The Best Wireless Charging Stations
The advantages of going wireless can't be understated. Being able to free up devices from bulky wires and plugs adds convenience and accessibility throughout the home. In a wire-free world, wireless charging stations are the perfect fit for powering up. Whether you're charging up accessories like battery packs and watches or you just need a convenient spot for the whole family to charge, charging stations are a perfect fit for any tech-savvy home. There is a sea of wireless charging stations, so we took it upon ourselves to search for the ones that stand out from the crowd.
What to Look For
The best wireless charging stations should have three important qualities: ease of use, versatility, and a universal yet inconspicuous design. The charging station from JoyGeek had everything we were looking for and quickly emerged as our top pick. It charges devices quickly and has unique overcharging protection to lengthen battery life. It also has a sleek design, and its device detection light turns off so as not to disturb your sleep. However, if you’re in search of a power pad for multiple devices, then go with the one from ZealSound. It has a streamlined design that fits on any table or desk, so you’ll be able to keep your charging space neat and organized. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks and the reasons we loved them so much.
JoyGeek Wireless Charging Station
Keeping it wire-free
If you need a heads-up display of your device, look no further than JoyGeek’s wireless charging station. This nifty gadget features a wide lip that allows for charging in both landscape and portrait mode. While you won’t have much difficulty interfacing with it if you use plastic or silicone protectors, metallic and thick shock-proof case users may want to look elsewhere. Best of all, this stand is incredibly compact and can simultaneously power up wearables and earbuds with your phone. All in all, when you need an extra screen at work or rely on your smartphone’s camera for client conferences, JoyGeek ensures a stable viewing angle and sound free from obstruction day after day.
Pros:
- You’ll be able to complement the color scheme of your devices by selecting a choice of either black or white.
- The protection from overcharging increases battery life so you can use your devices for hours at a time.
- The charge light turns on briefly to let you know that it has recognized and is charging your devices, then turns off so as not to disturb your sleep.
Cons:
- It does not include an AC outlet for the USB C cable.
ZeeHoo Wireless Car Charger
Mobile energy management
Charging on the go is a breeze with ZeeHoo’s wireless car charger. While strictly magnetic car mounts are convenient, bumpy rides can dislodge heavier devices and cause unnecessary stress. ZeeHoo features a four-point automatic locking system that secures your smartphone in one swift motion. As far as compatibility goes, don’t fret if your vehicle is lacking on the horizontal vent front. ZeeHoo comes with two locking mechanisms: one for appropriate openings and a suction cup for any part of the dashboard or windshield. For road warriors that need distraction-free driving above all, ZeeHoo is the mount maker to beat.
Pros:
- We loved how easy it was to install on any shaped dashboard or center console.
- The sides are adjustable with an auto-grip, so you’ll be able to fit any sized phone or tablet.
- If you’re always on the move, go with this one. It’s durable and holds strong on even the bumpiest of car trips, and mounting your phone on and off is quick and easy.
Cons:
- It doesn’t come with its own car outlet.
ZealSound Wireless Charging Pad
Space for every smartphone
Powering up the whole family’s devices doesn’t require multiple wires when you have ZealSound’s charging pad. First, we love that this device comes with everything you need to achieve fast charging straight out of the box. The pad’s three electromagnets can charge just as many devices simultaneously and won’t require minute adjustments to reach the sweet spot. As far as aesthetics go, the ZealSound pad features a lovely synthetic leather finish that prevents slips and is free of irritating LEDs that stay on throughout the charge. If you have a cluttered countertop where all tech resides, this device will organize and charge in a flash.
Pros:
- Because it can charge up to three devices simultaneously, you won’t have to worry about waiting for an open spot.
- The minimalist design fits amongst any decor.
- Even when all three charging pads are being used, it charges very fast so you’ll be able to get a quick charge in before you leave your house.
Cons:
- It may slide around on slick surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge wirelessly through my phone case?
While wireless charging is much more prevalent than it was, that doesn’t mean that it will ever be fully compatible with older devices. To start, nearly all devices capable of wireless charging adhere to the Qi standard. This technology is maintained by a group of businesses that wish to standardize technology to reduce waste. Qi-enabled devices can easily charge with most silicone or plastic cases, although metal wallets or pop sockets will interfere. We recommend using a softshell case no more than 4 millimeters thick to get the most out of your charging station or consider purchasing a magnetic battery pack that does the charging for your smartphone independently.
Where did wireless charging come from?
Using electromagnetism to power devices without cables is technology over a century in the making. Nikola Tesla, a Croatian-born emigre to the United States, began his research into wireless electronics while working for Thomas Edison in New York City. Tesla demonstrated multiple times in the late nineteenth century that his Tesla Coil was capable of transferring electricity without a direct connection.
Unfortunately, due to insufficient funding, many of Nikola’s inventions faded into obscurity for a century. While modern wireless charging is based on similar concepts, it was not taken seriously until very recently. However, once the Qi standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium, the technology took off like a rocket.
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