When it comes to maximizing the charging speed capabilities of your device, whether it be a phone, tablet, computer, or other gear, there are a few things that need to fall in line. Just because a device can charge at a specific wattage doesn’t mean it will. You need the right cable, adapter, and outlet to facilitate this. Yes, there are differences.
Without knowing this, and even beyond having the proper accessories, there are some common mistakes people often make when it comes to USB-C charging that impede the speed. At least we can be certain that one of them isn’t attempting to place the cable into a port upside down! While that was a common issue with USB-A, it’s an impossibility with USB-C. Even with this more logical, user-friendly design and faster charging capabilities, however, there are a few things to note so you don’t ruin your charging speed.
Not having the right adapter
A fast charge adapter is needed
Credit: Christine Persaud / MUO
The maximum charging speed noted for a device requires a cable and adapter to match. If you have a cheap cable and/or adapter that doesn’t support a higher wattage, the device will still charge, but only at the speed it allows. In many cases, products like smartphones come with a standard charging adapter in the box. But to enjoy the maximum charging speeds, you need to invest in an optional fast-charging adapter from the same brand or a third-party brand. It’s fine if it has a higher wattage than your device supports; it will still recharge at the maximum wattage your device supports. But if you get one that’s under, you aren’t leveraging the full potential for charging speed and efficiency.
Some brands get you set up from the jump: the OnePlus 13 (our review), for example, includes a fast-charging adapter in the box (country-dependent). But with a phone like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (our review), while it supports wired charging up to 45W, it doesn’t even come with a charging adapter in the box, only a cable. So, it’s important to be aware of which charging adapter you need to maximize charging speed, and buy or use one that matches.
Not using the right cable
Size, power, and construction matter
The same goes for the cable. If you have a cheap, slow cable, it won’t support faster charging, even with the proper adapter. You should look for a cable that supports USB Power Delivery (PD) or Qualcomm Quick Charge, and with a rating to match the device. Also consider the voltage, which determines the pressure at which electricity flows through the cable. A higher-voltage cable (10V versus 5V, for example) should, in theory, charge a capable device faster.
Most of the latest premium phones come with a fast charge-capable cable, especially since they don’t include the adapter (also known as a power brick). But if you’re using secondary cables on the go, in the car, or in other spots of the home, if they don’t meet the specifications, you’ll find that your device probably charges more slowly. If the device supports up to 60W wired charging, a 3A cable should be fine. For gear that supports up to 100W, like a laptop, look for a 5A cable.
Consider the cable’s quality as well. Thicker, lower-gauge cables can permit more efficient power flow. Length matters, too. While you might love that six-foot-long cord that reaches all the way to the outlet behind the couch, longer cables can degrade the signal. A shorter, higher-quality cable might charge the battery faster.
Charging under the wrong conditions
A cool, dark place is best
Credit: Christine Persaud / MUO
Even with USB-C’s faster charging, you still need to charge your devices in the right conditions to achieve the best charging speed. If you charge it outdoors in direct sunlight, for example, the device won’t charge as quickly. If it has a thick case that can trap heat, you might find that charging speed is impacted, too.
For the best results, charge your phone in a cool, dark place and avoid running apps or other software in the background (unless it’s a necessary update). Charging the phone in direct sunlight or in direct heat, or with a thick, bulky case, could cause overheating and slow down the charging process.
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Maximize your charging speed
From red to fully ready in a flash
Credit: Christine Persaud / MUO
The latest devices offer fantastic charging speeds. The iPhone 17 Pro Max, for example, works with 40W chargers, which can get it to 50 percent in just 20 minutes. The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL supports 45W charging with the right charger, which can get you back up to 70 percent in half an hour. Want the new Samsung Galaxy TriFold foldable phone once it’s available? It supports super-fast 45W charging to get to half charge in 30 minutes, and it comes with a 45W adapter so you can get the maximum charging speed right out of the box. But this isn’t always the case.
Check the charging rate of your device, whether it’s a phone, tablet, laptop, or other gear, then the specs of a USB-C adapter and cable before you buy. There’s no point buying a slow adapter for a phone that can handle much more. Fork over the extra dough for a higher-wattage one and a better-quality cable. This way, no matter where you charge, your phone’s battery will boost in record time.
Brand
Anker
Cable included
No
Get up to 65W charging with this charger from one of the top brands in the business. It has two USB-C ports along with a USB-A for legacy devices and cables you’ve been hanging onto. Charge all the latest phones at a rapid pace, and it’s small enough tot take with you.
