In the wake of the recent Made by Google event, where the spotlight was mostly on the new Pixel 9 lineup, the Pixel Watch 3, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2, one unveiling flew under the radar – the new 45W USB-C charger from Google. This upgrade, although not a headline feature, represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the 30W charger.
The new 45W charger sports a more rounded design compared to the older 30W version. Additionally, the USB-C port has been repositioned to the underside of the charger, a move aimed at enhancing stability when plugged into a wall outlet. However, this design change may lead to some inconvenience when using the charger on a power strip, as it could cause crowding due to the altered port placement.
With a bump in power output from 30W to 45W, the new charger is more than capable of meeting the charging needs of the latest Pixel 9 lineup. Even the slowest model, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, can be charged at a maximum speed of 21W, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers charging speeds of up to 37W. Moreover, the increased power capacity makes the charger compatible with a wider range of devices, including the Pixel Tablet and various Chromebooks.
Interested buyers can pre-order the Google 45W USB-C Power Charger from Google’s online store for $29.99, with shipping expected to commence as early as next week. Alternatively, the charger is also available for pre-order from Best Buy at a slightly lower price of $19.88, presenting a more budget-friendly option. However, in a market saturated with similar products, consumers can already find smaller 45W chargers from other brands like Anker for less than $20.
While the Google 45W USB-C charger may not have stolen the spotlight at the recent event, it represents a noteworthy improvement over its predecessor in terms of design, power output, and compatibility. With a sleeker design and increased power capacity, this charger offers users a convenient and efficient way to power up their devices. Despite facing competition from other brands at lower price points, the Google charger is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile charging solution.
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