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Ugreen is leading the charge in high-powered charging solutions, particularly with desktop charging stations that can handle demanding devices like the MacBook Pro while also powering multiple other high-powered devices.
Before diving into this review, the most potent desktop charger I had tested was the Ugreen Nexode 300W. Following that, I reviewed the Anker Prime 200W GaN Charging Station and the Nexode 200W, with Anker also offering a 250W model.
As far as I can tell, no other reputable brand offers a charging option that can deliver up to 500W or 240W from a single USB-C port.
Charging Technology:
The UGREEN Nexode 500W is the world’s first 500W GaN desktop charger, showcasing a significant advancement in charging technology. With 6 Gallium Nitride chips providing up to 95% conversion efficiency, this charger is more energy-efficient and generates less heat compared to traditional silicon-based chargers.
The charger supports the PD3.1 protocol with single-port output reaching up to 240W, making it ideal for high-performance gaming laptops and daily electronics. This level of power delivery exceeds the requirements of most laptops, even the most demanding gaming models usually maxing out at around 180W.
Safety Features:
UGREEN has integrated a range of safety measures into the charger’s design, including V-0 rated flame-retardant materials, multi-channel NTC temperature detection, and an orientation sensor that adjusts power when the device is tipped over. Additionally, the charger features 11 protection systems to safeguard against over-current, overload, and over-temperature scenarios.
Port Output:
The charger efficiently allocates power across connected devices through its advanced power management system. The intelligent distribution ensures optimal charging speeds while preventing any single device from monopolizing available power.
Unboxing / Design:
The UGREEN 500W desktop charger is notably large and heavy, utilizing a C13 kettle lead for power due to its high amp rating. The charger features a vertical design with 5 USB-C ports and a single USB-A port, providing a professional appearance suitable for office environments.
Performance:
While I was unable to test the maximum performance of the 240W port, the charger performed consistently across all connected devices. Heat generation remained manageable under high-power operation, though the charger did warm up during extended use with multiple high-powered devices.
Price and Alternative Options:
The Ugreen 500W 6-Port GaN Fast Charger is priced at £219.99 on Amazon, catering to users with demanding charging requirements. While the cost may seem high, the charger offers unmatched power delivery for users with high-powered devices.
Overall:
The UGREEN 500W 6-Port GaN Fast Charger is an outstanding desktop charger tailored for users with demanding requirements. Its superior power delivery, solid build quality, and intelligent power distribution make it a top choice for those needing the highest charging capacity. However, due to its size, weight, and cost, this charger is best suited for specialized scenarios rather than mainstream use.
In conclusion, the UGREEN 500W charger offers exceptional performance for users with extreme charging needs, though most users may find better value in the company’s lower-powered alternatives.