The Best iPad Chargers
Whether you're an iPad fiend or just a casual tablet user, you're going to need to keep your table juiced up. But for many of us, the chargers that came with the iPad just don't cut it, especially since they have a propensity for getting lost. Having the right charger will ensure fast power-ups free from kinks, power surges, and compatibility issues. It's an important piece of tech, so we decided to sniff out the winners from the duds.
What to Look For
In our search for the best iPad chargers, we looked for three main qualities: a fast-charging design to minimize the amount of time we spend plugged in, a durable and safe construction, and a fair price. The results of our investigation are presented below. For those on a budget, we found a 6.5-foot cable and wall plug from Novobit that came at a bargain price. And for those that require both regular USB and USB-C charging ports, we recommend the 2-in-1 charger from IFEART. Each has its own pros and cons, so make sure to read our full reviews below.
IFEART Dual Port Charger
Mix and match
Having multiple tablets with different charging requirements can be a hassle without the right wall outlet. No matter if you’re stuck between generations or operating systems, IFEART’s dual-port charger is a dependable choice for almost every modern mobile computer. While many iPads use the standard lightning port, this option will instantly allow super-fast charging through the USB-C port. This tiny block is fairly simple given the large functionality, but it comes with an indicator light that helps identify problems before you plug in. If aging charging solutions are wasting space and slowing you down, trust IFEART to eliminate outlet clutter and dead batteries.
Pros:
- The plug folds in, so it can be carried in a bag without fear of bending the prongs or scratching a screen.
- We love the extra length of the 6.6-foot cable, which means we can stay plugged in without having to set up camp right next to the outlet.
- The USB-C is 20 Watts and the USB-A is 12 Watts, so you can enjoy seriously fast charge speeds.
Cons:
- It does not include a standard USB cable, just the USB-C to USB-C.
UGreen GaN PD Charger
Device heaven
Let’s face it: with the huge demand for smartphones, tablets, and all of their accessories, charging cables can take up a ton of countertop space. Thankfully, UGreen’s GaN PD charger can make all the difference for large families and tech enthusiasts alike. Boasting a staggering four ports, UGreen’s device ensures universal compatibility and will automatically detect your iPad’s power limits no matter which model of iPad you have. Best of all, the GaN PD charger boasts top-of-the-line semiconductors that distribute power evenly across devices without a big reduction in charging speed. Ideal for cramped desks or tech-savvy travels, UGreen’s outlet delivers big on convenience and reliability.
Pros:
- If you need to charge multiple devices at once, go with this one. It’s perfect for charging phones, tablets, and even laptops from a single outlet.
- We also love how it consolidates all the different devices’ chargers into one central hub, so it helps with organization.
Cons:
- This is a premium charger, so it comes at a premium price.
Novobit iPad Charger iPhone Charger
Cost-saving cable
It’s no secret that iPads and other Apple products cost quite a pretty penny. Fortunately, the charger doesn’t have to. This option from Novobit comes at a low price and offers both a USB wall charger and a 6-foot USB to USB-C charging cable. We especially love the durability and extra length of the cable, since it lets you use your iPad while charging. Another nifty feature is the foldable prongs, which let you take this compact charger with you on the go.
Pros:
- This is a great option for those that just need a reliable and affordable charger with a simple design and fast charging speeds. It might not be super fancy, but it gets the job done well.
- Because it’s so inexpensive and the prongs fold in, this is another great option for travel. In fact, it even comes with a nifty little travel bag for extra protection.
Cons:
- If you attempt to charge while using your iPad for power-intensive purposes, such as streaming a movie, you may find that the charging speed doesn’t surpass the speed at which your iPad drains power.
Baoota iPad iPhone Charger
For the nomads among us, iPads are essential travel companions. Still, their charge doesn’t last forever. The next time you find that little battery icon hitting red alert levels while you’re on the road, consider getting this charger from Baoota. Not only will this charger not weigh you down, but it will also keep your screens and bags scratch- and tear-free. The compact, rounded-edge design of the wall plug is made even more travel-ready by the foldable prongs. It’s perfect for plugging in at cafes, airports, hotel rooms, and even staycations at home.
Pros:
- Considering the low price, we were surprised by the high-quality materials and durability of the charger itself, which feels sturdy in the hand.
- It has a slew of safety features, like over-current and over-voltage protection, which are essential when traveling in other countries.
- Even if you don’t use this one for travel, it’s a great overall charger with fast charging for iPads.
- It comes with two cables, so you’ll always have a backup if you lose the first.
Cons:
- It only has one port, so there’s no simultaneous charging with this one.
Ipremium 18W USB-C Fast Charger for iPad with Cable
The speed demon
In this day and age, few chargers are as fast and efficient as the USB-C to Lightning cable. But if you want to take advantage of your iPad’s capacity for fast charging, you’re going to need a charger up to the task. That’s where this option from Ipremium comes into play. It can juice up an iPad Pro in less than three hours and boasts 2.5 times the charging speeds of regular USB chargers. With a single port, it’s simple, small, sleek, and discrete. Plus, the price is a bargain. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- The included cable is a whopping 6.6 feet in length, so this is a great option for those that need to keep working while their iPad charges.
- If you need a replacement for your original iPad charger for any reason, go with this option. It has a similar feel, looks, build quality, and speed as the original iPad charger at a fraction of the cost.
Cons:
- The prongs don’t fold inwards, so you may have to keep it in a separate compartment from your touchscreen devices when taking it with you on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my iPad’s battery doesn’t degrade?
When rechargeable batteries are misused, it can result in significantly lower capacity over time. If you use your iPad daily, it’s good practice to keep the power level between twenty and eighty percent. Furthermore, keeping your battery at a relatively low temperature while charging is essential. While you may not notice decay for a while, if your device is left on in a heavy case or under your pillow, lower battery life will become your new normal quickly. When you have to charge your device overnight, be sure to keep it on a solid, flat surface free from insulation like blankets or carpeting.
Do software updates slow down iPads?
It is inevitable that as technology increases in complexity, so too will power and processor usage. When software manufacturers update your device’s operating system, it is done to keep up with ever-evolving features and threats. That being said, updates of this nature will slow down your iPad as the hardware ages. While you can opt-out of this feature, doing so can expose your device to software exploits that hackers can use to access sensitive information. If you don’t plan on updating your device to keep it relatively speedy, it’s important to educate yourself on online risks and minimize your interactions with them first.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.