5 unexpected devices your USB-C charger can power

Key Takeaways

• USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) enables USB-C chargers to power devices far beyond phones and laptops
• Portable soldering irons like the iFixit FixHub run at 100W over USB-C and heat up in under five seconds
• USB-C rechargeable AA and AAA batteries eliminate the need for bulky charging units on the go

That USB-C power brick on your desk does more than charge your phone and laptop. USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) pushes enough wattage to run devices you probably never considered plugging in. Soldering irons. Travel routers. Even AA batteries. The universal connector earns its name.

Most people treat their USB-C charger as a single-purpose tool. That 65W or 100W brick came with a laptop, so it charges laptops. But USB-PD's variable voltage output, ranging from 5V to 20V depending on what the device negotiates, opens up a surprisingly wide range of gadgets. Here are five worth knowing about.

Soldering irons that actually get hot

This one caught me off guard. USB-C powered soldering irons have surged in popularity among makers and electronics hobbyists because they work anywhere. No wall outlet required. A sufficiently beefy power bank handles the job.

The iFixit FixHub Smart Soldering Iron is the standout option. It pulls 100W over USB-C, reaches temperatures between 200°C and 420°C, and heats up in under five seconds. For perspective, that temperature range covers everything from basic wire connections to desoldering surface-mount components. It ships with a magnetic safety cap and quick-swap tips.

A more portable alternative is the Miniware TS101, which runs on 45W and works with any PD3.0 charger rated between 9V and 20V. Both options mean you can do board-level repairs in the field, on a client site, or anywhere you can carry a power bank.

Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries

Remember hauling a chunky battery charger on road trips to keep your Game Boy alive? USB-C rechargeable batteries eliminate that hassle entirely. You plug them directly into any USB-C port, no dedicated charger required.

There's some clever engineering inside. The batteries deliver 1.5V like standard AAs, but internally they contain a 3.7V Li-ion cell with a small voltage controller. The brands making these aren't household names yet. Duracell and Energizer, despite dominating traditional battery sales, have been slow to enter the USB-C rechargeable market.

For anyone still using devices that run on AAs, whether wireless keyboards, TV remotes, or flashlights, these batteries cut recurring costs and environmental waste. One USB-C port replaces a drawer full of charging equipment.

Travel routers for better hotel Wi-Fi

Hotel Wi-Fi is famously terrible. So is airport Wi-Fi. A USB-C powered travel router solves both problems while fitting in your laptop bag.

The GL.iNet Opal is one of the best options. It's a dual-band router with a Gigabit WAN port and two Gigabit LAN ports, all running off USB-C power. Plug it into the hotel's wired ethernet, and you get a private Wi-Fi network for all your devices. Better security, better speeds, and no fighting with captive portals on every gadget.

Travel routers also create a local network on the go. Need to transfer files between a laptop and tablet without internet? The router handles it. For frequent travelers, especially those carrying multiple devices, this is one of the most practical USB-C accessories available.

Rechargeable hand warmers

This one falls into the "why not" category. USB-C rechargeable hand warmers exist, and they work. Most double as small power banks, so you get warmth and emergency phone charging in one pocket-sized device.

The appeal is obvious for anyone who works outdoors in cold weather. Construction sites, photography shoots, morning commutes. A single USB-C charger now handles your phone, your laptop, and keeping your hands functional.

Why USB-PD changes what's possible

The common thread is USB Power Delivery. Standard USB tops out at 7.5W to 15W. USB-PD pushes that to 100W, and the newer USB-PD 3.1 spec extends to 240W. That's enough power for gaming laptops, monitors, and yes, soldering irons hot enough for serious electronics work.

The practical takeaway: check what your charger actually outputs. A 30W phone charger won't run a 100W soldering iron. But that 65W or 100W laptop brick you already own? It's probably underutilized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any USB-C charger power a soldering iron?

No. You need a USB-PD charger with sufficient wattage. The iFixit FixHub requires 100W, while the Miniware TS101 needs at least 45W with PD3.0 support at 9V-20V.

Are USB-C rechargeable AA batteries safe for all devices?

Yes. They output the standard 1.5V expected by AA devices. The internal Li-ion cell and voltage controller are hidden from the device.

Do USB-C travel routers need internet to create a local network?

No. They can create a local network for file transfers between devices without any internet connection. Internet access requires plugging into ethernet or connecting to an existing Wi-Fi source.

What's the difference between USB-PD and regular USB charging?

Standard USB delivers 7.5W to 15W. USB Power Delivery negotiates higher voltages and currents, reaching 100W under the PD3.0 spec and 240W under PD3.1.

How do I check my USB-C charger's wattage?

Check the fine print on the charger itself or its original packaging. Look for output ratings like "20V/5A" (100W) or "20V/3.25A" (65W).

Source: MakeUseOf