4 Best Chargers for Google Pixel 8a
The Google Pixel 8a is a fantastic mid-range smartphone, offering premium features like AI-powered photography and seven years of software updates at an affordable price. However, like many modern devices, it doesn’t come with a charger in the box, leaving you to source your own. With a 4,492mAh battery, the Pixel 8a supports up to 18W wired charging via USB Power Delivery (PD) and PPS (Programmable Power Supply), getting you to 50% in about 30 minutes with the right adapter. Wireless charging tops out at 7.5W Qi, making it a convenient but slower option.
Choosing the best charger means prioritizing compatibility, speed, portability, and safety features like overheat protection. Any USB PD charger rated 18W or higher will work, as the phone intelligently draws only what it needs. Based on expert reviews and user feedback, here are our top four picks for 2025—covering wired and wireless options to suit different needs.
1. Google 30W USB-C Power Charger (Best Official Wired Option)
Google’s own charger is the gold standard for Pixel devices, designed specifically for optimal performance with the Pixel 8a. It supports PPS for efficient 18W charging and is the exact adapter Google used in its official tests.
Key Features:
- Power Output: 30W max (delivers full 18W to Pixel 8a).
- Ports: Single USB-C.
- Design: Compact and lightweight with a foldable plug for travel.
- Price: Around $25.
- Pros: Seamless compatibility, fast and reliable; charges to 100% in about 1.5 hours.
- Cons: No multi-device support; basic design without extras.
This is ideal if you want a no-fuss, first-party solution that integrates perfectly with Google’s ecosystem.
2. Ugreen Nexode 30W Charger (Best Versatile Wired Charger)
For those who need a charger that handles more than just their phone, the Ugreen Nexode stands out. Its GaN II technology keeps it cool and compact, while supporting a wide range of devices beyond the Pixel lineup.
Key Features:
- Power Output: 30W PD/PPS (full 18W for Pixel 8a).
- Ports: Single USB-C (some variants include USB-A for dual charging).
- Design: Ultra-portable with a foldable plug and slim profile.
- Price: Around $20.
- Pros: Affordable, multi-device compatible (phones, laptops, earbuds); quick 50% charge in 30 minutes.
- Cons: Single-port models limit simultaneous charging; slightly bulkier than Google’s option.
Perfect for users with mixed gadgets, this charger offers great value without sacrificing speed.
3. Anker 323 USB-C Car Charger (Best for On-the-Go Wired Charging)
If you’re frequently in the car, the Anker 323 is a compact powerhouse that plugs into your vehicle’s 12V outlet and delivers reliable fast charging without overheating.
Key Features:
- Power Output: 30W PD (caps at 18W for Pixel 8a).
- Ports: Single USB-C.
- Design: Tiny (smaller than a AA battery) with a blue LED indicator.
- Price: Around $15.
- Pros: Extremely portable for road trips; supports pass-through charging; durable build.
- Cons: Car-specific, so not ideal for home use; no multi-port option.
This is a must-have for commuters, ensuring your Pixel 8a stays topped up during drives.
4. Iniu 15W Wireless Charging Stand (Best Wireless Option)
For cable-free convenience, the Iniu stand provides a budget-friendly way to wirelessly top up your Pixel 8a. Its dual-coil design allows portrait or landscape orientation, making it great for video watching while charging.
Key Features:
- Power Output: 15W Qi (delivers up to 7.5W to Pixel 8a).
- Ports/Design: Stand-style with adjustable angles; includes USB-C cable.
- Price: Around $15.
- Pros: Affordable and versatile; supports cases up to 5mm thick; cool operation.
- Cons: Slower than wired (full charge in 2-3 hours); not Qi2 magnetic.
Wireless charging adds a touch of luxury to the Pixel 8a—grab this if you hate cables but don’t mind the extra time.
Quick Comparison Table
| Charger | Type | Max Output (for Pixel 8a) | Ports | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google 30W USB-C | Wired | 18W | 1x USB-C | $25 | Official reliability |
| Ugreen Nexode 30W | Wired | 18W | 1x USB-C | $20 | Versatility |
| Anker 323 Car Charger | Wired | 18W | 1x USB-C | $15 | Travel/Commuting |
| Iniu 15W Wireless Stand | Wireless | 7.5W | N/A | $15 | Cable-free ease |
Final Thoughts
The Pixel 8a’s charging setup is straightforward: Stick to USB PD/PPS for wired speed, and Qi for wireless simplicity. Our picks balance performance, price, and practicality—whether you’re at home, on the road, or ditching cables altogether. Always use a high-quality USB-C cable (at least 3A-rated) for best results, and avoid cheap knockoffs to prevent battery wear. If you’re eyeing the official Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) for faster 18W wireless, it’s a premium upgrade at $79, but these options deliver excellent value for most users. Stay powered up and keep snapping those Pixel-perfect photos!
