There are significant differences between gallium nitride (GaN) chargers and ordinary chargers (usually referring to silicon-based chargers) in terms of material, performance, volume, etc., here are the main differences:

1. The core materials are different

• Gallium nitride (GaN): A third-generation semiconductor material with higher electron mobility, high temperature and high pressure resistance, and lower energy loss.

• Ordinary charger (silicon/Si): Traditional silicon-based material, mature technology but limited physical performance, low efficiency at high frequencies.

2. Volume and weight

• GaN Chargers:

• Due to the high efficiency of GaN materials, the volume of transformers and heat dissipation components can be greatly reduced, and the volume is 30%~50% smaller than ordinary chargers at the same power.

• For example, a 65W GaN charger can approach the size of Apple's 5W charger.

• Common chargers:

• Silicon components require larger space and heat dissipation design, and are significantly larger at high power (such as 65W or more).

3. Efficiency and heat

• GaN Chargers:

• The switching frequency is higher, the energy conversion efficiency can reach more than 90%, and the heat generation is lower.

• Suitable for high-power fast charging (such as PD 3.0, QC4+, etc.).

• Common chargers:

• The efficiency is low (about 80%~85%), and the heat generation is obvious at high power, which requires additional heat dissipation design.

4. Power density and fast charging capability

• GaN Chargers:

• It supports higher power (30W~140W, which is common in the market), and multiple outputs (such as fast charging laptops and mobile phones at the same time) are more stable.

• Compatible with a variety of fast charging protocols (such as PD, PPS, QC, etc.).

• Common chargers:

• At high power (e.g. 100W or more), it is bulky, and the multi-port output may reduce power.

5. Price and lifespan

• GaN Chargers:

• The price is higher (1.5~3 times more expensive than silicon-based at the same power), but it is more power-saving and has a longer life (due to less heating) for long-term use.

• Common chargers:

• Inexpensive, but components age faster under high loads.

6. Applicable scenarios

• GaN Chargers:

• It is suitable for users who pursue portable, multi-device fast charging (such as laptops, mobile phones, and tablets charging at the same time).

• Reduce the burden of carrying when traveling or on a business trip.

• Common chargers:

• Suitable for low power requirements (such as below 18W) or scenarios with limited budgets.

GaN is recommended for scenarios: high-power fast charging (such as laptops), simultaneous charging of multiple devices, or focusing on portability.
Ordinary chargers still have a place to play: low-power, price-sensitive devices (such as Bluetooth headphones, smart watches).