While the Amazon Basics 65W GaN charger offers a budget-friendly entry into fast charging with a 4.2/5 rating, its value is tempered by significant omissions. Its compact design and high wattage make it appealing for travel and basic charging needs. However, the absence of PPS support and a bundled USB-C cable means it falls short for users needing optimal charging speeds for newer Samsung or Google devices and adds unexpected costs.
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 1.9 x 1.6 x 1.5 inches (LxWxH) |
In-Depth Analysis
We tested the Amazon Basics 65W GaN charger, a budget-friendly option designed to bring fast USB-C charging to a wider audience. Its primary appeal lies in its exceptionally low price point and the promise of GaN technology's compact efficiency, positioning it as an attractive choice for cost-conscious consumers. In our evaluation, the charger's compact form factor and foldable plug truly stood out, making it an excellent candidate for travel or minimalist desk setups. For its price tier, the inclusion of GaN technology is a significant advantage, enabling reduced heat generation and a smaller footprint compared to older silicon-based chargers. This firmly places it in the budget category, offering consumers a taste of premium technology at an accessible cost, though our analysis reveals some notable compromises. We found the 65W output to be quite capable, reliably fast-charging our test iPhones and iPads. It even managed to power and charge a 14-inch MacBook Air during our testing period, demonstrating its versatility for everyday tasks. The Steam Deck also benefited from its substantial power delivery. For many common devices, this charger delivers a solid charging experience that can rival more expensive options. However, this is where the 'budget' aspect becomes a critical consideration. Our research highlighted that the charger conspicuously lacks support for PPS (Programmable Power Supply). This is a significant limitation for users with newer Samsung Galaxy devices or Google Pixel phones, as it prevents them from achieving their fastest charging speeds. While it will still charge these devices, it will operate at a standard fast charging rate rather than the advertised 'Super Fast Charging' or optimal fast charging modes. Furthermore, the decision to omit a USB-C cable from the package is a common cost-saving tactic, but it means buyers must factor in the additional expense of purchasing a suitable high-wattage cable if they don't already own one.
When stacked against mid-range and premium chargers, the Amazon Basics 65W GaN charger provides approximately 90% of the core charging functionality for a considerably lower price. However, that 10% difference is substantial for specific user needs. Competitors like Anker offer more versatile multi-port solutions, such as the Anker 735 Nano II 65W, for users who need to charge multiple devices simultaneously. Even Anker's smaller 30W chargers demonstrated superior fast charging protocol support for certain devices in comparative tests. For those who absolutely require PPS compatibility, alternatives from brands like INIU are frequently recommended. These often provide similar wattage and GaN technology with broader compatibility, sometimes at a slightly higher price point but with greater feature parity. While most users praise its value proposition, one concerning report from Reddit mentioned a 'funny smell' akin to a blown capacitor after approximately 18 months of use. Although this appears to be an isolated incident, it raises a flag regarding long-term durability when compared to more established premium brands. The charger is USB-if certified and constructed with heat-resistant materials, which should provide a baseline level of safety, but this user feedback warrants consideration for those planning heavy or continuous usage. Ultimately, the Amazon Basics 65W GaN charger is a decent budget choice for basic USB-C charging needs, particularly for iPhones, iPads, and many laptops. However, its lack of PPS support and the missing cable mean it's not the best bang for your buck if you own cutting-edge Samsung or Google phones, or if you require the convenience of charging multiple devices concurrently. **Value Alert**: Buyers should be aware that while this charger is attractively priced, the absence of PPS means it won't enable the fastest charging for many newer Samsung and Google phones. If PPS compatibility is a requirement, investing in a slightly more expensive charger that supports it would be a wiser long-term decision.
