Nomad 65W AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition Review

Key Takeaways

• Nomad’s 65W AC Power Adapter charges Apple Watch and 2 USB-C devices simultaneously.
• The charger has small and compact features, making it ideal for charging on the go.
• Getting your Apple Watch to charge can be difficult at times.

You might be thinking, “Wait a minute, you’re writing an entire review about a travel charger?” Hear me.

I’ve used many travel chargers from various companies, including solid options from well-known, Amazon-centric accessory makers like Anker and Aukey, before finally settling on Apple’s $59 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter for a few years. ago because of its speed, two USB-C ports, and how easy it is to throw in a bag. But after spending the last few weeks with Nomad’s 65W GaN AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition, I’ve decided it’s time to ditch my trusty Apple charger in favor of Nomad’s solution — it’s pretty cool.

Price, availability, and specifications

Nomad’s 65W GaN AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition costs $100 and is available on the company’s website. The charger is also available in 20W, 30W, and 230W versions. Only the 65W model supports Apple Watch charging, and for me, Apple Watch compatibility is what makes that model so great. In any case, each version of the charger is only available in matte black and gray.

Each charging port delivers 65W of power when used alone. When you use them together, the top port delivers 45W, while the bottom one puts out 20W. The device also supports fast charging and is capable of charging the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2. Notably, not all docks and chargers can handle Apple’s high-end wearable. Nomad says its 65W GaN charger can charge the iPhone, iPad, MacBook and other USB-C devices, so as expected, it’s compatible with more than just Apple devices.

As for size, the charger comes in at 2.3 x 2.1 x 2.6 inches with its prongs closed, and 2.8 x 2.1 x 1.6 inches open. It’s not as small as Nomad’s 65W Slim power adapter, but it’s still very small. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to supply your own USB-C cables; Nomad doesn’t put anything in the box.

What I liked about the Nomad 65W Power Adapter

One charger to rule them all

I’m an all-in-one device worker, and Nomad’s 65W Power Adapter is the first I’ve come across in the all-in-one charger space for Apple Watch users. The device feels well-made and classy, ​​thanks to its solid build quality and matte finish. I’m a fan of the fact that the power prongs are collapsible, making it easy to fit safely in a suitcase or backpack and ensuring that I don’t have to worry about scratching any of my devices. The comfort factor can’t be beat.

The comfort factor can’t be beat.

In most cases, I used Nomad’s Apple Watch Edition 65W Power Adapter at home next to my bedside table to charge my iPhone 15 Pro, M4 iPad Pro and Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra. I plan to use it as my travel adapter, but haven’t had a chance to do so yet. However, I have used it while working at a coffee shop and a few other places on the go. The fact that I don’t need to plug in an Apple Watch charging cable as much as I do with Apple’s Dual USB-C port charger means I have an extra port to spare, allowing me to charge my MacBook or Android phone alongside my other one. devices. Not having to pack another extra cable when I’m out and about is probably a good thing.

You can also use the charger part of the Apple Watch to charge the AirPods. I’ve tried this a few times, and it sucks, but if you’re in a jam and need to quickly juice up your wireless earbuds, it’s a good option to have. Charging speeds vary by device, but given the high capacity, the experience is fast across the board, whether you’re charging an iPhone 15 Pro or an iPad Pro.

What I didn’t like about the Nomad 65W Power Adapter

Getting your Apple Watch to charge can be difficult

Depending on the type of plug you use, charging the Apple Watch with the Nomad 65W Power Adapter can be a bit awkward. With wall plugs, it’s best as the charger is mounted horizontally, giving the Apple Watch a platform to sit on. However, if you’re using a desk stand, things get more complicated with the Apple Watch sitting on the side because the charger is vertical. It works reliably because the smartwatch magnetically attaches to the charging brick, but I can’t help but worry a little that the Apple Watch might fall or slip and stop charging.

Depending on the type of plug you use, charging the Apple Watch with the Nomad 65W Power Adapter can be a bit awkward.

Navigating with the Apple Watch band can also be a little tricky at times. The easiest thing to do is wrap your stand around the charger and plug in your other devices. This is more straightforward with Apple Watch bands that aren’t completely detachable, like the Sport Band, but can sometimes be a little tricky with the Velcro Sport Loop that I use a lot (see image above).

Beyond these two issues, however, Nomad’s Apple Watch Edition 65W Power Adapter is nearly perfect. Sure, it could be cheaper, but compact GaN chargers tend to be on the pricier side and $100 is reasonable.

Should you buy Nomad’s 65W Power Adapter?

If you have money to spare and want a compact, high-quality GaN charger to use at home or while traveling, then Nomad’s 65W Power Adapter is one of the best out there. Of course, this only works for iPhone and Apple Watch owners. If you fall into the Android ecosystem, there are cheap, like good chargers available.