Buying guide for best Anker wall chargers
These days, we all have mobile or wireless devices that require USB cables for charging, which means you probably need a convenient wall charger to make sure your gadgets always have enough battery life. Anker offers an array of wall chargers that can charge all of your devices quickly and easily without breaking the bank.
Many Anker wall chargers can charge more than one device at a time, but the number of ports varies from model to model. Many chargers are designed to be very durable, so you don’t have to worry about dropping or bumping into it. You can even find some Anker wall chargers that also work when they’re not plugged into the wall, so you can charge your devices on the go.
But with so many Anker wall chargers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. Our buying guide is full of tips to help you find the best Anker wall charger for your needs. We’ve also included several product recommendations for the easiest shopping possible.
Key considerations
Power supply
Wall chargers typically offer a greater watt output than the chargers included with your smartphone, tablet, or other devices, but not all wall chargers provide the same amount of power. Most high-quality chargers offer 12 to 45 watts of power output, which allows for quick, efficient charging for your devices. It’s best to avoid any chargers that don’t provide at least 12 watts.
Anker wall chargers typically offer between 15 and 60 watts. Lower-end models that provide 15 to 24 watts are a solid option if you only need to charge your phone. However, if you want to use the wall charger for other devices like a tablet or laptop, you need a model that offers at least 30 to 60 watts.
Charging speed
In addition to wattage, it’s crucial to consider a wall charger’s output charging speed. It’s determined by the charger’s amperage speed. Those that operate at 1 amp (A) are relatively slow, while those that work at 2 amps charge your devices at a relatively moderate rate.
For true charging speed, opt for a wall charger with at least a 2.4-amp speed. This type of charger can handle nearly any device, including tablets and laptops. The fastest charging speed is 3 amps, which can be especially helpful when you’re charging higher-powered devices. Anker wall chargers typically offer a charging speed between 1.5 and 3 amps, depending on the model you choose.
A wall charger’s charging speed can give you an idea of how long it takes to fully charge a device. An Anker wall charger with a 2.4-amp charging speed takes 2 hours on average to fully charge a device. A smartphone usually takes less time, while a laptop may take longer. Models with a slower charging speed can take 3 hours or more to charge a device, while those with speeds above 2.4 amps work even more quickly.
Compatibility
Anker wall chargers are generally compatible with any device that charges via a USB cable, which includes nearly all iPhones and Android phones and most tablets. Anker usually provides a list of compatible devices in each charger’s product description, so you can be sure that it will effectively charge your phone and other devices.
If you lose the charger that came with your device, an Anker wall charger can be a more affordable replacement than one from the manufacturer.
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Features
Design
Anker wall chargers are available in several different designs and various sizes, so you can find an option that suits your needs. Many have a compact, simple design, which makes it easy to carry the charger in your bag wherever you go.
Most Anker chargers have a square or cube-like shape. However, some models have an ultra-slim design for greater convenience. These chargers are incredibly easy to pack, so they’re ideal for anyone who travels regularly.
Ports
The most basic Anker wall chargers have a single USB port to charge one device at a time. However, you can find plenty of models with two ports and even some with as many as four. If you have several devices that charge via a USB cable, you’ll want to choose a model with more ports.
You should also consider the type of ports on your chosen Anker wall charger. All models provide USB-C ports, the type of connection used by most devices manufactured since 2014. Some models also have a USB-A port, which is the traditional USB connection. You can even find some Anker wall chargers with an HDMI port that allows you to stream media to a second monitor or external display.
Portable charging
All Anker wall chargers can charge devices while plugged into an outlet, but some models also have a rechargeable battery that allows them to function as portable chargers. You can charge the battery by plugging it into the wall and then remove the charger from the wall to toss in your bag. That enables you to charge your phone or other devices even when there isn’t an outlet in sight.
LEDs
For convenience, some Anker wall chargers have LED indicator lights that allow you to see a device’s charging status at a glance. That way, you can be sure your phone is charging even if you’re across the room.
DID YOU KNOW?
Shorter, more frequent charging sessions are better for your device’s battery than longer, less frequent charging cycles.
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Anker wall charger prices
Anker wall chargers vary in price based on power, number of ports, and other functions. Most cost between $11 and $76.
Inexpensive: The most affordable Anker wall chargers offer 15 to 24 watts of power and charging speeds of 1.5 to 2.4 amps. They generally have one or two USB ports. You'll pay between $11 and $24 for these models.
Mid-range: These Anker wall chargers typically offer 24 to 45 watts of power and charging speeds of 1.5 to 3 amps. They usually have between two and four USB ports, and some models in this price range function as portable chargers. You’ll pay between $25 and $50 for these models.
Expensive: The most expensive Anker wall chargers offer more than 45 watts of power and charging speeds of 2.4 to 3 amps. They have at least two USB charging ports, and some have an HDMI port as well. You’ll pay between $50 and $75 for these models.
Most households have at least three to five devices that require charging with a USB cable.
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Tips
- Check the charging cables for all your devices. The Anker wall charger you choose has to have the appropriate port for the cable each device uses or you won’t be able to use the charger.
- Charging multiple devices at once slows the charging time. That’s because the power that the charger provides has to be split between all the devices. Opt for a model with at least 2.4 amps if you plan to use it for two or more devices at a time.
- Turn off your device before charging it. If you need to charge your device in a hurry, make sure that it’s turned off before connecting it to the wall charger. Even when a device is asleep, it draws power and slows the charging time.
FAQ
Q. What safety features should I look for in a wall charger?
A. Everyone wants peace of mind when using a wall charger, so safety features are always an important consideration. A wall charger should offer protection against overheating to prevent an accidental fire if it gets too hot. You should also choose a model with short-circuit protection to avoid possible damage to your device. Some wall chargers also have an amp controller that stabilizes the current to keep your device from getting fried.
Q. Do Anker wall chargers work outside the United States?
A. Anker wall chargers are typically designed for the voltage in the country where they’re sold. Most models are compatible with 100 to 240 volts, but you might need an adapter if you travel outside the U.S.
Q. Are Anker wall chargers covered by a warranty?
A. All Anker wall chargers are protected by an 18-month warranty against problems that result from workmanship or material defects.
