Many people choose USB wall plugs over wired chargers since their USB design allows them to be used with a vast array of USB technology. Thus, all you will need is compatible USB cables for your devices to be charged instead of investing in many different chargers. However, it’s important to do your research so that you end up with a USB wall plug that is perfect for your devices and lifestyle.
Buying Guide for USB Wall Plugs
Why buy a USB wall plug?
There are plenty of reasons to invest in a new USB wall plug. Perhaps your current USB charging options are not powerful enough to quickly charge your devices. Maybe you’re looking for a USB wall plug with multiple ports so that you can charge several devices at once. Or, perhaps your old USB wall plug gave up the ghost, and you’re seeking a reliable replacement that will give you many years of use. Whatever the reason may be, there is likely an affordable USB wall plug out there that’s ideal for your needs.
What should you look for in a USB wall plug?
- Charging Speed: The speed at which a USB wall plug will charge your devices depends on many factors, from amperage/voltage to your devices’ battery capacity to the number of devices you are charging with a single USB wall plug. For speedy charging, try to find a USB wall plug that features a USB 3.0 or USB-C standard if your devices are compatible. Keep in mind that devices like laptops will need more power than your phone or wireless Bluetooth speaker, so be sure that your USB wall plug provides enough wattage for demanding applications.
- Design: Before buying a USB wall plug, there are several design considerations. Does it feature a portable design, or is it better suited for a permanent station in your home or office? If you’re seeking a portable option, it’s best to find a USB wall plug with a foldable plug and compact design. Also, be aware of how many AC outlets a USB wall plug will take up by closely considering its number of plugs, size, and whether or not it can be repositioned via a rotating design.
- Number of Ports: USB wall plugs that have multiple USB ports are best suited for those who charge more than one device at a time. While inexpensive multi-port USB wall plugs may lack the power to charge two laptops at once, these are usually a wonderful option to keep by your nightstand so that you can plug in two or three devices when you go to bed and have them be fully charged in the morning.
What should you consider when buying a USB wall plug for charging multiple devices?
If you’re planning on buying a multi-port USB wall plug that can charge multiple devices at once, it’s important to make sure that it has enough amperage for how you will use it. In general, charging a smartphone at optimal speed will take at least 1 amp, although certain fast charging technologies can up the amperage for blazing-fast charge speeds. However, if you are also charging a tablet and wireless earphones, you will want a USB wall plug that pulls around 4 amps to maintain a fast charge speed.
Our Picks for the Best USB Wall Plugs
Pros: If you’re looking for a versatile USB wall plug with some serious speed, the Aioneus 4-Port Charging Block gives you the best performance for the lowest price. This 40W USB wall plug is great for charging multiple devices at once and even includes a Quick Charge 3.0 port to quickly charge your smartphone without wasting time. It also scores points for its heat management, as it tends to stay cool even when charging a few devices at once.
Cons: This is a fairly large product, even when compared to other four-port USB wall plugs. Also, it may not be the best option for traveling since it doesn’t feature a foldable plug. That being said, it is solidly built, so most people won’t have to worry about this product becoming damaged en route to their destination.
Bottom Line: Those with limited AC outlets will love the versatility this USB wall plug offers, as it can handle a wide variety of USB charging needs in a single, convenient location. Its Quick Charge 3.0 outlet is also an excellent match for the demands of most USB-C devices, such as Android smartphones, assuming you have the cable for the job. That being said, those seeking to charge their laptop will want to find a more powerful product to match their needs.
Pros: This Anker 20W USB-C Charger sports an incredibly similar look and feel to Apple’s 20W USB-C offering, and its dependability is nothing to scoff at either. So, if your smartphone is USB-C compatible, you’re likely to achieve the fastest charging speed possible with this product. This USB wall plug also impresses in terms of its unique color offerings and longevity, making it an affordable option for those seeking a USB-C wall plug capable of years of reliable service.
Cons: Naturally, this product’s most significant limitation is the fact that it can only charge one device at a time. So, it might not be a perfect choice for those with limited outlets who are seeking the best bang for their buck. However, its PowerIQ 3.0 technology does ensure that it’s compatible with a wide range of electronic devices.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking to replace the trusty USB-C charger that arrived with your smartphone, this offering from Anker is one of the few budget-friendly USB-C wall plugs that can hang with high-quality offerings from Samsung and Apple. However, those with a plethora of USB-C devices might benefit from a USB wall plug with more outlets.
Pros: With a total output of 2.1 amps, these FiveBox USB Wall Chargers probably won’t be the fastest-charging USB wall plugs in your arsenal. However, with two USB ports per charger and five USB wall plugs for an affordable price, it’s hard to argue that this product isn’t an amazing value for your money. So, if you’re looking for an inexpensive set of USB chargers that can be used all over the house and are especially ideal for less demanding electronics, this five-pack is an awesome choice.
Cons: Like most budget USB wall plugs, these will take longer to charge your devices compared to more technologically sophisticated offerings such as the products listed above. If you can deal with this, as well as the fact that these USB wall plugs aren’t designed to last forever, you will likely be happy with your purchase.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a basic USB charging option for your kitchen, living room, bedroom, and office, these chargers are unlikely to disappoint. The multiple color offerings are also an underrated touch, especially for families with children who often accuse their siblings of “stealing” their charger. Problem solved!
Pros: Featuring a nice variety of ports and outlets that are sure to exceed the needs of many, the Addtam USB Surge Protector is a versatile option that won’t leave you short on AC outlets. This USB surge protector even includes a 3-amp max USB-C port to quickly charge your smartphone with enough juice left to charge another device via USB. It also scores points for its impressive safety features, including solid surge and overcurrent protection as well as temperature control.
Cons: The maximum amperage for USB charging using this product is set in stone at 4.5 amps, so if you’re taking advantage of its USB-C port, its other ports are unlikely to impress you in terms of charging speed. That being said, you could plug another quick charge USB wall plug into its AC outlet to quickly charge another device.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking to add some USB ports to your space without wasting valuable AC outlets, this USB surge protector is a great choice. However, its USB charging capabilities are not exactly suited for those with the need for speed unless they’re okay for charging one device at a time. For overnight USB charging, however, this remains a handy product.
Pros: If you frequently need to charge power-hungry electronics, the UGREEN 100W USB C Multiport Charger is up to the task. This USB-C wall plug is powerful enough to charge two USB-C laptops at once and maintains admirable charging speeds even with all of its ports in use. Despite its number of ports, it features a travel-friendly design that comes equipped with a foldable plug to keep your charger safe while in transit.
Cons: While it’s difficult to fault this product in terms of power or convenience, some may take issue with its price tag, which is up there with other premium USB wall plugs. Additionally, some have noted displeasure with how this product temporarily disconnects while adjusting the wattage per port when a new device is connected.
Bottom Line: You won’t find many USB wall plugs capable of charging a laptop, much less several laptops at once. For this reason, it’s understandable that you will need to pay more for this product than one designed to accommodate smartphones. That being said, it’s hard to imagine a workstation out there that would not benefit from this product’s power and dependability.
Final Thoughts
The USB wall plug that you choose should be an ideal fit for the space where you’ll use it and the devices you will charge with it. While you’ll have to pay a little more for products that can quickly charge several devices at once or accommodate power-hungry electronics, it shouldn’t be hard to find a great USB wall plug for your budget.
