I used to think all chargers were the same—until I noticed how much faster some charged than others.
The main difference between 25W and 45W chargers is power output. A 45W USB C charger can charge faster if your device supports it. But not all devices can take advantage of that extra power.
Let’s explore what really matters when choosing between these two common charging options.
What is the difference between 25w and 45w chargers?
I’ve seen a lot of confusion around charger wattage, especially when switching between phones and tablets.
A 25W USB C charger offers slower charging compared to a 45W charger, but only if your device supports higher wattage and the right protocol.
Charging Power Compared
USB C Charger | Max Wattage | Common Devices |
25W | 5V/3A,9V/2.77A, 12V/2.08A PPS 3.3V-5.9V 3A, 5.9V-11V 2.25A 25 Watts | Phones, Tablets |
45W | 5V/3A,9V/3A,15V/3A,20V/2.25A,PPS 3.3V-11V 3A,5V-11V 4.5A 45 Watts | Phones, Tablets, Laptops |
The wattage number tells you how much power the charger can push. More watts mean faster charging—if the phone or device can handle it.
Charging Protocols
Both 25W and 45W charger supports super fast charging on Samsung. But only certain 45W chargers support Super Fast Charging 2.0. This is only possible with PPS (Programmable Power Supply) and a current rating up to 4.5A.
Are both chargers compatible with fast charging?
At first, I was worried my older charger wouldn’t fast charge my new phone.
Yes, both 25W and 45W chargers support fast charging. But only certain 45W models support Super Fast Charging 2.0 with PPS 4.5A.
Fast Charging Comparison
USB C Power Adapter | Fast Charging | Super Fast Charging 2.0 | PPS 4.5A |
25W | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
45W | ✅ Yes | ✅ Some models | ✅ Some |
Fast charging depends more on protocols than just wattage. Even a 45W charger won’t activate Super Fast Charging 2.0 if it doesn’t have PPS rated 4.5A
Watch Out for Marketing
Not all 45W chargers are equal. Look for chargers that clearly mention PPS or compatibility with Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0. If 65W charger do not have PPS and a current rating up to 4.5A, it won’t support super fast charging 2.0 too.
Is a 45w charger safe for 25w devices?
I used to be nervous about plugging a high-watt charger into my older phone. What if it burned out?
Yes, 45W chargers are safe for 25W devices. Devices only draw the power they need, thanks to smart charging protocols like USB-PD.
Device Power Draw
Here’s how it works: your device communicates with the charger and tells it how much power it needs. The charger then adjusts its output to match.
Real-World Pairings
Charger | Device Type | Power Draw | Safe to Use? |
45W | Phone | 25W or less | ✅ Yes |
45W | Earbuds | <10W | ✅ Yes |
25W | Phone | 25W max | ✅ Yes |
So, even if your phone only supports 18W or 25W, a 45W charger won’t hurt it. It will just act like a 25W charger.
Is there a big difference in daily use?
I used a 45W charger for a week to see how much time I really saved.
In everyday use, the speed difference between 25W and 45W chargers is noticeable only in the first 30 minutes of charging.
Speed Test Results
Time Elapsed | 25W Charger | 45W Charger |
0–30 mins | 50% | 65% |
0–60 mins | 85% | 92% |
Full Charge | ~75 mins | ~60 mins |
This makes a big difference only if you need quick top-ups during the day. For overnight charging, either one works fine.
Use Case Reflection
If you charge at night or while working, a 25W charger is good enough. But if you travel, work remotely, or hate waiting—then 45W might be worth it.
How to choose between 25w and 45w chargers?
had both chargers at home, but I always wondered—if I had to keep one, which should it be?
Choose a 25W charger if you mainly charge smartphones. Choose a 45W charger if you want versatility or have devices that support higher charging speeds.
Choose Based on Devices
Your Device | Best Charger |
Galaxy S20/S21/S22/S23/S24 | 25W |
Galaxy S22+/S23+/S24+/S25+ Ultra | 45W |
Tablets | 45W |
Laptops | 45W or more |
Other Tips
Look for PPS on the label.
If you carry multiple devices, a 45W charger saves space.
Stick to brands that list full specs—not vague “fast charging” terms.
Conclusion
Choose based on your device’s needs. 25W is enough for most phones, while 45W gives you more power and flexibility.
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