Nomad 65W AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition Review

You may be thinking, “Wait a second, I’m writing a review on a travel charger?”. Listen.

I’ve used plenty of travel chargers from a variety of companies, including some great options from well-known Amazon-centric accessory makers like Anker and Aukey, but ultimately settled on Apple’s pricey $59 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter a few years ago for its speed, dual USB-C ports, and ease of tossing it in a bag. But after using Nomad’s 65W GaN AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition over the past few weeks, I’ve decided it’s time to retire my trusty Apple charger and adopt Nomad’s all-in-one solution. It’s just that good.

Recommendation

Nomad 65W Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition

This sleek 65W GaN charger from Nomad can charge two USB-C devices and an Apple Watch simultaneously, making it the ultimate travel charger.

Strong Points

• Charges your Apple Watch and two USB-C devices
• Small and compact

Cons

• Might be too expensive for some
• Apple Watch chargers can be tricky to use depending on the orientation of the plug

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Pricing, Availability and Specifications

Nomad’s 65W GaN AC Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition costs $100 and can be purchased on the company’s website. The charger also comes in 20W, 30W, and 230W versions. Only the 65W model supports Apple Watch charging, and to me, Apple Watch compatibility is what makes it so great. Either way, each version of the charger is only available in sleek matte black and gray colors.

Each port on the charger delivers 65W of power when used alone. When used together, the top port delivers 45W and the bottom port delivers 20W. The device also supports fast charging and can charge the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2, though not all docks and chargers are compatible with Apple’s high-end wearables. Nomad says the 65W GaN charger can charge iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and other USB-C devices, so as expected, it’s compatible with more than just Apple devices.

It measures 2.3 x 2.1 x 2.6 inches with the plug closed and 2.8 x 2.1 x 1.6 inches with the plug open. It’s not as small as the Nomad’s 65W slim power adapter, but it’s still pretty small. Note that you’ll need to provide your own USB-C cable; the Nomad doesn’t include one in the box.

What I like about the Nomad 65W Power Adapter

One Charger to Rule Them All

I love all-in-one devices, and the Nomad 65W power adapter is the first charger I’ve come across that truly does it all for Apple Watch users. The accessory feels well-made and premium thanks to its solid build and matte color. The power plug folds up, so you can easily slip it safely into a suitcase or backpack without worrying about scratching your device. This convenience is unmatched.

Most of the time, I use Nomad’s 65W Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition near my bedside table at home to charge my iPhone 15 Pro, M4 iPad Pro, Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra. I intend to use it as a travel adapter, but haven’t had the chance to do so yet. But I’ve used it while working in coffee shops and in a few other places on the go. Not needing to plug in the Apple Watch charging cable like Apple’s dual USB-C port charger means having an extra port means you can charge your MacBook or Android phone alongside your other devices. Not having to carry yet another cable when you’re on the go is definitely a nice thing.

You can also use the Apple Watch part of the charger to charge your AirPods. I’ve tried it a few times and it’s a bit clunky, but it’s great to have this option if you’re in a hurry and need to charge your wireless earbuds quickly. Charging speeds vary by device, but the relatively high wattage makes it generally faster, whether you’re charging an iPhone 15 Pro or an iPad Pro.

What I didn’t like about the Nomad 65W power adapter

Plugging your Apple Watch into a charger is a bit of a pain

Charging your Apple Watch with the Nomad 65W Power Adapter can feel a little weird, depending on the orientation of the plug you’re using. If it’s a wall plug, that’s fine, as the charger sits horizontally, providing a platform for your Apple Watch to rest on. If you’re using a desk-mounted outlet, however, the charger is oriented vertically, making things tricky if you place your Apple Watch on its side. The smartwatch attaches to the charger with magnets, so it works relatively reliably, but I’m a little worried that my Apple Watch might fall off or slip and stop charging.

Dealing with Apple Watch straps can also be a little awkward at times. The easiest way is to wrap the strap around the charger and then plug in your other device. This is easy with Apple Watch straps that fully unclamp, like the Sport Band, but can be a little tricky with the Velcro Sport Loop, which I use most often (see image above).

But aside from these two issues, Nomad’s 65W Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition is nearly perfect. Of course, I could have paid less, but compact GaN chargers tend to be pricey, so $100 seems pretty reasonable.

Should I buy the Nomad’s 65W power adapter?

If you’ve got the cash to spare and are looking for a compact, high-end GaN charger to use at home or while traveling, the Nomad 65W power adapter is one of the best out there. Of course, this only applies to iPhone and Apple Watch owners; if you’re using the Android ecosystem, there are cheaper and equally good chargers available.

Recommendation

Nomad 65W Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition