Mar 28, 2023 8:00 AM

The Best Wireless Chargers

Stop fumbling for cables in the dark. These WIRED-tested stands and pads will take the hassle out of refueling your phone, wireless earbuds, and watch.

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Featured in this article

Twelve South PowerPic Mod Wireless Charger

4 / 26

Wireless charging isn't nearly as cool as it sounds. It's not exactly wireless—a cord runs from an outlet to the charging pad—and it won't charge your smartphone faster than plugging it in with a good ol’ cord. Still, I'm always disappointed when I test a smartphone that doesn't support it. I've gotten used to simply plopping my phone down on a pad every night, and fishing for a cable in the dark feels like a chore. It's pure convenience more than anything else.

After testing more than 80 products over the past few years, we've sorted the good from the bad (there are certainly bad ones) and have identified the best wireless chargers. There are so many styles, shapes, and build materials that you have a lot of options, including stands, pads, wireless battery packs, and models that even double as headphone stands.

Check out our other buying guides, including the Best Android Phones, Best 3-in-1 Apple Wireless Chargers, Best iPhones, Best Samsung Galaxy S23 Cases, and Best iPhone 14 Cases.

Updated March 2023: We've added the 8BitDo charger, OtterBox 3-in-1, and Peak Design's Car Vent Mount.

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A Note on Charging Speed and Compatibility

You’ll see “Compatible with iPhones and Android phones” under each slide, and that means the charger has a standard charging speed of 7.5 watts for iPhones or 10 watts for Android phones (including Samsung Galaxy phones). If it charges faster or slower, we'll indicate it. We've tested these with multiple devices, but there's always a chance your phone will charge slowly or won’t work because the case is too thick or its charging coil doesn't align well with the charger.

Photograph: Twelve South
The Best Stand
Twelve South PowerPic Mod Wireless Charger
I love it when wireless chargers try to be more than just boring plinths. It's something that sits in your home—it should at least look nice! That's why I love the PowerPic Mod from Twelve South. The charger itself is embedded inside a clear acrylic resin. What makes it special is you can add a 4 x 6 photo or custom artwork of your own choosing over the charging module and keep the image secure with a transparent magnetic cover. Slot the charger to the base, plug in the USB-C cable, and that's it. Now you've got a wireless charger that doubles as a photo frame when it's not in use. Just remember to print your own photo (and supply your own 20-watt power adapter).
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$55 at Amazon
$60 at Twelve South
Photograph: Nomad
The Best Pad
Nomad Base Station Mini Magnetic
This little charger from Nomad is tied for looks with our top pick. I love the padded black leather surface, which looks elegant when paired with the aluminum chassis. It's fairly hefty, too, so it doesn't slide around a desk. (The rubber feet help.) The LED isn't obtrusive, and it dims if there's little to no light in the room. You get a USB-C to USB-C cable in the box, so you can plug it into your Android phone directly if you need to charge it faster. There's no power adapter, though, and you'll need to use a 30-watt adapter to hit 15-watt speeds with an Android phone.
If you have an iPhone 14, iPhone 13, or iPhone 12, you'll be happy to hear that there are magnets embedded inside this pad. That helps iPhones with MagSafe stay put so you never wake up to a dead phone due to a small misalignment.
Compatible with iPhones, fast 15-W charging for Android phones
$70 at Nomad
Photograph: Anker
Best Cheap Wireless Charger
Anker PowerWave Pad and Stand
Anker's pad and stand prove you don't need to spend much for wireless charging. They're both made from plastic with a rubbery finish on the bottom to prevent slips and slides, though it's not too grippy. A tiny LED lights up blue when it’s charging and flashes to indicate there’s a problem. We prefer stands over pads, because you can easily see your phone notifications, but Anker's pad is so cheap you could grab a few to scatter around your home. Both come with a 4-foot MicroUSB cable, but you have to supply your own power adapter. That’s not a big surprise at this price. Most importantly, they'll charge your phone every bit as capably as the other options in our guide.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$16 at Amazon (Pad)
$24 at Amazon (Stand)
Photograph: Apple
Best for MagSafe iPhones
Apple MagSafe Charger
Apple's iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 phones are outfitted with magnets so that you can slap MagSafe accessories on the back, like this MagSafe Wireless Charger. Since the charger magnetically stays attached, you don't have to worry about accidental misalignments causing you to wake up to a dead device. Plus, it recharges your iPhone faster than any other wireless system thanks to the coils being perfectly aligned, and the magnets let you keep using your phone while it's charging. (That's tough with most wireless chargers.)
Unfortunately, the cable isn't very long, and the puck itself will be rendered useless if you don't use a MagSafe-compatible case. There's no charging adapter. We've tested and recommend several other MagSafe wireless chargers in our Best MagSafe Accessories guide, in case you want to look at more options.
Fast 15-W charging for iPhone 12 or newer; not recommended for Android phones
$38 at Amazon
$40 at Target
$39 at Apple

Photograph: iOttie
Best Car Charger
iOttie Wireless Car Charger
Don't fiddle with cables again, even in the car. This versatile car mount from iOttie comes in two flavors, a suction cup for dashboard/windshield or a CD/vent mount that clips into place. Adjust the height of the feet so your phone is always in the sweet spot for charging. The arms close around your phone automatically when it hits the trigger on the back of the mount, so you can place your device one-handed. (A release bar extends on either side so you can take your phone out again.) The mount has a MicroUSB port to plug in the supplied cable; just stick the other end in your car’s power socket. It handily includes a second USB-A port you can use to charge another phone. Read our Best Car Phone Mounts and Chargers guide for more recommendations.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
★ MagSafe alternatives: Got an iPhone with MagSafe? The iOttie Velox Wireless Charging Car Mount ($50) is a minimalist option that slots into an air vent and has strong magnets to keep your iPhone securely in place. We also really like Peak Design's MagSafe Vent Mount ($100), which stays securely in place and comes with a USB-C cable.
$33 at Amazon
$50 at Target
Photograph: Nimble
An Eco-Friendly Charger
Nimble Apollo Wireless Pad
The silicone surface of this wireless charger easily accumulates dust and lint, but that might not matter to you if you're shopping for the most eco-friendly charger. It's made of recycled silicone, the texture of which helps keep phones from sliding off the surface. The rest of it is made with post-consumer plastic and alloy, and even the packaging is plastic-free. Better yet, if you have an iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone 14, the magnets inside the Apollo will keep your iPhone aligned perfectly for more efficient charging, even if they're not as strong as normal MagSafe wireless chargers. It comes with a 20-watt charging adapter and cable.
Compatible with iPhones, fast 15-W charging for Android phones
$47 at Nimble
Photograph: Google
Best for the Nightstand (and Pixel Phones)
Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen)
Chances are you don't want too many LEDs in your face when you're sleeping. The LED on the second-gen Pixel Stand briefly lights up when you place a phone on it and disappears quickly so as to not bother you. This charger is best paired with a Google Pixel smartphone because it enables additional perks, like turning your Pixel into a sunrise alarm clock that sees the screen glowing orange right before your alarm starts to ring, mimicking the sunrise. You can also convert your phone into a digital photo frame with Google Photos albums populating the screen, and have it trigger Bedtime Mode, which turns on Do Not Disturb and makes your screen grey to help you put your phone down. There's a built-in fan to keep your device cool as it fast charges; it's audible in a quiet room, but you can turn the fan off in your Pixel's settings to keep it silent. It comes with a cable and adapter.
This charger still works great with other smartphones, you just won't be able to access many of those Pixel features. The biggest downside? Charging only works in portrait orientation. Oh, and it's definitely overpriced. The good news is the first-gen Pixel Stand is still available for much less; you can recharge your phone in landscape and portrait orientation, and I daresay it looks more interesting.
Compatible with iPhones, fast 23-W (Pixel 6 Pro), 21-W (Pixel 6 and 7), and 15-W charging for Android phones
$76 at Amazon
$79 at Best Buy

Photograph: Belkin
A 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger
Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger With MagSafe
Ah, the holy Apple trinity. If you have an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods (or honestly, any kind of earbuds with a wireless charging case), you'll love this T-shaped Belkin stand. It's a MagSafe charger, so it'll suspend your magnet-enabled iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone 14 as if it's floating in mid-air (and charge it at the fastest 15-watt speed, too). The Apple Watch will stick to its little puck, and you can recharge your earbuds at the base. It's excellent. Belkin has a pad version if you'd like, but it takes up more room and isn't as fun as the tree (what I call the stand). Find more options in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Wireless Chargers guide.
Fast 15-W charging for iPhone 12 or newer, made for Apple devices
★ A cheaper 3-in-1 MagSafe charger: I've been surprisingly happy with this Monoprice MagSafe 3-in-1 Stand ($40). It feels cheap, but the MagSafe charger works well for MagSafe iPhones, and the base recharges my AirPods Pro with no issues. You have to supply your own Apple Watch charger and install it in the designated area, which was easy enough. It's hard to complain considering the price, though you might have to wait for it to come back in stock.
$150 at Apple (Stand)
$150 at Apple (Pad)
Photograph: Apple
A 3-in-1 Stand for Older iPhones
Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand
Don't have a MagSafe iPhone? This dock can do the same job as the Belkin above for any iPhone model (though it won't recharge it as fast). The upright magnetic puck for the Apple Watch means your watch can take advantage of Nightstand mode (basically, a digital clock), and the center stand lets you place your iPhone vertically or horizontally. I like the indented spot for earbuds cases; they won't slide off easily. The whole thing has a nice fabric finish.
Made for iPhones and Apple devices
$119 at Amazon
Photograph: Kerf
A Wooden Pad
Kerf Wireless Charging Block
Wireless chargers are usually plastic and rarely blend in with their surroundings, but Kerf’s chargers are covered with 100 percent natural and locally sourced wood. Choose from 15 wood finishes, from walnut to Canary, and each will come with a cork base to prevent slips. Starting from $50, these chargers can get expensive if you opt for rarer woods. You have the option of engraving it. You can choose whether to get a cable and power supply ($20 extra), which is a nice way to prevent electronic waste if you already have those.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$50 at Kerf

Photograph: Courant
A Linen Dual Charger
Courant Catch:2 Essentials
Wireless chargers should look nice. You shouldn't settle for anything less! This Courant dual charger oozes luxury with its Belgian linen-wrapped surface (especially in the camel color). I've used it by my front door to recharge my partner's and my respective wireless earbuds for two years. The rubber feet prevent it from shifting around, but even if there are five coils in this pad, you should try to be precise when you put your device down to charge and make sure the LED lights up to double-check. It comes with a color-matching USB-C cable.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$90 at Target
$90 at Bed Bath & Beyond
$90 at Courant
Photograph: iOttie
A Hybrid Charger
iOttie iON Wireless Duo
This dual-charging system looks pretty—I like the fabric-wrapped stand—and you can charge another device on the rubberized charging pad next to it. The stand can be used in portrait or landscape, though in the latter orientation it'll block the pad. I like using the pad to top up my wireless earbuds, but I wouldn't use this iOttie on a nightstand because the LED on the front can be glaring. A cable and adapter are included, which makes it a good value.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$40 at Amazon
$50 at Target
Photograph: Monoprice
A Lamp With Wireless Charging
Monoprice Workstream by Monoprice Desk Lamp
I'm always looking for ways to cut down on the number of things on my desk. That's exactly what this product from Monoprice does. It's an LED aluminum desk lamp and wireless charger put together into one space-saving solution. The LEDs get plenty bright and you can change the color temperature or brightness via touch controls on the base. The lamp is adjustable vertically, but I do wish the base were heavier because it tends to move when you adjust the arm.
The base doubles as a wireless charger, and I've had no trouble recharging the iPhone 14, Pixel 6 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra on it. There's even a USB-A port so you can plug in and charge another device at the same time.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$30 at Walmart
$60 at Amazon
$50 at Monoprice

Photograph: Ugne Pouwell/Kew Labs
An Invisible Charger
Kew Labs UTS-1
This wireless charger (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is one of the few on this list that blew me away. You affix it to the underside of a table (avoid metal ones), and it'll charge your phone through it! It's truly an invisible wireless charging system and especially handy if you're limited on desk space.
The installation requires some effort, and your table must be the right thickness: too thin and you shouldn't use this charger, as it may overheat your phone; too thick and it won't be able to send enough power through. It also means you'll have a (clear) sticker on your table indicating where to place your phone, but it's a small price to pay for the amount of space you save. Just know that if you switch phones, you may need to recalibrate it and apply a new sticker.
Standard iPhone charging speed, slow 5-W charging for Android phones, normal 9-W speeds for Samsung phones
$150 at Kew Labs
$130 at Sharper Image
Photograph: Samsung
For Samsung Galaxy Farers
Samsung Wireless Charger Trio
If you have Samsung's Galaxy Watch5, Watch4, Galaxy Watch3, Active2, or Active, then this is an excellent triple wireless charger. You place the watch on the circular dip; I used it near my front door for several months and it charged the Watch4 (and the older Watch3) with zero issues.
The Trio is attractive, has LEDs that light up quickly, and comes with a 25-watt wall charger and USB cable. My partner and I usually drop our wireless earbuds cases next to the watch. I don't need to be too precise—the six coils inside give you some flexibility as to where you place them. If you only need the watch charger and space for one other device, it comes in a Duo version, or you can pick up the standard pad. Just remember, it only supports the models specified above. Several customer reviews mention it not working with previous Galaxy watches.
Compatible with iPhones, slower 5-W charging for Android phones, fast 9-W charging for Samsung phones
$69 at Amazon
$90 at Samsung
Photograph: Oakywood
A Charger and Headphone Stand
Oakywood Headphone Stand with Wireless Charger
Want to kit out your work-from-home setup? Conserve space and use a headphone stand that can also wirelessly charge your phone. Oakywood's 2-in-1 has a base made from your choice of solid walnut or oak, and it looks gorgeous. Place your phone on it and it'll recharge just as well as any other charger on this list. The steel stand makes for a nice place to hang up your cans when you're done for the day. If you don't care for the stand but like the look of the charger, the company sells a version with just the pad.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
★ Another alternative: The Satechi 2-in-1 Headphone Stand with Wireless Charger ($80) is a shiny, sleek, and sturdy headphone stand with a Qi wireless charging pad for your iPhone or AirPods. It has magnets in it so it's great for anyone with a MagSafe Apple product. There's also a USB-C port to charge up a second device.
$110 at Amazon
$100 at Oakywood

Photograph: Einova
A Marble Charger
Einova Eggtronic Charging Stone
Einova's Charging Stone is made with 100 percent solid marble or stone—you can choose from a variety. Every single pick in this guide looks very much like a wireless charger, but I've had visiting friends ask if this one is a drink coaster. (I'm still figuring out whether that's a good or bad thing.) It has zero LEDs, perfect for bedrooms; just try to hide the cable to truly make it blend into your home. We recommend putting a case on your phone when using it with this charger, as there's a risk of scuffing up the back with these harder surfaces.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$70 at Einova
Photograph: Razer
For PC Gamers
Razer Charging Pad Chroma
There's a tendency to add RGB LEDs to every single component that goes into building a gaming PC. You can then customize all the shiny lights into any color imaginable, or just stick with a rotation of rainbow unicorn vomit. Whatever you opt for, this wireless charger is the next natural addition to your battle station. It has a nice soft-touch finish (though it picks up dust and lint easily). But the best part is the ring of LEDs around the base. Install Razer's Chroma software and you'll be able to customize the pattern and color and sync it to any other Razer Chroma peripheral you own for all the RGB glory.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$60 at Razer
Photograph: 8BitDo
For Nintendo Fans
8BitDo N30 Wireless Charger
One of the weirdest gadgets I've ever tested, the 8BitDo N30 Wireless Charger makes a cute desk toy for Nintendo fans. 8BitDo makes some of our favorite game and mobile controllers, so it’s no surprise that this charger resembles the iconic NES gamepad. (It even displays the Konami code.) I didn’t expect wheels and headlights to turn on when you place a phone on top to charge. The headlights mean it’s no good for the nightstand, but it makes a cute desk toy to idly rock back and forth if you like to fidget.
It looks and feels cheap (and it is cheap), but it can charge Android phones at up to 15 watts when paired with a suitable wall charger. You get a cable in the box. I found it struggled to charge through thick cases. It’s easy to bump your phone out of position if you play with it, but it might be a neat novelty gift for the Nintendo fan in your life.
Compatible with iPhones, fast 15-W charging for Android phones
$20 at 8BitDo

Photograph: Satechi
A Wireless Battery
Satechi Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand
When you're out and about, finding a wall outlet to plug in your charger and phone can be tricky. Use a battery pack instead! Better yet, use one that supports wireless charging. This new 10,000-mAh model from Satechi has enough power to recharge a phone more than once, but it has a few extra tricks up its sleeve. You can flip up the wireless charger to use it as a stand as it juices up your phone—I've tested it with a Pixel 7, Galaxy S22 Ultra, and iPhone 14 Pro, and they all managed to recharge, though not terribly fast. Behind the stand is a spot to recharge your wireless earbuds case (if it supports it), and you can plug a third device in via the USB-C port. There are LEDs at the back to see how much battery is left in the bank.
5-W charging for iPhones and Android phones
★ For MagSafe iPhone owners: Anker's 622 Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger ($60) magnetically sticks to the back of MagSafe iPhones, and there's a built-in kickstand so you can prop your phone up anywhere. It's a 5,000-mAh capacity, so it should fully recharge your iPhone once at the very least.
$100 at Amazon
$100 at Satechi
Photograph: Anker; Amazon
Best Docks for MagSafe iPhones
Anker MagGo Charging Accessories
These Anker products are some of my favorite iPhone wireless chargers at the moment. The orb-shaped MagGo 637 has several USB-C and USB-A ports plus AC outlets on its back, doubling as a power strip and a MagSafe wireless charger for any iPhone that supports the feature. The MagGo 623 can magnetically hold your iPhone at an angle on your desk and recharge it, and the circular base behind the angled top can also simultaneously juice up wireless earbuds.
But my favorite is the MagGo 633, which is a charging stand that doubles as a portable battery. Just slide out the battery to take it with you on the go (it'll stick to your MagSafe iPhone magnetically), and slot it back in when you're home. You can charge your iPhone on it as the power bank recharges itself. Ingenious. The base also can recharge wireless earbuds too.
Made for iPhones and Apple devices
$100 at Amazon (Desktop Station)
$120 at Amazon (Charger and Battery)
$80 at Amazon (2-in-1 Station)
Photograph: RapidX
Best for Travel
RapidX Modula 5 Modular Wireless Charging System
This modular system from RapidX is great for couples or families, because it is compact and can wirelessly charge two phones at up to 10 watts each. The beauty is that you can add or remove pods, and a single charging cable can power up to five. The pods snap together magnetically and pull apart for easy packing. There are additional phone pods ($30) and a version with a phone pod and an Apple Watch pod ($80). You get only a 30-watt US power adapter and a 5-foot USB-C cable in the box, so you will need a more powerful adapter if you plan to add pods. (RapidX recommends 65 watts or above for three or more devices.)
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
★ A MagSafe alternative: This is an indispensable tool if you're a frequent traveler and you own a MagSafe iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch. The Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger ($150) folds onto itself and comes with a carrying case (with a cable and adapter included), so you don't need to bring a mess of wires on your trip. It's compact and has worked without a hitch in my testing.
$35 at Amazon

Photograph: Moshi
Best for Apple Watch
Moshi Flekto
It may top our Best Smartwatches guide, but the Achilles heel for the Apple Watch is battery life. This clever wireless Apple Watch charger is a teeny tiny stand with a USB-A plug that can slot into a spare port on your favorite bedside charger, charging hub, or even portable battery pack. It has a brushed aluminum finish, works with any Apple Watch, and folds flat for easy travel. I love the compact design because it slips easily into a bag or pocket to get me through the days when I forgot to charge my Apple Watch the night before.
While it is pricey, Moshi offers a 10-year warranty. If you are in the market for something new that can also charge an iPhone or AirPods, check out our 3-in-1 recommendations above. It's currently out of stock so keep an eye out for when it returns.
Made for Apple Watch
$50 at Amazon
$50 at B&H
Photograph: OneAdaptr
Best for MacBook Owners
OneAdaptr MacMate
An unobtrusive addition to any desktop, the MacMate offers a single Qi wireless charging pad (offering up to 10 watts) and two USB-C ports that support Power Delivery (at up to 60 watts and 20 watts, respectively). It’s designed for folks with an Apple MacBook Air or MacBook Pro with a USB-C charger, and it allows you to plug the power brick into the MacMate and charge multiple devices, not just your laptop. Go for the MacMate Pro ($110) and you also get one of our favorite travel adapters, offering enough power to charge three devices from the MacMate and another five from the travel adapter.
Compatible with iPhones and Android phones
$49 at OneAdaptr
Photograph: Zens
Honorable Mentions
Other Good Wireless Chargers
There are a lot of wireless chargers. Here are a few more we like, but for one reason or another don't warrant a place above.
Zens Liberty Wireless Charger for $170: I tested the Glass Edition ($200) of this wireless charging pad, and it looks absolutely stunning with the 16 overlapping copper coils on display (the standard version has a woolen fabric top). It can charge two devices simultaneously at up to 15 watts apiece, and there’s an optional Apple Watch add-on ($45). As stylish as it is, the price is too high. Because you can see the coils, placement is never an issue, but it’s a bulky charger, the fan is audible at times, and while I had no problem charging my iPhone or AirPods, my Pixel 6 Pro got very warm on this pad.
OtterBox Wireless Charging Pad for $40: OtterBox has improved its wireless charging pad to deliver up to 15 watts to eligible phones. Easily mistaken for a coaster, it has an anti-slip rubber top and bottom to stop it or your phone from sliding around. Sadly, the LED on the front lights up white when charging, which is not ideal for the nightstand.
OtterBox 3-in-1 Charging Station With MagSafe for $150: This is featured in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers guide, and for good reason. It's one of the most compact 3-in-1 MagSafe chargers out there. There's a spot for AirPods or wireless earbuds at the base, the Apple Watch, and a MagSafe iPhone, which will charge at the fastest 15-watt speed.
House of Marley One Drop Wireless Charger for $38: With a base made from reclaimed post-process silicone scraps and a striking bamboo top chosen for its sustainability, House of Marley's wireless charging pad is a good option for eco-conscious folks. But there is no power adapter in the box, and the bamboo top can be slippery.
RapidX Capo Magnetic Wireless Charger and Bluetooth Speaker for $38: This magnetic wireless charger can hold your MagSafe iPhone in portrait or landscape and charge at 7.5 watts. It plugs in via USB-C and packs a wee Bluetooth speaker and a battery for up to eight hours of music. The sound is distinctly tinny, but it’s better than your phone, and some folks might appreciate a cheap combined speaker and charger.
Courant Mag:1 MagSafe Wireless Charger for $50: Although designed for MagSafe iPhones, this compact puck will work on any Qi-certified phone, charging at up to 15 watts (I used it to charge my Pixel). I like the soft linen finish (available in different colors) and the fact it takes up so little space.
Native Union Dock Wireless Charger for $30: This was our top pick previously, but it's no longer available at Native Union's website and stock is limited on Amazon. It's still one of the prettiest wireless chargers I've tested. The large circular fabric looks nice (and won't scratch your phone), plus the steel base and silicone grips prevent it from wobbling or sliding around. You can charge in landscape or portrait orientation. I also tested and like Native Union's wireless charging pad ($50).
Courant Mag:2 Dual Wireless Charger for $150: It's unreasonably expensive, but that's because Courant uses Italian-sourced leather as the material wrapped around the charger. It's very fancy and looks unique. The MagSafe stand is perfect for MagSafe iPhones, and there's a second standard charger on the base for earbuds. I just wish the whole thing was a bit more stable.
Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank for $100: This is a good option only for Apple Watch owners who often deal with a dead watch on the go. The magnetic charger is integrated, so you just have to place the Apple Watch on and it sits securely. You can also wirelessly charge your iPhone on the right side, but you need to be very precise with placement (or use the USB-C port). It's very plasticky, which is not something I expected at this price.

Photograph: Native Union
Your Charging Questions, Answered
FAQ
Does my phone support wireless charging?
Not all phones support wireless charging, but most brands have models that do, so look up your phone model first. You'll usually see "Qi wireless charging" (the default standard) or simply "wireless charging" if it does.
Do wireless chargers work if you have a phone case?
Yes, most wireless chargers can charge through cases, unless it's a particularly thick case. Check the product listing—there's usually a case thickness limit in millimeters. Phones can get hot when charging wirelessly, so don't worry if your phone is really warm when you pick it up. Most smartphones have limits to stop accepting a charge if they get too hot.
Yes, cords will charge your phone faster
Some manufacturers like Apple and OnePlus make wireless chargers that recharge their respective phones faster than others, but if you're looking for speed, you're better off sticking with a cord. Wireless charging is best for desks or nightstands when you're not really using your phone or in a rush to recharge it.
What's a fast wireless charging speed?
We said this at the beginning of our guide, but you'll see “Compatible with iPhones and Android phones” under each slide, and that means the charger has a standard charging speed of 7.5 watts for iPhones or 10 watts for Android phones (including Samsung Galaxy phones). If a charger or phone combination has more watts, like 15, it will charge faster, though be sure to stick to high-quality chargers.
Is wireless charging safe to use?
There's no definitive evidence that it's harmful. You may worry the phone's battery might degrade faster with wireless charging, but manufacturers set safe limits for phone batteries, stipulating how much a battery can be charged and how far it can discharge. Regardless of the charging source you use, whether you plug into a wall adapter or use a wireless charging pad, these limits can’t be overridden. There’s no risk of overcharging your phone by leaving it on a wireless charger all night.
How do I keep my phone's battery healthy?
However, try to keep your battery between 50 and 80 percent for optimum battery health. Keeping your phone fully charged or fully discharging the battery will degrade it slightly faster, and regularly swinging between full and empty will shorten its life. Battery technology has improved in recent years, and phone batteries are more reliable than ever. If you switch phones every two to three years or don’t mind paying a modest fee for a battery replacement on that timescale, it’s not worth worrying too much about how often or when you charge your phone.

Julian Chokkattu is the reviews editor at WIRED, covering personal technology and reviewing consumer products. Previously he was the mobile and wearables editor at Digital Trends, steering coverage and reviews of smartphones and smartwatches, and an intern at TechCrunch. He graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor's degree in English... Read more

Reviews Editor

Simon Hill has been writing about tech for more than a decade. He is a regular contributor to WIRED, but you can also find his work at Business Insider, Reviewed, TechRadar, Android Authority, USA Today, Digital Trends, and many other places. Before writing, he worked in games development. He lives... Read more

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