[Review] Tronsmart Presto 12000mAh QC3.0 + USB-C battery pack, and USB-C commentary - LG G5 Accessories

There is a lot of ongoing work by companies to manufacture charging products for new USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) and Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) devices. Because the USB-PD and QC specifications are at direct odds with each other, the products are difficult to standardize, leading to confusion among consumers. Essentially, anything that does not adhere to the strict USB-C specifications is considered in violation. Google Engineer Benson Leung has tested numerous USB-C cables and chargers and found many to not be within USB-C specification. This implies they may be dangerous for USB-PD devices. However, I have not seen any true proof of QC chargers damaging USB-PD devices, only that they will not fast charge them.
The engineering points are numerous and can get fairly complex, beyond the scope of this review. However, I find it important to add to the fount of knowledge with our new phones and charging devices, and this is my small contribution.
I own a LG G5 phone, and my testing and comments are limited to this device only.
My simple method is to use a USB-A multimeter as well as the Android OS’s amperage reading. There are limitations to this. Primarily, I have been informed that the Android OS amperage is based on a voltage of 5V. This was certainly fine in the days pre-Qualcomm Quick Charge, but now with higher and variable voltage, the amperage readings are not reliable. Secondly, as this is a USB-A meter, I have no way of directly monitoring USB-C amperage or voltage. Thirdly, I do not have the ability to digitally log the voltage off the multimeter, so some of the data points presented are more general than I would like.
Here I am reviewing the Tronsmart Presto 12000mAh battery pack, which has both a USB-C port for USB-PD devices (Nexus 6P, etc) and a USB-A port for QC3.0 devices (LG G5, HTC10). It is available here:
https://amazon.com/gp/product/B01GVBFBBO/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ALTVS0Q5KJ7M3
It was provide to me for my review.
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The main selling point of this battery pack aside from the QC3.0 capability is the dual types of ports. If you happen to have both QC3.0 and USB-PD devices, this battery pack can theoretically fast charge either. The QC3.0 port is rated at the usual QC3.0 voltages/amperages, and the USB-PD port is rated at 5V/3A. It comes with a short USB-A to USB-C cable to be used with the QC3.0 port. You’ll have to supply your own double-ended USB-C cable if you want to go C to C.
There’s a 4 LED gauge for how much battery is left. During charging, the LED at the end will flash. On the side there’s a button to turn on the charging. The battery is charged through the USB-C port (it’s used both for output and input). Attached to my separate QC3.0 AC adapter, the battery charged at 2.4A / 5V only. I do not have a USB-PD charger to use to charge the Presto.
EDIT: I re-tried the charging measurements using a Tronsmart branded QC3.0 AC adapter and the battery now charged at 15W, ~2.7A and 5.6V. This is better than the prior measurements! Your charging adapter matters!
For this test, I used the included USB-A to USB-C cable for the QC3.0 port. My USB-C to C cable is one provided by ChoeTech (available here https://amazon.com/gp/product/B01H3COF62/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
I drained my phone down to ~20% and plugged in. Here is how the charging times for the Presto battery ports compare:
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To go from ~20 to 100% for QC3.0, it took ~70 minutes. For the USB-PD port, it took 90 minutes. The mA readings for the QC3.0 are not accurate, but those reported by the Android OS. The USB-PD amperages are likely correct.
I have previously tested several QC3.0 and QC2.0 chargers. The charging time for the QC3.0 port lines up well with my multiple previous measurements. Those show that for 0-100%, it takes ~80 minutes, with ~20% increase/10 minutes for the first 20 minutes.
For the QC3.0 port, here are some general points collected from me taking notes on the multimeter readings:
Wattage maxed out at ~16-17W. Not bad!
Voltage maxed at 8.70 very briefly. Most of the early measurements (fastest charging) were at 6.4-7.4 volts.
Amperage maxed at ~2.6 briefly.
These measurements all fall within QC3.0 guidelines.
Regarding the USB-C port readings, it seems that despite a recent Gtrusted.com review,
http://gtrusted.com/review/lg-g5-su...-to-qualcomm-quick-charge-3-0-over-usb-type-c
which reported the LG G5 is also capable of negotiating charging over the USB-PD standard, many kinks and incompatibilities remain. Gtrusted.com subsequently found that the G5 cannot charge at all from the Anker or iVoler USB-PD charger USB-C ports:
http://gtrusted.com/review/40938
http://gtrusted.com/review/40937
I did not have that issue with the Presto, but the USB-PD port charging times were suboptimal. They lagged behind QC3.0, and an additional 15-20 minutes was necessary to top off the phone. I doubt the G5 is able to extract the 5V @ 3A the port is advertised to provide for USB-PD devices and that the initial Gtrusted report suggested.
Previous to my testing, I had wondered if the G5 would get the fast charging benefits of USB-PD chargers. In this case, it does not. As I mentioned in the introduction, the standards of USB-PD and QC clash with each other. Specifically, it is very unclear how manufacturers are implementing charging through USB-C ports.
Some earlier models had put QC3.0 into USB-C ports, which is in violation of USB-PD standards. BUT, I want to point out, why and how does that even affect QC capable devices? It really doesn't. The outrage on retailers such as Amazon is driven by the USB-PD side, neglecting entirely Qualcomm’s tested standard. Manufacturers in turn are removing their QC implementation from the USB-C ports and leaving them USB-PD only.
One notable issue I discovered was with the phone after the charging finished on the USB-C port and the battery auto-shutoff. The phone made repeated connecting/disconnecting sounds despite the battery pack being off. I think this is solely a G5’s issue though--perhaps the G5 detects a USB-C device but cannot successfully interface with it. The same thing occurs when the battery pack is off and you first plug in the USB-C cable. This subsides once the battery pack is turned on.
In conclusion, having 2 fast charging solutions in one battery pack is a worthwhile luxury. It’s great to see products like this fill the need. Having full-fledged QC3.0 capabilities in a portable unit makes travel and juicing up quick, easy and convenient.
Pros:
2 different ports to charge either USB-PD or QC3.0 standards! There are few options like this these days.
QC3.0 amperage, voltages, and charging times are similar to AC QC3.0 adapters!
Auto-shutoff is a nice feature to preserve battery life.
Includes a USB-C compliant USB-A to USB-C cable, a necessary touch to charge the battery if you don't already have one
If you have a capable QC3.0 charger, the battery will charge at ~15W
Cons:
The G5 does not charge at 3A/5V with the USB-C port. My estimates suggest it is more like 5V @ 2A. This may not be any fault of the charger but rather the programming controlling the charging from the phone.
Other:
The USB-C port interface with the G5 results in repeated connects/disconnects if the battery is not off. This is more likely an issue with the phone than the Presto.
2 different ports means 2 different cables to carry!

The outrage on retailers such as Amazon is driven by the USB-PD side, neglecting entirely Qualcomm’s tested standard. Manufacturers in turn are removing their QC implementation from the USB-C ports and leaving them USB-PD only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not a good power bank to have if one does not already own a device that accepts USB-PD. Reason is this powerbank will only accept 5V3A input to charge itself. The A port cannot be used to charge it. So you cannot QC this powerbank.
So unless you have a charger with a c port that you can connect with a c to c cable, you will only be able to input 7-8W to charge this bank up instead of twice as much. The bank will take twice as long to charge.

That is not true. It *can* take either USB-PD C input or QC input to charge, and it is not only 7-8W, but rather 15W with the QC3 charger. I was afraid of that also, as USB-PD accessories are not so common yet, but my testing (and also from that other review) indicate otherwise.
I had an earlier version of this review using a different brand QC charger, and what you said was the case. Quite slow, 10W charging only (5v @ 2A). But with the Tronsmart QC3 charger, this is not the case.

Related

Anker Astro E7: 3A support for Nexus 6P?

The Anker Astro E7 is a 26,800mAh external battery that claims 4A over it's three usb ports or up to 3.5A on a single port. Would the 6P charge at 3A with this battery? I don't know if 3A charging is exclusive to USB-C or would it work with the USB-A-to-USB-C short cable that comes with the 6P.
http://www.ianker.com/product/A1210022
Compared to Anker's newer PowerCore+ batteries, which DOES have a USB-C port, BUT is limited to 2.4A per port. One 'improvement' of the PowerCore is support for 5v, 9V, and 12V while I think the Astro is good only for 5V. This may be important to charge a chromebook over usb-c, but not relevant for the Nexus.
http://www.ianker.com/product/A1372011
No it won't. I have a 5V/4A charger and tested 3 approved cables (2 Google and iroange A-C) and it peaks at 1.5A
Pilz said:
No it won't. I have a 5V/4A charger and tested 3 approved cables (2 Google and iroange A-C) and it peaks at 1.5A
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup can confirm this too as I have the same charger and used the same 2 cables
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
1.5A? That is horrible. I have another Anker battery that claims 2.1A out of one port and with my portapow usb monitor, I see only about 1.5A too. Then I tried it with an anker 6-port charger that claims 2.4A per port and I still only get around 1.5A.
Anker claims the Astro E7 can support 3.5A out from a single port and I would like to see this mythical usb-a device that supports that.
I wonder what is at fault: the battery/charger, the usb measuring device, the usb-a to usb-c cable (stock google short one), or the phone itself (maybe it knows it's not a usb-c to usb-c cable and thus limits the charging rate so not to damage the potential computer it's connected to?)
badbob001 said:
1.5A? That is horrible. I have another Anker battery that claims 2.1A out of one port and with my portapow usb monitor, I see only about 1.5A too. Then I tried it with an anker 6-port charger that claims 2.4A per port and I still only get around 1.5A.
Anker claims the Astro E7 can support 3.5A out from a single port and I would like to see this mythical usb-a device that supports that.
I wonder what is at fault: the battery/charger, the usb measuring device, the usb-a to usb-c cable (stock google short one), or the phone itself (maybe it knows it's not a usb-c to usb-c cable and thus limits the charging rate so not to damage the potential computer it's connected to?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the case of legacy charging ports, the negotiation is pretty limited and confined to legacy specs. The phone detects a legacy USB port (due to the in-spec cable being used) and uses the USB Battery Charge 2.1 protocol to negotiate for power. The phone says "I would like 5V at up to 1.5A" and the battery says "I can supply 5V at 1.5A" and so you get 5V at 1.5A.
If either battery had a USB-C port on it, and that port were rated for [email protected], where the phone could negotiate for 3A of current using the CC (configuration channel) pins/wires, then the conversation would change. It would go something like this: The Phone and Battery both see an active CC wire, they detect the orientation of the cable, then all kinds of communications and identifications of port and cable occurs between the two, wherein the phone says "I would like 5V at 3A please" and the battery pack says "Happy to oblige! How is your day going?". The Phone says "Been a rough day."
Then let's say you plug in a USB-A device, and the battery says "Hey Phone, I need to balance power - I can only supply 1.5A now" and the phone says "Sounds good to me, switching to 1.5A charging now". The battery, being the polite chap that it is, replies with "So very kind of you! Now I won't overtax myself. You are a gentleman and a scholar." The phone says "I know." ... and all is well with the universe.
As I'm sure you can plainly see, USB-C is much more civilized.
Or (as I understand it), you could intentionally buy an out of spec cable (one that indicates 3A instead of legacy). The 6P would then attempt to draw 3A from a port rated at 3.5A, and likely happily charge at 3A.
*Of course you should never use this cable with anything other than the battery above, or you may damage things, use at your own risk.
**I'm also sure someone will tell you that getting 3A out of a device rated at 3.5A is clearly impossible. 3.5A is clearly out of spec, which only allows for up to 2.4A in certain cases.

[Review 1/3] Choetech 10400mah USB Type-C Power Bank

Disclaimer: I was given a discount on this item in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
Choetech 10400mah Type-C/QC 2.0 Power Bank
Choetech 10400mah Type-C Power Bank
Overview:
There seems be a lot of confusion surround the USB Type-C standard and Qualcomm’s proprietary Quick Charger 2.0/3.0 lately. This battery pack offers both standards, but it only offers Type-C fast charging when you’re supplying power to the battery itself not your phone. The battery has 4 ports, a small footprint, and an overall nice look to it which will be discussed further below.
Packaging:
The Choetech battery comes in a brown branded box covered in a white sleeve showing the appropriate product information. Inside you will find the power bank, some instructions and a USB Type-A to MicroUSB cable. (the provided cable can charge either the power bank or your MicroUSB device)
Box:
Inside:
Charging:
When it comes to charging there are many ‘standards’ out there currently, but only one is correct when it comes to a USB Type-C port. The USB Type-C port on the power bank should only charge at the listed 5V/3A as listed; however, I found that it will use Quick Charge 2.0 over a A-C cable to charge the battery pack which is technically incorrect as noted in the USB standard section 4.8.2 which as summarized by Benson Leung:
The difference is that Qualcomm's solution is very proprietary, and it takes over the D+/D- (usb data) lines for good, so that Type-A port can't be used to communicate to your PC at the same time you fast charge.
USB Type-C doesn't have that restriction. You can have a hub with a 3A charging port that also hooks up all the data lines as the negotiation is separate from D+/D-.
When the USB-IF got to specifying Type-C, at the same time, considered higher voltages and much more dynamic power requirements as well. That is when the USB Power Delivery was introduced as well. Power Delivery will be able to handle much higher voltages (up to 20V) and higher currents (up to 5A) in a non-proprietary way.
This section of the Type-C specification 4.8.2 calls out chargers and devices that want to use a proprietary charging method and restricts them specifically from modifying Vbus (which is what QC does to get to 9V and 12V), and from altering roles from source to sink
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The power bank doesn’t state that it uses QC 2.0/3.0 over the Type-C port, but rather over the MicroUSB port which is interesting. I tested the power bank using a Power Partners 30W QC 2.0 charger, and a Tronsmart Dual Port 36W QC 2.0 charger; both produced the same result over a Choetech Type A-C cable. The power bank would draw 9V from the charger at 0.6A (the battery pack was showing 4 dots i.e. ~100%, but it still pulled more power from the charge implying that it wasn’t completely charged). I don’t know if this was an intentional move or not because the charging information on the battery pack doesn’t accurately reflect what it’s really doing.
Now, back to the other ports offered on the power bank. Each USB Type-A port outputs a different rate; one port is a QC 2.0 port while the other charges at 5V/1A. I tested both ports with A-C and A-MicroUSB cables to verify the output via a USB multi-meter. All 3 of the other ports (1 input, 2 output) deliver what’s listed which is good. I am disappointed to see a USB Type-C port only as an input port rather than an input/output which is essential if you want to rapid charge a phone such as the Nexus 6P/5X. The Type-A port will only provide 1.5A maximum for a A-C cable as it should by the USB standard. I tested this using a Choetech A-C cable, and the stock Google A-C cable that came with my Nexus 6P.
USB Port 1 A-C Output:
USB Port 2 A-C Output:
Charging via MicroUSB with the Tronsmart 36W charger:
Charging via Choetech A-C cable with the Tronsmart 36W charger:
Build & Design:
The overall design of the battery is nice, and features an anodized black aluminum shell with chamfered edges. There are 4 indicator lights that tell you the approximate % left in the battery pack next to the power button on one side. All 4 of the ports are located at one end for convenience which is very standard. This battery pack has identical dimensions to my silver Aukey power bank which isn’t a bad thing. The size is small enough to carry around in a bag without taking up a vast amount of space.
Top:
Bottom:
Front:
Back:
From left to right: Aukey 12000mah, Choetech 10400mah, Aukey 10000mah
From top to bottom: Aukey 10000mah, Choetech 10400mah, Aukey 12000mah
Summary:
There are a few discrepancies with this particular battery pack including the lack of a Type-C output, and QC 2.0 over a Type A-C cable. Other than those two issues the battery pack is great, and will work just fine for anyone looking for a small powerful power bank. I hope Choetech explains why the battery is using QC 2.0 over the Type C port, and potentially decides to make a unit with a Type-C output as well.
Not sure why they bothered going with type c which only supplies fast charging to the battery but not the phone? Anyway I think it's too pricey. I have 10,000mah which I bought for around $14 and is working great. Thanks for your in depth review. Very helpful!
badboy47 said:
Not sure why they bothered going with type c which only supplies fast charging to the battery but not the phone? Anyway I think it's too pricey. I have 10,000mah which I bought for around $14 and is working great. Thanks for your in depth review. Very helpful!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was the general consensus from people which is why they are making a new version with a Type-C input/output from what I was told. Choetech is going to send me one to review, so you can look forward to that once I receive word on when it so be released. I still don't have an official answer on why the Type-C port is using QC 2.0 over a A-C cable when its not supposed to, but when I do I'll add a note to the OP. I had the Ravpower 20800mah battery pack with a C in/out, but it different from horrible efficiency after a weeks worth of usage leading me to return it. I'm draining the battery now so I can test the Type-C input port from a lower % which should allow QC 2.0 to kick into 12V mode.
Pilz said:
That was the general consensus from people which is why they are making a new version with a Type-C input/output from what I was told. Choetech is going to send me one to review, so you can look forward to that once I receive word on when it so be released. I still don't have an official answer on why the Type-C port is using QC 2.0 over a A-C cable when its not supposed to, but when I do I'll add a note to the OP. I had the Ravpower 20800mah battery pack with a C in/out, but it different from horrible efficiency after a weeks worth of usage leading me to return it. I'm draining the battery now so I can test the Type-C input port from a lower % which should allow QC 2.0 to kick into 12V mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In that case; I look forward to their new case. I travel a lot so I am looking out for a decent type C portable charger with in and out. Thanks again!
badboy47 said:
In that case; I look forward to their new case. I travel a lot so I am looking out for a decent type C portable charger with in and out. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I heard back from the Choetech representative that I've been on touch with lately. She stated they have a bunch of new Type-C products in the pipeline without elaborating on what besides a power bank. I will post updates in the OP as I receive them. I would really like to see a 2 port Type-C power bank thanks slim (long/narrow) with a 5-6000mah capacity for my backpack. A dual port Type-C charger with 5V/3A on each port would also be a big plus. I have the google one but it only outputs 5V/3A on one port and 5V/1.2A on the other.

Chargers

Hey all,
Has anyone used the Apple Macbook's 29W charger with their Pixel C? - Any thoughts? did it charge at a higher rate over the standard 15W?
On the same note, anyone tried with the Chromebook Pixel's 60W charger?
I notice Google sells a universal type-C 60W charger but it says the maximum current is 3A, either at 5V, 12V or 20V. I suspect this means it's not going to charge the Pixel any faster since it probably just takes the 5V output.
I would be very cautious of any Type C chargers and cables. I have learned a lot from reading the reviews and google posts from Benson Leung. He keeps a list of devices and cables that he has tested.
https://plus.google.com/+BensonLeung
Anyone use a Targus APA93US APA93 45W Type-C Charger? (Currently on sale at Best Buy for $30. Same on Amazon for prime members)
EDIT: I asked Benson Leung, he worked with the Google Pixel C team and says the charger is PD, although before PD rules were set. So it is missing 9V. But assures me that the Pixel C can also make use of it's capabilities using the 12V/2A to get max fast charge of 24W which is what the Pixel C can use.
Does anyone else have the Motorola TurboPower 30? It is compatible with the MACbook using 5V/5A, wonder if the Pixel C can negotiate, it seems to have a proprietary Power Delivery.
UPDATE: I've tested it. It can only negotiate 5V/3A 15W~ max.
2xbass said:
I notice Google sells a universal type-C 60W charger but it says the maximum current is 3A, either at 5V, 12V or 20V. I suspect this means it's not going to charge the Pixel any faster since it probably just takes the 5V output.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to Benson Leung, which worked on the Pixel C at google, it can do 9V/2.67A or alternatively use 12V/2A. Which ever the usb type-c PD charger is capable of. The Pixel C can make use of up to 24W max for fast charging with compatible Power Delivery Chargers.
http://www.usb.org/developers/powerdelivery/PD_1.0_Introduction.pdf
http://electronicdesign.com/interconnects/introduction-usb-power-delivery
UPDATE: I've used the Targus APA93US 45W USB Type-C wall charger and it can negotiate 12V/2A 24.5W~ providing 33% more charging speed. Great for $30 at best buy or prime.
I recently bought this OEM Verizon / Xentris charger XENTVLPD-XX1 / TYPECPDQC3TVL on eBay for $8~ YMMV http://www.ebay.com/itm/351967678957
It can handle 5v/3a 7v/3a 8v/3a 9v/2.7a 12v/2a which is ideal for "faster" charging the Pixel C at 24W max, 33% over stock/OEM charger.
Received both my OEM and Original Verizon / Xentris chargers
XENTVLPD-XX1 / TYPEC27PDQC3TVL today and went to town doing some simple testing with various cables. With screen on it charges at about 15-16W with the screen off it ramps up to 24-25W. It's compact and very sturdy.
My conclusion is, if you're looking for a USB Type-C charger capable of Power Delivery, look no further. This is excellent and for the price $8~ shipped is an incredible deal. I bought mine from this listing on eBay http://www.ebay.com/itm/351967678957

Car Turbo Charger

Does anybody know of a car charger that does turbo charge the Moto Z? Apparently Motorola/Lenovo doesn't offer one and a third party QuickCharge 3.0 I tried failed...
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
I got this one :Nekteck 5.4A USB-C Car Charger from Amazon for 15$ and it does turbo charge my phone .
I don't believe that the Z Force is set up for Qualcomm Quick Charge. And while it doesn't Turbo charge, I use the Verizon brand rapid USB-C car charger. I've also read that we have to be careful with what charging cables we use with our Z Force phones.
Sent from my Moto Z Force Droid using Tapatalk.
zaki67 said:
I got this one :Nekteck 5.4A USB-C Car Charger from Amazon for 15$ and it does turbo charge my phone .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I will try that one then ?.
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
karlmf said:
I don't believe that the Z Force is set up for Qualcomm Quick Charge. And while it doesn't Turbo charge, I use the Verizon brand rapid USB-C car charger. I've also read that we have to be careful with what charging cables we use with our Z Force phones.
Sent from my Moto Z Force Droid using Tapatalk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At least Motorola claims it supports QuickCharge if I'm not mistaken. Apparently, though, it also has additional requirements for turbo charging to kick in... I looked at the Verizon charger, too, but a) there's not much info on its website, b) calling Verizon didn't help - they don't have a clue, and c) there is some comment / review saying that it "burned out" some user's battery (which is of course unconfirmed to be related to this charger, may have been something else).
Anyways, given the utter lack of info and the suspicion of harming the battery, I stayed away from it... not to mention the ridiculous $40 price tag.
On an other note, though, Verizon has the original Motorola TurboCharger (wall charger) at a 50% discount.
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
pb1379 said:
At least Motorola claims it supports QuickCharge if I'm not mistaken. Apparently, though, it also has additional requirements for turbo charging to kick in... I looked at the Verizon charger, too, but a) there's not much info on its website, b) calling Verizon didn't help - they don't have a clue, and c) there is some comment / review saying that it "burned out" some user's battery (which is of course unconfirmed to be related to this charger, may have been something else).
Anyways, given the utter lack of info and the suspicion of harming the battery, I stayed away from it... not to mention the ridiculous $40 price tag.
On an other note, though, Verizon has the original Motorola TurboCharger (wall charger) at a 50% discount.
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No USB-C device can support Quick Charge - it violates the USB-C spec. Any quality USB-C charger that is higher amp will TurboCharge a phone. Moto screwed up by using TurboCharging name with both QuickCharge and USB-C - they are different.
The Moto Z is absurdly picky when it comes to quick charge specs.
I have a Blitzwolf QC2.0 with a type C and a Type A connector in my wifes car, and it will ONLY enter quick charge if I use the Type C to Type C cable I bought from Blitzwolf.
It will not turbo charge if I use a high end Type A to Type C cable, but my wifes LG G5 will do so happily.
I also bought a QC3 compatible charger, with the cable integrated like the original charger, and this works too, and is faster than the QC2 charger.
Both are definitely charging at more than 10 watts, the maximum for 5V 2A mode chargers.
And in fact, using a Non-QC 5V 3A charger, caused my cable to melt, and start to glow.
Incredibly my phone charging port survived.
Blitzwolf may very well be the only brand that works fully, as I just bought a Chuwi QC3 power bank, and it will refuse to quick charge my phone.
But works on some others.
And on another note, I used the Type C to Type C in a modern laptop a while back, and when I plugged it in, my phone displayed the message about receiving quick charge.
If I'm not mistaken, the Type C spec allows quick charging, but only if you use C to C, with the extra pins it's able to keep better track of the charging process I guess.
Shadowdancer123 said:
The Moto Z is absurdly picky when it comes to quick charge specs.
...
And on another note, I used the Type C to Type C in a modern laptop a while back, and when I plugged it in, my phone displayed the message about receiving quick charge.
If I'm not mistaken, the Type C spec allows quick charging, but only if you use C to C, with the extra pins it's able to keep better track of the charging process I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it seems all matter of cables...!
I have a Blitzwolf QC3.0 too BUT I'm able to obtain "Turbocharge" indication only using a *single* micro USB to type C adaptor. This with every cable and every charger. Even when connected to a USB port!
If I use every other cable or similar adaptors (I've tested many...), the "Turbocharge" never shows (except original charger obviously...).
With Blitzwolf QC3 and this cable/adaptor I got a full charge from less than 5% in about 70-75 min... during the charge cable was OK, while the adaptor (with metallic/aluminium exterior) was quite warm but never really hot in dangerous way...
Here's more information than any of you probably care about, but I'm tired of seeing the same misinformation and confusion being thrown around (not just in the Moto Z forum, but in a bunch of others, too).
chromedome00 said:
No USB-C device can support Quick Charge - it violates the USB-C spec.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not true. Case in point: my ZTE Axon 7 and LeEco S3 both use QC 3.0 and both are USB-C. The common confusion comes from using "USB-C" (a connector) and "Type-C" (interchangeably used to refer to the connector and the power specification) incorrectly. Clarification below.
chromedome00 said:
Any quality USB-C charger that is higher amp will TurboCharge a phone. Moto screwed up by using TurboCharging name with both QuickCharge and USB-C - they are different.
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This is mostly true. "TurboPower" is the stupid name Moto uses to refer to the Type-C power specification. Actually, I'm being unfair: it's confusing that they called it "Type-C" in the first place and Moto took the opportunity to market the spec as their own thing.
Before going any further, let's use a common analogy to make the relationship between, wattage, voltage, and amperage easier to understand in broad terms. Wattage is the amount of water going through a pipe. Voltage is how fast that water is moving and amperage is the size of the pipe. 15W is 15W, but you can get there by having a tiny pipe (1A) with water moving really fast through it (15V) or a really big pipe (3A) with water going more slowly through it (5V). They both move the same amount of power, but in different ways. Got it? Good.
Anyway, Type-C has a fixed voltage and maxes out at 15W ([email protected]). Quick Charge 1.0 does only 10W ([email protected]), 2.0 does 18W (5/9/12V @ 3.6/2/1.5A respectively), and 3.0 does 18W with varying voltage (3.6-20V) and amperage (5-0.9A) to match. That is the advantage of QC over Type-C: a higher voltage can (usually) be run through those old and cheap USB cables without issue since voltage tolerance is determined largely by the phone and the charger. As long as the amperage doesn't exceed the capacity (gauge) of the wire, higher voltage is fine.
Amperage, though, that's what causes non-compliant or crappy cables to burn up. Really old or especially cheap cables can handle 1A max (heck, if they were built to spec, only 500mA for USB 2.0), but most cables of reasonable quality can handle 2A without much issue. They tend to use lower gauge (thicker) wires and should *not* feel warm at all when using it to charge. Some manufacturers (Samsung, for example) used to disable data on their USB cables and use it for additional amperage capacity, which is why you would occasionally buy a phone with a cable that wouldn't work for data transfer in the computer but would charge your phone just fine.
Moving on. Technically, QC 1.0 and QC 3.0 do not violate the Type-C power spec. QC 1.0 because it can't exceed it and QC 3.0 because it's variable. That said, QC 3.0 (and possibly QC 1.0, I don't know) require protocol negotiation; if that negotiation is lacking (in the case of the Moto Z), it's going to default to a "safe" charging rate (around 5W, plus or minus some). Your QC 2.0 does technically violate the Type-C spec because its voltage and amperage rates are fixed: you can get 5V at up to 3.6A. The "up to" bit is the important part. I have seen in various threads folks claiming their non-QC 3.0 phones will work with QC 2.0 chargers just fine and it's probably because the amperage tolerance is there (ie. it will actually allow 3.6A, violating spec) or it gets throttled (ie. sticks to 3A, keeping to spec).
Shadowdancer123 said:
The Moto Z is absurdly picky when it comes to quick charge specs.
...
And in fact, using a Non-QC 5V 3A charger, caused my cable to melt, and start to glow.
Incredibly my phone charging port survived.
...
If I'm not mistaken, the Type C spec allows quick charging, but only if you use C to C, with the extra pins it's able to keep better track of the charging process I guess.
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All Type-C and USB-PD compliant devices are picky about the charge specs, not just the Moto Z. Or, at least, they're supposed to be for the reasons outlined above (namely the amperage). QC devices are less picky because it frequently uses higher voltage, which we established above as being much more tolerable for cables of varying quality.
Your cable melting and glowing is to be expected when you push 3A through a cable that likely can't handle more than 2A or so. Your phone charging port survived because it's designed to handle 3A.
I'm not entirely sure about which pins do what on a USB-C connector, but you're right in the C-to-C is the only connection that (should, according to spec) support Type-C and USB-PD (Power Delivery). The rate is negotiated via the USB Power Delivery 2.0 "power rules", which define four acceptable voltages (5/9/15/20) and variable amperage (0.1-5) to obtain charge rates as low as 0.5W and as high as 100W. "Type-C" is part of the Power Delivery spec, but is usually limited to only the 5V rule. I'm fairly certain the Moto Z does not support anything past the first level power rule, which is why you likely won't find the Moto Z to charge significantly faster with the TurboPower 30 included with the Moto Z Force than it does with its original TurboPower 15 charger. No clue as to whether that's a hardware or software limitation.
Also, to answer the OP's original question: any reputable (Anker, Aukey, Choetech, Belkin, etc) that uses an actual USB-C port will work. Most (if not all) dual port units will have a USB-C port that will work with the Moto Z (or any other Type-C/USB-PD device) and a QC 3.0 compatible "traditional" USB-A port. I have yet to find one that includes two USB-C ports and I really hate the ones with integrated cables.
My personal favorite is the Choetech for $16 since its QC 3.0 USB-A port is reversible: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AAGH8OY/
This Aukey is cheaper ($15) and would be fine: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E764DXM/
Here's a Tronsmart for $16, as well: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018K7LHBU/
Even this $10 Vinsic should be okay: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014F2NQ36/
Just for funsies, here's a spreadsheet of the Benson Leung cable and charger tests: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wJwqv3rTNmORXz-XJsQaXK1dl8I91V4-eP_sfNVNzbA/edit#gid=0
Interestingly, the $10 Vinsic is on his list of approved. So there. Go buy a $10 car charger and be happy.
I have the aukey 6 port usb charging station with two QC 3.0 ports, I am using high quality braided usb 3.0 to type c cables - I have tested both QC 3.0 ports and the other ports (using ampere) - Every port lists charging as "normal" - QC port 1 shows a min of 640mA and a max of 1040mA. QC Port 2 shows - min of 530 mA and a max of 980 mA. Regular ports 3-6 all show a min of 270mA and max of 870 mA. Not one port indicated it was ever turbo or fast charging. This same charger does fast charge my lg G5 and Samsung S7 Edge.
this one is verified to give the "TurboPower connected" message when plugged in.
From what I have read, both QC 2.0 and 3.0 doesn't turbo charge moto phones. Qualcomms QC charging works by increasing the voltage and decreasing the amps. So you can have 12v and 2amp for a total of 24 watts, but that won't turbo charge the moto z. Moto works on 5 volts but needs at least 3 amps. It is the amps that seem to engage the Motos into turbo charge mode, and they have to be at least 3 amps.
This Belkin model, for example, is what Benson Leung uses for his pixel xl. Its one of the few on Amazon that is USB-IF certified for 5v 3amp.
rczrider said:
Here's more information than any of you probably care about, but I'm tired of seeing the same misinformation and confusion being thrown around (not just in the Moto Z forum, but in a bunch of others, too).
That's not true. Case in point: my ZTE Axon 7 and LeEco S3 both use QC 3.0 and both are USB-C. The common confusion comes from using "USB-C" (a connector) and "Type-C" (interchangeably used to refer to the connector and the power specification) incorrectly. Clarification below.
Moving on. Technically, QC 1.0 and QC 3.0 do not violate the Type-C power spec. QC 1.0 because it can't exceed it and QC 3.0 because it's variable. That said, QC 3.0 (and possibly QC 1.0, I don't know) require protocol negotiation; if that negotiation is lacking (in the case of the Moto Z), it's going to default to a "safe" charging rate (around 5W, plus or minus some). Your QC 2.0 does technically violate the Type-C spec because its voltage and amperage rates are fixed: you can get 5V at up to 3.6A. The "up to" bit is the important part. I have seen in various threads folks claiming their non-QC 3.0 phones will work with QC 2.0 chargers just fine and it's probably because the amperage tolerance is there (ie. it will actually allow 3.6A, violating spec) or it gets throttled (ie. sticks to 3A, keeping to spec).
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I think you are propagating mis-information. If you want to catch up on why QC 2.0/3.0 violate the USB-C spec, here it is from the horses mouth:
https://plus.google.com/+BensonLeung/posts/cEvVQLXhyRX
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/201...omm-quick-charge-with-android-incompatibility
Interestingly Qualcomm has QC 4.0 now and they call out integration with USB-C and USB-PD https://www.qualcomm.com/news/relea...livers-20-faster-charging-improved-efficiency
"Quick Charge 4 also integrates USB Type-C and USB-PD support, making the industry’s most popular battery charging solution available on the widest variety of cables and adapters."
USB-C has 24 pins while standard USB-A has 4. Quick Charge chargers (2.0/3.0) only have the 4 pins of USB-A - so if it can't use the data lines, then it can't quick charge via USB-C. Since there are only 4 outputs, plugging a USB-C cable into a QC 2.0/3.0 charger will not change anything. Still only 4 wires originating from the charger. The data lines are not allowed to be used for voltage, so your QC charger will only supply a fixed 5V to the phone. So no Quick Charge.
If QC3 supports [email protected] couldn't it supply power at [email protected] to turbocharge?
Looking for a solution to turbocharge my Moto Z and support QC3 for LG G5/Samsung S7.
The TurboPower 15 wall charger delivers hours of power in just minutes of charging. It includes micro USB and single USB charging cables so you can use it on compatible smartphones, tablets, digital cameras and more.
Have a Moto Z or another USB-C enabled device? The TurboPower 30 wall charger is USB-C compatible.
Looking for a car charger? Shop at Motorola Home.
zaki67 said:
I got this one :Nekteck 5.4A USB-C Car Charger from Amazon for 15$ and it does turbo charge my phone .
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Just ordered one of these. This one specifically
Hopefully it'll work out well
This one works fine.
https://store.google.com/product/belkin_15w_usb_c_car_charger
Sent from my XT1650-03 using Tapatalk
swejuggalo said:
This one works fine.
https://store.google.com/product/belkin_15w_usb_c_car_charger
Sent from my XT1650-03 using Tapatalk
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YES! I can confirm it!

USB-C PD battery pack, QC3 also safe?

Hey guys,
I am looking for a usb-c pd compatible battery pack with a small form factor. capacity is not my main concern, but the form factor and a fast charging speed is. However, I can find none.
I can find lots of quick charge 2/3 battery packs, but are these safe to use? Thanks for your help
I think its OK with non-PD charger.
It won't enable rapid charging if you are not using PD charger and will only give you normal 5V2A.
Unfortunately USB-PD chargers seem to be in their infancy where most USB-PD chargers seem to have faults and some may even kill your pixel.
Belson/Nathan K have made a list of cables and chargers they have tested for the Pixel here https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...x9dMDWqENiY2kgBJUu29f_TX8/edit#gid=1288176877
If I was you I would go for a non PD 5V 3A charger as it will charge at 15W which is only 3W of what you could get with PD Charging and often you would end up with less anyway.
Just keep using your existing battery pack with a USB-A to C cable with 56 ohm resistor (like the oem cable)

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