What's the Difference Between 30W and 60W USB-C (PD) Outlets?Updated 9 months ago
Our Blade Series outlets come in a variety of configurations, many of which feature USB-C Power Delivery (PD) ports. We recently expanded these USB-C (PD) configurations, now offering the option to choose between 30 and 60 watt versions. In this blog, we’ll explain the differences and benefits of both the 30 and 60 watt USB-C (PD) configurations to help you select the right Docking Drawer outlet for your project and needs.
This watt variance relates specifically to the USB-C ports in our Blade Series outlets and has no bearing on the AC or USB-A ports. The following information will explain the difference and benefits of 30 vs 60 watts USB-C (PD) in relation only to the devices connected directly to your Docking Drawer’s USB-C charging ports.
To start, there are two main considerations that, when answered, should set you on the right path:
Charging Time
More watts can equal faster charging speeds -sometimes. A 30W USB-C (PD) port can charge devices faster than a USB-A port, so one might assume its 60W counterpart would offer even faster charging times. And this is true, but only for certain device types.
Device Type
What do you plan to connect to your outlet?
30W USB-C (PD) ports are a great option for charging smaller devices like mobile phones, tablets, headphones, pet accessories, flashlights, and drones. But when it comes to laptop computers, boasting bigger batteries and higher power demands, 30 watts may not pack enough punch to allow you to ditch that bulky AC block that came with your device. Directly connecting your laptop to a 30W USB-C (PD) port will charge a laptop just fine if it’s not in use, but is unlikely to add any juice to a connected laptop while in use.
60W USB-C (PD) ports will effectively charge a laptop computer, even while it’s in use, allowing you to directly connect your laptop to the USB-C port and ditch that bulky AC block. It’s safe to connect mobile phones and smaller devices to 60W ports, though very few will actually benefit from the increase in watts. There is a big pricing premium for 60W USB-C (PD) outlets, so make sure your application warrants the higher cost.
The Benefits of 30 vs 60 Watt USB-C (PD)
| 30W USB-C (PD) | 60W USB-C (PD) | |
| Mobile Phones | Faster charging than USB-A | Same charging speed as 30W USB-C (PD) outlet for most phones. Samsung phones with Super Fast Charging capabilities will charge faster. |
| Tablets | Faster charging than USB-A | Slightly faster charging than 30W USB-C (PD) outlets. |
| Laptops | Will charge a laptop when it is not in use, but does not provide enough wattage to add charge to a laptop that's connected while in use. | Enough wattage to charge a laptop even while it's in use. Eliminates the need to use the big and bulky adapter that came with your computer. |
From kitchens to bedrooms, home offices, bathrooms and beyond, USB-C (PD) outlets are becoming a standard. The 30W outlet packs plenty of punch for most applications, while its 60W counterpart may be valuable to those aiming to eliminate that bulky laptop AC connector and charge computers more quickly using a USB-C connection.
We pride ourselves on offering the most current technology in a variety of configurations to align to any project and every need imaginable. If you have questions, reach out to our team! We’d love to help you power your project with Docking Drawer outlets.