Elecom has released the "AC Charger with Power Display," a charger that shows the charging power delivered to a connected device in real time[1]. A small display on the body lets you see at a glance how many watts are currently going into your device. Two models are available: a 30W output model aimed at smartphones, and a 45W output model that also handles laptops. Their street prices are 3,280 yen and 3,780 yen respectively[1].
See the Charging Wattage at a Glance
The standout feature of this product is the power display built into the body. The amount of charging power being supplied to the connected device is shown in real time[1]. Even in situations where it is hard to tell whether a device is charging properly just by plugging in a cable, the number lets you check whether the expected power is actually flowing.
In addition, as the battery approaches a full charge, the displayed number gradually gets smaller[1]. This makes it easier to gauge how far the charge has progressed and roughly when it will finish. The display only lights up while a device is connected, and it may take a few seconds to turn on[1]. When both ports are used at the same time, the combined output value is shown[1].
Note that the displayed figure is only a guide. The actual output and charging time vary depending on the specifications and condition of the connected device, and the displayed value does not include the power the charger itself needs to operate[1].
The Difference Between the 30W and 45W Models
The lineup consists of two models that differ in output and port configuration.
The 30W output model (model number MPA-AC13030BK) has one USB Type-C port and one USB-A port[1]. The USB Type-C port supports up to 30W via USB Power Delivery, and can charge smartphones and iPads as well as compatible laptops such as the MacBook Air[1]. The USB-A port outputs up to 12W and supports "Omakase Charging," which automatically identifies the connected device and charges it at a suitable output[1]. However, when both ports are used at once, the combined maximum output drops to 15W and USB Power Delivery output is not available[1]. It weighs about 68g[1].
The 45W output model (model number MPA-AC13145BK) carries a single USB Type-C port[1]. It supports up to 45W via USB Power Delivery, covering not only smartphones and tablets but also laptop charging[1]. It can also charge the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch Lite[1]. It weighs about 69g and likewise fits in the palm of your hand[1].
Both models have a power plug that folds into the body, making them easy to slip into a pouch or pocket and carry around[1].
A Compact GaN Design and Safety Features
What enables the compact size is a charging IC that uses gallium nitride (GaN). The product adopts "GaN II Plus," combining high output with a small body[1]. Compared with conventional silicon, GaN tends to suppress heat and power loss, and it is widely used to make chargers smaller.
For charging standards, the product supports USB Power Delivery as well as PPS (Programmable Power Supply), which fine-tunes voltage in 0.02V steps[1]. It optimizes power to match the connected device for efficient charging.
On the safety side, it includes "Thermal Protection," which monitors and controls temperature during operation[1]. If the temperature rises too high, the charger may temporarily stop output to protect your device[1]. The plug uses components that meet the tracking-resistance requirements set by Japan's Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Act (PSE), and the product itself is PSE certified[1].
Price and Availability
The street prices are 3,280 yen for the 30W model and 3,780 yen for the 45W model[1]. They are already on sale and are carried by retailers such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera[1].
One thing to note is that neither model includes a charging cable[1]. You will need to use a cable you already have or prepare one separately. The products are also for use in Japan only and are not intended for overseas use[1]. The packaging is made up only of paper, cardboard, and plastic bags, and the products are certified under Elecom's environmental standard "THINK ECOLOGY"[1]. Further details are also published on Elecom's official website[2].
Summary
Elecom's "AC Charger with Power Display" is appealing because it lets you check the charging wattage on the charger's own display. If you mainly charge smartphones, the 30W model fits; if you also want to charge a laptop or a Nintendo Switch 2, the 45W model is the choice. With its GaN construction it is light at about 68g, and at a price in the 3,000-yen range it is easy to pick up, making it a solid option for anyone who wants to "visualize" their charging status.
Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001403.000026881.html
