Wireless charging has evolved from novelty to a standard feature on modern iPhones. While it may not replace wired charging entirely, it offers a convenient way to keep your phone charged hassle-free throughout the day.
Freed from the inconvenience of constantly plugging and unplugging, a wireless charger on your desk becomes the perfect spot to place your phone, ensuring a consistent recharge for your next venture. Having a wireless charger by your bedside simplifies your morning routine and allows for quick checks without dealing with cumbersome Lightning cables.
It’s worth noting that all iPhones from the iPhone 8 onwards are compatible with Qi-certified chargers. Qi, pronounced ‘chee,’ is a universal charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Most Qi chargers can charge an iPhone at speeds of up to 7.5W.
Qi vs MagSafe
While Qi is a noteworthy standard, Apple’s innovative MagSafe technology, introduced with the iPhone 12 and continuing with the iPhone 15 series, elevates wireless charging efficiency. It incorporates a magnetic ring for secure attachment and a magnetometer to detect attachment, all surrounding a more potent Qi-based wireless charging coil (capable of 15W charging using MagSafe-certified chargers).
Magnetic charging, whether certified MagSafe or compatible, surpasses standard Qi due to the secure magnetic connection, ensuring better alignment with the charging coils.
iPhones equipped with MagSafe remain compatible with regular Qi wireless chargers, but they are restricted to the standard 7.5-watt charging rate, similar to earlier iPhone models. While there are numerous MagSafe-compatible wireless chargers available, they lack Apple’s certification, limiting them to the 7.5W charging rate compared to certified MagSafe chargers offering 15W.
For iPhone 12, 13, 14, or 15 users, we strongly recommend considering a MagSafe or MagSafe-compatible wireless charger for an enhanced charging experience.
The best wireless chargers for iPhone
Twelve South PowerPic
I appreciate when wireless chargers go beyond being plain and unremarkable. After all, they’re a part of your home—they should have an appealing design! That’s why the PowerPic Mod by Twelve South stands out to me. It conceals the charger within clear acrylic resin, but what sets it apart is the ability to incorporate a 4 x 6 photo or personalized artwork of your choice over the charging module, secured by a transparent magnetic cover. Simply place the charger into the base, connect the USB-C cable, and you’re all set. Now, your wireless charger serves as a photo frame when not in use. Just remember to print your own photo and provide your own 20-watt power adapter.
Anker PowerWave Pad
A cost-effective choice from a reputable iPhone accessory manufacturer is the Anker 315 Wireless Charger. It is a slim pad designed to lay flat on your desk or bedside table, capable of delivering a charging speed of 7.5W.
Our only concern with this product is its somewhat cumbersome, traditional MicroUSB charging cable. However, since you won’t need to disconnect or reconnect it frequently, this makes it an excellent, affordable non-magnetic charging pad, particularly suitable for iPhone 8/X/XR/XS/11 or any iPhone models released before 2020.
If you own an iPhone 12/13/14, we recommend considering the Anker 313 wireless charging pad instead. This model employs magnets to ensure a more efficient and secure charging connection.
Apple MagSafe Charger
Apple’s iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 models come equipped with built-in magnets, allowing you to effortlessly attach MagSafe accessories like this MagSafe Wireless Charger. This magnetic connection ensures a secure fit, eliminating the worry of accidental misalignments that could leave your device uncharged when you wake up. Moreover, it offers faster charging than most other wireless systems due to the precise alignment of coils, and the magnets enable you to continue using your phone while it’s charging—a convenience rarely found with conventional wireless chargers.
However, it’s worth noting that the charger’s cable is relatively short, and it requires a MagSafe-compatible case for optimal functionality. Additionally, please be aware that this product does not include a charging adapter. If you’re interested in exploring more options, we have tested and recommended various other MagSafe wireless chargers in our Best MagSafe Accessories guide.
It’s important to highlight that this charger provides rapid 15-Watt charging specifically tailored for iPhone 12 and newer models, and it is not recommended for use with Android phones.
Belkin 3-in-1 MagSafe
Behold the revered Apple trio! If you happen to possess an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods (or frankly, any wireless earbuds with a charging case), you’re in for a treat with this innovative T-shaped Belkin stand. This device functions as a MagSafe charger, gracefully suspending your magnet-equipped iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone 14, creating the illusion of it hovering mid-air while delivering a rapid 15-watt charge. Additionally, the Apple Watch securely attaches to its dedicated puck, and you can conveniently recharge your earbuds at the stand’s base. It’s truly exceptional. For those who prefer a pad-style charger, Belkin offers an alternative, but it occupies more space and lacks the whimsical charm of the tree-shaped stand, as I like to call it. If you’re seeking more options, please consult our comprehensive guide on the Best Apple 3-in-1 Wireless Chargers.
Please note that this charger provides speedy 15-watt charging exclusively designed for iPhone 12 and newer models and is optimized for use with Apple devices.
Logitech Powered 3-in-1 Dock
A 3-in-1 wireless charging dock might not be a necessity for most iPhone users. Its practicality primarily shines if you possess an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and AirPods complete with a wireless charging case, and you desire the convenience of charging them all in a single location. If you’re in search of an elegant and straightforward solution to place on your bedside table or desk to charge all your devices simultaneously, Logitech’s Powered 3-in-1 dock stands out as a high-quality option, although it does come with a price tag.
This dock is available in both black and white variants, and while it leans towards the larger side, it maintains a sleek appearance with clean lines and a pleasant matte finish that prevents it from being an eyesore. What sets it apart is the inclusion of its own Apple Watch charger, eliminating the need for you to provide your own.
The steep angle of the phone stand is designed for convenient phone usage while charging and is strategically positioned to ensure that Face ID functions smoothly without requiring you to lift your phone. The spacious flat area to the left of the stand can charge any Qi-compatible device, including other phones or AirPods. Notably, it accommodates phones with thick cases without difficulty, whether on the stand or the pad area, and precise placement isn’t essential.
The charging indicator lights are discreet and subdued, ensuring they won’t be bothersome when placed next to your bedside at night. While the charging cable employs a proprietary DC barrel connector, which can be slightly less convenient than USB-C, it’s a common choice for multi-device chargers. On the plus side, the cable is slim, flexible, boasts a pleasant matte finish, and even features built-in cable management.
Logitech appears to have addressed most aspects of a dock that combines an iPhone charging stand, an Apple Watch charger, and a charging pad for AirPods (or other devices). The primary drawback is its price. If you come across it priced below $100, it’s a worthwhile purchase. However, if it’s priced higher, there are alternative options that might not offer the same level of refinement but are considerably more budget-friendly.