Heyday Charger

How Target’s Affordable Tech Brand Changed My Charging Game Forever

As someone perpetually attached to their devices, finding the perfect charger has always been something of a quest for me. When I first stumbled upon Heyday chargers during a routine Target run, I was admittedly skeptical. Another store brand trying to compete in the saturated charging market? But after making that impulse purchase of a vibrant coral-colored Heyday wireless charging pad, I’ve become something of an evangelist for these affordable yet surprisingly capable charging solutions.

Finding the right charger shouldn’t be complicated, but it should absolutely enhance your tech experience rather than detract from it.

Over the past year, I’ve expanded my collection and tested almost every Heyday charging product available. This comprehensive guide represents everything I’ve learned along the way—from compatibility questions to performance insights and everything in between.

What Exactly is Heyday?

Before diving into the specific chargers, let’s address the brand itself. For those unfamiliar, Heyday is Target’s exclusive electronics brand that launched in 2018. The line features headphones, speakers, phone cases, and of course, various charging solutions. The brand has positioned itself in an interesting space—more affordable than premium brands like Belkin or Anker, but with design aesthetics and quality that exceed what you’d typically expect at their price point.

Device Compatibility: Will a Heyday Charger Work for Your Tech?

One of the first questions that comes to mind when considering any charger is whether it will work with your devices. I’ve tested Heyday chargers with a wide range of electronics, and I’m pleased to report that they’re impressively versatile.

For iPhone Users

If you’re an Apple devotee like several of my friends, you’ll be happy to know that Heyday chargers work seamlessly with iPhones. Their wireless charging pads support all iPhone models with wireless charging capabilities (iPhone 8 and newer). The USB-C to Lightning cables charge iPhones efficiently, and I’ve found the connection to be just as secure as Apple’s first-party cables.

My colleague Sarah, who exclusively uses Apple products, borrowed my Heyday 18W wall charger with a Lightning cable for a weekend trip after forgetting her own. She returned it with reluctance, commenting that it charged her iPhone 13 just as quickly as her Apple charger.

For Android Users

As an Android user myself (currently sporting a Samsung Galaxy S23), I can personally attest to Heyday’s compatibility with the Android ecosystem. Their USB-C cables work perfectly with all my devices, and the wireless chargers accommodate my phone even with a fairly thick case on it.

The USB-C to USB-C cables support the Power Delivery protocol, which means they can handle the faster charging speeds that many Android phones are capable of. My Google Pixel-using roommate regularly “borrows” my Heyday 30W wall charger because he swears it charges his phone faster than the charger that came in the box.

For Other Devices

Beyond phones, I’ve successfully used Heyday chargers with:

• Tablets (both iPad and Android)
• Wireless earbuds (including AirPods, Galaxy Buds, and off-brand options)
• Portable speakers
• E-readers
• Gaming controllers
• Smartwatches (though the wireless chargers aren’t specifically designed for Apple Watch)

The versatility of these chargers makes them particularly valuable if you have a mixed ecosystem of devices. Rather than juggling different chargers for different products, a small collection of Heyday chargers can handle most of your charging needs.

Charging Speed: How Fast Can You Juice Up?

In our fast-paced world, waiting around for devices to charge feels increasingly intolerable. I’ve meticulously tested the charging speeds of various Heyday products, and here’s what I’ve found:

Wall Chargers

Heyday offers wall chargers in several power outputs:

• 18W single-port chargers
• 20W single-port chargers
• 30W single-port chargers
• 40W dual-port chargers (typically split as 20W + 20W)
• 65W multi-port chargers

The 18W and 20W chargers are perfectly adequate for phones, providing what most would consider “fast charging” capabilities. I’ve found that my Galaxy S23 charges from 20% to 80% in about 40 minutes using the 20W charger.

The 30W charger is where things get interesting. It’s powerful enough to charge not just phones but also tablets and even some laptops (though at a slower rate than their native chargers). I’ve used it with my Surface Go with no issues.

The multi-port chargers are convenient for travelers or those with multiple devices. The 65W charger can simultaneously charge a laptop and phone at respectable speeds.

Wireless Chargers

Heyday’s wireless charging options generally provide 10W charging for Android devices and 7.5W for iPhones (which is the maximum wireless charging speed Apple allows for third-party wireless chargers).

In practical terms, this means:

• iPhone wireless charging: 0% to 50% in about 60-70 minutes
• Android wireless charging: 0% to 50% in approximately 45-55 minutes

While wireless charging is undeniably more convenient, it’s worth noting that it’s still significantly slower than wired charging. I typically use my wireless charger on my nightstand for overnight charging, where the speed is less important than the convenience of simply placing my phone down.

Charging Cables

The quality of charging cables can significantly impact charging speed, and I’ve found Heyday’s offerings to be surprisingly good in this regard. Their braided cables support the appropriate protocols for fast charging:

• USB-C to Lightning cables support Apple’s fast charging
• USB-C to USB-C cables support USB Power Delivery up to 60W
• USB-A to USB-C/Lightning cables support standard charging speeds

In comparison tests with more expensive Anker cables, I found virtually no difference in charging speeds when using the same power brick.

Product Range: The Heyday Charging Ecosystem

Over the past couple of years, I’ve tried nearly every type of charger Heyday offers. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of their product range:

Wall Chargers

Heyday’s wall chargers feature a compact design with folding prongs that make them travel-friendly. They come in several configurations:

• Single-port USB-C chargers (18W, 20W, and 30W)
• Dual-port chargers (typically one USB-C and one USB-A)
• Multi-port desktop chargers (with various combinations of USB-C and USB-A ports)

The chargers use GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their higher-wattage offerings, which allows for smaller sizes and better efficiency than traditional chargers.

I particularly appreciate the subtle design touches—most models feature a small LED indicator light that’s bright enough to see but not so bright that it illuminates your entire room at night.

Wireless Chargers

The wireless charger lineup includes:

• Standard flat wireless charging pads (10W)
• Stand-style wireless chargers that hold your phone at a viewable angle
• 2-in-1 wireless chargers for phone and earbuds
• Portable wireless charging banks

These come in various colors and designs, from minimalist to more decorative options. The stand-style charger has become an essential desk accessory for me, allowing me to see notifications while my phone charges.

Cables

Heyday offers an impressive variety of cables:

• USB-C to Lightning (in 3ft, 6ft, and 10ft lengths)
• USB-C to USB-C (in 3ft, 6ft, and 10ft lengths)
• USB-A to USB-C (in 3ft, 6ft, and 10ft lengths)
• USB-A to Lightning (in 3ft, 6ft, and 10ft lengths)

The cables come in standard plastic coating or more durable braided options. The braided cables cost slightly more but offer significantly better durability and tangle resistance. After a year of daily use, my braided USB-C cable shows virtually no wear, while a standard cable I used with similar frequency had to be replaced after developing connectivity issues.

Power Banks

Heyday’s portable chargers include:

• 5,000mAh compact power banks (good for about one full phone charge)
• 10,000mAh standard power banks (capable of charging most phones 2-3 times)
• 20,000mAh high-capacity power banks (for extended trips or charging multiple devices)

Some models include built-in cables, which I find incredibly convenient for on-the-go charging. Their newest models feature both USB-C and wireless charging capabilities, essentially functioning as three products in one.

Price Point: Budget-Friendly Without Feeling Cheap

One of the most compelling aspects of Heyday chargers is their pricing. They occupy a sweet spot in the market—more affordable than premium brands but offering better quality than ultra-budget options.

Here’s a general pricing breakdown (though prices may vary slightly by location and sales):

• Wall chargers: $12.99 to $34.99, depending on wattage and port configuration
• Wireless chargers: $14.99 to $29.99
• Cables: $9.99 to $19.99, depending on length and type
• Power banks: $19.99 to $49.99, depending on capacity

During Target’s frequent sales (particularly during holiday seasons), these prices can drop by 15-30%, making them even more attractive.

I’ve found that for the quality received, these prices represent excellent value. After spending $40+ on name-brand chargers that failed within months, my $15 Heyday cable still going strong after a year feels like a significant win.

Durability: Will Your Heyday Charger Stand the Test of Time?

As someone who’s gone through countless chargers that have frayed, stopped working, or simply disappeared into the void, durability is a critical factor in my charging decisions.

Cable Durability

The standard Heyday cables are comparable to other mid-range options—they’ll last for a reasonable amount of time with normal use but may eventually show wear at the connector points.

The braided cables, however, are impressively durable. I’ve subjected mine to daily use, frequent packing and unpacking, and even the occasional accidental tug when caught on something, and they show minimal signs of wear. The stress relief at the connector points is well-designed, preventing the common issue of internal wire breakage.

Charger Build Quality

The wall chargers feel solidly constructed, with no concerning flex or creaking in the plastic. The folding prongs remain sturdy even after hundreds of foldings. I’ve dropped my 20W charger multiple times on hardwood floors with no apparent damage or performance degradation.

The wireless chargers have similarly held up well. The rubberized ring that prevents phones from sliding off has maintained its grip, and the electronics inside have functioned flawlessly despite constant use.

Long-Term Performance

After a year of use, all of my Heyday chargers continue to perform at their original charging speeds. I haven’t experienced the common issue of gradually declining charging rates that I’ve noticed with some cheaper alternatives.

The one exception was a standard (non-braided) Lightning cable that began to show intermittent connection issues after about eight months of use. However, given its frequent use and the fact that Lightning cables seem particularly prone to failure regardless of brand, I still consider this acceptable performance for the price point.

Safety Features: Protecting Your Precious Devices

When it comes to charging, safety is non-negotiable. Subpar chargers can damage battery health or, in worst-case scenarios, pose fire hazards. I’ve researched and tested Heyday’s safety features extensively.

All Heyday chargers include built-in protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits—essential safeguards for any quality charging product.

The chargers are UL-listed, meaning they’ve been tested by a recognized safety certification organization. This is a significant advantage over many ultra-budget chargers that lack proper safety certifications.

In practical testing, I’ve noticed that Heyday chargers do warm up during use (as all chargers do), but they never become concerning hot, even under maximum load. The thermal management appears to be well-designed.

One particularly thoughtful safety feature is the automatic power adjustment. When charging multiple devices from a multi-port charger, it intelligently distributes power to ensure safe charging rates for each connected device.

Aesthetic Appeal: Charging with Style

While functionality is paramount, I appreciate that Heyday doesn’t ignore aesthetics. Their chargers and cables come in a range of colors and designs that elevate them beyond the typical boring black or white options that dominate the market.

The wall chargers feature clean, minimalist designs with subtle color accents. The wireless chargers, in particular, showcase more personality with options ranging from fabric-covered surfaces to terrazzo patterns and seasonal designer collaborations.

I’ve found that these design touches make a difference in how I feel about my tech accessories. The coral wireless charger that started my Heyday journey has become a small but cheerful accent on my nightstand rather than an eyesore to be hidden.

The cables, available in colors like sage green, lavender, coral, and navy (in addition to standard black and white), add a small touch of personalization to my charging setup. It’s a minor detail, but one that makes the everyday experience a bit more pleasant.

Warranty and Customer Service: What Happens When Things Go Wrong?

Even the best products occasionally fail, so understanding the warranty and support options is important. Heyday products come with a one-year limited warranty, which is standard for this product category.

When one of my cables developed an issue, I brought it back to Target with the receipt, and they exchanged it without question. The process was significantly more straightforward than dealing with warranty claims for more expensive brands that often require shipping products back to manufacturers and waiting weeks for replacements.

It’s worth noting that Target’s general return policy (90 days for most electronics) provides additional peace of mind for trying out new Heyday products.

Eco-Friendliness: How Green Is Your Charging?

As someone increasingly conscious of environmental impact, I’ve looked into the sustainability aspects of Heyday chargers.

The good news is that Heyday has made efforts to reduce packaging waste, using minimal plastic and more recyclable materials in their packaging compared to many competitors.

The newer GaN chargers are also more energy-efficient than traditional chargers, consuming less standby power when not actively charging devices.

However, like most consumer electronics, there’s still room for improvement. The product line doesn’t yet feature options made from recycled materials, and the company could be more transparent about their manufacturing processes and supply chain sustainability.

For the environmentally conscious consumer, the best approach with Heyday products (as with most electronics) is to purchase thoughtfully and ensure products are used for their full lifespan rather than being replaced unnecessarily.

Comparing Heyday to Other Brands

To provide context, I’ve compared Heyday chargers to several other popular brands:

vs. Apple/Samsung (OEM Chargers)

Price: Heyday is significantly less expensive (often 40-60% cheaper)
Performance: Comparable charging speeds for supported protocols
Design: Less premium materials but more color/design options
Warranty: Shorter warranty period (1 year vs. 2 years for some OEM chargers)

vs. Anker/Belkin (Premium Third-Party)

Price: Heyday is 25-40% less expensive
Performance: Slightly lower maximum charging speeds on high-end models
Durability: Comparable for braided cables; slightly less durable for standard cables
Product Range: Fewer specialized options but covers all the essentials

vs. Amazon Basics/Generic Brands (Budget Options)

Price: Heyday is slightly more expensive (10-30%)
Performance: Better consistent performance and fewer compatibility issues
Safety: Better safety certifications and protection features
Design: Significantly better aesthetics and material quality

In my experience, Heyday occupies a sweet spot of value—offering performance closer to premium brands at prices closer to budget options.

Where to Buy Heyday Chargers

As Target’s exclusive electronics brand, Heyday products are available only through Target’s retail channels:

• In-store at Target locations (best for seeing color options in person)
• Online at Target.com (often has the full product range)
• Through the Target app

I’ve found that the in-store selection sometimes varies by location, with larger stores carrying more options. The online selection is typically more comprehensive but may have items that go in and out of stock frequently.

Finding Deals and Discounts

If you’re looking to maximize value, there are several ways to save on Heyday products:

• Target Circle offers: The free loyalty program frequently features percentage-off deals on electronics
• Seasonal sales: Back-to-school, Black Friday, and after-Christmas sales often include Heyday products
• Clearance finds: When new designs are introduced, previous models are sometimes discounted
• Bundle deals: Occasionally Target offers discounts when purchasing multiple Heyday items

I’ve found January and August to be particularly good months for finding Heyday deals, as these align with Target’s electronics reset periods.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To get the most life out of your Heyday chargers, I’ve developed some best practices:

For Cables:

• Avoid sharp bends, especially near connector points
• Unplug by gripping the connector, not by pulling on the cable
• Use cable organizers to prevent tangling when storing
• Keep away from extreme temperatures

For Wall Chargers:

• Ensure ventilation around the charger during use
• Unplug during electrical storms
• Avoid using in very humid environments
• Don’t stack items on top of chargers while in use

For Wireless Chargers:

• Periodically clean the charging surface with a microfiber cloth
• Remove phone cases that interfere with charging (typically very thick cases or those with metal components)
• Position devices properly in the center of the charging area
• Keep the charging surface free of debris and liquids

With proper care, I’ve found that Heyday charging products can last significantly longer than their budget price might suggest.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best chargers can sometimes exhibit problems. Here are solutions to issues I’ve encountered or researched:

Slow or Intermittent Charging

• Check for cable damage
• Clean charging ports (carefully) with compressed air
• Ensure you’re using compatible charger/device combinations
• Remove thick phone cases that might interfere with wireless charging
• Restart your device

Charger Overheating

• Ensure adequate ventilation around the charger
• Check for proper wall outlet connection
• Don’t use chargers under pillows or heavy materials
• Disconnect and allow to cool if unusually hot

Wireless Charger Not Working

• Verify correct positioning of device on the charging pad
• Remove metal objects between the charger and device
• Check that the wireless charger is receiving power
• Ensure your device supports wireless charging

Cable Connection Problems

• Inspect cable ends for damage
• Test with different devices to isolate the problem
• Check for debris in the charging port
• Try different orientations for reversible connectors

For more serious issues, Target’s return policy and the one-year warranty provide recourse for replacement.

Final Thoughts: Are Heyday Chargers Worth It?

After extensive use across multiple products in their lineup, my verdict on Heyday chargers is overwhelmingly positive. They offer a compelling combination of affordability, reliability, and design that’s hard to beat in the current market.

For most everyday users, Heyday chargers provide the perfect balance of performance and value, eliminating the need to choose between overpriced premium brands and questionable budget alternatives.

If you’re looking for the absolute fastest charging speeds or need specialized features like programmable power delivery profiles, you might still want to consider premium brands. Similarly, if you’re extremely budget-conscious and just need something basic that works, there are cheaper options available.

But for the vast majority of us who want reliable, attractive charging solutions that won’t break the bank, Heyday has become my go-to recommendation. The fact that they’re easily accessible at Target—a store most of us visit regularly anyway—makes them all the more convenient.

My journey from skeptical first-time buyer to enthusiastic advocate reflects what I believe many consumers will experience: pleasant surprise at just how good these affordable chargers really are. Whether you’re looking to outfit your home, office, or travel bag with new charging gear, Heyday deserves serious consideration.

What started as an impulse purchase of a coral wireless charger has evolved into a genuine appreciation for a product line that proves good design and quality don’t have to come with a premium price tag. In a world of increasingly expensive tech accessories, that’s something worth celebrating.