I replaced my messy power strips with this vertical charging tower - and I'll never go back

Source: ZDNet

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Tessan’s 65W charging tower is on sale now for $31 on Amazon.
• It’s a convenient charger for the desk, bench, or worktop with six USB ports and two AC outlets.
• It’s sturdy, but heavy cords could move it around.

I test several chargers every month, but it’s rare that one impresses me enough to go out and buy a few more. This is exactly what happened with the Tessan 65W charging tower I was sent last year. After testing it, it was quickly assimilated into my workspace, and I bought three more because they’re super cheap.

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Before I go further, note the unit I tested and photographed here is the UK version, with UK sockets. The specs listed below are for the US version.

The Tessan 65W charging station is a tower‑style charger that incorporates both USB ports and AC outlets. On the front are six USB ports: four USB‑A (20 W max each when used singly) and two USB‑C ports (65 W max when used singly). When using different combinations of ports, the unit outputs a maximum of 65 W total.

This is a great setup for those with a lot of smaller devices to charge—earbuds, a meat thermometer, flashlights, or tools in a workshop.

[Image: USB‑A, USB‑C, and AC outlets.]
USB‑A, USB‑C, and AC outlets. — Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes/ZDNET

The unit also has two AC outlets—one on each side—allowing the tower to be used as an extension cord. The outlets can handle devices up to 1,250 W, so they’re suitable for most home appliances. Keep in mind the tower is fairly light, and heavy cords could drag it to the floor.

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A five‑foot power cord with a special angled, thin plug (only 0.31 inches thick) lets it fit into awkward spots behind a couch or desk. (The UK version uses a standard BS 1363 plug, so it lacks the angled low‑profile plug.) The tower sits on a reasonably wide base with rubber feet to keep it stable.

[Image: The LED on the top is quite discreet.]
The LED on the top is quite discreet. — Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes/ZDNET

Another thing I like is the lack of blinding LEDs. There’s a single small white LED indicator on the top to show power. If you don’t want it glowing in a bedroom, a bit of insulating tape or a paper sticker will cover it.

ZDNET’s buying advice

For about $35, the Tessan 65W charging tower is an all‑in‑one charger that combines USB‑A, USB‑C, and a pair of AC outlets. It works well on a desk, worktop, workbench, or nightstand, and its lightweight design makes it handy for hotels or cruise ships. You can even pop it into a suitcase to turn a single AC port into multiple charging options.

If 65 W of USB power isn’t enough, Tessan also offers a similar unit that can deliver 100 W, and a 30 W version for lower‑power needs. Both black and white color options are available.