Key Takeaways
Ugreen's Nexode Robot GaN Fast Charger delivers on its promise of fast charging, with a maximum output close to its advertised 65W.
The charger utilizes GaN technology to effectively prevent overheating, ensuring a safe charging experience. Additionally, it features three output ports, enabling simultaneous charging of multiple devices, while automatically optimizing the charging load for optimal performance.
The digitized face of Ugreen's 65W Nexode Robot GaN Fast Charger adds a playful touch to its reliable performance. The charger, equipped with three ports, proves to be versatile for various devices such as smartphones, laptops, power banks, and mice. Throughout my testing, the charger consistently delivered fast charging without any significant flaws, aside from some minor design concerns. Even under maximum load, the charger maintained its efficiency, showing a pixelated smile until all devices were fully charged, subsequently transitioning into a clever standby mode. With Ugreen's GaN technology, overheating concerns are effectively addressed, ensuring safe and efficient charging.
I have had the pleasure of experiencing Ugreen's products, from the reliable Ugreen PowerRoam 1200 portable power station to the versatile USB-C docking station. Adding to the list of impressive offerings is the Nexode Robot charger, which showcases the company's commitment to delivering exceptional quality.
UgreenUgreen Nexode 65W Robot GaN Fast Charger
The adorable digital face on Ugreen's compact robot charger is simply a cover for its impressive 65W fast charging capabilities. Thanks to GaN technology, it effectively prevents overheating, and its three-port design allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Brand: Ugreen
Output Power: 65W
Included Cable: None
Charging Ports: USB-C (65W), USB-C (30W), & USB-A (22.5W)
Weight: 0.5lbs (2.3kg)
Dimensions: 1.68 x 1.85 x 2.65in (4.3 x 4.7 x 6.7cm)
Pros: It truly delivers on fast charging.
GaN technology prevents overheating
Three ports offer automatic optimized charging
Cons Robot design is more gimmicky than necessary
Digital status display doesn't always work
No option to fold prongs
$49.99 at Amazon $49.99 at Ugreen
A Friendly Face, Hard at Work
Ugreen’s Robot GaN charger: Focusing on Performance Instead of GimmicksHannah Stryker
Is it necessary for the charger to have a fun and quirky appearance? Not really, but let's not deny Ugreen the opportunity to add a touch of enjoyment, especially when they are also delivering a fast charger of commendable quality. And it certainly lives up to its promise of fast charging. Although it consistently reached a maximum output of just over 60W and 15V for my Shargeek Storm2 portable power bank, the bank managed to go from 0% to 40% charge in just 20 minutes.
Charge Three Devices at Once
The Robot GaN charger boasts two USB-C ports - one with a 65W output and the other with a 30W output, along with a USB-A port that offers a maximum output of 22.5W. To my surprise, even when I distributed the power between the charger, my iPhone, and laptop, the charger efficiently managed the load, allowing me to achieve outputs that closely matched its rated capacities. Naturally, this led to slightly longer charging times, but the two USB-C ports still provided slightly more than half of their expected output.
Hannah Stryker
Each time a new device was connected, the charger automatically determined the optimal method for spreading the charge. I must commend its ability to primarily allocate the charge to my power bank, which was plugged into the 65W USB-C port, while also distributing the remaining charge between my smartphone and laptop. The smartphone and laptop received approximately 7W each. When I unplugged my laptop from the 30W USB-C port, my phone immediately began receiving a slightly higher charge of just over 15W.
The implementation of GaN technology not only improves energy conversion efficiency but also keeps the charger lightweight. This means that for the average consumer, the charger remains cool and doesn't overheat. Although the small robot did generate some heat, it was not to a concerning extent.
Some Minor Physical Missteps
The mechanics of Ugreens' Robot charger work remarkably well, making it seem somewhat trivial to point out its minor physical drawbacks. Although these setbacks are not significant, they are still worth mentioning.
Included with the charger are magnetic "feet" that serve as protective covers for the prongs. While this is an excellent safety feature, I believe there was a superior alternative available. The cover functions as intended, but its small size makes it susceptible to being lost by the average consumer. Additionally, the magnetized base requires a metal surface to adhere to. Unfortunately, in my office, only the legs of my standing desk are suitable for this purpose, placing the small feet at an ideal height for arousing a cat's curiosity.
Hannah Stryker
While the prong cover complements the overall mini-robot aesthetic, incorporating foldable prongs would have offered greater practicality. Not only would this design enhancement ensure safety by minimizing the chances of accidentally stepping on exposed prongs in case the charger falls on the floor, but it would also allow for the robot to be placed on the desk even when folded, providing companionship and convenience simultaneously.
The functionality of the robot face indicator does not consistently function properly. Occasionally, it becomes stuck in the "charging" state, even after I have recently unplugged the device. Despite this minor issue, it does not detract from the overall experience of using the fast charger.
Pricing and Availability
Ugreen's Nexode Robot is priced at $49.99, which puts it in line with its competitors. Anker's Nano II 65W charger, which also has two USB-C and one USB-A port, is usually sold for $55.99. While you can find cheaper USB-C fast chargers, they may lack the reliability and features of a brand like Ugreen. For instance, Amazon Basics offers a 65W charger for around $20, but it only has one port. Additionally, you won't get the charming robotic smile.
If you prefer Ugreen but want to save some money or don't require a 65W output or multiple ports, the company also offers a 30W charger priced at $25.99, featuring a single USB-C output. Despite its lower power, the 30W charger maintains the same GaN technology and digital face as its more powerful counterpart. As an added bonus, it comes in a delightful purple color, making it a great option for kids or anyone in search of a stylish fast charger.
Should You Buy Ugreen’s Nexode RG Robot Fast Charger?
If you’re looking for a multifunction charger that not only promises fast speeds but also delivers on that promise, then the Ugreen Nexode Robot GaN Fast Charger is worth considering. The cute digital robot face may be a gimmick, but even when it fails to display the correct status, it doesn't detract from its important functionality. Most rechargeable devices already have a built-in indicator that shows when they are actively being charged. While the "foot" base design adds to the robot's charm, foldable prongs are more practical for everyday use.
The Nexode Robot GaN Fast Charger surpasses expectations by delivering the promised watt output and maintaining it consistently, even with multiple ports in use. Despite being pushed to its limits, the charger does not overheat like other fast chargers often do thanks to the advanced GaN technology which efficiently dissipates heat. If you prefer a charger that not only performs but also has a visually appealing design, the Ugreen's compact robot option deserves your attention.
UgreenIntroducing the Ugreen Nexode 65W Robot GaN Fast Charger
With a rating of 9 out of 10, Ugreen's compact charger may seem unassuming, but don't let its adorable digital face fool you. Hidden beneath its charming exterior is a powerful 65W fast charger that delivers optimal performance. Equipped with GaN technology, this charger ensures efficient charging without the risk of overheating. Plus, its three-port design enables you to conveniently charge multiple devices simultaneously.
$49.99 at Amazon $49.99 at Ugreen