What is a PD charger vs QC charger? Both are fast-charging technologies, but they use different standards to deliver power to compatible devices. USB Power Delivery (PD) is widely used with USB-C smartphones, tablets and laptops, while Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) works with compatible phones and chargers. The charging speed depends on your device, charger wattage and cable compatibility.
PD Charger vs. QC Charger?
Based on the USB-C standard, USB-Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging technology. This technology offers much higher performance than standard charging methods, and is supported by a number of laptop brands, as well as some Apple® and Android smartphones and tablets.
Your device can be charged up to 70% faster with USB-C PD than with conventional 5W charging*. This translates to spending less time plugged in until your phone is fully charged. If you need a quick boost to your battery, all you might need is a 10-minute USB-C PD charge.
PD Charger vs. QC Charger: What’s the Difference?
USB Power Delivery (PD) and Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) are fast-charging technologies, but they work differently. PD is widely used with USB-C devices, including smartphones, tablets and laptops. QC is Qualcomm’s charging technology, supported by compatible phones and chargers.
Which one should you choose? Choose a PD charger if your device supports USB Power Delivery; choose a QC charger if your phone supports Quick Charge. Always check your device’s specifications and use a compatible charger and cable for the best results.
How Does a PD Charger Work?
USB Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging technology that allows compatible chargers and devices to negotiate the power required for charging. Instead of supplying the same power to every device, a PD charger adjusts its output according to the device’s supported charging capabilities. This helps deliver efficient charging to compatible smartphones, tablets, laptops and other USB-C devices.
The actual charging speed depends on several factors, including the charger’s wattage, the device’s maximum supported input, the cable’s capabilities and the battery’s current charge level. A 65W charger, for example, will not necessarily charge every phone at 65W.
How Does a QC Charger Work?
Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) is a fast-charging technology designed to work with compatible chargers and devices. It adjusts charging power according to the supported Quick Charge version and the device’s requirements.
QC compatibility depends on the phone and charger. A phone that supports one charging standard may not achieve its maximum speed with a charger using a different standard. Some devices support more than one fast-charging technology, so checking the manufacturer’s specifications is important before buying a charger.
PD Charger vs QC Charger: Key Differences
The main difference between PD and QC is the charging standard used to communicate between the charger and the device. USB Power Delivery is widely used across USB-C smartphones, tablets and laptops, while Qualcomm Quick Charge is supported by compatible phones and chargers.
Charging speed: Neither technology is always faster. Actual speed depends on the charger’s power output, the phone’s supported charging standard, the cable and the battery’s charge level.
Device compatibility: USB PD is a versatile choice for many USB-C devices. QC can be a suitable option for phones that support Qualcomm Quick Charge. Some devices support multiple fast-charging standards.
Choosing a charger: Check your phone manufacturer’s specifications before buying. Choose a charger that supports your device’s charging protocol and provides the required power. Use a good-quality compatible cable, too.
Important: A charger’s advertised maximum wattage does not guarantee that every connected device will charge at that wattage.
