USB charger buying guide

Introduction:

Nowadays, most people have more than one device that needs to be charged. It can be frustrating to have to search for an available plug every time your phone or laptop dies. That's where USB chargers come in. They allow you to charge multiple devices simultaneously by plugging into a single outlet. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best USB charger for your needs? We'll help you figure out what to look for and make the best decision for your needs.

Number of ports

When purchasing a USB charger, one of the major considerations is the number of ports that will be needed. Some chargers have one port, while others have up to eight. It is worth considering how many devices you might want to charge at any given time and then add a little more for future-proofing. That said, the more ports the higher the cost and larger it will be.

Power output

The power output is normally measured in watts. The higher number of watts, the more power that can be supplied. For example, if you have a 10-watt USB charger, it can supply up to 10 watts of power to your device. Assuming the output is five volts and watts, that's 5 volts multiplied by amps. So, it is easy to work out the total current that a USB charger can provide. It is worth looking carefully at the limits for each port as you may want to have one or more ports that can support higher current levels

Style / shape / colour

When it comes to USB chargers, there are a few things you need to take into account. The style, size and shape of the charger can be important, as can the color. For example, if you want to slip the charger into a pocket, then a small one, typically with less ports may be the order of the day. However if space is not such an issue, then a larger one with more ports may be more suitable. Also, the style and color of the charger may be important for some people - naturally this should also be considered.

Brand name

When it comes to USB chargers, brand name is not everything. However, sometimes a brand name can imply a degree of greater reliability. That said, most USB chargers these days are very reliable. So, don't let the brand name be your only consideration when making your purchase. Instead, focus on the specs of the charger and how it will meet your needs.

Intelligence

There are a few things to consider when purchasing a USB charger. The most important factor is the intelligence of the charger. Many chargers incorporate intelligent technology, which enables them to recognize the attached device and automatically deliver the correct amount of power. This prevents your device from being over or under-charged and helps to preserve the battery life. You can also find chargers that offer slow and fast-charging ports. This is a great feature if you want to charge two devices simultaneously. Just be sure to connect the phone, tablet or other device to the most appropriate output. With the right USB charger, charging your devices has never been easier!

Wall chargers

When most people think of USB chargers, they think of the little rectangular plugs that you can plug into your phone to charge it. And while those are definitely the most common type of USB charger, there are actually quite a few different varieties. One of the most common (and convenient) types of USB charger is the wall charger. Wall chargers are a form of USB charger where the plug forms part of the main charger assembly and there is no wire from the charger to the mains or line power socket. This may or may not be convenient for any particular situation. For example, if you have a lot of plugs crowded together on your power strip, a wall USB charger may not be ideal because it takes up another outlet. On the other hand, if you don't have any accessible outlets near where you want to charge your device, a wall USB charger is perfect!

Input voltage range

If you're like most people, you have a USB charger or two (or ten) lying around the house. But what if you're planning a trip abroad and want to take your charger with you? Make sure it can operate over the full voltage range of 100 to 240 volts. Many USB chargers on the market can achieve this, but it's worth checking before you buy. Some USB chargers only operate at voltages down to about 180 volts, so if you're traveling to a country with a higher voltage than that, you'll need to find a different charger. Be aware that some USB chargers that can operate down to 100 volts may have a small reduction in output current at this input level.

Mains / line socket

A lot of USB chargers come with an adapter, which will then plug into the standard mains / line socket. This is really useful if you're traveling, as you're likely to need plug adapters anyway. It's also great for those times when your usual charger runs out of power and you need a quick top-up. So, if you're looking for a charger that is versatile and can be used all over the world, make sure to check for this feature before making your purchase.

Efficiency & standby power

Sadly these figures are often hard to find when investigating before buying a USB charger. Fortunately most modern USB chargers should consume virtually no power when plugged in with power applied—provided that no external device is connected, as this will mean that the charger will be providing the ability to charge. The very low current standby mode is only activated when nothing is connected.

Conclusion:

A USB charger is an essential piece of technology for anyone with a smartphone, laptop or tablet. With so many different chargers on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Our USB charger buying guide will help you make the right decision for your needs.