Chargers

A phone charger is a power adapter that supplies controlled electrical power to recharge your smartphone's battery. Wall chargers draw electricity from a mains socket, car chargers use a vehicle outlet, and wireless chargers transfer energy through a compatible charging surface. Modern USB-C chargers can negotiate suitable power levels with your phone for efficient charging.

A Smart Display lets you see useful charging information without opening an app. Depending on the Anker charger, it may show real-time wattage, charging status, temperature or active charging modes. Some displays also offer visual indicators for battery-friendly settings. The screen does not automatically increase charging speed, and it mainly makes power delivery easier to monitor.

Both types of car chargers have advantages for different needs. A USB-C car charger with a built-in retractable cable keeps your car tidy and provides convenient, tangle-free charging, while a standard car charger offers greater cable flexibility, easier replacement and fewer moving parts. Your choice depends on convenience, durability and connectivity needs.

Common types of chargers for the phone include USB-C and USB-A wall chargers, wireless charging pads and stands, car chargers, and multi-port desktop stations. Travel adapters are useful when visiting countries with different plug sockets, while power strips combine AC outlets with USB charging ports. Portable power banks are another option when you need battery power away from mains electricity.

USB-A is the older rectangular connector, commonly found on older plugs and accessories. USB-C is smaller, reversible and widely used on modern smartphones and laptops. USB-C chargers often support higher-power standards such as USB Power Delivery and PPS, but the connector alone does not guarantee fast charging. The actual speed depends on the adapter, cable and device.

A 40W battery charger for phones has more available power than a 20W charger, but it will only charge your phone faster if the phone can accept that extra power and the charger supports its charging standard. Some phones reach their maximum charging speed below 40W. Cable quality, battery level and temperature also affect the result.

Check the output rating and supported protocols printed on the charger or its specifications. Look for USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), PPS or another fast-charging standard compatible with your phone. A USB-C charger for an iPhone rated at 20W or higher can provide fast-charging, though specific models require different wattages. Use a suitable cable and check your phone's charging indicator.

Check your phone's charging port, maximum supported wired wattage and charging protocol in its official specifications. For an iPhone 18 Pro, Apple's fastest wired charging requires a compatible 60W USB-PD adapter with AVS and a suitable USB-C cable. For wireless charging, check MagSafe or Qi2 compatibility. Choose a UK-compatible plug and a reliable brand.

No, a good standard charger with a higher wattage rating will not normally damage your phone, because compatible devices negotiate how much power they draw. The bigger risks are counterfeit adapters, damaged cables, unsuitable voltage supplies and chargers that do not meet safety standards. Stop charging if you notice unusual heat, smells or physical damage.

Yes, a certified charger in good condition can generally remain plugged into a properly functioning wall socket, even when nothing is connected. However, unplugging it when not in use saves a little standby electricity and removes an unnecessary powered device. Avoid damaged plugs, overloaded extensions and covering chargers with bedding or fabric, where heat may build up.