How to charge the Samsung Galaxy S26: What is SFC 3.0

Image source: Samsung Newsroom

Along with the launch of the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung introduced a new charging mode called Super Fast Charging 3.0 (SFC 3.0). Compared to SFC 2.0, it allows the Galaxy S26 Ultra, for example, to charge at up to 60W. This raises a practical question: which chargers, aside from Samsung’s own adapters, are compatible with SFC 3.0?

Essentially, SFC 3.0 is not a separate proprietary standard. In practice, it is Samsung’s brand name for a charging mode that relies on USB Power Delivery with PPS support at 20V. Therefore, compatibility depends not only on the adapter’s total power output but also on which PPS voltage ranges it supports.

Accordingly, chargers supporting PPS up to 20–21V, such as 3.3–20V or 5–20V, can charge Galaxy S26 series smartphones in SFC 3.0 mode.

Follow the link below to find a selection of chargers I’ve tested, where I evaluate their performance under load, compatibility with various devices, and support for different fast-charging protocols.

When choosing, pay attention to the notes in the device description:

• S22–S26 (Plus/Ultra) 45W–5A

• S25–S26 (Plus/Ultra) 45W–3A

• S26 Ultra 60W–3A

As you can see, a charger with a high total power rating does not always deliver 60W to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The reason usually lies not in the total power itself, but in the parameters of the implemented PPS profile. Official and practical materials regarding the S26 Ultra confirm that a high wattage rating alone is not enough: the specific implementation of the charging mode is what matters.

An important detail: if you choose a charger labeled only “S22-S26 (Plus/Ultra) 45W-5A” and without any other compatibility options, you will need a USB-C to USB-C cable that supports 5A to enable 45W charging. Such cables contain an e-marker chip and are usually labeled 100W or 240W.

A cable without such a marking most often does not contain an e-marker chip and is rated for a current of up to 3A (maximum power 60W at 20V), so with some adapters that have a limited PPS range and require 5A, the 45W mode will not activate.

Follow the link below to find a selection of tested cables. In the detailed description of each cable, you can view the measured internal resistance, see data from the e-marker chip, learn about the jacket’s features, and view photos. This is useful because the cable’s resistance affects the voltage drop and, consequently, the actual power that reaches the device, while the power losses themselves manifest as heat generated by the cable. You can find more details about measuring internal resistance in this article.

I wish your new smartphone had fast and reliable charging!