LISEN 90W USB-C Car Charger Review: Fast But Flawed
A Reddit user described the LISEN 90W USB C Car Charger Fast Charging as “charging my iPhone 16 Pro Max from empty to over 80% before I even got to work,” placing it among the fastest in its category. Our deep dive into user feedback gives it a solid 8.2/10, balancing impressive speed and build quality against some disputed marketing claims.
Quick Verdict: Conditional
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely fast charging for dual devices | Full 45W output per port only on 24V systems |
| Premium all-metal heat-resistant shell | No removable cable on some bundles |
| Compact thumb-sized design fits flush in sockets | CarPlay not supported on included coiled cable |
| Includes both USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to Lightning cables | Marketing specs can mislead when used in standard cars |
| Dual-device high-power charging | Price fluctuates widely depending on source |
| Passed UL, FCC, CE, and RoHS safety certifications | Some buyers report lower real-world wattage |
| Works with diverse devices from iPhone to MacBook | Advertised wattage total depends heavily on vehicle power |
Claims vs Reality
One of LISEN’s biggest claims is its “90W total dual fast charging port” promise. Marketing materials boast simultaneous 45W outputs per port—ideal for charging two high-drain devices at once. While Reddit user anonymous praised, “charged iPhone 16 from 0 to 83% in about 30 minutes, and my iPad Pro alongside,” Trustpilot feedback shows a reality gap. A Prime Member on Slickdeals warned: “It could only deliver 45W PD if plugged into a 24V battery… on a 12V battery it can only deliver 18W PD and 36W total.”
The compact size and premium build are consistently confirmed. Reddit users highlight its “tiny thumb-sized body” that “barely protrudes past the edge of the outlet” and stays cool, thanks to the aluminum shell. This aligns well with marketing statements about heat resistance and durability.
Another advertised benefit is the dual cable inclusion—both a 60W USB-C to USB-C and a 27W USB-C to Lightning cable. Verified buyers on Amazon note the convenience: “Having both cables in the box meant I could charge my Pixel and my partner’s iPhone without digging through a bag,” though some wished for a detachable cable on the coiled design, especially for CarPlay use.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Perhaps the most celebrated aspect across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot is charging speed—especially for newer iPhone and Galaxy devices. A verified buyer on Amazon enthused: “Fueled my Samsung S23 from 0 to 80% while I grabbed coffee.” For rideshare drivers juggling devices, that speed translates into minimal downtime. Reddit user anonymous shared that the charger “keeps my GPS-running Pixel at full battery even under heavy use.”
The build quality receives repeated praise. The aluminum alloy shell is called out as “premium in hand” and “cool to the touch even with both ports active.” For frequent travelers, Reddit feedback highlighted its robustness in rough driving conditions: “Dragged to three road trips, zero scratches or heat issues.”
Its flush fit is a small but crucial detail—drivers who dislike protruding accessories find the LISEN’s footprint perfect. One Amazon reviewer noted, “It looks like it’s part of the car, no ugly stick-out.”
Common Complaints
Despite the marketing promise of dual 45W ports, the electrical realities of most cars mean they won’t see that full output. This limitation affects owners of standard 12V vehicles—essentially, the majority. On Slickdeals, a frustrated buyer returned theirs after discovering the wattage drop: “Felt like deceptive marketing.”
The integrated coiled cable in some versions brought mixed feelings. The tangle-free design wins points for neatness, but drivers missing CarPlay support call it a drawback. A verified Amazon buyer explained: “Loved the stretchable cable during charging, but couldn’t use it for CarPlay—had to buy another cord.”
Finally, LISEN’s various model names and bundles sometimes confuse buyers. The “Dual USB C” vs “USB C & L” vs “90W” branding leads to mismatched expectations, especially regarding cable type and number of ports.
Divisive Features
Durability over time is split. While many claim long-term stability—Reddit users have reported “six months later, still fast as day one”—others worry about the lack of replaceable components. The non-removable cable in the coiled version is viewed as both a design strength for organization and a disadvantage for longevity.
Some drivers adore the LED indicators for nighttime use; others find them distracting. A Quora contributor described it as “a perfect nighttime locator,” while another user on Twitter/X remarked, “glare in my eyes on dark roads—had to tape it.”
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Slickdeals reveal consistent approval of LISEN’s safety certifications and heat management, but skepticism over wattage claims. Several users called out “marketing vs physics” mismatches. Despite this, the aluminum build and flush fit foster trust in everyday use.
Long-term Reddit reports indicate solid reliability—one user kept theirs in a truck for over a year with “zero rattle, same charging speeds.” However, the bundled cables’ lifespan can vary; while nylon-braided cords withstand “40,000+ bends” per manufacturer data, some still swap them out for personal favorites.
Alternatives
While direct competitors weren’t named extensively in user discussions, several buyers compared LISEN to older A+C port chargers. These older models generally lack the dual high-speed USB-C capability, putting LISEN ahead in future-proofing but still behind for those needing mixed-port setups or guaranteed CarPlay compatibility.
Price & Value
Current prices for the LISEN 90W range from as low as $10.77 on promotion to $23.99 retail, with resale or auction prices dipping to around $5.20 for new units. Users on Trustpilot note that waiting for sales “makes it a no-brainer” for multipurpose charging. High fluctuation means savvy buyers should monitor multiple platforms.
FAQ
Q: Will the LISEN 90W deliver full 45W per port in my car?
A: Only if your vehicle runs on a 24V system. Standard 12V cars show more limited outputs—expect closer to 18W per port based on user reports.
Q: Does the included coiled cable support CarPlay?
A: No, the integrated coiled cable in some versions does not support CarPlay. Users wanting that function will need an additional compatible cable.
Q: How hot does the charger get during use?
A: The all-metal body and heat dissipation design keep it cool, even when charging two devices, according to cross-platform feedback.
Q: Can I use this charger for laptops like MacBook Air?
A: Yes, though wattage limits on standard 12V systems may slow charging compared to wall adapters. Still, many report reasonable top-ups on ultrabooks.
Q: Do both cables come with every purchase?
A: Only certain bundles include both USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to Lightning cables. Check product listing details carefully.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a multi-device user who values rapid top-ups and premium build quality, and especially if you drive a 24V system vehicle. Avoid if you expect full advertised wattage in a standard car or need CarPlay from the included cable. Pro tip from the community: Wait for discounts—prices drop often, making this high-speed charger an even better deal.
