How to Choose the Best USB-C Charger for Your Windows Laptop in 2023
If you own a modern Windows laptop, chances are it uses a USB-C port for charging. USB-C has quickly become the new standard, replacing the various barrel-style chargers and proprietary power adapters of the past. The transition to USB-C has brought many benefits – faster charging speeds, a reversible connector, and a wide range of compatible chargers and accessories.
However, with so many third-party USB-C chargers on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose for your valuable laptop. Using a low-quality or underpowered charger risks slow charging or even potential damage to your device.
In this guide, we‘ll break down everything you need to know to pick the best USB-C charger for your needs. We‘ll cover the most important factors to consider, provide our top charger recommendations for different use cases, and answer frequently asked questions. By the end, you‘ll be equipped to power your laptop with the best USB-C charger for maximum performance and peace of mind.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a USB-C Laptop Charger
Wattage Output
The single most important spec to check when buying a USB-C charger is the wattage output. This will determine how fast your laptop charges and needs to roughly match or exceed your laptop‘s original power adapter. Unlike USB-A, USB-C supports a very wide range of power outputs, from 18W all the way up to 240W.
Most ultraportable laptops like a Dell XPS 13 or HP Spectre x360 charge at 65W, while larger workhorse machines like the 16" MacBook Pro can take up to 140W. Check your laptop‘s original power adapter or technical specs to find the rated wattage and aim to meet or exceed this with your USB-C charger for the fastest charging speeds. Going under the rating will still charge your laptop in most cases but more slowly.
Number and Type of Ports
While a single USB-C port is sufficient to charge your laptop, having additional ports provides useful flexibility to charge other USB devices at the same time, like your smartphone, tablet, or accessories. Look for chargers with at least two ports, with an additional USB-A port being handy for devices that aren‘t USB-C native.
Keep in mind that the total advertised wattage output is shared between all ports, so a 65W dual-port charger will only provide 45-60W to your laptop if you‘re also charging a phone. The best multi-port chargers will intelligently distribute power, giving priority to your laptop.
Size and Portability
If you‘ll frequently be taking your charger on the go, size and weight are important considerations. While traditional power adapters were bulky, many new USB-C chargers use gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology to offer amazingly compact designs.
GaN chargers are up to 50% smaller than silicon chargers with the same output. For example, you can now find 65W chargers that will easily fit in your pocket. Smaller chargers are also lighter to carry around. If you travel frequently, it‘s worth paying a bit more for a compact GaN charger.
Brand Reputation and Product Quality
Stick with chargers from reputable brands that have a track record of delivering safe, well-made, reliable products. Some of the leading brands offering high-quality USB-C chargers include Anker, Belkin, UGreen, and Spigen.
Read user reviews and look for red flags like reports of hot plugs, inconsistent power delivery, or premature failure. The cheapest generic chargers may cut corners in construction and circuitry to hit a price point. Since a laptop charger is something you‘ll use daily, it‘s worth investing in quality.
Price
USB-C chargers are available at a wide range of price points, from under $20 for basic low-wattage single-port models up to $100+ for powerful multi-port desktop chargers. For a quality 65-100W charger suited for most laptops, expect to pay in the $30-$70 range, with 2-port and GaN models priced at the higher end of the range.
Our Top USB-C Charger Picks
With the key considerations in mind, here are our top recommended USB-C laptop chargers for different needs and budgets:
- Best Overall: Anker 737 Power Bank
For a great all-around performer that will quickly charge most laptops, the Anker 737 is our top pick. This 120W 2-port charger provides plenty of power for even large laptops, with a second USB-C port for simultaneously fast charging a phone or tablet.
The compact design uses GaN technology to pack those impressive specs into a travel-friendly size. Anker is one of the most respected names in charging products, known for safety and reliability. At around $95, the 737 is expensive but its performance and quality justify the cost for heavy usage.
- Best Compact: Anker 511 Nano 3
If you‘re looking for an exceptionally portable charger, it‘s hard to beat the Anker 511 Nano 3. This tiny 30W USB-C charger is smaller than a golf ball and weighs just 1 ounce, making it effortless to slip into a pocket or bag.
While 30W won‘t be enough for larger laptops, it‘s sufficient for charging compact ultrabooks and tablets. The prongs also fold up for easy transport. As an affordable single-port charger from a trusted brand, the Nano 3 is an unbeatable travel companion for $23.
- Best Value: UGreen 65W Dual Port Charger
UGreen‘s 65W charger offers impressive charging performance at a highly competitive price of around $30. With two USB-C ports and power delivery up to 65W, it can fast charge most mid-size laptops and a second device.
The fast, consistent performance is backed up by UGreen‘s excellent reputation for safety and reliability. It‘s not the smallest dual-port 65W charger available, but provides a great balance of speed, quality, and value for the money.
- Best High Power: HyperJuice 140W USB-C Charger
Owners of power-hungry workstation laptops like the 16" MacBook Pro will appreciate the HyperJuice‘s industry-leading 140W output. It can recharge even these large machines at maximum speed. Two additional 18W USB-C ports and a USB-A port allow for charging multiple devices.
At 140W, the HyperJuice is notably larger than lower-powered options but still reasonably compact considering its output. With great performance and a robust design, it earns its premium $130 price tag for those who need the extra power.
- Best Versatility: Satechi 165W Desktop Charger
For a one-stop charging solution for all your USB devices, Satechi‘s unique 4-port desktop charger has you covered. It boasts two 100W USB-C ports for laptops, a 30W USB-C for phones or tablets, and an 18W USB-A.
With a total output of 165W, this charger can handle multiple power-hungry devices with ease. The desktop form factor takes up little space on your desk and keeps your charging neat and organized. At $120 it‘s pricey and less portable than other options, but offers unmatched versatility for keeping all your devices topped up at your workspace.
What to Know Before Buying
When shopping for a USB-C charger for your laptop, there are a few other important things to be aware of:
Look for USB-IF certification: Chargers that have been certified by the USB Implementers Forum have been independently tested for safety and spec compliance. While not mandatory, USB-IF certification provides extra peace of mind.
GaN vs silicon: Chargers that use gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductors can offer much smaller sizes and slightly better efficiency than traditional silicon. They do cost more but are generally worth it for the portability benefits.
Cable not always included: Some USB-C chargers include a USB-C cable, while others require you to provide your own. If you need a cable, factor that into the total cost.
Further Reading
We‘ve focused on chargers in this guide, but there‘s a lot more you may want to know about USB-C and charging. Check out these other helpful articles:
USB-C vs. Thunderbolt 3 and 4: What‘s the difference?
Charging on the go: The best power banks with USB-C
USB-C cable buying guide: How to choose the right one
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a third-party USB-C charger with my laptop?
A: Yes, any USB-C charger with sufficient wattage output and a USB-C cable can charge a USB-C compatible laptop. Stick to reputable brands for the best experience.
Q: Is it bad to use a charger with lower wattage than the original power adapter?
A: In general, no. The laptop will charge more slowly, but it won‘t be harmed. However, some laptops may not charge at all below a certain wattage threshold.
Q: Can I use a higher wattage charger than my laptop‘s original?
A: Yes, using a charger with higher wattage is fine and will charge your laptop faster. The laptop will only draw as much power as it needs.
Q: How can I tell if a USB-C port supports charging?
A: Check your laptop‘s documentation or look for a small battery icon next to the port. Most USB-C ports support charging but some only support data.
Q: What else can I charge with a USB-C laptop charger?
A: Any device that charges via USB-C, which includes most modern smartphones, tablets, wireless earbuds, portable gaming systems, and more. Many laptop chargers have additional USB-A ports for wider compatibility.
We hope this guide has helped you understand what to look for in a USB-C laptop charger and find the best option for your specific needs. Whether you‘re looking for the absolute fastest charging speeds, a compact companion for travel, or an affordable, reliable all-arounder, there‘s a USB-C charger out there for you.
