This USB-C tester with digital display makes a fun gift for any user (and it’s only $20)

If you are a professional repair technician, having one or more USB power meters in your toolkit is essential. These devices are valuable because they provide a means of quickly and effectively diagnosing problems.

The USB power meter can instantly read voltage and amperage, which power protocol is being used, etc., helping technicians identify power-related problems with various devices . This capability makes them an indispensable, time-saving tool in a fast-paced electronics repair environment.

Also: My favorite USB-C stuffer for tech-savvy friends and family

But if you are a hobbyistInvesting over $100 in a high-end, fully featured USB power meter may not make sense. For most enthusiasts, a simpler power meter that covers the basics is more than enough.

Such a device can provide necessary parameters such as voltage and current, which are often all that is needed to perform routine checks and minor repairs. This way, hobbyists can enjoy the practical benefits of a USB power meter without the steep cost of higher-end models.

This is what ChargerLAB Power-Z AK001 offers and it comes at a very reasonable price of $20.

Specifications of ChargerLAB Power-Z AK001

• Length: 1.5 m/5 ft.
• Connector: USB-C.
• Strength assessment: up to 240W.
• Electronic marker chip: Correct.
• Display: 0.96 inch/2.4 cm color screen.
• Information: Voltage, current, power, temperature, current direction, energy, timer, etc
• Accuracy: 0.002V, 0.002A.

Although there is a collection of USB power meters with many features, I found that the simplicity of the Power-Z AK001 stood out as a highlight. Its user-friendly design is perfect for those who appreciate simple functionality. You just plug it in and the screen lights up immediately, providing all the important statistics about the power running through the cable.

Also: This tiny USB-C accessory saved me on laptop repairs (and it’s 30% off)

The ability to instantly access this important information, without having to navigate through complex menus or settings, makes the Power-Z AK001 especially attractive to both seasoned technicians and hobbyists.

There’s even a handy arrow on the screen showing which direction the current is flowing. This is a great point because I’ve encountered power meters that left me confused as to what was charging what — especially where power bank are interested.

I also like the simplicity of the input. In fact, it’s about as simple as it gets.

There is a single button on the rear of the screen to control both screen switching (a single press cycles through the power meter, protocol detection, blank screen, and title screen) and screen rotation. image (this is done by pressing the button for three seconds).

I tested the power meter’s accuracy against a calibrated meter, and it easily achieved rated accuracy — more than accurate enough for these types of measurements.

Also: I tested the ‘tangle-free’ USB-C cable and this is my new travel backpack essential

It’s hard to find fault with the ChargerLAB Power-Z AK001. Because $20This is an extremely cheap and versatile power meter that can be used every day as a 240W USB-C cable.

If you want a USB-C power meter with more functionality, I recommend you go ahead and go for it Power-Z C240 for an additional $10. If you want to see everything, then Power-Z KM003C is the meter for you, but you’ll have to pay more, around $110.