This GaN charger is a cross between a yo-yo and a tape measure – and goes with me everywhere

Recent economic events have made sure that my iPhone 14 Pro (and its lightning adapter) will be hanging around for the foreseeable future, but the universal function of USB-C for all my other devices remains. If you’re like me, you know that owning more gadgets and gizmos means your mountain of chargers and cables continues to grow until it resembles something alien-like out of a sci-fi movie. 

That’s why I jumped a the chance to try the Counterpart Charger. 

Also: This 5-in-1 charging station replaced several desk accessories for me (and it just got cheaper)

This yo-yo-like charger includes a built-in four-foot USB-C cable that retracts back like a tape measure with a simple button press. It offers 35W of gallium nitride (GaN) charging, which is more than enough for most tablets, e-readers, headphones, and smartphones (the standard cord-hoggers in my house). I was also able to get an average charge on my MacBook.   

I am no stranger to retractable cables, like these from Baseus, which I rave about for charging on the go, or this 5-in-1 charging station. Even though I still rely on MagSafe charging the most, there are plenty of times when you want to use a device (like a newer iPhone) while it’s charging or boost your laptop battery while you work. For that, you’ll need a cable.   

Also: This retractable USB-C charger is my favorite travel accessory (and it’s under $10 now)

Counterparts’ stand-out feature is that it doesn’t resemble a charger. It comes in five colors, features a foldable wall plug, and has a soft-to-touch silicone button that initiates cord retraction. It’s more abstract art than tech with its shell-like design, but it remains highly functional. 

It’s also round. The majority of chargers are square, or the slightly modernized “squoval” shape Anker has acclimated to. I’ve seen more options in terms of color over the last few years, like this Anker Nano charger or Baseus PicoGo charger, but most of the market still favors a boxy look. It’s admittedly nice to see Arhaus-esque design meet the tech accessory world.   

After using it for a few weeks, I’m happy with its performance. It works great for boosting my Kindle Paperwhite, charging up MagSafe batteries I am testing for ZDNET, and topping off my AirPods. The universal USB-C design also charged my Renpho eye massager, JBL speaker, and more. 

The (cord) kinks

Although aesthetically appealing, I have a few dislikes if I’m being picky (I am). I wish there were multiple cables, making it more useful for travel. Though the elevated look and hidden cord are great, it’s hard to beat more functional options like this Anker GaN Prime charger, which can charge up to three devices simultaneously (even if the cords don’t neatly loop up). 

Also: This powerful Anker Prime charger replaced all my adapters 

And I know what you’re wondering: “Can I use the other plug in the outlet with this thing connected?” It depends on the other device’s plug shape. When I used the Counterpart charger in the bottom outlet, I was able to get a standard Apple iPhone charger into the top plug with no issue. When Counterpart’s charger was in my top plug, it covered the second outlet. 

Also, I think 35W is on the low side for charging laptops. While it’s okay for most phones, small tablets, and other handheld devices, it’s not my preference to charge larger devices, like my MacBook Pro M3, which I usually charge with a 65W charger. If Counterpart considered making even a 45W version, I think it would have served a better sweet spot regarding value for your money. 

I’m also curious about the cord’s longevity, though I’ll have to report back to you. Most cords are notorious for bending or breaking, rendering them unusable, and since you can’t separate this cord from the adapter itself, you’d have to ditch it altogether. Counterpart does offer a two-year warranty though. 

ZDNET’s buying advice

The Counterpart charger sells for $44. That’s a smidge high, considering you can grab 35W GaN chargers (with multiple ports) for as low as $20 —  like this one from Ugreen. But what you’re paying for here is the aesthetic, the function, and the cord retractability. Combined, I haven’t seen these three elements executed in the ways Counterpart has managed to. 

Utimately, what’s worth your cash depends on your needs and wants. Counterpart’s charger may be perfect if you’re looking for a universal charger with excellent cable management and an art-like finish. On the other hand, if you need to charge more than one device at a time, don’t care about the look, or need a higher wattage option, you may be satisfied with a traditional wall charger and some cable ties.