Recently, I had the chance to test out the Baseus PicoGo 45W GaN USB-C Charger along with the Baseus Nomos Retractable USB-C Cable. As someone who’s often juggling multiple devices, I’m always on the lookout for compact, efficient, and reliable charging solutions.
After using these two products together for a while, I have to say, they deliver on several fronts without overstating their capabilities. Here’s a closer look at my experience with each.
1. Baseus PicoGo 45W GaN USB-C Charger
The first thing I noticed about the Baseus PicoGo Charger is how small and lightweight it is. Weighing just 83.35 grams, it’s incredibly portable. Baseus has clearly optimized it for on-the-go use, and it feels like a solid alternative to the larger, bulkier chargers that often come with laptops or tablets.
Despite its compact size, it packs a punch with its 45W output, making it compatible with a variety of devices, including iPhones, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Samsung Galaxy phones, iPads, and even some laptops like the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. It is also compatible with low-power devices like smartwatches and earbuds.
Build Quality and Design
The build quality of the charger feels robust, and it has a minimalistic design that’s easy on the eyes. It doesn’t have a foldable plug, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more compact packing experience. However, the plug’s solidity gives me confidence that it won’t wear out easily over time.
The charger is made with advanced GaN 6 technology, which, according to Baseus, contributes to both efficiency and heat management. In my experience, this holds up well; even after prolonged charging sessions, the adapter barely gets warm.
The dual heat dissipation system, which includes graphene and polymer silicon materials, seems to be doing its job effectively. I recently reviewed another adapter called the DeperAI Superpower 65W Pro which used to get significantly warm compared to this.
Charging Performance
I tested the PicoGo Charger on various devices. With my iPhone 13, it charged up to 50% in about 28 minutes, and it reached a similar speed with the Xiaomi Mi 11X.
This aligns with the claims Baseus makes about its fast-charging capabilities. For a 45W charger, the performance is definitely impressive. It’s worth mentioning that it supports multiple protocols (PD 3.0, QC 3.0, PPS, FCP, SCP, and AFC), so compatibility shouldn’t be an issue for most users.
The energy conversion rate is stated to be 93%, and although it’s hard to measure this precisely in everyday use, the efficiency does seem high. My devices charged quickly without excessive heat buildup, which suggests good energy management.
Safety Features
The charger also comes with the TÜV Rheinland certification, a rigorous safety standard that ensures the charger has passed extensive testing for safety and reliability. It includes multiple layers of protection: short circuit, over-current, over-voltage, and surge protection.
There’s even a monitoring system that tracks the charging status 720,000 times per hour, which is quite reassuring.
2. Baseus Nomos Retractable USB-C Cable (100W)
Now, onto the Baseus Nomos Retractable USB-C Cable. This is not your average charging cable. It comes with a retractable mechanism that I found very convenient.
I could adjust the length based on my setup, keeping things neat whether I was charging at my desk or plugging in beside my bed. The cable extends up to 4.9 feet, which is plenty for most situations, and retracts easily without any snagging or tangling.
Build Quality and Design
The Nomos Cable is made from durable materials, and it feels sturdy to the touch. It’s marketed to withstand over 50,000 pulls, and while I haven’t put it through that many uses yet, it certainly feels durable.
The connectors have a solid grip, and the retractable case feels well-made. The cable’s flat design helps it stay tangle-free, which is a nice touch when you’re constantly winding and unwinding it.
Charging Performance
This cable supports up to 100W charging, which is more than enough for the PicoGo Charger’s 45W output. However, it also makes the cable versatile if you’re using a higher-power adapter for charging something like a MacBook Pro.
The data transfer speeds are decent, and it worked seamlessly with all my USB-C devices. I tested it with an iPhone and a Xiaomi Mi 11X, and both recognized it immediately for charging and data transfer. With my MacBook Pro, it provided a stable and fast charging experience without any interruptions.
Portability and Ease of Use
The retractable design makes this cable highly portable. I could toss it into my bag without worrying about it getting tangled up with other items. It’s a good fit for anyone who travels frequently or likes to keep their workspace organized.
The six adjustable lengths are practical for different scenarios; I found myself using the full length when sitting farther from the outlet and retracting it partially when I needed a cleaner desk setup.
3. Final Thoughts
The PicoGo 45W charger and Nomos retractable USB-C cable make a great combination for anyone looking for a compact yet powerful charging solution. The charger’s GaN technology keeps it cool and efficient, and the multiple charging protocols ensure compatibility across a wide range of devices. The retractable cable adds a layer of convenience, reducing clutter and making it easier to carry around.
While I would have liked a foldable plug on the charger, it’s a minor drawback in the grand scheme of things. Overall, this combo delivers on performance, portability, and durability, making it a solid investment for anyone who needs a versatile charging solution.
4. Pricing and Availability
The Baseus PicoGo GaN 45W Charger is currently priced at $25.54, and the Nomos Retractable USB-C Cable is available for $21.49 on Baseus’s official website and Amazon. These prices make both items affordable choices.
Baseus is offering exciting discounts during the Black Friday sales. The 45W Picogo Charger is now available for just $19.99, and the Nomos Retractable Cable is also priced at $19.99.
