UGREEN’s new lineup of Nexode Air chargers has managed to stand out in the market with its compact design – and how! We took a look at the brand’s 65W Nexode Air ultra-mini USB-C GaN charger a few weeks back, and we’re now checking out the ultra-slim 45W Nexode Air model. This is easily the slimmest charger I have in my EDC right now, and it’s compact enough to slip into just about any of my pockets or bags. While it doesn’t quite match the 65W charging speeds of the other variant I tested earlier, I’ve found myself reaching for this slimmer one more often over the past few weeks simply because it’s so easy to carry around. Head below for a closer look and more details.
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Hands-on with UGREEN’s 45W Nexode Air USB-C GaN charger
UGREEN’s official Amazon storefront has listed the Nexode Air 45W GaN charger for $34.99 shipped right now, with a 13% markdown on its $40 usual going rate. You are essentially looking at a launch deal that takes $5 off this unit’s full price. Unlike the 65W Nexode Air charger we saw earlier, this one only appears to be available in a Grey finish at the moment – it remains to be seen weather we’ll see it in more colors. It is, however, worth noting that this 45W Nexode Air doesn’t come with a cable in the box, which is a notable omission for the price.
Features at a glance:
- 45W Fast Charging: Charges an iPhone 17 up to 70% in around 30 minutes.
- Ultra-Slim Design: Just 0.57 inches thick with foldable prongs for easy portability.
- Advanced GaN Technology: Efficient charging with Thermal Guard and 8-layer protection.
- Premium Build: Sleek matte finish with textured grip and modern styling.
9to5Toys’ Take
The design and form factor are undoubtedly the highlights of the Nexode 45W charger we’re checking out today. Unlike some models that try to stand out with extras like displays or touch controls, the Nexode Air focuses on being as slim and compact as possible. While I’ve tested chargers that are smaller overall, this is easily the thinnest charger in my everyday carry. Its slim profile makes it stand out immediately, and I’ve already had several people ask about it after spotting it on my desk or plugged into a wall outlet. It looks noticeably different from the typical charger, which is saying something in a category where most products tend to blend together.
At just 0.5 inches thick, the Nexode Air is comparable to some of the slimmer power banks on the market. It’s also surprisingly compact, taking up very little space in a pocket or bag. In fact, I’d argue it feels easier to carry around than the 65W Nexode Air model I recently tested. That charger may be smaller in terms of overall volume, but the 45W Nexode Air’s ultra-slim profile and foldable prongs make it the more pocket-friendly option.
This particular charger, as previously mentioned, is only available in a grey finish. It has a clean two-tone finish – a metal-coated shell, paired with finely textured ridges around the edges that add a bit of grip and visual character. This one also has a frosted acrylic panel that gives the charger a more premium look and feel.
As for charging performance, I was able to charge my iPhone 16 Pro from 20% to 80% in about 50 minutes, which is right in line with what I’d expect from a 45W charger. It’s understandably a bit slower than the 65W Nexode Air, but the difference isn’t significant enough to be a deal breaker, especially when you factor in the slimmer design and added portability. The 45W output also gives it enough headroom to charge more than just phones. I’ve been using it with my MacBook Neo over the past few weeks, and it has handled the job without any issues, making it a solid one-charger solution for everyday use.
UGREEN’s Nexode Air 45W is a solid charger overall and one that’s well worth considering if you’re looking for something compact to add to your everyday carry. There are certainly other interesting options on the market, such as Anker’s Nano 45W charger with its built-in smart display, but UGREEN has taken a different approach here. Rather than adding extra features, it focuses on delivering a straightforward, ultra-portable charging solution that’s easy to carry and use.
The slim design is what really sets it apart. Much like Anker’s Nano charger, it’s likely to attract attention, though for entirely different reasons. The only real complaint I have is the lack of a USB-C cable in the box. It’s not a deal breaker since most people probably have a few spare cables lying around, but including one would have made the package feel a bit more complete, given the price.
Overall, I like the direction brands are taking with chargers and power banks. Products are getting noticeably smaller and easier to carry without sacrificing much in terms of performance, and the Nexode Air 45W feels like a significant step forward in that regard.
Buy UGREEN’s 45W Nexode Air GaN charger
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