Since CES2020, Gallium Nitride (GaN) chargers have been slowly climbing its way into popularity. Rightfully so, as this charger is made from the same material that was used to create the first LED lights, blue lasers, and first fully coloured LED displays that were visible in broad daylight – and is even expected to replace regular silicon chargers soon.
Source: Satechi
The GaN charger not only has a cool name, but is also an alternative to silicon that requires less components, meaning that it is smaller and more efficient than all the chargers that we have seen before. As for performance, the Gallium Nitride charger can conduct electrons a thousand times more efficiently than silicon. The added efficiency also means that this charger is likely to last longer than a regular charger.
Another major selling point of the GaN charger is that it is the clear choice for the more environmentally conscious consumer. This charger is efficient at transferring current, and this ultimately means that less energy is lost to heat. This in turn means that devices will be charged faster and justifies the charger itself having less components. The other benefits include faster wireless power transfers and bigger ‘air gaps’ between the charger and the device.
Currently, the GaN charger is a bit pricier than the boring old silicon charger. However, its efficiency and the fact that this charger needs less material to be manufactured means that cost savings could go up to 10 or 20 percent. This means that once large-scale production starts, the prices are anticipated to experience large drops.
Though these chargers will not likely become widespread until larger hardware manufacturers such as Apple or Samsung take them up, purchasing one right now could mean that you save yourself from the expense of paying premiums for cutting-edge technology in the future.
If you are already convinced to test this charger out for yourself, then you can purchase USB-C type chargers from Anker, RAVPower or refurbished Apple Charger, as some tech companies with several GaN charger options available for grabs.
