, and Google Pixel. But no Quick Charge for some other Android models.

For the Nintendo Switch, it’ll charge while you play in handheld mode. It is a bit slower with the original model compared to a 30W charger. But you won’t notice the difference.

Its folding prongs and USB-IF certification are its main selling points. Anker has other, newer options. But either smaller with non-folding prongs. No certification. Or larger with higher output.

The bundle I got with a USB-C to Lightning cable makes it a one and done option for fast charging newer iPhones. Including the latest iPhone 11 models. And it still comes in a smaller form than Apple’s 18W USB-C power adapter. The cable is Apple MFi certified. Meaning Apple has tested and approved it for use with the iPhone and iPad. It meets all the specs and performance you’d get out of an Apple USB-C to Lightning cable. But with a more durable plastic exterior. Apple’s cables are PVC free, which can make them less enduring.

About Anker

Anker has U.S. based support (web, email, phone) and an 18-month warranty. And their own online community with forums. They are a beloved brand within many USB-C communities.

Bottom Line

The Anker PowerPort PD 1 with USB-C to Lightning cable is perfect for fast charging newer iPhones. And can pull double duty with Samsung or Google phones, a Nintendo Switch, or iPad. It is the only 18W USB-C PD option from Anker with folding prongs.

Buy if you:

• Need a fast charger for iPhone, Galaxy, or Pixel phone
• Value folding prongs over smaller size/weight
• Want a charger that could fit in a pocket

Don’t buy if you:

• Need to fast charge a Quick Charge enabled phone
• Want one charger for small and large devices
• Value size and weight above all else

Be sure to check the Deals page to see if this or a similar charger is on sale.

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