Ugreen makes quite a number of fast gallium nitride (GaN) chargers, and the Ugreen Nexode RobotGaN charger is quite a bit unique. Not only is it a compact 65W charger – an inherent advantage of GaN-based chargers – it also has a rather cute-looking design with a built-in LCD display to boot.
Of course, given that the RobotGaN charger doesn’t look like a conventional, “boring” charger, it does cost a slight premium. But if you want a fast, portable GaN charger that is both functional and stylish, this is certainly a product worth considering.
What It Is
There are two versions of the Nexode RobotGaN charger: there’s this faster 65W model for RM159, as well as a more affordable 30W variant that goes for RM79. Two colour options are available – Black and Purple – and it’s worth noting that the Purple model actually has a cute little bow on the back of the charger; quite a nice touch.
Depending on what the charger is doing, it has three different “expressions.” When it’s switched on without charging anything, you’ll see the expression above. When it’s fast charging, it will look…well, happy. And once charging is completed, only the eyes will be visible.
As for port selection of the RobotGaN charger, it has two USB-C connections – 65W and 35W – and one USB-A port that can provide 22.5W of power. Of course, if more than one port is being used, the output will be split accordingly. In a situation where all three ports are occupied, the first USB-C port can do 45W, while the other two ports are limited to 7.5W.
The Good Stuff
One of my favourite features of the Ugreen Nexode RobotGaN charger has to be the LCD display. No doubt the main goal of implementing the display is for aesthetics reasons, but I love the fact that it is also functional. A quick glance is all it takes to know the charging state of my devices depending on the “expression” of the charger.
Besides that, the overall design of the RobotGaN is also very eye-catching. I love the “removable shoes” of the charger that protects the pins when it is not plugged in. With the bottom cover on – which attaches to the “body” with a nice, satisfying click – the charger also doubles as a rather nice table decoration.
Of course, as a charger itself, the Nexode RobotGaN is more than fast enough to charge up various devices. From the new 15-inch MacBook Air with the M3 chip – though the 65W RobotGaN is just short of the laptop’s maximum 70W charging rate – and various smartphones, the charger can fulfill my charging needs. Well, provided I’m only charging up to three devices at a time.
And then there’s the compact form factor of the RobotGaN. Although it’s not particularly lightweight at about 225g, it’s small enough to easily fit into my backpack without any trouble. With that in mind, I’m definitely looking forward to traveling with this charger; it’s much more compact than the Ugreen Nexode 300W GaN charger for sure, which I lugged around for various trips before.
Last but not least is the build quality of the RobotGaN. Despite being primarily made of plastic, it feels solid in my hands with absolutely no creaking when I apply pressure to the charger. The “headphones” of the RobotGaN also has a pleasant electroplated finish for a premium touch.
The Bad Stuff
Depending on the orientation of your power outlet, you may not see the display of the Nexode RobotGaN charger when it is plugged in. This…well, sort of defeats the purpose of the charger’s screen, as you won’t be able to see the charging state of devices that are plugged to it at a glance.
Plus, retailing at RM159, the RobotGaN is slightly more expensive than similar 65W GaN chargers with the same number of ports. Granted, you can get it at a lower price during promotional periods like the 5.5 sale tomorrow.
Is It Worth It?
If you want a compact, fast 65W GaN charger that has an eye-catching (and function) design with an LCD screen, the Ugreen Nexode RobotGaN charger is certainly worth it. This is especially so if you like the aesthetics of either colour options.
Yes, the RobotGaN charger does come with a slight price premium, but as mentioned, it will be discounted quite a bit tomorrow for the 5.5 sale. Its price will be lowered to RM134 from 5 to 7 May through Ugreen’s official stores on Shopee and Lazada. You can also use the code UGRENEX on Shopee or with this voucher on Lazada to get an additional RM25 discount, bringing the price down to RM109.
At this price point, it addresses one of the Nexode RobotGaN’s shortcomings, making it that much more compelling. Keep your eyes peeled for the discount this midnight if you’re keen to get your hands on the cute GaN charger.