iPad is a high-quality computing device for Apple users. It is the equivalent of tablets on Android OS with Apple’s proprietary features and apps. iPads have robust features, apps, and productivity tools for everyday use, which is why finding the best iPad chargers is so important.
iPads run on iPadOS with a host of features and collaboration tools for professional users and a couple of entertainment apps for gaming, downloading movies, and online gaming. Because of their lightweight and compact design, iPads are ideal for use on the go.
Therefore, you need a quality charger to keep your device juiced up for your daily use. If you are an iPad user, you may be torn between the available iPad chargers on the market.
In this comprehensive guide, we have reviewed and ranked the five best iPad chargers based on their performance, portability, safety features, and price to help you choose the best for your needs. Now, let’s jump into our top five picks:
- Best Overall: Anker Nano 3 30W Charger
- Best Apple iPad Charger: Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter
- Best for Multiple Devices: UGREEN 100W 4-Port Charger
- Best Budget Option: Amazon Basics 12W USB Wall Charger
- Fastest Charger: Anker PowerPort III Nano
Best Overall: Anker Nano 3 30W Charger
- 30W
- Features foldable plugs for compact storage
- Available in a variety of colors.
- 24 months warranty
- Super fast 25W charging capable
Anker Nano 3 30W Charger is an incredible charger for iPads. It is small but powerful, featuring a 30W output. Its small form makes it easily portable, so you can carry it on your trips. It is also easily foldable so that it can fit in your pockets.
Anker Nano 3 is 70% smaller than an original 30W charger. It is compatible with many devices, including iPhones, earbuds, smartwatches, and tablets. Therefore, besides charging your iPad at 20W, this tiny charger can fast charge all your other devices.
It also supports Samsung 25W fast charge, making it ideal for Apple users with alternative Samsung devices. The cable is long enough for convenience.
It also features ActiveShield 2.0, an upgraded protection feature that monitors the temperature and adjusts power output to ensure your device is safe from excess heat. ActiveShield 2.0 monitors temperature two times more than ActiveShield 1.0.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Best Apple iPad Charger: Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter
- Offers fast charging
- Compatible with any USB‑C-enabled device
- Fast-charging feature for iPhone 8 or later
- Works with all iPhone, AirPods, iPad, and Apple Watch models
- USB-C wall charger only
The Apple 20W USB‑C Power Adapter is Apple’s proprietary Charger and offers fast charging for most Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, AirPods, and Apple watches. You can use the adapter with any USB‑C-enabled device; however, it delivers optimal performance when used on Apple devices. It is lightweight and compact, making it convenient for travel.
This charger has an input voltage of 15V which is safe for your iPad because it draws just the amount of power the adaptor needs. Apple provides this charger out of the box for its devices, so it will be available when you purchase a new iPad.
It is also affordable, so if your charger is old or no longer functional, you can buy the Apple 20W USB‑C Power Adapter from Apple stores or their authorized resellers.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Best for Multiple Devices: UGREEN 100W 4-Port Charger
- 100 Watts
- 4 ports (1 USB-A, 3 USB-C)
- Protection from overheating/ overcharging
- Super fast charging compatible
If charging multiple devices simultaneously is your concern, the UGREEN 100W 4-Port Charger is the best option. This charger has a maximum output of up to 100W, allowing you to multi-charge four devices simultaneously through the provided USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port.
Because of its multiple ports, it is compatible with a wide range of devices, including MacBooks, iPhones 12,13, and 14 series, iPad, Galaxy, and Steam decks. UGREEN 100W 4-Port Charger guarantees your device’s safety because it features Dynamic Temperature Sensors for monitoring and adjusting power output.
Also, the thermal dissipation design will safeguard your phone from heat damage even when left charging overnight. Its compact and foldable plug design makes it highly portable and convenient for travel. When folded, it becomes a small package that comfortably fits your pockets and pulse so you can retrieve it whenever needed.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Best Budget Option: Amazon Basics 12W USB Wall Charger
- Apple MFi Certified
- Built-in device detection
- USB port provides up to 2.4 amps of power
AmazonBasics 12W USB Wall Charger is a reasonably priced charger that is Apple MFi certified to ensure it is compatible with Apple devices, including iPad Pro. iPad Air and iPad. It is also widely compatible with a variety of iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, and any other USB outlet devices.
The charger provides a maximum power output of 12 watts (2.4 amps), sufficient to charge devices at average speeds, but charging will vary across different devices. Although it does not support quick charging, it is an efficient charger at a decent price point.
When the phone is fully charged, this charger will automatically shut off to conserve energy and protect the device from overcharging, over-currents, and short circuits. It is also lightweight, foldable, and compact, so users conveniently carry it in their pockets.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Fastest Charger: Anker PowerPort III Nano
Anker is popular electronic mobile charging brand with quality and reliable products. Anker PowerPort III Nano is an incredible fast charger designed for iPads, iPhones, and other USB-C devices.
The PowerPort III Nano can deliver up to 20 watts of power, allowing it to charge your devices quickly. It uses Anker’s PowerIQ 3.0 technology, which provides high-speed charging for compatible devices.
Due to its compact size and light weight, you can easily fit it in your pocket or backpack while saving space. Also, it has a foldable plug that aids in keeping it small. The majority of USB-C gadgets, including iPhones, iPads, Samsung Galaxy phones, earbuds, and smartwatches, are compatible with this charger.
Better still, the Anker PowerPort III Nano charger comes with an 18-month warranty, so you wouldn’t have to worry about anything going wrong. The customer service is also friendly and highly responsive to all your needs. Although it does not include a USB cable in the box, it is a highly efficient charger for your iPad.
Check out this product on Amazon.
How to Pick the Best iPad Chargers: Step-by-Step
There are several things to consider while choosing the best iPad charger. The most important ones include the following:
Power Output
The wattage or power output determines how fast your iPad charges. Since iPads are known to charge slowly, you need to ensure the charger you choose has at least 10-12 watts of power or higher if you want faster charging speeds.
It is important to note that higher wattage does not always translate to better charging. Also, chargers with high power output cost more than standard chargers. Apple recommends a 20-watt charger for the iPad. Many modern iPad models come with this charger out of the box.
Port Compatibility
Most newer iPads are now using USB-C cables in place of Lightning cables for charging. Therefore, you need a charger with a USB-C port compatible with your iPad model. If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously, look for adaptors with multiple ports, like the UGREEN 100W 4-Port Charger, which has four USB ports with a maximum power output of 100 watts.
Brand Reputation
Apart from Apple, there are different brands producing quality and reliable chargers. Sometimes it may be difficult to tell the best charger, but brands like Anker, Belkin, UGREEN, and Aukey have a reputation for producing quality chargers for multiple devices.
Safety Features
An iPad is a costly device you will want to protect from any damage. Therefore, investing in a charger with safety and protective features such as intelligent temperature sensors and heat dissipation is important. These features detect the temperature and regulate the power output accordingly.
They also protect your device from overcharging and short circuits, which may damage your iPad. This ensures your iPad charges safely. If you leave your phone to charge overnight, some chargers have an automatic shutoff feature to prevent overcharging.
Portability
Generally, most chargers are compact and easy to carry on the go. If you travel a lot, look for chargers with foldable plugs and carrying cases to fold them into small packages without affecting their charging capabilities. Also, consider the dimensions and weight. A bulky charger will take up much space and may be difficult to carry in your pockets when traveling.
Price
Price is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the best iPad charger. Different brands offer different types of chargers at different price points. Some, like Apple’s proprietary charger, are more costly than some of the offerings in the market. The high-end chargers are more durable and have advanced charging capabilities than most budget options. Ensure you pick a charger that fits your need and budget.
What to Know Before Buying an iPad Charger
When buying a charger, you must ensure it is compatible with your iPad model to avoid picking the wrong charger and risking damaging your expensive gadget. Using the wrong charger may also slow the charging process or fail to charge completely.
Also, factor in the cable length, especially if you want to use your iPad as it charges. Longer cables provide convenience and accessibility. You can even reach for your iPad from your bed.
Also, you need to know the charging speed of the charger you are buying, especially if you are replacing the Apple 20-watt charger that comes with the iPad. It will be pointless to purchase another 20-watt charger. In this case, a charger with a higher wattage will suffice.
Be sure to check the warranty provided. This will give you peace of mind that you will get a replacement if anything goes wrong.
Using the Best iPad Charger: What it’s Like
iPads are crucial devices in our daily use. You can take notes, play games, take photos, listen to music, read e-books, browse the web, access social media, or make calls.
Whether using them for entertainment, school, or professionally, you need a sufficient charge to carry out all those tasks. Having the right charger will ensure you sustain conversations and perform all the necessary tasks without running out of juice.
The right iPad charger ensures your device charges fast and safely, protecting it from overcharging and short-circuiting. If you are replacing your old iPad charger, ensure you get a charger with the right wattage, cable length, portability, safety features, and compatibility with your iPad model.
Ultimately, the best iPad charger will vary depending on your needs and budget.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Raxsoller Malayte/Shutterstock.com.
