We have all been there: staring at a tangle of cables and power bricks in our laptop bag, trying to figure out which one can actually handle a fast charge for our devices. Asus is aiming to simplify that struggle with its new a-bean 100W GaN charger. It is a compact solution designed to replace the bulky bricks that usually come with our gear.
- Features a 3C+1A port layout for charging four devices simultaneously.
- Delivers up to 100W of power from its primary USB-C ports.
- Utilizes GaN technology to keep the size down to 75 x 61 x 29mm.
- Currently priced at approximately $25 in the Chinese market.
Compact Design Meets Heavy Power
The core appeal of this charger lies in its portability. Weighing 211 grams and featuring foldable prongs, it is built for those who move between home, office, and travel. By utilizing Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, Asus has managed to pack significant power into a small footprint, avoiding the heat and bulk associated with older silicon-based chargers. It comes in several colorways, such as Cloud White with Graphite Gray and Cool Black with Fluorescent Green, providing a bit of aesthetic variety for your desk setup.
The power distribution is quite versatile. When using the two main USB-C ports individually, you get the full 100W. If you plug in multiple devices, the charger intelligently splits the wattage. For instance, if you are charging a laptop and a phone simultaneously, it can distribute power at 60W and 30W respectively. When all four ports are in use, it provides 45W, 30W, and a shared 20W, which is enough to keep a laptop, phone, and smaller accessories like wireless earbuds powered up at the same time.
Usage Context and Compatibility
This charger is highly optimized for users who carry a mix of hardware. Whether you are a student with a tablet and phone or a professional with a laptop and various wearables, the 100W output is more than capable of handling high-demand tasks. It supports a wide array of standards, including USB Power Delivery (PD), PPS, QC, SCP, FCP, QFC, and PE. While it excels in versatility, keep in mind that total power is capped at 100W, so charging four high-drain devices at once will naturally result in slower speeds for each individual unit compared to single-port use.
Compared to competitors like Anker or Ugreen, which offer similar multi-port GaN solutions in the $30 to $50 range, the Asus a-bean stands out for its aggressive pricing and color options. It is a practical addition for anyone looking to reduce their cable clutter without sacrificing speed.
Source: Asus | Gizmochina
