The charger and cable that came with your phone are some of the most-used accessories you own. When they break, many people simply buy the cheapest replacement. But a poor quality charger can charge slowly, heat up, damage your battery and in rare cases become a safety risk. Here is how to choose better.
Check the connector
Make sure the cable matches your phone. Most modern Android phones use USB-C, while older ones use micro-USB, and some iPhones use Lightning or USB-C depending on the model. A cable that fits loosely wears out your phone’s charging port.
Match the wattage
Chargers show their output in watts, usually printed on the body. Your phone only takes what it supports, so a higher-wattage charger is generally fine. A weaker charger will work but charge slowly. Look for the charging speed written in your phone’s specification and pick a charger that meets it.
The cable matters as much as the charger
A thin, poorly made cable can limit charging speed even with a strong charger. Look for a cable that clearly states its supported power, has a solid connector and a flexible, reinforced cable near the ends.
Look for safety markings
- A readable brand name and model number.
- Input and output values printed clearly, without spelling errors.
- Recognised safety or quality certification marks.
Signs of a fake or low-quality charger
- Very light weight. Real chargers contain safety components, so extremely light ones are suspicious.
- Blurry or misspelled labels. Poor printing is a warning sign.
- Loose or uneven pins. The plug should fit firmly in the socket.
- Unusual price. A famous brand charger sold for a tiny fraction of the usual price is probably a copy.
- Gets very hot. Warm is normal, but too hot to hold is not.
Where to buy
Buy from a shop that offers a return or exchange option, and keep the receipt. If you are unsure, an official brand store or authorised dealer is the safest choice, even if it costs a little more.
Take care of your charger and cable
- Do not bend the cable sharply or wrap it tightly around the charger.
- Unplug by holding the plug, not by pulling the cable.
- Stop using any cable with exposed wires or a damaged connector.
- Do not charge on a bed, under a pillow or near flammable items.
Good habits also protect the battery. See our list of habits that help your smartphone battery last longer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use any charger with my phone?
Usually yes, if the connector fits and it is a good quality unit. The phone controls how much power it accepts.
Why does my phone charge slowly with a new cable?
The cable may not support fast charging, or the charger may have lower output. Try the original cable and charger to compare.
