Power adapters are essential devices that convert electrical power from one form to another. They’re used in many electronic devices we rely on daily, from smartphones to laptops.
Power adapters come in different shapes and sizes, designed to meet the specific needs of various gadgets.
A power adapter’s main job is to change the voltage and current of electricity to match what a device needs. This is crucial because different countries have different power standards, and various devices require different amounts of power.
Power adapters help keep our electronics safe and working properly.
When buying a power adapter, it’s important to check its voltage, amperage, and connector type. These factors ensure the adapter is compatible with your device and can provide the right amount of power.
We tested several power adapters to find the best options for different needs.
Best Power Adapters
We’ve researched and tested many power adapters to bring you this list of top picks. Our choices offer reliable charging for various devices while prioritizing safety and performance.
Check out our recommendations below to find the right power adapter for your needs.
Anker Fast Charger Set
We think this Anker charger set is a smart buy for anyone needing fast, reliable charging for multiple devices.
Pros
- Fast 20W charging
- Dual ports for two devices
- Compact size for travel
Cons
- Only comes in black
- Slightly pricier than basic chargers
- May not work with all device types
This Anker charger set packs a punch with its 20W fast charging ability. It can power up phones and tablets quickly, which is great when you’re in a rush.
The dual ports let you charge two devices at once, so you don’t have to choose between your phone and tablet.
We like how small these chargers are. They’re easy to slip into a bag or pocket, making them perfect for trips.
The set comes with two chargers and two USB-C cables, so you can keep one at home and one at work or in your travel bag.
Safety is key with any charger, and Anker has that covered. Their MultiProtect system keeps your devices safe while they charge.
This gives peace of mind, especially when charging overnight. The 18-month warranty is a nice bonus too. It shows Anker stands behind their product.
LUOATIP Dual USB Charger
We think this compact and versatile USB charger is a great buy for anyone needing extra charging ports.
Pros
- Charges two devices at once
- Small size for travel
- Works with many phone types
Cons
- Only has USB-A ports
- May not charge tablets quickly
- Plastic build could break if dropped
This charger packs a punch in a small package. It has two USB ports that can charge phones fast. The cube shape makes it easy to pack in a bag or suitcase.
We like that it works with lots of phones. iPhones, Androids, and other devices can all use it. This makes it handy for families with different types of phones.
The charger has safety features to stop issues like overheating. This gives peace of mind when leaving devices to charge.
At such a low price for a 3-pack, it’s a good value for adding charging spots around the house or office.
HANYCONY 12-in-1 Power Strip
We think this power strip is a great buy for anyone who needs to charge many devices at once.
Pros
- Charges up to 12 devices
- Very thin plug design
- Includes USB-C ports
Cons
- May not fit all large adapters
- Limited to 5V/3.1A total USB output
- Only available in white
This power strip is packed with features. It has 8 AC outlets and 4 USB ports. Two of these are USB-C, which is great for newer devices.
The strip can power up to 12 things at the same time. This makes it perfect for busy desks or crowded living rooms.
One of the best things about this strip is its plug. It’s super thin at only 0.35 inches. The plug also has a right angle design. This means it can fit behind furniture or in tight spots. You won’t have trouble finding a place for it.
The strip also keeps your devices safe. It has 1080 joules of surge protection, which guards against power spikes that could harm your electronics.
The strip is made of fire-resistant material too. It can stand up to heat as high as 1382°F. This gives us peace of mind when using it.
TESSAN European Travel Adapter
We think this versatile travel adapter is a great choice for anyone planning a trip to Europe.
Pros
- 7-in-1 design with 4 AC outlets and 3 USB ports
- Compatible with many European countries
- Compact and lightweight for easy packing
Cons
- Not a voltage converter
- Limited to Type C plugs
- May not work in all European countries
This TESSAN adapter is packed with features to make European travel easier. It has 4 AC outlets and 3 USB ports, letting you charge up to 7 devices at once.
This is super handy when you’re in a hotel room with limited outlets.
The adapter works in lots of European countries like France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. It’s small and light, so it won’t take up much space in your luggage.
This is great if you’re trying to pack light or have a long trip with multiple stops.
One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a voltage converter. Your devices need to be dual voltage (100-240V) to work safely.
Most modern electronics like phones and laptops are fine, but always check before plugging in.
The USB ports are handy for charging smaller gadgets without needing their own adapters.
Amazon Basics 20W USB-C Charger
We think this compact charger is a solid choice for fast charging your devices at an affordable price.
Pros
- Fast 20W charging
- Compact size with foldable plug
- Works with many devices
Cons
- Only one USB-C port
- No super-fast charging for some Samsung phones
- Might get warm during use
This Amazon Basics charger packs a punch in a small package. It delivers 20 watts of power through its single USB-C port, which is enough to quickly charge phones, tablets, and other gadgets.
The foldable plug makes it easy to toss in a bag or pocket when you’re on the go.
We like that it works with lots of devices from different brands. iPhones, iPads, Samsung Galaxy phones, and more can all get a power boost from this little brick.
It’s also nice that it has safety features built-in to protect your gear from overheating or short circuits.
Buying Guide
When looking for a power adapter, we need to consider a few key factors.
Wattage
The wattage of the adapter should match or exceed your device’s power needs. Check your device’s specifications to find the required wattage.
Voltage and Current
Make sure the adapter’s voltage matches your device. The current (measured in amps) should be equal to or higher than what your device requires.
Connector Type
Different devices use different connector types. Common ones include:
- USB-C
- Micro-USB
- Lightning (for Apple devices)
- Barrel connectors
Safety Features
Look for adapters with built-in protections:
- Overcharge protection
- Short circuit protection
- Over-temperature protection
Size and Portability
Consider how you’ll use the adapter. If you travel often, a compact, lightweight option might be best.
Additional USB Ports
Some adapters offer extra USB ports, letting you charge multiple devices at once. This can be handy for travelers or those with many gadgets.
Energy Efficiency
An energy-efficient adapter can save power and reduce electricity costs.
Look for adapters with high efficiency ratings.
By keeping these factors in mind, we can choose a power adapter that meets our needs and keeps our devices running safely.