USB-C cables and chargers: how to choose safely
Wattage, USB Power Delivery, cable ratings, data speed and safety marks explained, so you buy a charger that is quick and safe.
USB-C chargers and cables look alike but differ a lot in power, speed and safety. A good charger can refill a phone in under an hour, while a poor one can be slow or even dangerous.
Charger wattage
Phones typically charge well with 20 to 45 W, tablets with 30 to 45 W and laptops with 65 W or more. A charger with more watts than your device needs is fine, because the device only draws what it can use.
Fast-charging standards
USB Power Delivery (PD) is the most widely supported standard, and many phones also use PPS or a maker's own system. For the fastest charging, the charger, cable and device must all support the same standard. Check your device's specifications.
The cable matters too
A cable limits how much power can flow. Many cables handle around 60 W, and cables with a built-in chip (often called e-marked) are needed for 100 W and above. Using a thin, cheap cable with a laptop charger will give slow, uneven charging.
Data speed
Some USB-C cables carry only slow USB 2.0 data (480 Mbps), however fast they charge. If you copy large files or connect a monitor, look for a cable that states its data speed, such as 10 Gbps, and video support.
GaN chargers
Chargers based on gallium nitride (GaN) are smaller and run cooler than older designs at the same power. They cost a little more but are handy for travel.
Safety marks and warning signs
Look for the safety marks that apply in your country, such as CE, UKCA or UL, and a clear list of output ratings. Be wary of very light chargers that claim a high wattage, loose plug pins, and listings with no safety information at all.
Length and durability
Braided cables with strain relief last longer. Very long cables lose a little power, so choose the shortest length that suits you.
Plug type
Chargers come with different wall plugs. Check that the plug matches your country's sockets, or buy a separate plug adapter.
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