Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W) Review
Product Information & Ratings
Review Summary
The Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W) serves as a fast, efficient charging option despite its small size. Lightweight and portable yet powerful, it makes use of GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, which means that it could easily be mistaken for a charger intended only for lower-powered devices, like the iPhone, but it can also deliver a charge good enough to power a MacBook Air in a pinch. That said, if you have a device that can really take advantage of some quick charging, this is definitely one to consider for your collection.
Design & Build Quality
Among the many facets of the Anker Nano, its compactness and lightness stand out. At 1.93 x 1.93 x 1.26 inches, it is 32.5% smaller than Apple's 20W charger. Its prongs fold in for even greater portability and are the very definition of sturdy and dependable when in use. It is eye-catching as well; in multiple color options, it's a stylish piece that looks at home on any charger.
Charging Performance
With a robust 30W of power delivery, the Nano charger can work with many devices across the Apple sphere and beyond. It can grapevine with your Galaxy phone and deliver a full 1A of current at 5V (that’s 5W, the same as what most traditional chargers used to deliver). But you’ll have to use the Lightning to USB-C cable that came with the iPhone 14 (the charger itself doesn’t have an Apple-scented pad on which you can place the phone). And if you want to charge another device at the same time—an iPad mini, say—you’ll have to time-share the available 30W. You’ll never be able to charge the two of them at the same time with maximum efficiency.
Technology & Safety
The Nano's tiny size belies its tremendous power. Even the most compact power adapters typically sacrifice raw energy output for portability. But Anker's employs Gallium Nitride (GaN) in its design, a semiconductor material that allows the company to pack more power into a smaller space. In our testing, the Nano performed as well as Anker's bulkier, older models—charging an iPhone 13 at top speed and keeping a MacBook Air juiced up during our intensive torso test, in which we used the laptop aboard a big ol' airship for an extended period of time.
Value for Money
Offering 30W of power in an impressively compact form, the Anker Nano is a great deal at about $22.99. While some cheaper options are available, they tend to be larger and may not be as efficient. What's more, the Anker Nano comes with a safety guarantee that should give users peace of mind. One potential downside is that it doesn't come with a charging cable, so if you don't have a compatible USB-C or Lightning cable already, you'll need to buy one to use with the charger.
Who It’s For
- Travelers: This portable charger is excellent for folks who need to keep their compact, portable power supplies on hand when moving about and who primarily use Apple products.
- Apple Users: It won't serve well for those who need to power more than one device at a time.
Overall Rating: 4.4/5
The top-quality, budget-friendly Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W) provides a compact solution for speedy wall charging without a lot of bulk. Add to that a sturdy performance, an absence of overheating, and a well-rounded set of safety features, and you've got a charger likely to please any and all of your assorted devices.
Pros
- Compact and Portable: The Nano 30W is 70% smaller than typical 30W chargers, with a foldable plug design ideal for travel. It’s sleek, lightweight, and comes in multiple colors, adding both style and practicality
- Efficient Power Delivery: Capable of delivering 30W output, it charges devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and iPad Air (5th Gen) quickly, reaching up to 50% battery in under 45 minutes. The Nano also supports fast charging for select Samsung Galaxy models, thanks to GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, which enhances power efficiency
- Enhanced Safety Features: Equipped with Anker’s ActiveShield 2.0, the Nano monitors temperature millions of times per day to prevent overheating, providing reliable device protection and a safe charging experience
Cons
- Single Port Limitation: With only one USB-C port, the Nano is best suited for users needing a dedicated, single-device charger. Users who want multi-device charging may prefer alternatives with more ports
- Cable Not Included: Unlike some other chargers, the Nano doesn’t come with a USB-C or Lightning cable, so users may need to purchase one separately if they don’t have a compatible cable already
- Minor Price Premium: Although priced around $22, some cheaper single-port alternatives exist, although these often lack the compact design and power efficiency of the Nano
Key Features
- 30W Power Delivery: Suitable for charging phones, tablets, and even MacBook Air in a pinch.
- Foldable Prongs: Enhances portability, making it easy to carry in pockets or bags without the risk of damage.
- ActiveShield 2.0: Anker’s safety tech helps monitor and manage temperature, providing better protection against overheating.
- Color Options: Available in various colors like Shell White and Ice Lake Blue, which adds a stylish touch not common in chargers
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