phone charging

A Helpful Guide: How to Identify a Fast Charger

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Need to charge your phone super fast and unsure which cable to grab? Sure, the fast charging cable is a no-brainer, but which one is it? And do you even own one? If you are never quite sure how to find your fast charger, you’re in luck. In this guide, we offer some help on how to identify a fast charger so you can get back to work or play.  Plus, we offer a few Case-Mate fast chargers

First, What Is Fast Charging?

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Before we dive into ways to identify a fast charger cable or fast charger accessory, we must first answer the question: What is fast charging? Practically every modern device, from smartphones to laptops, features built-in fast charging technology to give it the boost it needs as swiftly as possible when combined with a fast charger cable or accessory. From Quick Charge technology to the Qi standard for wireless charging, fast chargers can put out anywhere from 10 to 65 watts (although, technically speaking, anything over 2.5 watts is considered fast charging), powering up phones and laptops in half an hour or one hour’s time.

How to Identify a Fast Charger

So now that you know what a fast charger is and what it’s capable of, how do you spot one? Since USB cables appear similar, how does someone identify a fast charging cable so that you can get your phone charged ASAP? There are a few telltale signs!

The Cable Is Thicker

Fast charging cables are typically thicker since they have more wires clustered inside. However, this is not a hard and fast rule, so identify a fast charger using the other methods mentioned below. 

Read the Specs

Most fast charging cables and accessories will state it right on the package, too. Many cable manufacturers will simply label fast chargers and offer a description indicating what it’s capable of. Look for a small description that reads “fast charging.” Another spec detail is “Quick Charge 2.0” or “QC3.0.” Each of these fast charging technologies is slightly different, so be sure to verify what is suitable for your smartphone or device. 

Connect Your Device

Another instant way to identify a fast charger is to use it. Unlike a standard charger, a fast charger will indicate it is charging by a lightning bolt in the charging symbol of your device. If it’s not clear, you can also check the battery in the settings and look for “Fast charging.” Of course, this only works with devices that offer fast-charging technology. However, keep in mind that fast wireless charging will still be slower than the average cabled fast charger. 

Check the Voltage and Current Output

If you see a cable that puts out power at 5V, 9V, 12V or even 2000mA, this is a sure sign that it’s a fast charger. On the other hand, anything below 1000mAh is considered a slow charger. So look for 5V-2A or 5V-2000mA.  Ideally, you should seek out a fast-charging cable of 2A voltage or more, but double-check the specific current suitable to fast charge your personal device.  

Case-Mate Fast Chargers

Not all fast chargers are made equally. One of the easiest ways to identify a fast charger is to purchase a charger from a reputable brand like Case-Mate. So the next time you need to charge your phone or device to 100 percent power in a half hour, grab one of Case-Mate’s charging accessories. We carry everything you need for rapid-fast charging on the go or at home from plug-in power adapters to full power banks. Be sure to check your iPhone’s specifications to determine the most suitable power source for your device. 

And while a wireless charger won’t charge your phone quite as fast as a cable, it can still get the job done quickly, conveniently and cleanly without tangled wires and cluttered desk space. Explore Case-Mate’s entire collection of wireless chargers, including a FUEL wireless battery pack, MagSafe power disc and a few power stations and charging docks.  

Explore all of Case-Mate’s fast-charging accessories, stylish phone cases and more for your iPhone, Samsung Galaxy or Google Pixel today! All our fast-charging accessories are certified USB Power Delivery, meaning it offers a safe and effective charge for your device. Plus, most of our fast-charging products also come with a one-year warranty. 

Shop all of Case-Mate’s fast chargers and stylish phone cases!