Qi wireless charging technology has been around for several years, but we're still excited about it.
It has almost universal adoption on iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel phones.
It's ideal for charging smart phones, and while devices like the Apple Watch and other smartwatches probably use proprietary chargers, there are charger options that allow you to keep all of your devices in one place while they recharge.
But just like power adapters, there are many different wireless chargers in all shapes and sizes, from pads to stands and even two-in-one, or wireless chargers that are hidden in photo frames.
This handy guide will make your buying decision a lot less daunting - even fun!
What to look for in a wireless charger
There is a great selection of chargers.
In the time since Apple started including wireless charging, accessory makers have released a ton of them.
It is a competitive market, with Mophie, Belkin, Anker, Apple, Nomad, Satechi, Twelve South, Samsung, and many others offering many options.
Circular ear pads are all the rage, but wireless chargers come in many other formats too.
Materials range from plastic to leather to fabric.
Fortunately, neither of these surfaces should get too hot, thanks to Qi charging coil technology.
Wireless charging creates some heat given the conductive nature of the design.
It is normal for the device to get a little warm and the charging pad itself may give off some heat, but there are multiple safeguards on the charger to prevent damage or overheating.
Also, most wireless chargers can work with thin cases on devices.
The range generally tolerates up to 5 millimeters thick.
Apple's MagSafe technology, which was launched in the iPhone 12 family, uses magnets to ensure proper alignment and increases charging speeds by up to 15 watts.
You can even use a MagSafe loading disc with a MagSafe case that ensures proper alignment.
Also a quick note on alignment: In order for the wireless charger to start charging your Qi-enabled device, you need to make sure the coils line up.
You will know that this is the case with the device that shows a charging status and in some cases with an LED indicator on the charger itself.
Upload speed matters
Like a typical charging adapter and cable, a wireless charger can only charge as fast as the amount of power it receives.
Normal versus fast charging can make a significant difference, but you need to be precise when choosing your model.
You will need to ensure that the included electrical adapter can deliver enough watts for fast charging.
Fast charging typically comes from a charger that delivers more than 10 watts to your device.
It means that you will see battery power increase in a shorter period of time.
That said, iPhones can only get up to 7.5 watts from a Qi-enabled charger unless you're using the new MagSafe, which offers up to 15 watts for iPhone 12 models with a 20-watt wall socket.
Apple used to include a 5-watt charger with every iPhone (the iPhone SE still ships with one), which is on the slower side of power delivery.
On the other hand, Samsung includes a fast-charging brick in the box with most of its smartphones.
Any of these can probably fully charge your phone overnight, but there are ways to get a quicker and easier charge without the hassle of connecting the cable.
You'll need to upgrade to an Apple 20-watt charger ($ 19; amazon.com) for an iPhone, or a third-party solution, such as the Anker Nano 20W charger ($ 16.99; amazon.com), to get those fast charging speeds.
If you're looking for a fast-charging or 10-watt wireless charger, it likely came with an adapter that can power that fast speed.
But sadly, not all wireless chargers include it.
And while an adapter may seem unnecessary for a wireless charger, it is a critical piece of the equation to deliver enough power for fast charging, so if the charger doesn't come with one, you'll have to buy it separately.
We've put together a selection of wireless chargers to help make your decision a little easier.
Whether you're looking for a charging station to keep all your devices powered up in one space, a case or power bank to keep it charged on the go, or the perfect stand to charge your phone while watching a movie, here's an option for you. .
Wireless chargers
There are many wireless chargers on the market, which is why we have chosen options from brands we know and trust.
Apple MagSafe Wireless Charger ($ 39;
amazon.com
)
With the announcement of the iPhone 12 line comes MagSafe, Apple's wireless charging experience.
MagSafe works through magnets built into the coil of the wireless charger.
The charging speed has been increased from a 7.5-watt charger to a 15-watt charger, which means that your charge times will be much faster.
The MagSafe charger can be used for your iPhone and AirPods with a wireless charging case or AirPods Pro, albeit at a lower speed.
You'll need to get your own wall socket for this charger, and Apple recommends pairing it with a 20-watt adapter for optimal use and to hit the 15-watt mark.
Belkin Wireless Charger ($ 23.99, originally $ 29.99;
amazon.com
)
The Belkin Wireless Charger offers a full charge at a fast speed with Qi compatible universal smartphones, and you can even use this wireless charging pad for your AirPods if they are compatible.
Delivers a 10 watt load to Apple and Samsung phones and 5 watts to all other devices.
A Quick Charge 3.0-compliant wall charger and cable are included, so everything you need to start charging wirelessly is included.
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Anker PowerWave Pad ($ 13.99;
amazon.com
)
The PowerWave Pad offers a 10-watt high-speed charge to Samsung smartphones and a standard 5-watt charge to iPhones and other Qi-compatible devices like the Google Pixel.
You will need your own wall adapter, but the compatible cable is included with the PowerWave Pad.
You can charge devices through sleeves up to 5 millimeters thick.
The LED light indicator in this selection indicates if something is obstructing the device's charging, if it is incompatible, and when a device is placed correctly and in charging mode.
Fast wireless chargers
These charging pads offer power of 10 watts or more for a shorter wait time between charges for compatible devices, and you will have to make sure they are paired with the proper wall adapter.
Anker 15W Max Wireless Charger with PowerWave USB-C Alloy Pad ($ 29.99;
amazon.com
)
With a maximum charging capacity of 15 watts, this selection from Anker will quickly recover your devices under full load.
There are non-slip pads on the top and bottom of the charger to prevent it from sliding on surfaces and to keep your phone in place while charging.
It comes with a 5 foot cord that you will need to connect to your own wall adapter.
The Google Pixel will get 11 watts of efficient charging, Samsung phones will get 10 watts of high-speed charging, and there is a 7.5-watt charging mode for iPhones.
Belkin 15W Wireless Charger ($ 31.99, originally $ 39.99;
amazon.com
)
This wireless charger includes Belkin's 24-watt Quick Charge 3.0 power supply unit, so you can take full advantage of the 15-watt charge.
It is a universal wireless charger, so Android and Apple users can use it.
It will deliver a 15-watt charge to your smartphone and a 5-watt charge to other Qi-compatible devices such as the AirPods or AirPods Pro.
Wireless Charging Cases
If you want wireless power on the go without having to add anything to your carry charge, a wireless charging case is a perfect choice.
Apple and Mophie have created cases to help increase battery life at the touch of a button.
Apple Smart Battery Case with Wireless Charging for iPhone 11 Pro ($ 129;
amazon.com
)
You never have to worry about your phone running out of juice with this battery case.
Offers up to 50% longer battery life when fully charged.
There is a Lightning charger that slides into your phone's port, but the case itself can be charged via the Lightning port or Qi-enabled wireless chargers.
If you place your phone for wireless charging with the case on, both the case and the iPhone will charge.
Juice Pack Access for iPhone 11 Pro ($ 29.95, originally $ 79.95;
mophie.com
)
This Mophie battery case can add an additional 13 hours of audio and five hours of video playback to your phone's battery life.
You can charge the case via wireless charging or a Lightning cable.
Simply turn on the case using the button on the back (which is also where you'll find the charging indicator for the case), and you'll charge your phone's battery wirelessly.
It's ultra convenient, and the case itself is stylish and available in three colors.
Wireless car chargers
Charging on the road is efficient and easy if you go for one of these wireless options.
You'll have access to its screen for GPS views while your smartphone's battery gets a boost.
Car Vent Mount Pro with MagSafe ($ 39.99;
belkin.com
)
Leaning against your car's air vent, this Belkin MagSafe charger is stylish and efficient.
It will hold your phone securely in place (thanks to the magnets used by MagSafe) and the ball joint allows you to view the screen horizontally or vertically.
It's a great accessory for your new iPhone 12 or 12 Pro, but you'll have to buy a separate car charger (we like this one from Belkin).
Anker PowerWave 7.5 Wireless Charger Car Charger ($ 49.99;
amazon.com
)
The Anker Wireless Car Charger delivers a 7.5-watt charge to iPhones and a 10-watt charge to Android devices, while other devices receive a 5-watt charge.
Attaches easily to vents, so your phone is at a good viewing level when using GPS services.
A two-port car charger is included, so your passenger can charge too.
Wireless charging stands
The charging stands are perfect if you need to take a look at your device while charging the battery.
These selections give you the option to comfortably use your device while charging, either in portrait or landscape mode.
PowerWave Mount for Anker Wireless Charger ($ 18.99;
amazon.com
)
This stand offers a 10 watt charge to your Samsung smartphone and a 5 watt charge to all other devices.
Even though it's a vertical phone stand, it can still charge your device in landscape mode if you're looking to boost its battery while watching your favorite shows and videos.
It has a 3 foot cord, but you will need to supply your own wall adapter.
The sleek black will fit in with any desktop aesthetic.
Nomad Wireless Charging Stand ($ 99.95;
nomadgoods.com
)
We love Nomad for its leather tech accessories, and this wireless charging stand with a chic leather accent is no exception.
Your phone will rest on a leather pad while receiving a 10-watt charge.
You get an 18-watt power adapter with the base station bracket, a 6-foot braided USB-A to USB-C cable, and the ability to charge your phone vertically or horizontally.
Works with all Qi-enabled devices.
TwelveSouth HiRise 10W Wireless Fast Charging ($ 59.99, originally $ 79.99;
amazon.com
)
This charging stand can be connected to a wall adapter or your computer for convenient charging capacity.
It comes with a 1.5 meter cable, and the charging pad itself pops out of the holder if you want to lay your phone flat to get the 10-watt charge.
We like its ability to switch between a charging stand and a charging pad, and the chrome finish adds a soft touch that's sure to look good on your desk or nightstand.
Belkin 10W Wireless Charging Stand ($ 28.95, originally $ 34.99;
amazon.com
)
Charge in portrait or landscape mode with this Belkin charging stand and get 10 watts of power from your smartphone.
The Quick Charge 3.0 Power Adapter is included, which will ensure optimal charging on your device while using this charging stand.
It is a universal wireless charger, so if you are an iPhone or Android user, you can enjoy fast charging times with this option.
Wireless charging stations
You likely have more than one device to charge throughout the day, and that's where charging stations and docks come in.
With the ability to wirelessly charge more than one device at a time, it is a convenient option that uses a single cable.
MagSafe Duo Charger ($ 129;
coming soon
)
Charge your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro or your AirPods with the Apple MagSafe Duo charger.
It folds up conveniently, making it easy to travel and store when not in use.
You can even prop up the Watch charger to use nightstand mode, or keep it level for a flat charge.
Apple recommends pairing it with the 20W wall adapter.
Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger ($ 119.95;
amazon.com
)
If you haven't upgraded to an iPhone 12 model for MagSafe, Belkin has you and all of your devices covered with this wireless charging station.
Charge your AirPods, iPhone and Apple Watch at the same time and in the same place.
Your iPhone receives a 7.5-watt charge, while your AirPods and Watch receive a 5-watt charge.
Anker 3-in-1 Multi-Device Wireless Charging Station ($ 44.99;
amazon.com
)
Another 3-in-1 charging option, this Anker pick primarily functions as a wireless charging stand for your smartphone but provides two additional USB-A ports for charging other devices.
It's not as convenient as a flat wireless charging station, but you have more charging ports.
It will deliver a 10 watt charge to Samsung phones, while your iPhone will receive a 7.5 watt fast charge.
Base Station Pro ($ 229.95;
nomadgoods.com
)
There are 18 coils in this charging station, so you can easily charge up to three devices at a time.
The padded leather surface is a clean look and the technology provides loads of up to 7.5 watts.
Charge your headphones, smartphone, and even devices as large as an Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus.
If the Base Station Pro is a bit too expensive, the Base Station Hub ($ 99.95; nomadgoods.com) is cheaper and still big enough to charge up to two smartphones at once.
Note: The above prices reflect the price at the time of publication of the article.
