Desktop chargers are essential gadgets for homes with multiple USB-connected devices, allowing you to charge multiple phones, tablets, wearables – even laptops – from a single box. They avoid the mess of cable clutter you would otherwise get with several different USB adaptors, and they allow you to free up mains power outlets for other uses. There isn’t a huge amount of difference between desktop chargers. Primarily they are differentiated by the number of USB outlets they feature, at what speed they are able to charge your connected devices, and the maximum total output that dictates how many of those ports can be simultaneously supported at full-speed. Also see: Best power banks 2016. The Anker PowerPort+ 5 USB-C doesn’t lead the pack on any of those fronts, but it stands out as one of the first desktop chargers we’ve seen to support USB-C at 3A, which will be handy if you own one of the increasing number of compatible devices, such as Google’s latest Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P. Anker says it can also charge the new MacBook at the full 29W required. The PowerPort+ also boasts four fast-charging (12W) full-size USB ports for charging your other gadgets. With a maximum output of 60W it can easily support all four of these at full-speed, although if you are also using the USB-C port the amount of power available may be restricted. Fortunately, PowerIQ technology means the Anker PowerPort+ will recognise your device type and deliver the optimum charge – it’s possible that not all your devices will draw the full 12W available from each USB output. That said, you’d still get faster charging from one of the Quick Charge chargers in our desktop charger round-up should you have a compatible device. Also see: How to improve smartphone battery life. Remember that this box will sit on your desk at all times, so appearance is important. The Anker PowerPort+ is nicely designed with the power supply built in, even if it’s a little larger than some desktop chargers we’ve seen at 103x78x28mm. Its smooth black casing with rounded corners should fit into any office or bedroom without causing an eyesore. Read next: How to charge your phone or tablet faster. Follow Marie Brewis on Twitter. Marie is Editor in Chief of Tech Advisor and Macworld. A Journalism graduate from the London College of Printing, she’s worked in tech media for more than 17 years, managing our English language, French and Spanish consumer editorial teams and leading on content strategy through Foundry’s transition from print, to digital, to online - and beyond.
