The Best USB Type C Chargers

USB Type C ports are powerful charging, data transfer, and video options that are included on a wide variety of modern electronic devices. They are known for lightning-fast charge speeds and the ability to handle higher watt loads than previous USB iterations. However, finding the perfect USB-C charger for your needs isn’t always so simple.

Buying Guide for USB Type C Chargers

Why buy a USB Type C charger?

USB Type C chargers can handle much more power than older USB-A chargers, meaning they’re an ideal way to quickly and safely charge your electronics. Also, since so many new devices include USB-C ports, these chargers can be used to charge a wide range of devices, from smartphones to laptops and even wireless speakers. In fact, many devices that used to be built with USB-A ports now include USB-C ports as their only charging option, meaning owning a reliable USB-C charger is becoming a necessity.

What should you look for in a USB Type C charger?

• Power: If you’re investing in a USB Type C charger for charging your laptop, a 20-watt charger that is designed to charge your smartphone simply won’t do. For this reason, pay close attention to a product’s available wattage and ensure it’s a great fit for the application you plan on using it for.
• Number of Ports: Some chargers feature multiple USB Type C ports and may even throw in a USB 3.0 port for good measure. Multi-port USB Type C chargers can be a convenient option for your bedside or workstation. However, if charging speed is a concern, be sure to invest in a high-wattage charger that can handle charging multiple devices at once at full speed.
• Safety features: Unfortunately, it’s possible to fry your device by using the wrong USB Type C charger. For this reason, investing in a USB Type C charger with robust safety features is a good idea. For instance, many chargers will modify the amount of watts they deliver to connected devices to ensure they charge as fast as possible without damaging the device. Short circuit protection and automatic load monitoring are two other features that many products offer that can help protect your electronic devices.

What type of USB Type C charger can you use to charge a laptop?

First, it’s necessary to do a bit of research to determine the ideal amount of wattage for charging your laptop. Naturally, less demanding laptops can be charged by lower-watt chargers, whereas a new 16-inch MacBook Pro will require a high-wattage option. Also, be sure to select a product that offers USB C Power Delivery technology, which is a must for charging laptops using a USB Type C connection.

Our Picks for the Best USB Type C Chargers

Pros: If you’re in the market for a great car charger that won’t break the bank, the Hussell Car Charger Adapter is a great choice. This product is a convenient option for most since it has both a USB Type C Power Delivery port and a Quick Charge 3.0 port for those who travel with USB 3.0 cables. It’s also more compact than most similar options and won’t awkwardly stick out of your vehicle’s auxiliary power outlet.

Cons: While most won’t consider this much of a negative, the fact that this product doesn’t sit flush in most vehicles’ auxiliary power outlets seems to have caused some confusion when some users tried to install the charger. As with similar products, it’s not a good idea to force or jam a device into an electrical outlet, even if it sticks out ever so slightly.

Bottom Line: This product’s 6-Amp/36-watt output is more than enough to quickly charge two USB devices at a time during your next road trip. Factoring in this charger’s budget-friendly price point and compact design, it’s safe to say it delivers a great deal of value for the cost of investment.

 

Pros: If you’re looking for a great USB Type C smartphone charger to replace the model that came with your smartphone, the Anker 20W USB C Charger is just about as reliable an option as you can ask for. Its 20-watt PIQ 3.0 power delivery is perfect for charging modern smartphones as quickly as possible, and its compact design is excellent for traveling with. To sweeten the deal, this is one of the few high-quality USB Type C chargers that offer some unique color options, making it an ideal choice at its price point.

Cons: While this charger’s single port, 20-watt power offering is ideal for most smartphones, it is not a great option for those who are primarily seeking a new charger for their laptop or tablet. Also, this charger doesn’t come with a USB C cable, so if you don’t have one lying around the house, this will increase the total cost of your investment.

Bottom Line: Simply put, this is a bestselling USB Type C charger for a reason. If you’re looking for an inexpensive replacement for your Apple or Samsung charger, this one features the charging speed and build quality that makes it a steal at its price point.

 

Pros: The ZMI zPower Turbo takes the bulk out of a traditional high-wattage charger without sacrificing power, making it a fantastic travel-friendly option for those who need to charge power-hungry devices such as laptops and tablets. Unlike similar budget-friendly 65-watt chargers, this one resists running hot, making it a perfect product for charging your tablet, laptop, or even Nintendo Switch.

Cons: Unfortunately, the cable that comes with this charger is well below the standards set by the charger itself. Thus, replacing it with a high-quality USB cable right out of the box is probably a good idea.

Bottom Line: While this charger is held back slightly by its mediocre USB Type C cable, the charger itself is an incredible value in terms of power and reliability. However, some reviewers were disappointed by this product’s performance until they tried another USB Type C cable with it, so be sure to set your expectations accordingly.

 

Pros: Sporting three USB C ports and a 22.5-watt Max USB-A port, the UGREEN 100W USB C Multiport Charger is a dream to have at your workstation. Thanks to its 100-watt power offering, this charger can quickly charge multiple devices at once, including power-hungry devices like laptops and tablets. Its foldable plug and relatively compact design also make it a stellar option for charging your devices while traveling without the need to bring large, cumbersome chargers for each of your devices.

Cons: At this product’s price point, those who will not be charging high-wattage devices like laptops can likely find a more affordable multi-port charger that suits their needs. Also, it’s worth noting that this charger doesn’t come with USB-C cables.

Bottom Line: While this charger certainly impresses in terms of power, the safety features that protect your devices and charger really help make it the best heavy-duty multi-port USB Type C charger for your money. That being said, its 100-watt power supply is more than most casual consumers will need in a charger.

 

Pros: If you’re trying to save a few bucks when buying a great USB Type C charger, the Ailun 20W USB C Power Adapter is definitely a product to consider. This charger has the power to quickly charge your smartphone at a price that is much lower than offerings from major brands. Despite this, it also comes with some great features, such as a foldable plug and solid over-heat protection, making it a great bang for your buck.

Cons: While this charger performs similarly to more expensive products, its build quality is probably a step below offerings from Anker and Samsung. Thus, it might not last as long as top-tier USB Type C chargers and may be a little more finicky to use at times.

Bottom Line: Although this isn’t the best single-port USB Type C charger on the market, it’s a lot better than nearly any other charger at its price range. That being said, it probably won’t outlast most premium chargers you put it up against.

 

Pros: The Spigen 40W Dual USB C Charger is a solid option for those who regularly charge two smartphones at once, thanks to its impressive 40-watt power offering and dual USB C ports. It scores high marks in terms of charge speed, even when charging two devices at the same time. It also sports a rugged design with a foldable plug, making it a nice charger to travel with.

Cons: Since this charger doesn’t come with USB C cables, its slightly high price tag may be enough to turn prospective buyers to other chargers. That being said, its build quality and dependability are thankfully up there with other premium chargers.

Bottom Line: Those seeking a quality USB Type C charger that isn’t limited by a single USB C port will find a lot to love about this product. Many budget dual-port chargers don’t feature the wattage necessary to quickly charge two smartphones at once, so paying a little extra for this capability makes sense.

Final Thoughts

USB Type C devices are almost everywhere these days, so investing in a quality charger or two to keep them powered up and operational is necessary. That being said, finding a charger that’s perfectly suited to your needs and devices may take a bit of research. Thankfully, there are amazing chargers to be found regardless of your power needs or budget.