Buying a phone charger sounds simple until you are faced with dozens of options, confusing wattage numbers and three different cable types. Pick the wrong one and your phone charges slowly, or worse, you risk your battery’s long-term health. This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can choose a charger that’s fast, safe and right for your device.
1. Match the connector to your phone
The first thing to check is the cable connector your phone uses. Most modern Android phones, recent iPhones (iPhone 15 and later) and tablets now use USB-C, which is reversible and supports fast charging. Older iPhones use Apple’s Lightning connector. The older Micro-USB standard is now mostly limited to budget accessories and older devices. Always confirm which port your phone has before buying a cable or charger.
2. Understand wattage and charging speed
Wattage (W) tells you how much power a charger can deliver. A basic charger might output 5W, while a modern fast charger delivers 20W, 30W or more. As a rough guide, a 20W adapter is enough for fast charging most phones, while tablets and laptops benefit from 45W and above. Look for chargers that support USB Power Delivery (PD) or your phone brand’s fast-charge standard to get the best speeds. You can browse our fast chargers if speed is your priority.
3. Choose the right type of charger
Different situations call for different chargers. Wall chargers are the everyday workhorse for home and office. Wireless chargers let you simply place your phone on a pad — perfect for a tidy desk or bedside table. Car chargers keep you powered on long drives, and multi-port chargers are ideal if you need to charge a phone, watch and earbuds at once. For travelling, a compact charger or power bank is invaluable. Explore our wireless chargers and car chargers to see the options.
4. Don’t overlook cable quality
A great charger is only as good as the cable attached to it. Cheap cables fray, overheat or fail to carry full power. Look for braided, tangle-resistant cables that are rated for the wattage you need. A quality cable charges faster and lasts far longer, making it well worth the small extra cost.
5. Prioritise safety
Stick to chargers with built-in safety features such as surge protection, over-current protection and temperature control. Avoid unbranded, very cheap chargers — they may not meet UK safety standards and can damage your battery or pose a fire risk. Buying from a trusted retailer means you get certified, reliable products.
The bottom line
To choose the right charger: confirm your connector, pick enough wattage for fast charging, match the charger type to how you’ll use it, invest in a good cable and never compromise on safety. Ready to upgrade? Browse the full range in our shop.