Tollefe 78W 5-in-1: The Best Overall 12V Car Charger
OVERALL SCORE: 71
- Power Output & Charge Time: 8.0
- Ports: 7.0
- Features: 7.0
- Size: 5.0
WHY IT’S A TOP 12V CAR CHARGER:
- Offers 5 versatile ports for multiple devices.
- Supports quick-charging technologies (QC & PD).
- Integrated voltmeter to monitor car battery health.
DRAWBACKS:
- Optimal simultaneous charging limited to 3 devices.
- Extension cord design can be somewhat cluttered.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quick Charge Compatible? | Yes |
| Number of Ports | 5 |
| Types of Ports | QC, PD |
| Cord Included? | Yes |
| Total Wattage | 78 |
The Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 stands out as a highly capable 12V car charger, earning praise from our lead tester as “a good option for adding smart charging options to a second-row seat.” Its well-thought-out port arrangement includes two QC 3.0 and one PD 3.0 port on the extension, and an additional QC 3.0 and PD 3.0 port at the main adapter. A practical addition is the built-in voltmeter with a clear LED display, showing your vehicle’s voltage. “While modern vehicles might not strictly require this,” our expert notes, “observing your 12V power source, especially older lead-acid batteries, is beneficial for monitoring voltage stability and your car’s electrical system.” Fluctuations in voltage from a 12V source can impact charging efficiency and even the longevity of your car battery.
However, the design of the Tollefe 5-in-1, with its 6-foot extension cable, can introduce some cable management challenges. It’s also important to note that while it boasts five smart charging ports, it optimally supports simultaneous fast charging for up to three devices. Exceeding this can lead to a noticeable reduction in charging performance across all ports. For users who consistently require maximum power output for multiple devices simultaneously, the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 might be a better fit. “Nevertheless, for families with older vehicles seeking to equip the backseat with versatile charging options, the Tollefe remains a top 12V car charger choice,” concludes our tester.
The Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 is an excellent 12V car charger for upgrading charging capabilities in the back seats of older or classic vehicles.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best Value 12V Car Charger
Spigen SteadiBoost
OVERALL SCORE: 70
- Power Output & Charge Time: 9.0
- Ports: 7.0
- Features: 4.0
- Size: 7.0
WHY IT’S A TOP 12V CAR CHARGER:
- Supports both PD 3.0 and QC 3.0 fast charging.
- Compact and standard car charger format.
- Highly affordable for its features.
DRAWBACKS:
- Power indicator light could be brighter.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quick Charge Compatible? | Yes |
| Number of Ports | 2 |
| Types of Ports | QC, PD |
| Cord Included? | No |
| Total Wattage | 45 |
The Spigen SteadiBoost is a remarkably efficient 12V car charger that combines a familiar design with advanced charging technology. It capably supports both PD 3.0 and QC 3.0, making it compatible with a wide array of devices. Its affordability is a major highlight, with our tester commenting that it “offers exceptional value for a two-port car charger.” For those seeking a balance of performance and price in a 12V car charger, the SteadiBoost is a prime choice.
Pinpointing significant downsides to the SteadiBoost is challenging. “If we were to nitpick,” our tester mentioned, “a brighter power LED or backlit USB ports would enhance usability.” These minor points aside, the SteadiBoost delivers impressive QC 3.0 and PD 3.0 fast charging capabilities at a very accessible price. For even greater cost savings and a slightly smaller footprint, the Hussell 3.0 is worth considering. While it scored slightly lower overall and lacks a USB-C port, it remains a solid budget-friendly 12V car charger option.
The Spigen SteadiBoost 12V car charger excels at fast charging a wide range of devices compatible with QC3 and PD3.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best 12V Car Charger for Multiple QC 3.0 Devices
AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0
OVERALL SCORE: 68
- Power Output & Charge Time: 9.0
- Ports: 8.0
- Features: 4.0
- Size: 4.0
WHY IT’S A TOP 12V CAR CHARGER:
- Features 4 dedicated QC 3.0 ports.
- Includes 2 additional 2.4A ports.
- Maintains consistent power across all ports simultaneously.
DRAWBACKS:
- Larger and bulkier design.
- Lacks PD (Power Delivery) ports.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quick Charge Compatible? | Yes |
| Number of Ports | 6 |
| Types of Ports | QC, 2.4A |
| Cord Included? | Yes |
| Total Wattage | 96 |
For users needing to charge multiple QC3-compatible devices on the road, the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 is an excellent 12V car charger solution. Its primary strength lies in its ability to simultaneously deliver maximum charging speeds to multiple devices without power throttling. This makes it ideal for families or professionals carrying multiple smartphones, tablets, and action cameras that utilize Quick Charge technology.
The AI AIKENUO‘s inclusion of four QC 3.0 ports and two standard 2.4 amp USB-A ports results in a somewhat bulkier design, though its aesthetics remain sleek for its size. “This 12V car charger is more than capable of keeping numerous smartphones, tablets, and action cameras powered up for any adventure,” noted our tester. If your device ecosystem leans heavily towards QC or standard USB-compatible devices, this charger is a strong contender. However, if USB-C and PD compatibility is also a priority, the Tollefe 5-in-1 provides a more balanced port selection at a similar price point, making it another strong contender for the title of best 12V car charger.
The AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 12V car charger is surprisingly attractive for its larger size and impressive simultaneous support of 4 QC3 ports.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best Wireless 12V Car Charger
iOttie Auto Sense
OVERALL SCORE: 58
- Power Output & Charge Time: 7.0
- Ports: 6.0
- Features: 6.0
- Size: 2.0
WHY IT’S A TOP 12V CAR CHARGER:
- Supports Wireless Qi fast charging.
- Includes an extra USB port for wired charging.
- Features an auto-sensing phone lock mechanism.
DRAWBACKS:
- Bulky design due to wireless charging and mount.
- Higher price compared to wired chargers.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quick Charge Compatible? | Yes |
| Number of Ports | Wireless with micro-USB port |
| Types of Ports | Wireless Qi, 2.4A |
| Cord Included? | Yes |
| Total Wattage | 10 |
The iOttie Auto Sense Qi Wireless Car Charger is an excellent 12V car charger choice for users who prefer the convenience of wireless charging in their vehicles. Our lead tester highlighted its ease of use: “The automatic sensing system is seamless – simply place your phone, and the charger does the rest.” Equipped with Qi wireless charging, it efficiently charges compatible phones without the need for cables. “A standout feature is the robust suction cup mount,” he added, “securely holding your phone even on rough roads.” Its broad compatibility with various phone sizes further enhances its appeal as a top wireless 12V car charger.
While the iOttie Auto Sense delivers on wireless convenience, its design is inherently bulkier than standard wired chargers, especially when compared to minimalist car phone mounts. The inclusion of an extra USB port is a welcome feature, though we noted that it would be even more versatile if it supported QC, IQ, or PD fast charging standards. Overall, if wireless charging is a priority in your vehicle, the iOttie Auto Sense is a worthwhile 12V car charger. For a more budget-conscious wireless option, the CHGeek Wireless offers reliable wireless charging at a lower cost.
The iOttie Auto Sense is a smart wireless IQ fast 12V car charger that automatically detects and secures your phone.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best 12V Car Charger for Creators and Laptops
BESTEK 300W Power Inverter
OVERALL SCORE: 51
- Power Output & Charge Time: 5.0
- Ports: 3.0
- Features: 9.0
- Size: 2.0
WHY IT’S A TOP 12V CAR CHARGER:
- Provides A/C outlets in your car.
- Includes 2 USB-A 2.4A ports for device charging.
- Affordable for a power inverter.
DRAWBACKS:
- Bulky inverter design.
- USB ports lack QC, PD, or IQ fast charging.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quick Charge Compatible? | No |
| Number of Ports | 4 |
| Types of Ports | A/C, 2.4A |
| Cord Included? | Yes |
| Total Wattage | 300 |
The BESTEK 300W Power Inverter is the ideal 12V car charger solution for content creators and anyone needing to power AC devices like laptops while traveling. While mobile devices dominate modern life, laptops remain essential for demanding tasks like content creation. “While smartphone apps suffice for quick edits,” our lead tester points out, “professional photo editing or video production typically requires a laptop and its AC power.” For these scenarios, a 12V car charger with AC outlets is indispensable.
Being a 300-watt AC inverter, the BESTEK is inevitably bulkier than simple DC-to-DC USB chargers. Although it includes two USB-A ports, they are standard 2.4A and do not support fast charging protocols like PD or QC. “As a smartphone charger, it’s limited in speed,” our tester observed. For rapid smartphone charging, pairing it with a compact charger like the Spigen SteadiBoost is advisable. “However, for creators on the move, it’s a worthwhile trade-off,” he concludes. Compared to other 300-watt inverters with two outlets, the BESTEK remains relatively compact. It’s the best 12V car charger for those needing to power cameras, lights, smartphones, and simultaneously work on a laptop for tasks like video editing and publishing from the road.
The BESTEK 12V car charger is excellent for creators needing standard USB-A ports and AC outlets in their vehicle.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Product Comparison Methodology
Our fused test station enables precise current measurements, verifying device claims against actual current draw.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Our review process began by examining numerous popular car chargers, narrowing down to the most promising models. We prioritized chargers featuring fast charging technologies, broad device compatibility, and multiple ports. These selected 12V car chargers underwent rigorous hands-on testing, including precise electrical measurements and practical assessments like timed battery charging.
Our testing framework uses four key metrics:
- Power Output & Charge Time (35% of overall score)
- Ports (25% of overall score)
- Features (25% of overall score)
- Size (15% of overall score)
Real-world use is crucial for evaluating user-friendliness. The Aikenuo Multiport 12V car charger offers an abundance of USB-A ports.
Credit: Hayley Thomas
Why Trust GearLab for 12V Car Charger Reviews?
This review is led by Ben Hickok, bringing extensive expertise in electronics, IoT, software, and hardware. As an avid adventurer in climbing, skiing, hunting, and fishing, Ben spends considerable time on the road, relying on car chargers to power cameras and other equipment for documenting his experiences. Working remotely, he frequently needs reliable 12V car chargers to keep laptops and smartphones charged. His firsthand experience in managing power for various devices in vehicles has driven his search for versatile and efficient car charging solutions, minimizing clutter and maximizing organization on the go.
Here, we are using the AIKENUO Multiport 12V car charger to power a phone and mini projector for a mobile movie night.
From single devices to multiple gadgets, we tested the charging capabilities of each 12V car charger extensively.
We rigorously tested each charger with a variety of devices, pushing their limits to assess real-world performance.
Choosing the Right 12V Car Charger: Key Considerations
In today’s tech-dependent world, a reliable 12V car charger is essential for keeping our devices powered, especially during commutes and road trips. For those who spend significant time in their vehicles, it might be the primary power source for phones and other gadgets. However, 12V car chargers differ significantly in features and capabilities. Asking yourself a few key questions will guide you to the best choice.
Understanding Charging Technologies
Before selecting a 12V car charger, understanding common charging standards is crucial. PD (Power Delivery), QC (Quick Charge), and IQ (Intelligent Quick Charge) are prevalent technologies that dictate charging speed and compatibility.
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Power Delivery (PD): PD utilizes advanced communication to negotiate voltage and current, enabling faster and more efficient charging, up to 100W. It is widely compatible across numerous devices, especially newer laptops and smartphones using USB-C.
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Quick Charge (QC): Developed by Qualcomm, QC accelerates charging for compatible devices by increasing voltage and current through a proprietary protocol. Versions up to QC 5.0 exist, supporting up to 100W, but QC 3.0 is most common in 12V car chargers and smaller devices.
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PowerIQ (IQ): Anker’s PowerIQ intelligently detects connected devices and adjusts voltage and current for optimized, fast charging. IQ versions up to 3.0 support up to 60W, with IQ 2.0 gaining popularity due to its compatibility with both QC 2.0 and QC 3.0, adapting to device-specific power needs.
Understanding these technologies is key to choosing the best 12V car charger that matches your devices’ capabilities for optimal charging performance.
Top-performing 12V car chargers support various fast charging standards, including IC2, QC 3, and PD 3.
Credit: Ben Hickok
Charging Speed Requirements
Consider your typical charging needs. For quick top-ups during short commutes, prioritize Power Output & Charge Time scores in our reviews. While charger output is important, your device’s internal charging technology ultimately limits speed. Check your device’s fast charging compatibility (PD, QC, etc.) and match it with the port types listed in our comparison chart to ensure efficient charging. Most top-rated 12V car chargers include both QC and PD, but not all models do.
Number of Devices to Charge
Evaluate how many devices you typically need to charge simultaneously. Modern users often carry smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, all needing power. Our comparison chart lists port numbers under “Specs” and assesses port utility in the “Ports” metric. While port quantity matters, ensure each port provides at least 5V, 2.4A via USB-A. The best 12V car chargers offer multiple ports with fast charging technologies. For charging numerous devices, the AI AIKENUO stands out with six ports, four of which support QC 3.0.
Need for A/C Power Outlets?
If you need to power laptops or other devices with standard A/C plugs, a power inverter is necessary. Our recommended model is the BESTEK, a 300-watt inverter featuring two three-prong outlets and two standard USB-A ports (without fast charging). It’s relatively compact for an inverter and invaluable for on-the-go laptop use.
The AI AIKENUO is surprisingly slim for a six-port 12V car charger, while the BESTEK A/C inverter is also compact for its type.
Credit: Hayley Thomas
Analysis and Test Results: Best 12V Car Chargers by Metric
Our comprehensive testing categorizes 12V car chargers by performance metrics, highlighting top models in each category to guide your selection based on specific needs.
Best Value 12V Car Chargers
For many users, especially everyday commuters, a 12V car charger primarily needs to efficiently power a smartphone with fast charging capability. High-end features like AC inverters are often unnecessary. Similarly, basic 2.4 amp chargers might not suffice for power-hungry devices or multiple gadgets.
Value, in this context, is defined by the balance of overall performance relative to price. The Tollefe 5-in-1 offers exceptional all-around performance, supporting both QC and PD across multiple devices, at an affordable price. However, the Spigen SteadiBoost provides comparable performance, including PD and QC 3.0 support, for even less, making it an outstanding value choice for a 12V car charger.
For users solely needing a reliable QC 3.0 charger for compatible devices like Samsung phones, the Hussell 3.0 is a highly economical option delivering dependable performance.
The Hussell 3.0, a QC 3.0-capable 12V car charger, offers great value.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Power Output & Charge Time Performance
Charging speed primarily depends on a 12V car charger’s power output, though device limitations also play a role. This critical metric constitutes 35% of the overall score in our evaluations.
The Spigen SteadiBoost excels in consistently supporting both PD USB-C and QC 3.0 USB-A ports. The AI AIKENUO, while lacking PD, shines with four QC 3.0 and two 2.4A ports, maintaining full power to all ports simultaneously for efficient multi-device charging. If you frequently charge multiple QC 3.0 devices, it’s an excellent 12V car charger.
The UGREEN USB C also performed well in supporting QC 3.0 and PD. However, longer cables sometimes caused QC 3.0 to underperform. Other top models maintained QC 3.0 performance even with longer cables, indicating the UGREEN is more sensitive to cable quality or length.
The Tollefe 5-in-1 capably charges multiple devices, but performance can degrade beyond three devices depending on the combination. Ideally, a multi-port 12V car charger should sustain maximum charging rates across all ports regardless of device load.
The 5 smart charging ports on the Tollefe 5-in-1 make it one of the best performing 12V car chargers in terms of power output.
Credit: Ben Hickok
The Nekteck USB Type C and Hussell 3.0 offer solid performance with at least PD or QC support, respectively. The BESTEK Power Inverter is unique; its USB ports are standard 5V 2.4A, but it provides 300 watts via two 110-120V AC outlets.
Wireless chargers, like the iOttie Auto Sense, are device-dependent. Using the included charger, the iOttie achieved 10W Qi fast wireless charging with our test device. The CHGeek Wireless performed similarly when paired with a QC 3.0 car charger (not included).
The Scosche ReVolt Dual and AINOPE Mini 4.8A lagged in power output, lacking fast charging and limited to 2.4A USB-A outputs.
A typical port configuration: a USB-A QC 3.0 port alongside a standard USB-A 2.4A port on a 12V car charger.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Port Features and Quantity
Port availability and quality are crucial, accounting for 25% of the score. “Rated” ports refer to those supporting QC 3.0, PD 3, and IQ standards, or at least standard 5V 2.4A USB-A. Top 12V car chargers feature multiple rated ports, often QC 3.0 and PD 3.
The AI AIKENUO leads in port quantity with six total, primarily for QC 3-compatible devices: four QC 3 ports and two 5V 2.4A USB-A ports. However, it lacks PD ports, which is important for users with PD-only devices.
The Tollefe 5-in-1 follows with five intelligent ports: three QC 3.0 and two PD 3.0, offering a balanced selection.
Two 12V car charger models showcasing similar 5-port designs, optimizing port variety and accessibility.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
The unique design of these models positions some ports at the 12V lighter socket and others remotely via a 6-foot cable, extending charging access to rear seats with QC 3.0 and PD 3.0. However, the Tollefe 5-in-1 can’t sustain full charging rates on all ports simultaneously; its capacity is best suited for up to three fast-charging devices concurrently.
The Spigen SteadiBoost again ranks high with two rated USB ports. Wireless charging models naturally have fewer ports, focusing on their primary function.
A comparison of port numbers and sizes across some of the top 12V car charger models we tested, highlighting design diversity.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Feature Highlights
Beyond core charging, extra features enhance usability, contributing 25% to the overall score. We assessed charging indicators, power lights (port-specific and general), voltmeters, LED displays, build quality, finish, AC ports, and fuse types. Models with PD, QC, or IQ are considered to have more sophisticated internal circuit protection.
The BESTEK 12V car charger includes a rear rocker power switch and an automatic cooling fan for enhanced functionality.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
The AINOPE Mini, despite limited performance, features an elegant all-metal housing and a flush fit in 12V sockets. The iOttie Auto Sense offers a user-friendly auto-sensing phone lock and an additional USB-A port. The Hussell 3.0 stands out with brightly illuminated ports.
The Hussell 3.0’s attractively illuminated ring around the ports ensures easy visibility in the dark, a thoughtful feature.
The Tollefe 5-in-1 includes a practical voltmeter, displaying battery voltage to prevent over-discharge, especially useful for lead-acid batteries.
The simple yet effective voltmeter on the Tollefe 5-in-1 12V car charger provides a bright and clear voltage reading.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Size and Portability
Size contributes 15% to the score, favoring compact designs, considering port count versus overall volume.
The AINOPE Mini and Scosche ReVolt Dual are the smallest, most portable 12V car chargers tested. However, they lack fast charging, limiting their performance with modern devices.
The Scosche and Ainope represent the two smallest 12V car charger models in our test, emphasizing portability.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Moderately sized chargers like the Hussell 3.0 and UGREEN USB C are slightly larger but offer at least one fast charging protocol (QC 3.0 and PD USB-C, respectively). The UGREEN’s QC 3.0 performance, however, was inconsistent with longer cables.
More advanced 12V car chargers with multiple fast charging ports are bulkier due to added circuitry. The Spigen SteadiBoost achieves a good balance of features and compact size.
Larger models like the AI AIKENUO and Tollefe 5-in-1 prioritize port quantity. The AIKENUO is a single unit, while the Tollefe extends ports via a cable for backseat access. Wireless chargers (CHGeek and iOttie Auto Sense) are also bulkier due to their design, but offer the convenience of cable-free charging.
Two wireless 12V car charger models we tested, both supporting QI charging when paired with a QC3 charger.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
The BESTEK Power Inverter, being a 300W inverter with AC outlets, is the largest block-style 12V car charger. Its size is justified by its unique functionality.
A stark size comparison between the smallest and largest 12V car charger models in our comprehensive test.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Conclusion: Choosing Your Best 12V Car Charger
Our extensive testing and evaluation aim to provide you with a clear understanding of 12V car charger technologies and device compatibility. We hope this guide helps you identify the best 12V car charger to suit your devices, vehicle, and lifestyle. For more useful vehicle accessories, check out our reviews of jump starters, tire gauges, and car phone mounts.
