What is PD 3.0?
Updated: Sep 9, 2022
What is PD?
PD stands for power delivery and it is a charging standard introduced by the USB Implementers Forum and is closely related to the USB connectivity of smart devices. PD 3.0 was released in 2015 and it can be utilised via USB type-C connectivity for maximum efficiency.
How does it work?
Similar to QC3.0, PD 3.0 offers fast charging with the variable voltage setting intelligently based on the communication between the connected devices. With PD 3.0, it is capable to deliver up to 100W in charging via a USB type-C port.
MacBook Pro 2022 (in-the-box charger) = 96W Apple Type-C Charger (Single Port)
MacBook Air 2022 (in-the-box charger) = 30W Apple Type-C Charger (Single Port)
iPad Pro 12.9 inch (in-the-box charger) = 20W Apple Type-C Charger (Single Port)
Surface Pro 8 = 65W Power Supply
PD 3.0 vs QC 3.0
Both PD and QC are protocols that allow communication between devices, achieving dynamic voltage settings during charging to optimise
charging efficiency. Meanwhile, PC 3.0 is an "open" standard that can be adopted by all manufacturers as it is developed by USB Implementers Forum and QC 3.0 is a "close" system, proprietary technology developed by Qualcomm. There is no one better than the other, it depends on which standard your device adopted during its development by the manufacturer/brand.
PD 3.0 in one sentence
PD 3.0 (Power Delivery) is a charging standard that allows communication between devices to dynamically vary voltage settings to achieve optimal charging efficiency.