The term "gallium nitride (GaN)" has appeared frequently recently, especially after Xiaomi released its first 65W gallium nitride fast charging charger, the term "gallium nitride" began to appear widely in the public in the field of vision. So, what is the difference between gallium nitride (GaN) fast charging and PD fast charging?

What is GaN?

GaN (Gallium Nitride) is a third-generation new semiconductor material with high resistance, high frequency, high temperature resistance, and stable chemical properties. Applied to the charger, it has many advantages such as easy heat dissipation, small size, low loss, and high power.

From the above we know that gallium nitride is a material, it has nothing to do with the protocol. Using gallium nitride MOS tube chargers, the switching frequency can be increased, and the product volume can be reduced by 30-60% (single-port output) and weight by 20-40% compared with traditional silicon MOS tube chargers. Compared with ordinary chargers, the R&D and manufacturing costs of gallium nitride chargers are much higher, and the price will naturally be higher than ordinary chargers.

What is PD fast charging?

The PD protocol is a safe charging standard formulated by the International USB-IF Organization Association. As mentioned above, gallium nitride is a new type of fast charging material, and PD is a fast charging protocol. It refers to a charger compatible with the USB PD protocol. This protocol is output through the Type-C interface and is one of the mainstream fast charging protocols in the market. The latest fast charging standard is USB PD3.1. It supports a voltage output of up to 48V, and the charging power is simultaneously increased to 240W. In particular, the newly added multiple sets of voltages such as 28V, 36V, and 48V make the supported devices full of imagination, covering computers, power tools in life, and even future motorcycles.

GaN chargers are slightly more expensive, but offer a better charging experience. Gallium Nitride performance + PD fast charging can even provide fast charging for notebooks. No need to carry a heavy power adapter when going out. Major brands such as Xiaomi and Lenovo on the market have already applied it to products.

Well, the above is the specific difference between GaN fast charging and PD fast charging. I believe everyone has a clear understanding of the difference between the two.