About Fast Charging | Best Steam Deck Fast Chargers | USB-C Cables

Amazon Basics 65W GaN, ZMI zPower Turbo 65W, Anker 313 Ace 45W, Nekteck 65W GaN II

Fast Charging the Steam Deck

The Steam Deck supports USB Power Delivery (USB PD) as its fast-charging standard. It favors 45W USB-C chargers, with a maximum power draw close to 40W.

Using a 45W USB-C charger, the battery level will charge about the same regardless of activity. The Deck will not charge faster with a higher output charger, but there’s also no harm in using one either. I usually recommend 65W chargers because that’s what is more popular (and often offers better value) on the market. The Deck’s power draw can be less when used as a console connected to a TV or external display, provided the Deck’s internet display has been turned off.

Steam Deck Slow Charger Warning

The Steam Deck will attempt to accept a charger from almost any USB-C charger, but it may prompt a slow charger warning.

Steam Deck slow charger warning when connecting a sub-optimal USB-C charger

This warning will always come up under these conditions:

1. The USB-C charger offers less than 30W.
2. The USB-C charger doesn’t offer a 15V power profile

It can also pop up with a USB-C charger between 30-40W if the Steam Deck’s battery is low (lower battery = higher power draw).

The warning is just that, a warning. Valve wants you aware that there may not be enough power to run the Steam Deck and charge its battery. Worst case, the battery will continue to drain, albeit slower than without the charger.

To avoid the warning use a 45W or higher USB-C charger from a trusted brand.

USB-C Hub Power Pass Through

If you want to use a USB-C hub with the Steam Deck, get one that lists supporting 45W or higher power pass-through or input.

A No products found. connects the Deck to a TV, external display, and other accessories. I use one to run the Deck like a mini-PC, with a keyboard, mouse, display, and power running into its single USB-C port. As the hub takes up the Deck’s USB-C port, it should have its own USB-C port to connect the charger. And the hub will have its own power throughput or input limit. We want that limit to be no less than 45W, otherwise, the Deck won’t receive as much power as it should.

In today’s market, you would be hard-pressed to find a USB-C hub with all the features most Steam Deck owners want and now have proper power input capabilities. But keep it as one more thing to check off your specification wishlist when shopping around.

Multi-port Chargers

A multi-port charger is fine for charging the Deck while inactive or playing it as a handheld device. But you should avoid using a multi-port charger with the Steam Deck if you are using a USB-C hub and external display. They tend to disrupt gameplay anytime another device is connected or disconnected.

Most multi-port chargers with USB-C are “smart” and offer a range of power outputs on a port, depending on what else is charging. That’s great for balancing the fast charging needs of several devices. But to do this, the power profile on each port gets reset whenever a device is added or taken away. The reset stops the flow of power for a few seconds. In handheld mode, the Steam Deck doesn’t react much. It stops charging for a few seconds, but your gameplay continues with a seamless swap to the battery. But when connected to a USB-C hub or the Steam Deck’s official dock, you lose video output to the external display for several seconds. It can also interrupt the connection of other accessories connected to the hub, including wired controllers and Internet via an Ethernet cable. The external display will switch back automatically once the swap to battery power is complete. But it is still disruptive to your gaming experience.

If you are only connecting an iPhone and the same charger your Deck’s hub is connected to then you can avoid the reset issue above. Plug in and leave the Lightning cable (USB-A or USB-C) in the charger. Lightning cables make any charger think a device is already connected. So unplugging the iPhone itself doesn’t trigger a reset, provided the Lightning cable stays connected to the charger. But even then, I usually recommend having a dedicated charger for your Deck’s hub and a second, maybe multi-port charger, for all your other devices when traveling. That’s the setup I go with.

Best Steam Deck Fast Chargers In 2023

The best Steam Deck fast chargers tend to have these qualities:

• USB-C 45W or more, which is ideal for the Deck’s power needs under all conditions
• Compact design, you want one smaller and easier to travel with than the original AC adapter
• Low cost; chargers at this level are competitive in price

The size difference in most cases is insignificant. So go for the price or brand/features you want. And even then, you won’t see more than a $10 price difference in most cases. Note that all of the chargers here will also support fast charging for your phone, tablet, Nintendo Switch, and most small and mid-sized laptops.

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ZMI zPower Turbo 65W Review

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Nekteck 65W GaN II Review

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I keep this charger in my No products found. as it fits neatly in a spare corner.

Anker 313 Ace 45W Review

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Amazon Basics 65W GaN Review

Steam Deck AC Adapter

A good behind-the-TV fast charger for your Steam Deck.

The official Steam Deck AC adapter works great for a Deck and other USB-C devices. But its fixed prongs and built-in USB-C cable keep it from being a good travel charge.  It works well behind your TV, connected to the Deck’s dock. Or in another space at home where you regularly charge the Deck. But unless you insist on only having Valve-designed accessories, you want a better option for travel.

Port 1: 45W USB-C

Includes a built-in, 5-foot USB-C cable

Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 1.1 in | 5.2 oz

Steam Deck AC Adapter Review

Which Charger Should You Choose?

All of the above chargers work great with the Steam Deck. And all except for the original AC adapter are solid travel chargers. So I would look at which charger will also best support your other devices.

Samsung phone owners: The No products found. will support Super Fast Charging 2.0 (45W) for the latest and highest-end model Samsung phones. Even if you don’t need Super Fast Charging now, it’ll future-proof you for your eventual phone upgrade. If you only need Super Fast Charging (25W) support, the No products found. will also get the job done. And includes a free USB-C cable!

Everyone else: The No products found. is my most recommended charger for any device needing 45-65W power support. It is slimmer than the Nekteck and Amazon 65W chargers and doesn’t need a sale or coupon to offer a great price. That said, the No products found. has quickly become my “or” charger recommendation. I’ve seen sales and coupon offers that beat the ZMI in price. And it has that little bit more with USB-IF certification, a 1-foot longer cable, and PPS support.

If price is your only concern and a USB-C cable is not, then it makes sense to go for the No products found. instead when nothing else is on sale.

Remember, all these chargers will also support all phones, tablets, the Nintendo Switch (handheld and docked), and small and mid-sized laptops.

Comparison of All Recommended Fast Chargers for Steam Deck

USB-C Cables for Steam Deck Fast Charging In 2023

If buying a new charger, you likely need a USB-C cable to go with it. I like to use dedicated travel chargers and cables to make packing easier. Here’s what to look for to get the best USB-C cable for your Steam Deck. These also work great for Android phones, the Nintendo Switch, and other devices using USB-C fast charging.

What To Look For In a USB-C Cable

There are a lot of cheaply made and unregulated cables on the market. You want to look for known good brands to be sure you’re getting a safe and durable product. Finding one that is USB-IF certified by the developers of USB is a nice bonus.

For charging, there’s no difference between one well-designed USB-C cable and another. The Steam Deck only draws up to 39W, and all USB-C cables allow at least 60W. That said, 100W cables usually have little cost difference and will support Samsung Super Fast Charging and larger devices. So for future-proofing, I suggest focusing on 100W cables.

There can be a difference in the exterior of various cables. Many are standard nylon, which is thinner and more flexible. Recently braided nylon has become more popular, which offers more durability.

Best USB-C Cables In 2023

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The post Best Steam Deck Fast Chargers In 2023 appeared first on Switch Chargers.

About Fast Charging | Best Nintendo Switch Fast Chargers | USB-C Cables

Amazon Basics 65W GaN, ZMI zPower Turbo 65W, Anker 313 Ace 45W, Nekteck 65W GaN II

Fast Charging a Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch supports USB Power Delivery (USB PD) as its fast-charging standard. But unlike most other devices, it has two power draw levels depending on what “mode” it is in.

Handheld/Tabletop Nintendo Switch

A USB-C charger offering 18W or more will fast charge the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode. That is when it is not in its dock and applies to all models of the Nintendo Switch and whether it is asleep or gaming.

Using an 18W USB-C charger, the battery level will charge up at various rates, depending on the activity level of the Nintendo Switch. My testing has shown the Switch actually charges faster while playing games than when asleep. But the difference is 15 minutes at more for a 0-100% charge. So I recommend just plugging it in and doing what you want with it.

It is safe to use a USB-C charger offering a higher wattage, such as 45W, used to power a docked Nintendo Switch. It won’t charge the handheld Switch any faster, but it causes no issues and allows you to have one charger for all situations. The Nintendo Switch (like all USB-C devices) controls how much power it draws. A higher-outputting charger won’t overload it.

Docked Nintendo Switch

A USB-C charger offering 45W or more is required to power up the Nintendo Switch in its dock. Technically the minimum is 39W which is how much power the Nintendo Switch’s original AC adapter will provide. But 39W USB-C chargers are not found except for clones of the Nintendo Switch AC adapter, so you want to look for 45W or higher USB-C chargers to find the most options.

Using a 45W USB-C charger, the battery level will charge about the same regardless of activity. The Switch will not charge faster in the dock with a 45W USB-C charger than it would if connected directly to an 18W USB-C charger. There is a limit to how much power it’ll draw into the battery, so expect similar charging times using either setup.

It is safe to use a USB-C charger offering a higher wattage, such as 65W, which is far more common than 45W USB-C chargers today. It won’t charge the handheld Switch any faster. But it causes no issue, as the official dock has no problems doing what it should in terms of dictating how much power comes across. Previous issues of “docks bricking my Switch” were all related to third-party docks, almost all linked to a particular brand and model no longer on the market. I regularly use a 65W USB-C charger with my Nintendo Switch dock when I travel.

Multi-port Chargers

I don’t usually recommend multi-port chargers for the Nintendo Switch if using it with the dock. They tend to disrupt gameplay anytime another device is connected or disconnected.

Most multi-port chargers with USB-C are “smart” and offer a range of power outputs on a port, depending on what else is charging. That’s great for balancing the fast charging needs of several devices. But to do this, the power profile on each port gets reset whenever a device is added or taken away. The reset stops the flow of power for a few seconds. A phone or handheld Switch doesn’t mind because their batteries seamlessly kick in and cover the downtime. But the Nintendo Switch dock doesn’t use the Switch’s battery, so it gets powered down during these resets. Best case, it comes back up on its own. Worse case, you need to wake up the Switch, reset the controller connection, or change the display’s input back to the Switch’s HDMI. In all cases, it is disruptive, and you’ll want to avoid the experience.

If you are only connecting an iPhone and the Switch’s dock, then you can avoid the reset issue above. Plug in and leave the Lightning cable (USB-A or USB-C) in the charger. Lightning cables make any charger think a device is already connected. So unplugging the iPhone itself doesn’t trigger a reset, provided the Lightning cable stays connected to the charger. But even then, I usually recommend having a dedicated charger for your Switch’s dock and a second, maybe multi-port charger, for all your other devices when traveling. That’s the setup I go with.

How Nintendo Switch Charging Works | Safely Charge the Nintendo Switch

Best Nintendo Switch Fast Chargers In 2023

The best Nintendo Switch fast chargers tend to have these qualities:

• USB-C 45W or more, which allows it to work with the Switch in both handheld and docked modes
• Compact design, you want one smaller and easier to travel with than the original AC adapter
• Low cost; chargers at this level are competitive in price

The size difference in most cases is insignificant. So go for the price or brand/features you want. And even then, you won’t see more than a $10 price difference in most cases. Note that all of the chargers here will also support fast charging for your phone, tablet, Steam Deck, and most small and mid-sized laptops.

If you only want an 18W USB-C charger for charging your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode, then check out the Best iPhone Fast Chargers list. Everything there is also ideal for a Switch without its dock. Just be sure to buy a USB-C to USB-C cable instead of a USB-C to Lightning cable.

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ZMI zPower Turbo 65W Review

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Nekteck 65W GaN II Review

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Anker 313 Ace 45W Review

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Amazon Basics 65W GaN Review

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Nintendo Switch AC Adapter Review

Which Charger Should You Choose?

All of the above chargers work great with the Nintendo Switch. And all except for the original AC adapter are solid travel chargers. So I would look at which charger will also best support your other devices.

Samsung phone owners: The No products found. will support Super Fast Charging 2.0 (45W) for the latest and highest-end model Samsung phones. Even if you don’t need Super Fast Charging now, it’ll future-proof you for your eventual phone upgrade. If you only need Super Fast Charging (25W) support, the No products found. will also get the job done. And includes a free USB-C cable!

Everyone else: The No products found. is my most recommended charger for any device needing 45-65W power support. It is slimmer than the Nekteck and Amazon 65W chargers and doesn’t need a sale or coupon to offer a great price. That said, the No products found. has quickly become my “or” charger recommendation. I’ve seen sales and coupon offers that beat the ZMI in price. And it has that little bit more with USB-IF certification, a 1-foot longer cable, and PPS support.

If price is your only concern and a USB-C cable is not, then it makes sense to go for the No products found. instead when nothing else is on sale.

Remember, all these chargers will also support all phones, tablets, the Steam Deck, and small and mid-sized laptops.

Comparison of All Recommended Fast Chargers for Nintendo Switch

USB-C Cables for Nintendo Switch Fast Charging In 2023

If buying a new charger, you likely need a USB-C cable to go with it. I like to use dedicated travel chargers and cables to make packing easier. Here’s what to look for to get the best USB-C cable for your Nintendo Switch. These also work great for Android phones and other devices using USB-C fast charging.

What To Look For In a USB-C Cable

There are a lot of cheaply made and unregulated cables on the market. You want to look for known good brands to be sure you’re getting a safe and durable product. Finding one that is USB-IF certified by the developers of USB is a nice bonus.

For charging, there’s no difference between one well-designed USB-C cable and another. The Nintendo Switch only draws up to 39W, and all USB-C cables allow at least 60W. That said, 100W cables usually have little cost difference and will support Samsung Super Fast Charging and larger devices. So for future-proofing, I suggest focusing on 100W cables.

There can be a difference in the exterior of various cables. Many are standard nylon, which is thinner and more flexible. Recently braided nylon has become more popular, which offers more durability.

Best USB-C Cables In 2023

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The post Best Nintendo Switch Fast Chargers In 2023 appeared first on Switch Chargers.

Steam Deck AC Adapter

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

Steam Deck AC Adapter printed specs

My Impressions of the Steam Deck AC Adapter

The Steam Deck AC Adapter works well as a 45W charger and is open to other USB-C devices. Unfortunately, its design prevents it from being a good travel charger. It meets the needs of the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, any USB-C tablet, and most 13-inch or smaller laptops. By following USB PD standards (please take note, Nintendo) the device works with USB-C phones and accessories.

The brick part itself is a decent size. Big for 45W, but similar to a 65W. The problems are at the ends, with the fixed prongs and attached USB-C cable. Those keep it from being travel-friendly and offer up issues with cable length and iPhone/iPad compatibility. That said, Valve tried to make up for these issues with the Steam Deck case included with all models. On the underside of the case is an elastic band covering a pocket. This space is meant for the Steam Deck AC Adapter. It fits neatly and is surprisingly secure. Trying the same thing with a similarly sized 65W USB-C charger and a separate USB-C cable does fit, but they shuffled around. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

I have the Steam Deck AC Adapter plugged in by the TV for when I hook up with Steam Deck with No products found.. For travel, I use a third-party case and keep an Anker 45W USB-C charger and cable in there for connecting the Steam Deck to a TV away from home. Testing has shown no problems using third-party chargers (45W or more) with the Steam Deck. But if you feel more comfortable with the original charger, and are happy using the original case and its charger pocket, then, by all means, go OG.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your Steam Deck.

Buy Steam Deck AC Adapter if you:

• Need to replace your Steam Deck charger and prefer official Valve accessories to third-party options
• Want a charger that will fit more securely in the underside of your official Steam Deck case

Don’t buy if you:

• Need more than 5 feet of cable length
• Want a travel-friendly charger for your Steam Deck

The post Steam Deck AC Adapter Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.

Amazon Basics 65W GaN

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

Amazon Basics 65W GaN printed specs

My Impressions of the Amazon Basics 65W GaN

The No products found. charger looks exactly like the Nekteck 65W GaN II except for the brand markings. But they have made compromises to their clone to save on cost. The Amazon charger does feature GaN technology for size/weight reduction and has the same 65W output. Both chargers have identical dimensions and are travel-friendly, though the Amazon model is 0.1 ounces heavier for some reason.

Amazon gave up including a USB-C cable and support for PPS charging (a downside for newer Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel owners) for a lower price. During my evaluation time, the Amazon charger was usually $5 less than the Nekteck or ZMI. But I did see sales and coupons for the Nekteck that put it at a similar or even better price. So Amazon’s one advantage of having a lower price isn’t always the case. If you also need a USB-C cable then the total cost never works out in your favor with the Amazon Basics option. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

The Amazon Basics 65W GaN could work out as the best value charger for the right person. If you use iPhone or a non-PPS Android, already have a spare USB-C cable, and don’t see other chargers on sale, then it can be the better deal. It performed as well as the rest in testing and has no drawbacks for fast charging. It just doesn’t offer much to stand out against strong competitors.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone, Android, or Nintendo Switch.

Buy Amazon Basics 65W GaN if you:

• Need to charge a docked Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or 13 to 14-inch laptop
• Already have a USB-C cable to use

Don’t buy if you:

• Also need to get a USB-C cable, which makes the total cost more than its peers
• Want Samsung Super Fast Charging or PPS support for your Samsung/Android phone

No products found.

The post Amazon Basics 65W GaN Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.

Nekteck 65W GaN II

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

Nekteck 65W GaN II printed specs

My Impressions of the Nekteck 65W GaN II

The No products found. charger has an impressive list of credentials. The GaN technology allows for PPS support for Samsung and other newer Android phones without compromising size, weight, or heat output. Like other Nekteck chargers, it keeps device safety front of mind with its USB-IF certification, the best safety rating for any USB-C device. And it includes a 6-foot USB-C cable rated for 100W. It will support most mobile devices, from an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy to a 14-inch MacBook Pro or Dell laptop. It also handles a Nintendo Switch in handheld or docked mode and the Steam Deck.

This charger will activate Samsung Super Fast Charging, but not Super Fast Charging 2.0 in Ultra or Plus models. If that’s a deal breaker, you’ll want to look at chargers designed to support that level of PPS. The MSRP for Nekteck’s charger is higher than its peers, but it spends a lot of time offering a sale price or coupon (or both). During my review, I saw it priced between $5 more to $9 less than its nearest competitor. If you’re patient, you can get a better deal with Nektech than with other brands.

The Nekteck 65W GaN II is fast becoming my “or” recommended charger for Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and mid-sized laptops. It offers all the support as the 65W charger I’ve used for years, adds in PPS support for some Android users, and can offer similar or better value with its own included USB-C cable if you can buy it at the right time. The design is travel-friendly and fits well in a typical Nintendo Switch case. Or buy it as a one-and-done shopping for a new home or office charger and cable set.

More on Samsung Super Fast Charging and PPS

Programmable power supply (PPS) is part of the USB Power Delivery standard. Not all USB-C devices support it, with the iPhone being the best example. Samsung supports PPS at the 25W and 45W levels but calls them Super Fast Charging and Super Fast Charging 2.0. The names are just marketing terms, with the technology still the PPS open standard. Google Pixel, LG, Motorola, Razer, and Xiaomi also have phones which support PPS. The newer the phone, the more likely it supports PPS.

A typical USB PD charging uses a consistent voltage starting with a higher current (amps) and, over time, lowers the current as the battery charges. PPS starts charging with a consistent current and a fluctuating voltage for the first phase. Then it swaps to USB PD charging during the second phase. The charging speed is a bit faster during the first phase and it puts less strain on the device’s battery, increasing its lifespan. If your device supports PPS, then a matching PPS charger (especially at this low price point) is a no-brainer. But PPS isn’t so much better that you should stress over not having a PPS-supporting device or charger.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone, Android, or Nintendo Switch.

Buy Nekteck 65W GaN II if you:

• Need to charge a docked Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or 13 to 14-inch laptop
• Want the comfort that USB-IF certification offers
• Have a Samsung Galaxy phone and want one charger for all devices

Don’t buy if you:

• Want Samsung Super Fast Charging 2.0 supports on your Ultra or Plus model phone
• Need a 65W charger right now and it is currently priced at $30 or more

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Anker 511 Nano

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

Anker 511 Nano specs print

My Impressions of the Anker 511 Nano

The No products found. charger (also called the Anker PowerPort III Nano) was Anker’s first industry standard when someone wants the smallest and lightest charger for their phone (or small tablet or handheld Nintendo Switch). It leverages GaN technology better than other chargers in its output range to obtain its compact size. It was made for the iPhone 13, offering the same performance in a smaller footprint than Apple’s 20W USB-C charger, which was no longer included with new iPhones.

The fixed prong is the standout downside of this Anker charger. Adding a hinge and housing for the prong to fold up would add mass, so Anker opted for the smaller fixed prong design. Advantageous if plugging it into a dedicated outlet, as the size makes the charger less noticeable or in the way. But if you plan to travel with it, you need to pack it in a pocket away from your other electronics, to remove any risk of scratches. As with other 18-20W USB-C chargers, don’t expect it to fast charge an iPad/tablet or to support larger devices. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

If I wanted to travel as light as possible, where every ounce mattered, this would be at the top of the shortlist. And I’ll likely put this one into a wall outlet behind furniture to add a dedicated iPhone charging location. But I prefer folding prongs on my travel chargers, so whether this is the ideal option for you depends on your priorities and needs.

Fast Charging With GaN and High Temperatures

Some owners note this charger gets hotter than others, which is normal for the GaN tech and aggressively small size. While fast-charging an iPhone I only ever saw temperatures up to 104°F and that was only in one spot. Most of my temperature readings were between 84 and 95°F while the charger was providing maximum output for an iPhone for 30 minutes. This is warm to the touch but not dangerous. You can touch solid objects up to 120°F safely. The Anker 511 Nano Pro boasts updated safety internal designed to monitor temperature and adjust (lower) the power output if necessary.

Anker 511 Nano vs Anker 511 Nano Pro

Not long after the Anker 511 Nano was released an updated model can out, the Anker 511 Nano Pro. The differences between the two models are minor enough that whichever is cheaper at the time is probably your best bet.

• Same fast charging rate. Both chargers offer the same power output specs and will fast charge your phone in the same amount of time.
• The Nano is slightly smaller (1.1 x 1.1 x 1.1 in vs 1.16 x 1.16 x 1.18 in) and slightly lighter (1.05 oz vs 1.1 oz).
• The Nano Pro comes in more colors, part of Anker shifting their design away from just black and white.
• The Nano Pro boasts an improved ActiveShield safety function to monitor your phone’s temperature during charging. But Apple, Samsung, Google, and most other modern phones already do this on their own.
• On average the Nano Pro has been $3 cheaper.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone or Android.

Anker 511 Nano charging an iPhone

Anker 511 Nano charging a Nintendo Switch

Buy the Anker 511 Nano if you:

• Want a more discrete wall charger setup for your phone
• Need an iPhone or Android fast charger where size matters more than folding prongs
• Find it at a better price than the Pro version

Don’t buy if you:

• Require folding prongs from any travel charger
• Would prefer a charger that supports Samsung Super Fast Charging standards

No products found.

No products found.

The post Anker 511 Nano Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.

Anker 511 Nano Pro

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

ZMI zPower 33W specs print

My Impressions of the Anker 511 Nano Pro

The No products found. charger is the industry standard when someone wants the smallest and lightest charger for their phone (or small tablet or handheld Nintendo Switch). It leverages GaN technology better than any other charger in its output range to obtain its compact size. It is also a part of Anker’s new design philosophy, where they want to offer more color options beyond the basic black and white.

The fixed prong is the standout downside of this Anker charger. Adding a hinge and housing for the prong to fold up would add mass, so Anker opted for the smaller fixed prong design. Advantageous if plugging it into a dedicated outlet, as the size and color options give better aesthetics. But if you plan to travel with it, you need to pack it in a pocket away from your other electronics, to remove any risk of scratches. As with other 18-20W USB-C chargers, don’t expect it to fast charge an iPad/tablet or to support larger devices. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

If I wanted to travel as light as possible, where every ounce mattered, the Anker 511 Nano Pro would be at the top of the shortlist. And I’ll likely put this one into a wall outlet behind furniture to add a dedicated iPhone charging location. But I prefer folding prongs on my travel chargers, so whether this is the ideal option for you depends on your priorities and needs.

Fast Charging With GaN and High Temperatures

Some owners note this charger gets hotter than others, which is normal for the GaN tech and aggressively small size. While fast-charging an iPhone I only ever saw temperatures up to 104°F and that was only in one spot. Most of my temperature readings were between 84 and 95°F while the charger was providing maximum output for an iPhone for 30 minutes. This is warm to the touch but not dangerous. You can touch solid objects up to 120°F safely. The Anker 511 Nano Pro boasts updated safety internal designed to monitor temperature and adjust (lower) the power output if necessary.

Anker 511 Nano Pro vs Anker 511 Nano

Not long after the Anker 511 Nano was released an updated model can out, the Anker 511 Nano Pro. The differences between the two models are minor enough that whichever is cheaper at the time is probably your best bet.

• Same fast charging rate. Both chargers offer the same power output specs and will fast charge your phone in the same amount of time.
• The Nano is slightly smaller (1.1 x 1.1 x 1.1 in vs 1.16 x 1.16 x 1.18 in) and slightly lighter (1.05 oz vs 1.1 oz).
• The Nano Pro comes in more colors, part of Anker shifting their design away from just black and white.
• The Nano Pro boasts an improved ActiveShield safety function to monitor your phone’s temperature during charging. But Apple, Samsung, Google, and most other modern phones already do this on their own.
• On average the Nano Pro has been $3 cheaper.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone or Android.

Anker 511 Nano Pro charging an iPhone

Anker 511 Nano Pro charging a Nintendo Switch

Buy the Anker 511 Nano Pro if you:

• Want a more discrete (or more colorful) wall charger setup for your phone
• Need an iPhone or Android fast charger where size matters more than folding prongs

Don’t buy if you:

• Require folding prongs from any travel charger
• Would prefer a charger that supports Samsung Super Fast Charging standards

No products found.

No products found.

The post Anker 511 Nano Pro Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.

iPhone 15 w/USB-C | About Fast Charging | Best iPhone Fast Chargers | USB-C to USB-C Cables (iPhone 15) | USB-C to Lightning Cables

Front: ZMI zPower 33W, Anker 312 20W II, and Anker 511 Nano Pro
Rear: Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port and Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro

iPhone 15 with USB-C Port

The new iPhone 15 series (and all future iPhones for the foreseeable future) now uses a USB-C port instead of Lightning. You can use any USB-C charger you already own with the new iPhone 15. Likewise, any new charger you need now will be the same as it was before. But you’ll need to replace any Lightning cables you still use with USB-C cables for your new iPhone.

The iPhone 15 will include an Apple USB-C to USB-C cable (60W, 480Mbps), which will work with any USB-C charger. No charger is included with the phone. Under their environmental goals Apple states: “We encourage you to use any compatible USB‑C power adapter.” Any of the USB-C power adapters below would be good companions to a new iPhone 15 of any make or size.

Any USB-C to USB-C cable also listed below will work with the iPhone 15 and charger. No specific cable will charge the iPhone any faster than the next.

If you have an iPhone 15 Pro and want a USB-C cable that supports the 10Gbps transfer rate (also 5Gbps and the standard 480Mbps), then you’ll need to get a USB-C cable that supports USB 3.1 and/or specifically states 10Gbps data as part of its specifications.

Fast Charging the iPhone

iPhones from the past six years all support USB Power Delivery (USB PD) as their fast-charging standard. A USB-C charger offering 18W or more will fast charge any iPhone 14 through iPhone 8 and their variations. An iPhone 8 is the same as an iPhone 14 Pro Max in terms of fast charging.

Using an 18W USB-C charger an iPhone’s battery goes from 0-50% in about 30 minutes. The remaining 50% takes longer but is considerably faster than a regular USB charger.

It is safe to use a USB-C charger offering a higher wattage, such as the 65W or 100W charge you may use for your MacBook. The iPhone (like all USB-C devices) controls how much power it draws, so a higher-outputting charger won’t overload it.

Best iPhone Fast Chargers In 2023

The best iPhone fast chargers tend to have these qualities:

• USB-C offering 18W or more
• Small design, the lower the output the smaller the charger can be
• Low cost, for only fast charging your iPhone there’s no need to pay for unneeded features

But in most cases the cost difference is small, so go for the size and features you want even if it is a few dollars more.

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Anker 312 20W II Review

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Anker 511 Nano Pro Review

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ZMI zPower 33W Review

Which Charger Should You Choose?

The No products found. is the best all-around fast charger for the iPhone I’ve tested, especially for travel. Its folding prongs make up for the slightly larger size. And it is in the middle of the pack in terms of price. For a better value, you can also pick up No products found. for only a few dollars more. The No products found. offers a smaller footprint in a power outlet and it offers more color options if you want a wall charger to look better. But while Anker boasts about its pocket size many travelers don’t love the idea of the metal prongs sticking out. The No products found. is what I would recommend for anyone looking for a dedicated home or office charger where function matters more than form. It is cheaper and can offer support to tablets and even laptops (though not quite optimal). Its larger size and fixed prongs aren’t an issue when it spends most of its time in one place.

Best Multi-Port iPhone Fast Chargers In 2023

Consider these options if you’re looking for one charger to fast charge two or more iPhones.

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Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro

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Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port Review

Comparison of All Recommended Fast Chargers for iPhone

USB-C to USB-C Cables for Fast Charging iPhone 15 In 2023

The iPhone 15 has replaced the Lightning port with a USB-C port. So no previous Lightning charging cable will work with the latest iPhone. Apple does include a USB-C to USB-C cable with the iPhone 15. But if you need more cables you can find better deals with equally good brands.

What To Look For In a USB-C Cable

There are a lot of cheaply made and unregulated cables on the market. You want to look for known good brands to be sure you’re getting a safe and durable product. Finding one that is USB-IF certified by the developers of USB is a nice bonus.

For charging, there’s no difference between one well-designed USB-C cable and another. All USB-C cables allow at least 60W and the iPhone doesn’t draw nearly as much power. That said, 100W cables usually have little cost difference and will support larger devices, including the largest MacBook Pros. So for future-proofing, I suggest focusing on 100W cables.

If you have an iPhone 15 Pro and need 10Gbps data transfer support you’ll need a USB-C cable that advertises that feature, as it is not standard.

There can be a difference in the exterior of various cables. Many are standard nylon, which is thinner and more flexible. Recently braided nylon has become more popular, which offers more durability.

Best USB-C Cables In 2023

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USB-C to Lightning Cables for Fast Charging iPhones 14 or Earlier In 2023

As of late 2020, all iPhones come with the USB-C to Lightning cable. If you already have the cable from Apple it’ll work with all of the chargers listed above. Older iPhones may need a new cable to go along with their new USB-C fast charger. I would also recommend getting a dedicated travel cable if buying a dedicated travel charger.

What To Look For In a USB-C to Lightning Cable

There are a lot of cheaply made and unregulated cables on the market. You want to look for known good brands offering MFi-certified (certification from Apple for use with their products) cables. For charging, there’s no difference between one well-designed USB-C to Lightning cable and another. The cable specifications offer the best power and data rates for Lightning-equipped iPhones. There can be a difference in the exterior of various cables. Most are standard nylon, which is thinner and more flexible. You can also look for braided nylon, which offers more durability.

Best USB-C to Lightning Cables In 2023

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If you want the same type of cable but only 1 foot long then check out the No products found.. It costs more and doesn’t offer new features other than having a 1-foot length option. But sometimes you just need less cable.

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Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro

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

Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro specs print

My Impressions of the Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro

The No products found. is a solid and flexible small charger for fast charging several small and medium devices while only needing to keep the Spigen charger handy. It smartly switches from 30W power output to 20W output when it detects two devices connected. In single mode, it’ll fast charge an iPhone and Android, as well as any model iPad and small laptop. Either USB-C port will support up to 30W power output. When both USB-C ports are in use, either will give the same power output. It provides the same fast charging capacity as any 20W single USB-C port charger, more than enough to recharge any two phones or a phone and handheld Nintendo Switch in a few hours while away from home.

With two USB-C ports, this isn’t the smallest or lightest fast charger option. But by leveraging GaN technology, Spigen keeps the size close to many single port competitors. The ability to go from 30W single to two 20W dual comes with a higher price tag for the charger. If you do not need 30W charging, another dual USB-C port charger is likely a better value. The 30W output isn’t enough to support a Steam Deck or many 13-inch and larger laptops. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

I would look at using this dual USB-C charger if you need to keep several devices charged at home, in the office, or while traveling. Provided all those devices are satisfied with 30W or less charging rates. I would also recommend it when traveling with a friend or partner, as packing and keeping up with only one charger is easier.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone or Android.

Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro charging an iPhone

Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro charging a Nintendo Switch

Buy the Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro if you:

• Need a charger that’ll fast charge two phones together
• Want the smallest dual charger available, even at a higher price
• Travel with two phones and an iPad and want a single charger solution

Don’t buy if you:

• Need support for Samsung Super Fast Charging or PPS
• Want the cheapest charger for fast charging two phones only

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The post Spigen 40W ArcStation Pro Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.

Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port

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

Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port specs print

My Impressions of the Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port

The No products found. is a good, budget-friendly dual USB-C charger for anyone needing to charge a pair of iPhones, Androids, Nintendo Switch (in handheld mode only) or a mix of those. Its total 36W output is split evenly between the two ports, so each will always offer up to 18W power output. That makes it less flexible than “smart” dual USB-C chargers. But it also means there’s no need to memorize which port is for which device. Its compromises should be made up for by its lower price tag. It’ll charge two phones for a lower cost per port than almost any other charger option.

While large and heavy for a phone charger, it features folding prongs on the US version, making it commute or travel-bag-friendly. The 18W output limit on each port keeps this from fast-charging iPads at their best rate (though it’ll still get the job done). You would need a higher output charger for a laptop, Steam Deck, or larger devices. It didn’t get a perfect safety rating above because it is not USB-IF certified, which is common among still good USB-C chargers.

Thie charger is a good buy for the occasional traveler who wants a dedicated but low-cost charger for a pair of phones and other small devices. It would also work well as a dedicated charger at home or the office, where its heavier weight is of no concern. But if you travel with tablets or larger devices you may find a better multi-port charger that’ll support all your devices, though certainly at a higher price.

Compare this charger with the best fast chargers for your iPhone or Android.

Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port charging an iPhone

Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port charging a Nintendo Switch

Buy the Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port if you:

• Need a charger that’ll fast charge two phones together
• Want the smallest dual charger available, even at a higher price
• Travel with two phones and an iPad and want a single charger solution

Don’t buy if you:

• Need support for Samsung Super Fast Charging or PPS
• Want the cheapest charger for fast charging two phones only

No products found.

The post Amazon Basics 36W Two-Port Review appeared first on Switch Chargers.