Anker 100W MacBook Pro Charger Review: Conditional Buy Verdict
Starting with a surprising pattern from user feedback, the Anker MacBook Pro Charger 100W USB-C with Cable emerges as a compact powerhouse that scores 8.7/10 for performance—but not without quirks. Across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot, users praise its ability to charge high-draw devices like MacBook Pros and Steam Decks at near-peak speeds, yet frustrations around multi-device power distribution and occasional overheating temper the enthusiasm.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast charging for laptops, tablets, and phones | Drops wattage significantly when multiple devices are connected |
| Compact, foldable design for travel | Can run hot when idle or covered |
| Solid build quality with ActiveShield safety tech | No PPS support for Samsung's Super Fast Charging 2.0 |
| Includes long USB-C cable | Occasional long-term drop in charging speed |
| Wide compatibility with Apple and non-Apple devices | Price higher than some competitors |
| Consistent performance with single-device charging | LED indicator too bright for nightstands |
Claims vs Reality
Anker markets this charger as delivering “supercharge with 100W” capable of charging a 14-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in 27 minutes. Digging deeper into user reports, this claim holds true under ideal conditions. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “My Dell XPS 15 charges without issues… it charges pretty much everything perfectly.” However, Reddit user u/megotshadowbanned clarified that power output is dynamic: “If just my MacBook is plugged into it, all 100W go to my MacBook… plug something else in, and it divvies up the wattage.”
The brand also highlights “wide compatibility” with devices from iPhones to Samsung Galaxy S24s. While that’s accurate for basic fast charging, Samsung owners found limits. A Trustpilot review stated: “It will not allow my Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra to enter ‘super fast charging 2.0’… both OEM and Anker cables only charge at the slower mode.”
Anker’s “super compact travel charger” claim resonates with travelers. Reddit user u/pi_plz called it “one of the smallest 100W chargers I’ve used,” but performance drops if trying to charge a MacBook Pro and other devices simultaneously, undermining the one-charger-for-everything pitch.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Portability stands out as a major win. Business travelers appreciate the foldable plug and reduced size. A verified Trustpilot buyer shared: “I travel 90% for work… no more carrying 4+ chargers, this one is phenomenal.” For remote workers, it’s equally valuable—one Amazon user noted it charged their MacBook and Steam Deck “more than enough” during a European trip.
Single-device charging efficiency is another highlight. Reddit users consistently report near-peak output when only one port is in use. u/Travel*** explained: “100W to my MacBook enables Apple’s fast charging… keeps it topped up even under heavy use.”
Build quality earns trust across platforms. Multiple users describe a “premium feel” and “solid fit” that stays secure in the outlet. ActiveShield 2.0 monitoring reassures those worried about device safety.
Common Complaints
The most frequent frustration is power distribution with multiple devices. A Trustpilot reviewer described wanting intelligent allocation: “Instead, it runs one PD at 42W, another at 42W, and one USB-A at 12W… not how I want the power allocated.” For high-power laptops, even plugging in an Apple Watch can drop wattage to unusable levels.
Heat is another concern. Several Amazon buyers reported the charger getting “blazing hot” when covered, even idle. One noted: “Way too hot to hold… scares me for how long the components inside will last.”
Samsung owners face a compatibility gap—lack of PPS means no top-tier fast charging. This adds minutes to recharge times compared to OEM chargers.
Divisive Features
The LED indicator splits opinions. Some appreciate the visual cue, but nightstand users find it too bright. “Solved by black-out tape,” one Trustpilot review quipped.
The included 6-foot cable is appreciated for flexibility, yet some power users prefer shorter, higher-gauge cables for maximum efficiency. Reddit discussions revealed users swapping in their own 100W-rated cables to ensure peak output.
Trust & Reliability
Concerns about overheating and idle power draw appear in multiple Trustpilot entries. One verified buyer measured a constant 5–7W draw when nothing was plugged in, calling it a “power vampire.” Over months, some noted improvement—suggesting possible firmware or internal controller changes—but caution remains.
Long-term durability shows mixed results. Reddit user u/whiskeypit reported satisfaction after months of daily use, while another wrote: “Charge ability dropped after a year… now only charges quickly with one port at a time.”
Anker’s customer support earns praise for replacements. A Trustpilot reviewer shared: “Died after a few months… support was easy to work with, sent another, even let me keep both after a cable issue.”
Alternatives
Baseus appears as a recommended competitor in Reddit threads. u/Travel*** suggested it for better wattage reallocation when unplugging devices. Nekteck also gets nods for lower price—though slightly larger.
However, many still default to Anker for brand trust and safety features, despite quirks. As one Redditor put it: “For that price it’s worth buying just to have… works fine for my 16" MBP M1.”
Price & Value
On Amazon US, the charger retails for $44.99, with occasional discounts. eBay listings show open-box units at ~$24.66, nearly half price. Bulk pricing from Anker’s site drops it to $31.04 for 10+ units—appealing for IT departments.
Resale value holds moderately well, driven by brand reputation. Community buying tips include pairing with Anker’s 100W cables to ensure full-speed charging and watching for seasonal sales.
FAQ
Q: Will this charger fast-charge a 16" MacBook Pro while in use?
A: Yes, if it’s the only device plugged in. Multiple devices can reduce available wattage below the MacBook’s needs.
Q: Does it support Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0?
A: No. It lacks PPS support required for Samsung’s highest-speed mode, limiting it to standard fast charging.
Q: Can I use it on a plane?
A: Yes, but some users report in-seat plugs can’t supply enough power, causing the charger to cycle on and off.
Q: How hot does it get under load?
A: It can run warm, and if covered or idle, some users report it gets “blazing hot.” Keep it ventilated.
Q: Is the included cable good enough for full 100W charging?
A: Yes, but some prefer shorter or heavier cables for efficiency. Ensure any replacement is 100W-rated.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a traveler or remote worker needing one compact charger for a high-power laptop and occasional multi-device use. Avoid if your workflow demands simultaneous peak charging for multiple high-draw devices. Pro tip from community: pair with a certified 100W USB-C cable and keep it uncovered for best performance.
