The Anker PowerPort III Nano Review: Your Tiny Powerhouse Charger!

To really understand if the Anker PowerPort III Nano is the right charger for you, let’s break down everything you need to know. Remember those bulky wall adapters that came with our phones? Well, times have changed, and the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W USB-C charger is a perfect example of modern charging technology done right. This tiny powerhouse is designed to give your devices a speedy boost without taking up much space. It’s a fantastic option, especially if you’ve got a newer iPhone or many Android phones that benefit from 20W Power Delivery. For many, this little brick offers an ideal balance of speed, size, and affordability, making it a serious contender to replace those older, slower chargers or even the pricier options from phone manufacturers. Think of it as that perfect, compact companion for your everyday charging needs, whether you’re at home, the office, or traveling. And if you’re looking to grab one, you can often find great deals on these Anker chargers online.

What’s the Big Deal with the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W?

Let’s get straight to it. The Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W, also sometimes referred to as the Anker PowerPort 3 Nano review or Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W review, isn’t just another charger. It’s built to be unbelievably small and incredibly fast. When Apple decided to stop including chargers with their iPhones, it left a gap, and Anker stepped in with some excellent solutions. The PowerPort III Nano is specifically optimized to fast-charge devices like the iPhone 12, 13, and even the newer iPhone 14 models, pushing them to about 50% battery in just 30 minutes. That’s up to three times faster than those old 5W chargers many of us still have lying around.

Seriously, this thing is tiny. We’re talking about a charger that’s around 1 inch thick or about 39.8 x 39.1 x 33mm in other regions and can be 50% smaller than a standard 18W or 20W iPhone charger. It’s so compact it feels like it weighs about the same as two AA batteries. This tiny footprint means it won’t hog multiple outlets on your power strip, which is a huge win for anyone dealing with crowded sockets.

Anker packed this charger with its proprietary PowerIQ 3.0 technology. What does that mean for you? It basically allows the charger to intelligently identify your device and deliver the fastest possible charge it can handle, supporting various fast-charging standards like USB Power Delivery 3.0, Quick Charge, and even Apple Fast Charging. It’s designed to provide up to 20W of power, outputting either 5V at 3A or 9V at 2.22A. This makes it universally compatible with most modern handheld devices, from flagship phones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy S20 to smartwatches and earbuds.

Design and Portability: A Closer Look

When you first get your hands on the Anker PowerPort III Nano, you’ll immediately notice its size. It’s truly a marvel of engineering, especially the 20W version. Anker uses a stacked design with custom magnetic components to shrink it down, which also helps boost efficiency and manage heat.

Now, there’s a slight design difference depending on where you buy it. The US and India models often come with retractable prongs, which is a huge bonus for portability, letting you just toss it into a pocket or bag without worrying about scratching other items. However, some international versions like those in the UK or EU might have fixed prongs. While it’s still small, foldable prongs would have made it even more universally travel-friendly, a minor gripe for an otherwise fantastic little device. Insta360 X5 360 Action Camera Review: Is This the Ultimate Pocket Powerhouse?

The overall build quality feels solid. It’s usually made of flame-retardant plastic with a matte finish, which gives it a premium feel in your hand. There’s often a glossy finish on the output panel with a blue plastic tongue inside the USB-C port, a signature Anker touch.

Real-World Charging Performance

So, how does this tiny charger actually perform? For iPhone users, it’s a must. The Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W is specifically designed to provide the maximum charge to iPhone 12, 13, and 14 models. You can expect to charge your iPhone 12 to 50% in roughly 30 minutes. Some tests have shown it can bring an iPhone 11 Pro from 23% to 66% in 30 minutes, which is a significant boost. Even older iPhones benefit, charging up to three times faster than with a standard 5W charger.

For Android devices, the story is mostly positive too. Many smartphones, like the Google Pixel 5, will charge at their maximum 18W capabilities with this plug. It also works well with other USB Power Delivery gadgets and even supports the Nintendo Switch for handheld charging. For devices that rely on older standards, like some LG or Nokia phones, it still delivers decent charging speeds e.g., LG G8X at 12W, Nokia 7.1 at 17W.

However, it’s important to note its limitations. The 20W output is great for many phones, but it might not be enough for devices that support higher wattage charging or specific standards like USB Power Delivery PPS Programmable Power Supply. For example, while it will fast-charge a Samsung Galaxy S21, it won’t achieve the “super-fast charging” speeds that a 25W or higher PPS-compatible charger would provide. If you have a device that can take 25W or even 45W, like newer Samsung models or some laptops, the PowerPort III Nano 20W might feel a little underpowered. In those cases, you might want to consider higher wattage Anker chargers.

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One common point mentioned in reviews is that the charger can get warm to the touch when operating at its maximum output. This is generally normal for compact fast chargers and Anker includes its MultiProtect safety system to ensure temperature control and safeguard your devices.

Anker PowerPort III Nano vs. The Competition

Let’s stack the Anker PowerPort III Nano against some of its closest rivals and other Anker offerings.

Anker PowerPort III Nano vs. Apple 20W Charger

This is a popular comparison, especially since Apple started selling its own 20W USB-C power adapter separately. The Anker PowerPort III Nano often comes out ahead in terms of value. It’s typically cheaper than Apple’s offering and delivers virtually identical charging performance for iPhones. In terms of size, both are incredibly compact, but Anker sometimes manages to be just a hair smaller or offer features like retractable prongs in some regions that Apple doesn’t. Many users even report trusting Anker chargers more than Apple’s own, citing Anker’s strong reputation in mobile charging.

Anker PowerPort III Nano vs. Anker Nano II / Nano Pro

This is where things get a bit more nuanced. Anker has expanded its “Nano” lineup significantly, with chargers like the Anker Nano II and Anker Nano Pro.

The Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W is usually the most budget-friendly and compact option in the Nano family, designed primarily for phones and smaller gadgets. Motorola Moto Buds Loop Open Ear Earbuds Review: Your Honest Take

The Anker Nano Pro often seen as the Anker 511 Nano Pro or Anker Nano 3 comes in 20W and 30W variants. The 30W Nano 3, for instance, offers more power and often includes PPS Programmable Power Supply support, which is crucial for achieving “super-fast charging” on certain Samsung devices like the Galaxy S21 or S22 Ultra. If you’re a Samsung user and want the absolute fastest charge, the Nano 3 or Nano Pro with PPS might be a better pick. The Nano Pro line is also often said to be specifically aimed at Apple products for compatibility, while the PowerPort III Nano is more general Power Delivery pIQ for a broader range of non-Apple devices.

Then there’s the Anker Nano II series, which includes higher wattage chargers like the 45W and 65W models. These are significantly more powerful and better suited for charging larger devices like tablets e.g., iPad Pro, Galaxy Tab S7+ or even some laptops e.g., MacBook Air, Dell XPS 13. If your charging needs extend beyond just smartphones, looking at an Anker Nano II 65W would be a smart move, as they often support advanced protocols like PPS and deliver more overall power.

In essence, the PowerPort III Nano 20W is excellent for its specific niche: a tiny, fast 20W charger for most phones. But if you need more power, multi-port options, or specific advanced charging protocols like PPS, Anker has other Nano products that might be a better fit.

Who is the Anker PowerPort III Nano For?

This charger is ideal for several types of users: Lg ultragear gx9 bendable 5k2k gaming monitor review

• iPhone Owners: If you’ve got an iPhone 8 or newer especially iPhone 12, 13, 14 models and need a fast, compact charger, this is a top-tier choice. Since Apple no longer includes chargers, this is a perfect, more affordable replacement that won’t compromise on speed.
• Android Users with PD-compatible phones: Many Android phones benefit greatly from 20W USB Power Delivery. Google Pixel devices, for instance, charge excellently with this adapter.
• Travelers: Its tiny size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to carry in any bag or pocket. If you get a model with foldable prongs like the US version, it’s even better.
• Minimalists: If you want to reduce clutter and have a single, efficient charger for your primary mobile device, the PowerPort III Nano is a strong contender.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: Compared to many first-party chargers, the Anker PowerPort III Nano offers fantastic performance at a very competitive price point.

However, if you consistently charge power-hungry devices like laptops or larger tablets, or if your phone requires specific high-wattage PPS charging like some newer Samsung flagships, you might want to look at Anker’s higher-wattage offerings like the Nano II or Nano Pro series.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Overall, the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W is a stellar little charger that lives up to the hype. It’s incredibly compact, delivering fast charging speeds for a wide range of devices, particularly iPhones and many Android phones. The build quality is excellent, and Anker’s PowerIQ 3.0 technology ensures intelligent and efficient power delivery. While it might not be the absolute fastest for every single device out there, especially those requiring more than 20W or specific PPS protocols, its combination of size, speed, and value is tough to beat. For most people, it’s a brilliant everyday charger that you can trust. If you’re in the market for a new, reliable, and incredibly portable USB-C wall charger, the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W should absolutely be on your shortlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Anker PowerPort III Nano and Anker Nano Pro?

The main difference often lies in wattage and charging protocols. The Anker PowerPort III Nano typically refers to the 20W charger, designed for fast charging iPhones and many Android phones using USB Power Delivery. The Anker Nano Pro like the 511 Nano Pro or Nano 3 often comes in 20W or 30W variants and might include PPS Programmable Power Supply support. PPS is crucial for “super-fast charging” on certain Samsung Galaxy phones e.g., S21, S22 Ultra and offers broader compatibility with various OEM fast-charging standards. The Nano Pro is sometimes considered more geared towards Apple devices, while the PowerPort III Nano is a general-purpose PD charger.

Is the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W safe for my iPhone battery?

Yes, absolutely! Anker is a highly reputable brand known for its quality and safety features. The PowerPort III Nano 20W includes Anker’s MultiProtect safety system, which monitors temperature in real-time and safeguards your devices against potential hazards like overcharging and overheating. It’s designed to deliver exactly the power your iPhone needs, ensuring safe and efficient charging. Many users trust Anker chargers even more than first-party options. Xduoo TA-30 Tube Headphone Amplifier DAC Review: Your Desktop Powerhouse?

Does the Anker PowerPort III Nano come with a cable?

Typically, the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W charger does not include a charging cable in the box. Some special bundles might exist where a USB-C to Lightning or USB-C to USB-C cable is included, but for most standard purchases, you’ll need to use your own compatible cable, like a USB-C to Lightning cable for iPhones.

Can the Anker PowerPort III Nano charge devices other than iPhones?

Yes, definitely! While it’s heavily marketed for iPhones due to its 20W output matching iPhone fast-charging capabilities, the Anker PowerPort III Nano is universally compatible with virtually all mobile USB-C devices. It can provide up to 20W charging to most flagship phones, including many Android devices like Samsung Galaxy S20 and Google Pixel phones. It also works great for smartwatches, earbuds, and even some lower-power USB-C devices like the Nintendo Switch.

Is the Anker PowerPort III Nano better than the Apple 20W charger?

Many reviews suggest the Anker PowerPort III Nano 20W is a very strong alternative to Apple’s own 20W charger, and often considered better in terms of value. It offers comparable, if not identical, fast-charging performance for iPhones, but typically comes at a more affordable price. In some regions, the Anker version might even feature retractable prongs for enhanced portability, a feature not found on Apple’s adapter.

Why does my Anker PowerPort III Nano feel warm when charging?

It’s pretty normal for compact fast chargers, including the Anker PowerPort III Nano, to get warm to the touch when operating at their maximum output. This is especially true when it’s rapidly charging a device. Anker incorporates advanced technology and safety systems, like MultiProtect and custom magnetic components, to manage heat dissipation effectively and ensure safe operation for your devices. Nikon Z5 II Advanced Digital Camera Review: A Full-Frame Powerhouse for Everyone

What is Anker PowerIQ 3.0?

Anker PowerIQ 3.0 is Anker’s proprietary fast-charging technology. It allows the charger to intelligently communicate with your connected device to detect its specific charging requirements and deliver the optimal charging speed. This technology supports various fast-charging standards, including USB Power Delivery PD 3.0, Quick Charge QC, and Apple Fast Charging, ensuring broad compatibility and efficient charging for a wide range of gadgets.