Quick Charge vs PD Car Chargers Explained
Quick Charge vs PD Car Chargers Explained
Blog Article
When you're looking to buy a quick car charger, you'll notice two terms used most often: Quick Charge (QC) and Power Delivery (PD).
They're both made to charge your devices quicker than normal chargers, but they function differently — and understanding the difference can make you select the appropriate charger for your car.
In this article, we'll untangle what Quick Charge vs PD Car Chargers Explained really are, how they're different, and which one you should choose depending on your device and driving styles.
What is Quick Charge (QC)?
Quick Charge is a fast-charging technology that was designed by Qualcomm, the same business that produces processors for most Android phones.
How it works:
Quick Charge boosts the voltage output of the charger to deliver more power to your device quicker than a standard 5V charger.
Key Features:
Increased voltage (usually up to 9V, 12V, or even 20V).
Best suited for Qualcomm Snapdragon devices (most Android phones).
Ideal for quick top-ups — you can reach 50% charge in about 15–30 minutes.
Backward compatible — newer Quick Charge versions support previous versions.
Existing Versions (as of 2025):
Quick Charge 3.0 (very popular)
Quick Charge 4.0/4+ (faster and more efficient)
Quick Charge 5.0 (very fast but less common in car chargers)
Typical Quick Charge Car Chargers:
USB-A ports are most prevalent.
Some newer QC chargers now employ USB-C.
What is Power Delivery (PD)?
Power Delivery (often referred to as USB PD) is an official USB specification created by the USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum).
How it works:
PD does not simply increase voltage — instead, it intelligently negotiates the charger's voltage and current to device. This enables flexible power delivery according to the device's capacity.
Key Features:
Adjustable voltage (5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V).
Often employs USB-C ports (reversible, new-generation connector).
Up to 100W or more power delivery — sufficient for laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Safer charging through intelligent communication between the device and charger.
Universal — works on phones, tablets, laptops, and even accessories such as cameras.
Current Versions:
USB PD 3.0 (commonly used)
USB PD 3.1 (latest, supports even more power delivery)
Typical PD Car Chargers:
USB-C ports rule.
Some chargers have dual USB-C PD outputs.
Quick Comparison: QC vs PD
Feature Quick Charge (QC) Power Delivery (PD)
Developer Qualcomm USB-IF (Industry Standard)
Primary Use Fast charging Android phones (esp. Snapdragon devices) Universal charging (phones, tablets, laptops)
Max Power OutputtUp to 100W (QC 5.0) but usually 18W–27W in car chargerst18W to 100W+
Port TypetBasically USB-A (occasionally USB-C)tBasically USB-C
Charging MethodtBumped-up voltagetNegotiated voltage/current (more adaptive)
Best FortAndroid phone users requiring speedy phone chargingtAndroid, iPhone, tablets, laptops, etc.
How to Know Which One You Need
Here's a quick guide:
If your phone is Quick Charge-capable (such as many Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus phones) → a QC car charger will give you maximum speed.
If you own a USB PD-supported device (iPhones, Pixels, new Samsungs, laptops) → select a PD car charger.
If you carry more than one type of device → a dual-port QC + PD charger provides maximum flexibility.
If you need future-proofing → USB PD is more global and will probably continue to be the standard going forward.
Devices That Support Quick Charge
Samsung Galaxy S and Note series (previous models)
Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones
OnePlus phones (with previous QC versions, prior to Warp Charge becoming standard)
Motorola phones
LG phones (older models)
(Note: Newer Samsung and OnePlus phones also support PD or PPS fast charging.)
Devices That Support Power Delivery
All newer iPhones (iPhone 8 and later)
Google Pixel phones
Samsung Galaxy S20/S21/S22/S23/S24 series
iPads (Pro, Air, Mini)
MacBooks
Nintendo Switch
Many Windows laptops
Example: How Fast Are They in the Car?
Quick Charge 3.0 Charger + Compatible Phone: 0–50% battery in approximately 25 minutes.
USB PD 30W Charger + Compatible Phone: 0–50% battery in approximately 20 minutes.
USB PD 65W Charger + Laptop: Can provide substantial battery boost in only 30 minutes.
Real-world speeds will also depend upon:
Your device's battery size
Cable quality
Charger quality
Background activity (such as navigation apps)
Top Car Chargers with QC or PD (2025 Selections)
Anker PowerDrive III Duo (PD and QC)
Dual-port charger (1 USB-C PD, 1 USB-A QC)
Excellent for multi-device charging
Efficient and compact
UGREEN 65W USB-C Car Charger (PD Centric)
Two ports, strongly centered on PD
Easily charges laptops and tablets
Excellent for new devices
Baseus 160W 4-Port Car Charger (Mixed QC and PD)
Excellent for families and large groups
Charges up to four devices at the highest speeds
Integrated safety and smart chips
Pro Tips for Faster Car Charging
Use a quality cable: Low-cost cables restrict power delivery.
Check phone settings: Certain phones have features that optimize or throttle charging.
Keep it cool: Heat slows charging speed.
Plug it in right: Use USB-C PD ports for PD devices and QC-approved USB-A ports for QC devices.
Conclusion: Quick Charge or Power Delivery — Which Is Better?
It isn't better, it's what you need.
Pick Quick Charge if you mostly have a compatible Android phone and want easy fast charging.
Select Power Delivery if your phones are newer, you have more than one type of device, or you also want to be able to charge laptops/tablets.
For ultimate flexibility, opt for a car charger that is compatible with both technologies — then you're prepared for anything, from running to the grocery store to a 12-hour drive across the country.