Charger shopping shouldn't require an engineering degree. Here's everything you need to know in plain English.
With dozens of charger options at every price point, choosing the right one feels overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise with a simple framework: match the charger to your devices, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Step 1: Know Your Devices
Start by listing every device you charge regularly:
- Smartphone: What's the maximum charging wattage? (Check your phone's specs)
- Laptop: Does it charge via USB-C? What wattage does it support?
- Tablet: USB-C or Lightning?
- Earbuds/Accessories: USB-C or proprietary?
The goal is to find a charger that covers the highest wattage device you own.
Step 2: Understand Wattage Requirements
- Phones: 18–25W for fast charging
- Tablets: 20–30W for fast charging
- Small laptops (MacBook Air, 13" laptops): 45–65W
- Large laptops (MacBook Pro 16", gaming laptops): 65–100W+
The NexCharger 20W Travel Adapter covers phones and tablets perfectly. The NexCharger 65W GaN Charger covers everything up to and including most laptops.
Step 3: Consider Your Lifestyle
Home/office user: Prioritize wattage and multi-device capability. The NexCharger 65W is ideal.
Frequent traveler: Prioritize compact size and international compatibility. Both NexCharger products work worldwide.
Minimalist: One charger for everything. The NexCharger 65W is the answer.
Step 4: Check for GaN Technology
GaN chargers are smaller, more efficient, and run cooler than traditional silicon chargers. For any charger above 30W, GaN is the only technology worth considering in 2026. Both NexCharger products use GaN technology.
Step 5: Verify Safety Certifications
Look for chargers with USB-IF certification, CE marking (for Europe), and FCC compliance (for the US). These certifications confirm the charger has been tested for safety and compatibility. The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) maintains the official USB-C PD standard.
The Simple Answer
For most people in 2026, the choice is straightforward: if you have a laptop, get the NexCharger 65W. If you only charge phones and tablets, get the NexCharger 20W. Both are GaN, both are safe, both work worldwide.