Joybuy Insights

The One GaN Charger to Replace Your Laptop, Tablet, and Phone Chargers

By the Joybuy Editorial Team

Our digital lives are getting richer, but our power strips and backpacks are begging for mercy. Juggling separate chargers for your laptop, smartphone, and tablet often results in a tangled mess.

Fortunately, a game-changing technology is here: GaN (gallium nitride). A fast GaN charger packs impressive firepower into an ultra-compact form factor, all while being far more energy-efficient than traditional silicon chargers.

This guide will help you decode the essential features and introduces our top picks for 2026.

How to Choose the Right GaN Fast Charger

Before you buy, there are a few key points to check to ensure your new charger is a perfect match for your devices and your lifestyle.

1. Total Power (in Watts): The Most Critical Factor

Expressed in watts (W), power is the number one criterion. It dictates the charging speed and the types of devices you can power up.

  • For a smartphone: A 20W to 30W charger is more than enough for fast charging (e.g., for a recent iPhone charger or Samsung charger).
  • For a tablet or ultrabook: Opt for a power output of 45W to 65W.
  • For a high-performance laptop: A 100W charger or higher is essential to properly power a MacBook charger for a Pro model or an equivalent PC, especially if you plan to charge other devices simultaneously.

The good news: most modern GaN chargers incorporate the Power Delivery (PD) standard, which automatically adjusts the power delivered to each device. This means you can safely plug a small smartphone into a very powerful charger.

2. Number and Type of Ports: Versatility is Key

  • USB-C Ports: These have become the standard for fast charging. Make sure you have at least one, and ideally several if you own many recent devices.
  • USB-A Ports: Still handy for compatibility with older cables or accessories (smartwatches, headphones, etc.).
  • Configuration: A 3-port charger (for example, two USB-C and one USB-A) is often the ideal compromise for on-the-go use.

3. Compactness and Portability: GaN's Key Advantage

This is where GaN technology shines: it enables the creation of incredibly small chargers. If you're often on the move, the space and weight saved by a compact travel charger is a life-changing benefit. Some models even take the concept further with clever features like retractable cables for almost zero bulk.

Top GaN Charger Recommendations

Here are a few standout models that distinguish themselves with their power and design, catering to different types of users.

Anker 736: Raw Power for Pros

Anker 736 100W Wall Charger

Why we picked it: With its 100W maximum power output, the Anker 736 is a powerhouse built for the most power-hungry devices. Anker states that its GaN II technology allows it to be more compact than Apple's original 96W charger. A true feat of engineering.

  • Highlights:

    • 100W of power to charge nearly any laptop at full speed through a single USB-C port.
    • 3-port charger: two USB-C ports and one USB-A port for maximum versatility.
    • Intelligent power distribution to fuel three devices at once.
  • Who is it for?

    • Professionals and creatives with a powerful laptop charger (MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, etc.).
    • Those who want a single charger for the office and for travel that can handle everything.

See details for the Anker 736 (100W)

Baseus EnerCore CJ21: The Champion of Travel Organisation

Baseus EnerCore CJ21 Charger with Retractable Cables

Why we picked it: Its secret? A brilliantly smart design that integrates two retractable cables (one USB-C and one Lightning). No more tangled mess at the bottom of your bag! It's the very definition of a well-designed travel charger.

  • Highlights:

    • All-in-one concept with built-in cables: no need to remember to pack your own.
    • 67W power output, perfect for a MacBook Air, a tablet, and a smartphone.
    • A free USB-C port to plug in a third device.
  • Who is it for?

    • Frequent flyers and digital nomads who count every ounce and love to stay organised.
    • Users who juggle both Apple and Android ecosystems, thanks to the Lightning and USB-C cable duo.

Discover the Baseus EnerCore CJ21

Ugreen X512: Minimalism in its Purest Form

Ugreen X512 20W GaN Wall Charger

Why we picked it: Sometimes, simpler is better. The Ugreen X512 is the epitome of a compact charger. With its 20W output and single USB-C port, it does one thing, but it does it perfectly: fast-charge your smartphone. Its tiny size lets it slip into any pocket.

  • Highlights:

    • Ultra-compact and feather-light form factor, thanks to GaN technology.
    • 20W power output (PD 3.0), ideal for fast-charging modern smartphones.
    • Unbeatable value for a simple charging need.
  • Who is it for?

    • Those primarily looking for a fast iPhone charger or Samsung charger that is small enough to go unnoticed.
    • Ideal as a second charger to leave at the office or keep permanently in your bag.

Check out the Ugreen X512 (20W)

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection covers the most common needs, but the world of GaN chargers is much larger. Higher wattage, more ports, different designs... there's a model out there waiting for you.

Explore our full catalogue to find the perfect gem that will match your gear flawlessly.

Browse All USB Electronic Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is GaN technology, and what's the benefit for a charger?

Gallium nitride (GaN) is a next-generation semiconductor material that is replacing the silicon in our old chargers. Its special property? It conducts electricity much more efficiently and therefore generates far less heat. The result: manufacturers can build chargers that are much smaller, lighter, and more powerful, without the risk of overheating.

Q2: Is a 100W charger dangerous for my smartphone that only needs 20W?

Absolutely no risk! Modern GaN chargers incorporate smart charging protocols like USB Power Delivery (PD). In practice, the charger and your device "talk" to each other to ensure the device only receives the maximum power it can safely handle. Using a more powerful charger will never damage your device.

Q3: Are GaN chargers truly universal?

For the most part, yes. Thanks to the USB-C Power Delivery standard, they are designed to be universal. They work with a very wide range of devices: smartphones (Apple, Samsung, Google...), tablets (iPad, Galaxy Tab), laptops (MacBook, Dell, HP, Lenovo), and even portable gaming consoles. To take advantage of maximum speed, just make sure your devices are compatible with fast charging via USB-C.