USB Charging & Power Delivery (Everything You Need to Know)
We’ve all been there... a kitchen drawer full of chargers, charging blocks, tangled cables, and the frustration of a phone that takes hours to reach 100 percent. At KMC, we believe power should be simple. By integrating high-speed USB ports directly into our power strips with USB-C and wall taps, we’re helping you declutter your space while speeding up your day.
USB-A vs. USB-C
For years, the rectangular USB-A port was the king of charging. As devices have gotten more powerful, the standard has shifted to meet higher power demands.
While the shift from the old rectangular plug to the new oval one might seem like just another design change, the differences go far deeper than looks. USB-C isn’t just a physical upgrade; it is a massive leap in how our devices "talk" to each other to handle power and data.
More Than Just a New Shape
USB-A (The Legacy Standard)
- The "One-Way" Design: This is the classic rectangular port you likely have on older wall bricks and computers. Because the port's internal pins are not reversible, you often had to flip your plug two or three times before it finally fits.
- Limited Power: These ports were originally designed for low-power devices like a computer mouse or keyboard and only output a set amount of low power.
- Single-Purpose: Mostly for simple data or slow charging, USB-A has a much more limited use cases plus the port itself is a much larger component, presenting design challenges for compact/pocket devices. USB-A simply couldn't meet the demand of modern devices.
USB-C (The Modern Powerhouse)
- Universal & Reversible: The small, oval shape works no matter which way you plug it in—there is no "upside down".
- The "Brainy" Connection: Unlike older USB-A ports, USB-C supports variable amounts of power through Power Delivery (PD) technology (more on this below), which allows the USB charger and your device to have a conversation to figure out the fastest, safest amount of power to send.
- One Cable for Everything: USB-C is powerful enough to charge everything from tiny earbuds to high-performance laptops. It can also handle high-speed data and even output 4K video to a TV, all through the same port.
What is Power Delivery (PD)?
If you see PD or Power Delivery on a KMC product, like the Surge Strip Mini 6 PD, you’re looking at a fast charger that can intelligently adapt to your device's charging needs.
Power Delivery is a technology that allows the charger and your device to have a conversation. Think of it as the charger having a brain. Instead of just outputting a set amount of electricity, a USB-C wall plug with PD asks your device exactly how much power it can handle, then the charger adjusts to charge safely at maximum speed.
Why Only USB-C for Power Delivery?
You might wonder why our USB-A ports don't offer "Power Delivery." It comes down to the hardware:
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The Conversation Pins: Inside USB-C connectors there are specialized pins (called configuration channels) that facilitate that "smart" conversation. USB-A lacks these pins, making it a "dumb" port that can't talk to your device.
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The Power Ceiling: USB-C was built to handle massive jumps in voltage—up to 20V or more—which is required for laptops. USB-A is physically limited and could overheat if it tried to push that much "traffic" through.
What about "Fast Charging" USB-A?
You may see some USB-A ports labeled as "Fast Charging." These are usually "hacks" or proprietary standards (like Quick Charge) that try to boost power through the old design. While they work for some phones, they aren't universal and often end up just charging at the standard 2.4 amps.
USB-C PD is the true global standard that works for iPhone, Android, and laptops alike.
Choosing Your Wattage, How Fast Is Fast?
When shopping for a fast charging power strip, the most important number to look for is the Wattage (W). Think of wattage like a water pipe: the higher the wattage, the more "power" can flow to your device at once.
| If you are charging... | You need... | KMC Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods, E-readers, Lamps | 12W - 15W | Standard USB-A ports |
| iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Pixels | 20W - 30W PD | USB-C with 20W PD |
| iPads & Tablets | 30W PD | USB-C with 30W PD |
| Laptops (MacBook Air/Pro) | 45W - 65W PD | 65W PD Power Strip |
Advanced Tech: GaN & Dynamic Power Sharing
To make our chargers smaller and smarter, KMC utilizes two key technologies:
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GaN Technology: By using Gallium Nitride (GaN) instead of traditional silicon, we can fit a high-wattage charger into a much smaller, cooler-running 65W PD power strip.
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Dynamic Power Sharing: If you plug two devices into a single KMC strip, our intelligent chipset automatically balances the power between them to ensure both get an efficient charge.
PRO TIP: Your charger is only as fast as your cable! To get the full benefit of KMC Power Delivery (PD), make sure you are using a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable. An old, frayed cable can slow down even the fastest charger.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Can I charge my laptop from a power strip USB port?
Yes, but only if the port is rated for Power Delivery (PD) and meets your laptop’s wattage requirements (usually 45W to 65W). Always check your laptop’s original power brick for the required wattage. -
Is 20W PD fast enough for my new phone?
Absolutely. Most modern smartphones hit their "fast charging" peak at 20W–25W. A USB-C wall plug with PD in this range will typically get you from 0% to 50% in about 30 minutes. -
Are KMC USB ports safe for my expensive electronics?
Yes. All KMC USB-integrated products are UL or ETL certified, meaning they have been independently tested for safety. They include built-in protection against over-voltage, over-heating, and short-circuiting.
Ready to Upgrade Your Charging Game?
Don't settle for slow speeds and cluttered outlets. Shop our collection of USB-C surge protectors and fast charging power strips today to experience the convenience of universal compatibility.
