What is GaN? Why Modern Chargers are Tiny

For decades, power electronics relied on Silicon. It works, but it hits a limit on how fast it can switch on and off without overheating.

The Bandgap Breakthrough

Gallium Nitride (GaN) is a 'wide bandgap' semiconductor. It can sustain higher voltages and conduct current faster than silicon.

Why does this shrink the charger?

Because GaN components are more efficient (waste less energy as heat), they can be packed closer together. Furthermore, faster switching speeds allow for smaller transformers inside the brick. The transformer is usually the biggest component; shrinking it shrinks the whole device.

Safety

Look for UL or ETL certification on GaN chargers. High density means high energy, so safety cutoffs are critical.

Technical References

• IEEE Power Electronics Society: Gallium Nitride in Power Electronics.