The Tartentech one at very least keeps the charge level from dropping while in use and will charge when I stop using it.
No doubt. However, if you are willing to buy it (I'd recommend a 2nd hand Apple 29W charger if you can get one), the 29W charger is incredibly fast and well worth it, as has already been chronicled by many members in the forum.
Definitely not a necessity, but if you bring it around with you a lot, you'll invariably be able to unplug it at any time at much higher charge levels.