Travel Adapter Field Test: Which Bricks Actually Hold Up?
AI-generated image · US National Wire
Testing the durability and real-world utility of Simon Hill's favorite universal adapters for the carry-on.
When packing for a trip, the spec sheet rarely tells the full story of how a charger handles the chaos of a carry-on. Based on testing by Simon Hill for Wired, the **Ceptics GAN 100W Universal Travel Adapter** ($51) stands out as a top overall pick. It supports over 200 countries and features a secure slider design that requires a firm press to retract. A key highlight is the 25-inch retractable USB-C cable that magnets to the device, eliminating the need for an extra cord.
However, Hill notes a critical safety omission: the 100W Ceptics model lacks grounding, meaning it should not be used with devices featuring a third metal ground pin. It does include a 10-amp fuse for overload protection.
For those prioritizing size, the **Epicka Air Travel Adapter** ($40) is a compact alternative measuring 3.46 x 1.97 x 1.19 inches. While it supports up to 65 watts, Hill reports that the folding design can be "fiddly," with prongs occasionally folding back if bumped during use.
On the budget end, the **Ceptics 6 in 1 Worldwide Travel Adapter** ($19) covers more than 150 countries. It utilizes a slider system for EU, UK, and US plugs, with rotatable pins for China and Australia. While slower than the high-wattage options, it provides a universal outlet for laptops and five total USB ports (two USB-C and three USB-A) for smaller gadgets.