The Best Wireless iPhone Chargers
Cutting back on the big tangle of cords in our lives can be a huge relief. As hands-free technology develops, ingenious inventions like the wireless phone charger promise to reduce the production of wasteful accessories. These devices use inductive charging to charge your device without the need for plugging in. If you're ready for wireless charging for your iPhone, read on for our top picks.
What to Look For
When you’re searching for a wireless phone charger, we suggest focusing on a few key qualities: the charging speed, compatibility with other devices, price value, and reliability. We love Anker’s PowerWave pad, which is compatible with a wide range of devices besides iPhones and boasts through-case charging. But if you want to get your iPhone charger straight from the folks who know how to do it best, check out Apple’s MagSafe wireless charger. Sure, it’s costlier than off-brand chargers, but it’s also undoubtedly the most reliable. For more on our favorite wireless iPhone chargers, keep on reading.
Anker PowerWave Pad
When less is more
Anker’s PowerWave pad is a fantastic device for quick, port-free charging. While some devices limit charging capabilities by wattage, Anker takes pride in its universal capabilities. Compatible with a wide range of devices, this charging pad has no problem pairing with smartphones or their accessories. We also love this charger because of its sheer strength. Most phone owners will be pleasantly surprised to find out that the PowerWave Pad navigates around most phone covers. Overall, Anker promises to simplify hectic lifestyles by powering up generations old and new without ports or cases getting in the way.
Pros:
- If you’re looking for a multifunctional wireless charger, go with this one. Aside from charging your iPhone, it can also work with earbuds and wearable tech.
- It has excellent safety features, such as built-in overheat protection for extra security.
Cons:
- It may not work with some metallic cases, so if you have one, be aware that you might have to remove it to charge your phone.
Yootech Wireless Charger
The wireless charger from Yootech simplifies power-ups when you’re on the move at the job or back home. Each product includes a USB cable and power pad, and they’re available in several different color designs to help match your phone case. Best of all, this unit fades into the background effortlessly. Without blinding indicator lights, Yootech makes for the perfect bedroom power station that won’t overcharge your device during your stay in dreamland.
Pros:
- The range of compatible products is expansive. It includes almost every iPhone with Qi certification, as well as a list of Android and other Apple products.
- The rubber ring on the charger’s base keeps it in place, so you won’t have to worry about your phone and the charger falling off your nightstand or desk.
Cons:
- The charging “sweet spot” is a bit small, so you may have to fiddle with your phone a bit for the charger to recognize it.
Anker 313 Wireless Charger Stand
Stay in sight
If you’re expecting a call any minute or require a heads-up display of your device at all times, look no further than the PowerWave stand from Anker. This nifty gadget boasts a wide lip that allows for charging in both landscape or portrait mode, a feature whose usefulness can’t be understated. All in all, the PowerWave ensures a stable viewing angle free from obstruction.
Pros:
- This charger is offered in both black and white options.
- The charging surface area is exceptionally large, so you can quickly plop your phone on the stand without having to worry about the perfect placement.
- Considering the quality and durability of Anker hardware, the price is a bargain.
Cons:
- This is another charger that isn’t compatible with some metallic phone cases since certain metals can interfere with the wireless connection.
Apple MagSafe Charger
Stuck on you
When you don’t want to take any chances with third-party tech, place your trust in the MagSafe charger from Apple. As an official Apple product, this power pad is optimized to deliver charging that’s significantly speedier than quick charge-labeled products. Best of all, the MagSafe charger allows for simultaneous charging of Qi-certified external battery cases. All in all, if you only have limited charging time before long excursions, this power unit comes with Apple-brand quality control that’s hard to come by.
Pros:
- You’ll never struggle to find the center of the pad thanks to robust magnets that hold onto your device without fail.
- Aside from iPhones, this charger also works with wireless AirPod cases. If you own both devices, this is a fantastic way to keep both devices juiced up.
Cons:
- This charger is expensive, but we think it’s worth it for the reliable build quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the origins of wireless charging?
Believe it or not, the first prototypes demonstrating wireless charging capability are well over a century old. 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. Modern interest in wireless charging has boomed in recent years when Qi technology and other wireless-charging tech were integrated into smart devices.
Can I charge wirelessly through my phone case?
Almost all Qi-enabled devices can easily charge with most silicone or plastic cases, although metal wallets or pop sockets can interfere. We recommend using a softshell case no more than 4mm thick to get the most out of your charging pad. You may also consider purchasing a magnetic battery pack that does the charging for your smartphone independently.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.