The Shargeek Retro 35 is a compact GaN charger that'a also available as the Sharge Retro 35W Charger in China, which is the version I have. As a compact charger for notebooks, tablets, or smartphones, it gets the job done with a big serving of geeky retro style.
Quick specs
- USB-C Output: 35W
- MaxSupport Protocol: PD3.0/PPS/QC4+/Apple2.4/SCP/FCP/AFC/PE
- Weight: 55g
When not in use, the two pin prongs can be retracted. This makes the Retro 35 very compact for travel. This also means that it's more suitable for use with universal wall sockets that accept different plugs. Essentially, this product was built for the US/China audience in mind. You can get a converter set that will convert it to the UK plug. Take note that this will increase the total size.
Designed to look like the 1984 Apple Macintosh, the Shargeek Retro 35's screen lights up when plugged in. When not charging, it lights up white. When charging, it lights up yellow, blue, or green, depending on the charging speed, with green being the fastest. The charger has a single USB-C port on the top, supporting max 35W charging, as it name suggests. I tested the charger with a few notebooks, as well as Android and iOS devices. With a Windows-based notebook with less than 50% charge, I measured 32W, with the Shargeek LED lighted green.
This is close to the maximum advertised 35W, and will continue to top up the notebook's battery while it's in use. If you are using a larger notebook for gaming or video editing, this may not be sufficient. However, it will suffice for the majority of users with less demanding needs. For example, the latest Apple MacBook Air with M2 (2022) comes with a 30W or 35W charger. With an M1-based iPad Air, I was also able to achieve 32W charging. Fast charging with the Android smartphones I have was no problem. Lastly, I observed normal charging speeds (~15W) for two iPhones (iPhone X and iPhone SE 2020).
The Shargeek Retro 35 GaN Charger was crowdfunded with a price for US$29. You can get it for US$39 directly from the manufacturer. It's on Lazada for S$53, but it's out of stock for now. While cute, it definitely performs and will make for an interesting conversation starter with fellow geeks.
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