Fast charging safety and getting the most out of your smartphone’s charging tech

Fast charging is one of the most common features of smartphones nowadays. From the slow 15W, we’re now seeing triple-digit charging rates of 150W and 200W. While the benefits of fast charging are known, many are still worried if such technology is safe for the user as well as the smartphone’s battery.

Fast charging is generally safe for most devices, especially for models that have the feature built-in as they are designed to handle the increased power draw. However, just because the device supports fast charging doesn’t mean that you can use whatever charger you can get your hands on. Doing so is where things become dangerous as using the wrong charging equipment can damage the battery or even cause it to catch fire.

On the bright side, smartphones nowadays, especially those with fast charging tech, are smarter and have built-in safety features to make sure that these things don’t happen. However, it’s still wise to not abuse it to ensure the longevity of your device and your safety as its user.

Here are some of the things that you can do to get the most out of the fast-charge feature on your smartphone:

Use the right charger

In order to take advantage of the fast-charge feature, you need to use the right charger. And most of the time, it means using the charger that came with your device or using a charger that is specifically designed for your device. Also, take note that most fast-charging technologies also require a certain charging cable for it to work, so don’t just any USB-C cable with your fast-charging adapter. And most importantly, don’t buy fake chargers or cheap chargers of low quality.

Make sure it’s compatible

Not all smartphones support fast charging, so it is important to make sure that your device is compatible before attempting to use a fast charger. If your smartphone supports fast charging, find out its maximum charging rate and type (e.g. Qualcomm Quick Charge, USB-PD, Huawei Super Charge, OPPO SuperVOOC, etc.) so you know what chargers to use. If you’re planning to get third-party chargers and cables, make sure to know your device’s specs and requirements by reading the manual and checking out reviews online.

Keep your device cool

Heat is one of the enemies of battery health and high temperatures can cause your battery to degrade more quickly over time, so it is a good idea to keep your device cool while it is charging. Don’t leave your device under direct sunlight or in a hot car. As much as possible, try to keep it in a cool, dry place especially while it is charging.

To sum it up, fast charging is a safe and convenient way to charge your device, as long as you use the right equipment and take proper care of your device. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use common sense to ensure the best and safest charging experience.