The intense competition between various gadget manufacturers has meant that there will likely not be a conversation about bringing consistency to chargers and charging cables.
From lightning cables for Apple devices to USB-C chargers for newer Android phones, it can feel like there’s no end to the options. But which charger type is the most popular?
After some in-depth research, The Micro-USB port charger is the most popular type out there. Its simple design makes it a breeze to use, and it’s compatible with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to tablets and even cameras.
Of course, with technology always evolving, there are some other contenders in the race for the popular charger type. So, let’s dive in and explore what makes these chargers so popular and effective!
Popular Charger Types
1. Micro USB Cable Charger
Do you remember the old days when micro USB chargers were considered the standard connector for most phones? It seems like ages ago, doesn’t it?
While it’s not as popular as it once was, this little connector is still widely used in mobile phones and tech gadgets because of its small size.
They are perfect for devices that need a charging port but can’t afford to take up too much space, like wireless headphones or fitness trackers. Plus, they are cheaper than their newer counterparts, so it’s no surprise that they have yet to completely disappear from the market.
If you have an old device just before 2015, then your device would likely be using a micro USB port. Always remember this when trying to buy a used phone. It could be using an old charger type.
Compatible Devices
- Samsung Galaxy Note 6
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S series
- Amazon Fire tablets
- Xbox One controllers.
- Digital cameras
- Headsets
- Portable speakers
2. USB-C – The New Standard
Mobile manufacturers have now shifted their focus to USB type C charging cables which may just be everyone’s new best friend.
One of the best things about USB-C is its speed. It can transfer data at super-fast speeds of up to 10Gbps, which is more than twice as fast as the previous USB 3.0 standard.
This means that you can transfer files such as photos and videos in a matter of seconds, and you can also enjoy quick charging times.
The adaptable port also allows you to plug in your cable upside down and still get a charge. No more fumbling around trying to get the cable the right way up, just plug it in and go!
Even big players like Apple and Google have jumped on the bandwagon and included USB-C ports in their phones and tablet chargers. It’s great news for consumers because it means we no longer have to deal with the hassle of carrying different chargers for different devices. Apple devices are compatible with all adapters with a USB-C port.
Compatible Devices:
- Samsung Galaxy S8, Note8, A10, and above
- iPhone X and above
- Google Pixel
- Newer laptops, including the MacBook Pro and Dell XPS
- Gaming Consoles like the new Nintendo Switch
If your mobile or tablet model is post-2015, it should be compatible with a USB-C Charger. But it’s always a good idea to double-check the compatibility of your phone model before you make your purchase. Have a great day!
3. Lightning Cable – The Apple Ecosystem Essential
If you’ve been a consistent Apple user, you may have noticed that the charging cable changed around 2012. That’s when Apple said goodbye to the USB cable and introduced the lightning connector.
This new connector has become the standard for all Apple devices, from iPhones to Airpods, which means one cord could be used to connect all Apple products.
The lightning connector was designed to be more durable and versatile than its predecessor. It has an eight-pin design that allows for faster charging and data transfer. Plus, its reversible design makes it easier to plug in without fumbling around with the cable until you get it right.
Compatible Devices
- iPhone 5, 6, 7, and 8 series
- iPhone SE
- iPad 4 series
- iPhone X series
- iPad mini
- iPod nano 5th, 6th, and, 7th generation
4. Type B Charger Cable
USB-B ports are less common than the various other phone charger cable types. These cables have a distinctive square shape with slant corners. However, in recent years, the popularity of USB-B ports has declined because of the introduction of newer and more versatile types of USB chargers.
Devices Compatible with Lighting Connector:
- Printers
- Scanners
- External storage devices (Hard disks)
Things to Consider When Buying a Charger
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new charger for your cell phone. Who doesn’t want a charger that’s shiny and shimmery, right?
But before you make a hasty purchase, it’s important to do your research and fully understand the features and technical aspects of the product you’re considering.
Here are a few key things you should look for when shopping for a cell phone charger.
Compatibility
Different phone models have different charging port types, so using a charger that supports your phone’s charging port type is essential. Using a charger that’s incompatible with your phone may damage it and cause it to charge slowly or not at all. Always check your phone’s charging port type before purchasing a charger to ensure everything is clear.
You can find this information in your phone’s manual or by doing a quick online search. Once you have identified your charging port type, you can easily find a compatible charger that will safely and efficiently charge your phone. Trust me; it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your phone’s charging needs.
Brand and Quality
Sure, that guy on the corner might be selling chargers for a steal, but are you willing to risk the safety and reliability of your phone just to save a few bucks?
Instead, I recommend choosing chargers from reputable brands or manufacturers that are known for their quality and reliability.
It may cost a little more upfront, but it’s worth it in the long run to have a charger that won’t damage your phone or put you at risk. Plus, these chargers often come with warranties or customer support, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re investing in a product that will last.
Output Specifications
The voltage and current rating are important factors to consider here
- Voltage: Most smartphones and mobile devices operate on a standard 5 volts (V) voltage. This means that the charger you choose should provide a 5V output to match the device’s voltage requirement. A lower voltage output may not provide sufficient power for charging.
- Current Rating: The current rating of a charger determines how quickly it can deliver power to your device. It is measured in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA). The higher the current rating, the faster your device will charge, provided that your device is compatible with fast-charging technology. Most smartphones have charging circuitry that can handle currents ranging from 1A to 2.4A.
It’s important to note that even if a charger offers a higher current rating, your phone will only draw the amount of current it needs. For example, if your phone can handle a maximum current of 2A, but you connect it to a charger that provides 3A, the phone will only draw 2A.
If you have a device that supports fast charging technologies such as Qualcomm Quick Charge or USB Power Delivery (USB PD), you may want to consider chargers that are compatible with these standards. Such chargers can deliver higher currents (e.g., 3A or more) to charge your device at a faster rate, reducing the overall charging time.
Safety Features
I highly recommend opting for chargers that include features like over-voltage protection, over-current protection, short-circuit protection, and temperature control.
These safety features can help protect your phone from damage and reduce the risk of accidents. Over-voltage protection ensures that your phone doesn’t receive too much electricity, while over-current protection keeps the flow of electricity at a safe level. Short-circuit protection detects and prevents potential short circuits, and temperature control helps prevent your phone from overheating.
Portability and Travel-Friendly
Maybe this is not the most important, but it’s worth considering if you’re always on the move. Look for compact, lightweight chargers that are easy to carry. Some chargers also have foldable prongs for added convenience.
To conclude:
After exploring the most popular charger types, it’s clear that a wide variety of options are available to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of wireless charging, the versatility of USB-C, or the ubiquity of the standard USB-A, there’s a charger out there that will work for you.
As technology continues to advance, it’ll be interesting to see what new charger types emerge in the future. But for now, let’s appreciate the convenience and accessibility of the most popular charger types we have today!
