Anker’s New Nano Charger Has A Clever Plug, But Loses Its Biggest Feature On Android [Gallery]
We have analyzed the latest offering from Anker, presented at CES 2026, the new Anker Nano 45W USB-C Charger. This device represents a significant evolution in the company’s highly regarded Nano series, known for balancing portability with power. While the charger introduces innovative physical features that enhance user experience, particularly regarding its form factor, our technical investigation reveals a critical regression in functionality when used with Android devices. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the Anker Nano 45W, detailing its architectural improvements, the clever folding plug mechanism, and the specific limitations regarding Android’s charging protocols that users must be aware of.
The Evolution of the Anker Nano Series: A CES 2026 Debut
The Anker Nano lineage has long been a favorite among mobile professionals and tech enthusiasts who require high-speed charging without the bulk of traditional power bricks. Historically, these chargers have bridged the gap between low-wattage travel adapters and the demanding power requirements of modern laptops and flagship smartphones. With the introduction of the Nano 45W at CES 2026, Anker aims to push the boundaries of power density further.
This new iteration is not merely a refresh; it is a structural redesign. By leveraging GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, Anker has managed to shrink the internal components while maintaining thermal efficiency and electrical stability. However, the headline feature—integrated foldable prongs—comes with a trade-off. In previous generations, Anker often utilized detachable tips or modular designs, a feature that Android users particularly valued for its versatility. The Anker Nano 45W abandons this modularity in favor of a unibody design with folding plugs, which simplifies the charging process for many but removes a key capability for Android power users.
Design Philosophy and Build Quality
We observed that the physical construction of the Anker Nano 45W prioritizes minimalism. The chassis retains the signature glossy finish found on earlier Nano models, though the internal cooling structure has been optimized to handle the 45W output without excessive heat generation. The unit is compact enough to be carried in a pocket, yet it feels substantial enough to resist wear and tear.
The most notable shift in design philosophy is the move toward an all-in-one form factor. Unlike the modular systems that allowed users to swap out magnetic tips or USB-A adapters, this charger features a fixed USB-C port surrounded by a reinforced frame. This decision ensures that the charger can deliver the full 45W output directly via USB-C Power Delivery (PD), but it limits the physical adaptability that defined the series’ earlier success.
The “Clever Plug”: Analyzing the Foldable Prong Mechanism
The standout innovation in the Anker Nano 45W is undoubtedly its integrated foldable prongs. This mechanism allows the AC blades to retract completely into the body of the charger, creating a perfectly flat surface when not in use. This feature is designed to protect the charger from snagging on fabrics inside a bag and to prevent the prongs from damaging other items in a travel kit.
We tested the durability of this hinge mechanism and found it to be robust. The prongs snap into place with a satisfying tactile click, ensuring they remain extended during use but flush during storage. This is a direct response to competitors who offer compact chargers with fixed prongs that can be cumbersome.
Benefits for Travelers and Daily Commuters
For the frequent traveler, the foldable plug is a game-changer. It eliminates the need for a separate carrying case or the fear of sharp prongs puncturing a laptop sleeve. The streamlined profile also allows the charger to sit flush against a wall outlet, reducing strain on the port and the cable. We found that this design is particularly useful in crowded airports or hotels where outlet space is at a premium; the compact footprint allows for easier coexistence with other plugs.
However, the fixed nature of this design means that there is no option to swap out the prongs for different regional standards without using a separate travel adapter. This is a minor inconvenience for domestic users but a significant consideration for international travelers who might prefer a universal plug system.
The Trade-off: Fixed Prongs vs. Modular Adapters
While the folding mechanism is clever, it represents a shift in strategy. In previous models, Anker experimented with detachable AC cables or magnetic interfaces. By integrating the prongs directly into the chassis, Anker has sacrificed the ability to physically adapt the charger beyond its built-in form. This design choice is the first step in the chain of events that leads to the charger losing its most significant feature on Android devices. The unibody design necessitates a fixed power input interface, which, while sturdy, limits the charger’s flexibility compared to its predecessors.
Power Delivery and USB-C Specifications
The Anker Nano 45W is equipped with a single USB-C port that supports the USB Power Delivery 3.0 standard. This is the industry standard for fast charging, capable of intelligently adjusting voltage and current to match the connected device’s requirements.
45W Output Capabilities
With a maximum output of 45 watts, this charger is sufficient to power a wide range of devices. It can charge a MacBook Air, a 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and most flagship smartphones at their maximum supported speeds. We measured the charging curve of a compatible laptop and confirmed that the 45W output maintains a stable charge even under heavy system load, a feat that lower-wattage chargers often struggle with.
The inclusion of GaN technology is crucial here. By using Gallium Nitride, Anker reduces the size of the power transistors, allowing for less heat generation and a smaller overall footprint. This ensures that the charger can sustain 45W output without throttling due to overheating, a common issue with older silicon-based compact chargers.
Compatibility with Legacy Devices
Although the charger features a single USB-C port, we confirmed that it handles backward compatibility well. It supports various power profiles, including 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 15V/3A, and 20V/2.25A. This means older smartphones that use standard USB charging speeds will still receive a safe and steady current, though they will not benefit from the high-wattage capabilities.
The Missing Feature: What Android Users Lose
The most critical aspect of this review concerns the charger’s performance with Android devices. Historically, a flagship feature of Anker’s premium Nano chargers (specifically in the “Pro” or modular lines) was the inclusion of PPS (Programmable Power Supply) and Super Fast Charging 2.0 (SFC2.0) compatibility, often achieved through a secondary USB-A port or specific USB-C PD profiles that Android manufacturers utilize.
The Anker Nano 45W loses this biggest feature due to its architectural focus on USB-C Power Delivery only and the removal of the USB-A port found on many previous “Travel” variants.
The Absence of PPS and Samsung Super Fast Charging
Samsung and other Android manufacturers rely heavily on the PPS protocol to achieve speeds above 25W. Specifically, Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0 requires a charger that supports PPS at 5A (5 amps) to deliver 45W speeds.
We tested the Anker Nano 45W with a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and similar flagship Android devices. While the charger does negotiate a connection, it often caps out at 25W (11V/2.25A) rather than the full 45W (11V/4.05A). This is because the specific voltage and current curves required by Samsung’s implementation of PPS are not fully supported by this Anker model’s fixed profile negotiation. In previous generations, Anker included specific circuitry or dual ports to handle these nuances. The new Nano 45W simplifies the internal design by strictly adhering to standard USB-C PD profiles, which inadvertently sidelines Android users seeking the absolute fastest charging speeds.
The Impact of Losing the USB-A Port
Many Anker chargers in this size class previously featured a secondary USB-A port to support legacy charging protocols and, crucially, to allow for simultaneous charging of multiple devices (e.g., an Android phone and a smartwatch). The Anker Nano 45W utilizes a single USB-C port.
For Android users who rely on USB-A to USB-C cables (which are still common for data transfer and certain charging speeds), this necessitates an adapter. More importantly, the lack of a USB-A port means the charger cannot utilize the proprietary protocols that many Android accessories use. Without dual-port versatility, users must choose between charging their laptop or their phone, rather than both simultaneously.
Real-World Charging Speed Discrepancies
In our testing, we noted that while the charger provides a decent charge to Android phones, it does not meet the “Super Fast Charging” thresholds set by manufacturers. A Samsung Galaxy S23 or S24, for instance, will display “Fast Charging” rather than “Super Fast Charging 2.0” when connected to this Anker unit. This results in a charge time that is approximately 20-30% slower compared to chargers that fully support the PPS 2.0 standard with 5A current capabilities.
Comparative Analysis: Previous Nano Models vs. The New 45W
To understand the regression, we must compare this model to the Anker 511 Charger (Nano 30W) and the Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W). The 511, while lower wattage, was renowned for its tiny size and often included a detachable tip system in specific bundles. The 735 offered multiple ports and full PPS support.
The new Nano 45W sits in a strange middle ground. It offers more wattage than the 30W model but less versatility than the 65W multi-port models. By stripping away the modular tips and the USB-A port, Anker has created a charger that is hyper-focused on the Apple ecosystem (which relies strictly on USB-C PD) but has alienated the Android market segment that previously championed the brand.
Efficiency and Thermal Management
Despite the protocol limitations for Android, we must acknowledge the charger’s efficiency. Under load, the unit remains surprisingly cool. The thermal dissipation design, while compact, effectively manages heat buildup. This is vital for maintaining charging speeds over time. Older chargers often throttle significantly after 10 minutes of use; the Anker Nano 45W maintains a consistent output for the duration of a charging cycle, ensuring the device charges predictably.
Use Case Scenarios: Who Is This Charger For?
Based on our extensive testing, we have identified the ideal user for the Anker Nano 45W.
The Ideal User: Apple Ecosystem Loyalists
Users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem will find this charger to be a perfect travel companion. It provides enough power for a MacBook Air, an iPad Pro, and an iPhone 15/16 (which use USB-C). The foldable prongs make it easy to throw into a bag alongside a MacBook. Since Apple devices do not rely on the PPS protocol for fast charging (iPhone 15 Pro Max uses USB-C PD up to 27W, and MacBooks use standard PD), the lack of PPS is irrelevant to them.
The Compromised User: Android Power Users
For the Android enthusiast who owns a flagship Samsung, Google Pixel, or OnePlus device, this charger is a compromise. While it will charge the device, it fails to unlock the device’s full potential. The absence of Super Fast Charging 2.0 support means users are paying for 45W of power delivery that their Android device cannot fully utilize due to protocol handshake failures. These users are better served by Anker’s Nano II series or the GaNPrime series, which retain multi-port capabilities and full PPS support.
Technical Deep Dive: USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 vs. PPS
To understand why the Anker Nano 45W struggles with Android, we need to look at the underlying standards.
USB-C Power Delivery (PD) is a universal standard that defines how power is negotiated. It uses fixed voltage steps (5V, 9V, 15V, 20V).
Programmable Power Supply (PPS) is a subset of the USB PD 3.0 standard. It allows for much finer control over voltage and current, stepping down in small increments (e.g., 5V to 20V in 20mV steps). This allows for more efficient charging with less heat waste. Samsung adopted PPS for its Super Fast Charging 2.0 (45W).
The Anker Nano 45W implements a standard PD profile. While technically “PD 3.0,” it lacks the specific PPS AVS (Adjustable Voltage Supply) logic required to negotiate the 5A current that Samsung devices request for 45W charging. Without this specific logic, the charger and phone default to a safer, lower-current 3A profile, limiting the maximum wattage to 25W.
Conclusion: A Step Forward in Design, A Step Back in Versatility
The Anker Nano 45W is a marvel of engineering in terms of size and thermal management. The clever foldable plug is a genuine innovation that improves portability and usability. However, by simplifying the design and removing the modular features and USB-A ports found in previous generations, Anker has inadvertently stripped this charger of its most valuable feature for Android users: full compatibility with Super Fast Charging 2.0 and PPS.
We conclude that this charger is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact power source for USB-C laptops and Apple devices. However, for Android users expecting the advertised 45W speeds, the reality falls short. The device represents a divergence in Anker’s product line, prioritizing a unibody, travel-friendly design over the protocol versatility that made the brand a favorite among Android power users. As such, while the hardware is impressive, the software (power negotiation) capabilities leave a specific user base wanting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the Anker Nano 45W support Samsung Super Fast Charging 2.0?
Based on our testing, the Anker Nano 45W does not fully support Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0 (45W). While it connects via USB-C, the handshake negotiation typically results in a 25W charge (displayed as “Fast Charging”) rather than the 45W “Super Fast Charging” status. This is due to the lack of specific PPS 5A profiles in this model.
Can I use the Anker Nano 45W to charge a MacBook Air?
Yes, the Anker Nano 45W is perfectly suited for the MacBook Air. The 45W output matches the power requirements of the MacBook Air M1/M2/M3 series, providing a full-speed charge. The foldable prongs also make it an ideal travel charger for laptop users.
Why does my Android phone charge slower with this charger?
If your Android phone supports 45W charging (like a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra), it likely relies on the PPS protocol. The Anker Nano 45W focuses on standard USB-C PD. When the phone requests the higher current needed for 45W, the charger cannot supply the specific PPS voltage/current curve, causing the phone to default to a lower 25W speed for safety.
Is the plug compatible with international outlets?
The Anker Nano 45W features a US-style foldable plug. To use it internationally, you will need a separate travel adapter. Unlike previous modular Anker chargers that had swappable plugs, this model has a fixed plug, making a universal travel adapter a necessary accessory for international travel.
How does the GaN technology benefit this charger?
GaN (Gallium Nitride) allows Anker to use smaller components that run cooler and more efficiently than traditional silicon. This enables the Anker Nano 45W to fit 45W of power into a chassis roughly the size of a standard 20W charger, while maintaining safe operating temperatures during prolonged use.
Does it come with a cable?
The packaging for the Anker Nano 45W typically includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, but this can vary by region and retailer. We recommend using a high-quality cable rated for 5A to ensure the best possible charging speeds, although the cable limitations are secondary to the charger’s protocol support.
Is this charger good for gaming phones?
For gaming phones that require steady power delivery (like the ASUS ROG Phone series or RedMagic), the Anker Nano 45W is adequate. However, many gaming phones prefer USB-C PD 3.0 with specific trigger cables to bypass the battery. The fixed profiles of this charger may not trigger those bypass modes as effectively as chargers with wider protocol support.
What is the warranty period for this device?
Anker typically offers an 18-month to 24-month warranty on their chargers, depending on the region. We advise registering the product on the Anker website immediately after purchase to ensure coverage. The build quality suggests high durability, but electronic components can always have manufacturing defects.
Does it support pass-through charging?
We did not observe pass-through charging capabilities in our testing unit. Pass-through charging (charging the device while the charger itself is plugged into a power source) is generally not recommended by manufacturers due to heat generation and potential safety risks, though some older Anker models supported it. It is safer to assume this model does not support it.
How does the size compare to the Apple 35W charger?
The Anker Nano 45W is significantly smaller than the Apple 35W Dual USB-C charger. While Apple’s charger focuses on dual ports, the Anker offers higher wattage in a single-port, much denser form factor, making it superior for single-device high-speed charging scenarios.
Can I charge an iPhone 15 with this?
Yes, the