EPICKA vs TESSAN Travel Adapter: Which to Buy (2026)
Choosing between the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter TA-105 and the TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter 28W comes down to your port preferences, overall country coverage, and price. The EPICKA TA-105 costs about $30 and provides four USB-A ports alongside one USB-C port across 200+ countries. The TESSAN 28W costs about $26 and features two USB-A ports alongside three USB-C ports with a 28W total USB output across 150+ countries. Neither model converts voltage, and neither provides laptop fast-charge capabilities on its USB ports. This head-to-head comparison breaks down where that $4 difference matters most for your international gear setup.
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EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter TA-105 vs TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter 28W: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter TA-105 | TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter 28W |
|---|---|---|
| Price | About $30 | About $26 |
| Country coverage | 200+ countries (Type A, C, G, I) | 150+ countries (Type C, G, A, I) |
| USB-A ports | 4 ports | 2 ports |
| USB-C ports | 1 port (not Power Delivery) | 3 ports (shares 28W total output) |
| Laptop charging | No Power Delivery laptop fast-charge | No Power Delivery laptop fast-charge |
| Grounding | Grounded | Grounded |
| Safety features | Safety shutters on all sockets | Thermal protection layer, AC socket max 10A |
| Best for | Families or groups with multiple USB-A cables | Solo travelers carrying mostly USB-C gear |
Direct Comparison and Core Differences
The EPICKA TA-105 and the TESSAN 28W target different charging habits through distinct port layouts. EPICKA relies on four legacy USB-A ports and a single USB-C port for 200+ countries. TESSAN prioritizes modern connections with three USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and coverage across 150+ countries. Both units are grounded travel adapters supporting Type A, Type C, Type G, and Type I configurations. The decision centers primarily on whether you carry older cables or newer USB-C cords.
- EPICKA covers 200+ countries with four USB-A ports and one USB-C port
- TESSAN covers 150+ countries with two USB-A ports and three USB-C ports
- TESSAN provides 28W total USB output to handle fast-charging phones
- EPICKA costs about $30 while TESSAN costs about $26
Country Coverage and Plug Compatibility
The EPICKA TA-105 advertises coverage for 200+ countries, while the TESSAN unit covers 150+ countries. Both models support Type A, Type C, Type G, and Type I outlet shapes. These four primary configurations allow travelers to plug into wall outlets in numerous global destinations. EPICKA holds a broader stated country range for travelers visiting varied destinations worldwide. TESSAN covers fewer destinations overall while still supporting the same core plug types.
USB Port Layout and Power Output
Port distribution is the primary functional distinction between these two universal adapters. The TESSAN adapter delivers a 28W total USB output that handles fast-charging phones across its five ports. It features three USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, making it suitable for modern gear kits. The EPICKA TA-105 provides four USB-A ports and one USB-C port. Its single USB-C port does not feature Power Delivery. Neither model supplies enough power over USB ports to fast-charge modern laptops.
Laptop Charging Limitations and Alternatives
Neither the EPICKA TA-105 nor the TESSAN 28W handles laptop Power Delivery fast-charging directly from its USB ports. The EPICKA USB-C port is not Power Delivery enabled. The TESSAN USB-C ports share a total pool of 28W, which falls short for laptops. Travelers requiring dedicated laptop fast-charging should consider higher-wattage alternatives. The Ceptics 45W offers 45W USB-C Power Delivery. The EPICKA TA-105 Pro GaN supplies 70W combined Power Delivery for higher-draw computing devices.
Voltage Conversion Rules for International Outlets
Neither adapter converts electrical voltage from foreign wall sockets. A travel adapter only alters the mechanical shape of the physical plug pins. Electrical devices labelled 100-240V operate abroad using just an adapter. Single-voltage devices labelled only 120V require a separate voltage converter to operate without damaging the hardware. Verify your specific electronics label before using either universal adapter.
Build, Grounding, and Integrated Safety Features
Both travel adapters are grounded units. EPICKA equips the TA-105 with safety shutters on all sockets. It features a slightly bulkier body than single-region travel plugs. TESSAN uses a compact polycarbonate shell designed with an integrated thermal protection layer. The TESSAN AC socket supports a maximum electrical load of 10A.
Price, Value, and Traveler Type Breakdown
The EPICKA TA-105 retails for about $30, while the TESSAN 28W retails for about $26. That creates a $4 price difference between the two models. EPICKA represents Trecklist's best overall pick. TESSAN serves as Trecklist's minimalist pick for individuals who carry modern USB-C mobile hardware. The value depends entirely on which ports your collection of portable electronics requires on the road.
Who Each Travel Adapter Is Not For
The EPICKA TA-105 is not ideal for solo travelers carrying mostly modern USB-C cables. Having only one USB-C port requires carrying extra USB-A adapters or older charging cords. The TESSAN 28W is not suited for families who need to charge multiple legacy USB-A accessories simultaneously. Neither adapter is suitable for high-wattage laptop fast-charging via USB ports without dedicated external hardware. Neither unit is built for travelers attempting to run 120V-only appliances without a separate voltage converter.
Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Buy the EPICKA TA-105 if you travel with a family or group relying heavily on older USB-A cords and you want 200+ country coverage. Buy the TESSAN 28W if you want three modern USB-C ports, a 28W fast-charging output for phones, and a lower $26 price. See Trecklist's best travel adapter guide for additional options including high-wattage laptop picks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EPICKA TA-105 better than the TESSAN 28W travel adapter?
The EPICKA TA-105 is better for travelers who need four USB-A ports and broad coverage across 200+ countries. The TESSAN 28W is better for travelers who prioritize three modern USB-C ports, 28W fast-charging for phones, and a lower purchase price.
What is the price difference between EPICKA and TESSAN travel adapters?
The EPICKA TA-105 costs about $30 and the TESSAN 28W costs about $26. This creates a $4 price gap between the two international adapters.
Can either the EPICKA or TESSAN adapter fast-charge a laptop?
Neither adapter can fast-charge a laptop via USB. The EPICKA USB-C port lacks Power Delivery, and the TESSAN USB-C ports share 28W total output. Travelers needing laptop charging should look at the Ceptics 45W or EPICKA TA-105 Pro GaN.
Do EPICKA and TESSAN travel adapters convert electrical voltage?
Neither adapter converts voltage. Both models only adapt the physical shape of the wall plug. Dual-voltage devices labelled 100-240V work normally, but 120V-only products require a separate voltage converter.
Which adapter is better for solo travelers with newer phones?
The TESSAN 28W is better for solo travelers with newer phones because it includes three USB-C ports. Its 28W total USB output handles fast-charging phones directly without requiring older USB-A cords.