In a world where smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearables coexist in every bag or backpack, a high-speed, multi-port charger has become essential. Traditional silicon-based chargers are often bulky, inefficient, and limited in power distribution. Enter GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology—a revolution in charging. It offers smaller sizes, higher efficiency, lower heat output, and faster power delivery.
Among the newest players adopting GaN is CMF, a sub-brand from the creators of the much-talked-about Nothing devices. Their offering, the CMF Power 100W GaN Charger, is a compact, travel-friendly solution that promises fast, intelligent charging across a range of devices. It aims to challenge the likes of Anker, Voltme, and UGreen by delivering similar performance at a more attractive price point.
Key Specifications and Design
The CMF Power 100W GaN Charger stands out with a refined and minimalist design. It features:
- Three-port configuration: Two USB-C ports and one USB-A port
- 100W maximum output, ideal for everything from flagship smartphones and tablets to ultrabooks and smaller laptops
- Smart power distribution, dynamically adjusting output based on devices connected
- Safety-first engineering, including protections against overcurrent, over-temperature, and short-circuiting
In terms of form factor, it measures approximately 61.5 × 60.5 × 30 mm and weighs around 178 g, making it notably smaller than many traditional 100W laptop chargers. It comes bundled with a high-quality 1-meter USB-C to USB-C (5A-rated) cable, which supports full-speed charging for high-power devices.
Real-World Power Distribution
The charger’s performance varies depending on how many ports are in use:
- Single-port mode:
- USB-C1 or USB-C2 outputs up to 100W
- USB-A outputs up to 36W
- Dual-port mode:
- USB-C + USB-A: One delivers 65W, the other 36W
- Dual USB-C: Both ports can deliver up to 36W each
- Triple-port mode:
- USB-C1 and USB-C2 share 65W total
- USB-A outputs 10W
These configurations make it a strong all-in-one charger for most everyday uses—whether you’re juicing up a MacBook Air and a phone or multiple phones and a tablet.
Pricing and Availability
One of the CMF charger’s biggest selling points is its price-to-performance ratio. In the US, it retails for around $59. In India, it’s available at an aggressive price of ₹2,999, which includes a USB-C cable and a six-month warranty. Markets like the Philippines see it priced close to PHP 3,490, and it’s also spotted in Kenya and various regions via local retailers.
For a charger that includes a 5A cable and offers triple-port GaN performance, the pricing is notably competitive compared to rivals from Anker and other top-tier brands.
User Experience and Feedback
The CMF charger performs well in daily use for most consumers. Many users report excellent results when charging phones like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or the iPhone series alongside laptops like the MacBook Air or certain Windows ultrabooks.
However, a few real-world scenarios have highlighted potential limitations:
- Laptop compatibility: Users with high-powered laptops, especially those requiring 180W–210W chargers (like gaming laptops), have reported the CMF unit can’t maintain battery percentage under full load. It’s not designed to replace original high-wattage chargers.
- Multi-device quirks: Some users have noted that charging two iPhones simultaneously doesn’t always deliver full-speed charging. Others experienced occasional charging drops when shifting between dual and triple-port use.
While these concerns are relatively rare and often depend on the connected devices’ power draw and firmware behavior, they are worth keeping in mind—especially for power users.
Competitive Landscape
The GaN charger market has heated up in recent years, with many brands offering feature-rich alternatives. Here’s a quick look at how the CMF stacks up against some popular rivals:
- Voltme 100W GaN III
- Pros: Slim profile, strong performance, competitive pricing during deals
- Cons: No included cable, limited availability in some markets
- Anker Prime 100W
- Pros: Established brand, robust build quality, strong customer service
- Cons: More expensive (typically above $80), slightly bulkier
- Genki TurboCharger 100W
- Pros: Ultra-thin design, Kickstarter-backed innovation
- Cons: Limited distribution and support channels
The CMF stands out for combining premium features—GaN tech, triple-port versatility, and a 5A cable—at a mid-range price, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on charging speed.
Strengths and Weaknesses
✔ Strengths:
- Compact & Lightweight: About 32% smaller than Apple’s 140W MacBook charger
- Triple-Port Versatility: Charge a phone, tablet, and laptop all at once
- Smart Power Distribution: Dynamically adjusts output based on device type and priority
- Built-In Safety Protections: Designed to avoid overheating and overcharging
- Strong Global Pricing: Affordable in US, India, and Asia-Pacific markets
✘ Weaknesses:
- Not Ideal for High-Power Laptops: May struggle with devices that need more than 100W
- Some Firmware Quirks: Slower charging with certain combinations of devices
- Limited Brand History: CMF is relatively new, so long-term durability is still untested
Who Should Buy It?
This charger isn’t trying to be a one-size-fits-all monster adapter. Instead, it shines in specific scenarios:
- Frequent travelers who need to minimize bulk without sacrificing performance
- Students and digital nomads using mid-range laptops, tablets, and phones
- Tech enthusiasts who want GaN performance without shelling out top dollar
- Anyone using multiple devices daily, especially USB-C-powered gadgets
For more power-hungry professionals—like those with gaming laptops or high-wattage editing rigs—this charger can serve as a convenient travel option but might not fully replace OEM adapters.
Comparison Snapshot
Feature | CMF Power 100W GaN | Voltme 100W GaN III | Anker Prime 100W GaN |
---|---|---|---|
Ports | 2× USB‑C, 1× USB‑A | 2× USB‑C, 1× USB‑A | 2× USB‑C, 1× USB‑A |
Max Output | 100W | 100W | 100W |
Price (Approx.) | $59 / ₹2,999 | ~$28 (deal price) | $84.99 |
Cable Included | Yes (5A USB-C) | No | Varies |
Size | Compact | Slimmer | Slightly larger |
Safety Features | Full protection | Basic safeguards | Premium-grade |
Known Issues | Minor quirks | Few reported | Higher cost |
Tips for Optimal Use
To make the most of the CMF charger:
- Use 5A e-marked USB-C cables to get full 100W delivery
- Plug in high-power devices first, especially laptops, to ensure priority charging
- Avoid connecting three power-hungry devices simultaneously; it may reduce efficiency
- Always update device firmware if available—some charge speed issues stem from software limits, not the charger itself
Final Verdict
The CMF Power 100W GaN Charger proves that great tech doesn’t have to come with a premium price. With GaN at its core, triple-port flexibility, and smart power management, it offers one of the best value-for-money propositions in its class. While a few edge-case limitations exist—particularly with high-wattage laptops—the charger performs admirably for the majority of users.
If you’re looking for a reliable, compact, and efficient charging companion for your everyday tech arsenal, the CMF Power 100W GaN is a solid recommendation. For under $60, it’s hard to find a better blend of performance, portability, and protection.