USB-C has (almost) become the standard at this point in time. It’s a versatile USB solution that can handle all sorts of tasks, from data transfer to charging. However, not all USB-C implementations are created equal.
OnePlus’ Warp Charging technology, known for its blazing-fast charging speeds, has set a high bar. But with OnePlus now having fully adopted (openly) OPPO’s SuperVOOC, some users are wondering: was this a step backwards? Let’s find out.
Are SuperVOOC and Warp Charge Different?
It’s been almost two years since the OPPO merger and OnePlus seems to have settled on giving its users an underwhelming and inconvenient USB-A to USB-C experience. So, does that mean SuperVOOC and Warp Charge are two different technologies? Not really.
SuperVOOC and Warp Charge are based on the same core technology with two major differences—one is apparent and the other is under the hood. These differences might appear just because of the branding, though.
1. USB-C to USB-C Charging
The first difference is that Warp chargers have almost always used USB-C adapters. This means that you would have a USB-C to USB-C cable that could be used for various other things and not just be limited to charging your phone. This could be charging your laptop, transferring files at high speeds, connecting to another USB-C device, like a new smartphone that you want to switch to, and more.
On the other hand, SuperVOOC chargers often come with USB-A to USB-C cables. This limits their versatility, as USB-A ports are becoming less common on modern devices.
The shift to SuperVOOC feels like a step back for users who have grown accustomed to the universal functionality of USB-C to USB-C cables. Even many laptops, nowadays, are getting rid of the USB-A ports in favour of USB-C.
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2. Fast PD Charging
The second difference between the two was the support for fast PD charging—something that’s overlooked very often. It’s not like SuperVOOC doesn’t support PD charging—it does, but at abysmally low speeds (usually 18W to 27W).
Fun fact: OnePlus had ditched the “Warp Charge” branding from the OnePlus 10 series in favour of SuperVOOC. Yet, devices like the OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10T, and OnePlus 10R, all had support for fast PD charging. If we take the OnePlus 10 Pro, for example, it had support for up to 80W PD charging. The in-box charger could charge not only your phone but also your laptop and other USB-C devices.
And don’t even get me started on the argument that SuperVOOC has faster charging capabilities. As I mentioned earlier, Warp Charge and SuperVOOC are the same technology, and the problem is that OnePlus has downgraded it to USB-A and slower PD charging. For instance, the OnePlus 10T was using SuperVOOC technology but had both USB-C to USB-C and fast PD charging support.
So, why did the OPPO group downgrade to USB-A and slower PD charging? My theory is that they are trying to cut manufacturing costs. The OPPO group, which includes OnePlus, is among the few smartphone brands that still include a charger in the box with their devices.
While I appreciate the effort, why not opt for something that’s more convenient for the user and, more importantly, sustainable for the planet? Just imagine: with one charger, you have nothing to worry about. You can charge your laptop, phone, tablet, AIoT devices, and anything else that uses USB-C charging.
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Bring Back USB-C to USB-C and Fast PD Charging?
So, to sum it up, Warp Charge and SuperVOOC are essentially the same technology. It’s just that OnePlus (or should I say, the OPPO group) decided to cut costs on the charger, which, let’s be honest, shouldn’t cost a lot. This decision has led to a less versatile and less powerful charging solution for users, sacrificing the convenience and sustainability that come with a more universally compatible USB-C to USB-C charger.
In my opinion, OnePlus should bring back the USB-C to USB-C adapters and support for fast PD charging. It’s not like it’s really hard—other brands like Vivo, iQOO, and Motorola are already doing it (proprietary fast charging, USB-C to USB-C, and fast PD charging together). Even OnePlus has done this in the past with the OnePlus 10 series.
Let’s vote for a more universal charging solution for all. Should OnePlus bring back USB-C to USB-C charging? Let me know your take on this.
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