The Best Wireless Chargers: Buying Guide
To recharge your smartphone, keep your order on the desk. Here are the best wireless chargers to buy and how to choose the right model for your needs.
Recharge your smartphone without having to untangle between the cables and keep your desk or bedside table tidy: wireless chargers have advantages. The charging base is connected to an outlet, but it will be sufficient to place the mobile phone to start the charging process.
Placing your device on the wireless charger will generate a small electromagnetic field capable of recharging the smartphone’s battery. This solution is efficient for several devices with different inputs that need different cables.
The only precaution is to check your device’s compatibility with wireless charging technology. Still, currently, it is possible to buy external accessories to recharge even mobile phones that are not equipped with the internal components necessary to take advantage of wireless chargers.
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How to choose a wireless charger
To choose the best wireless charger for your needs, it is a good idea first to check whether our device supports this technology. Then, analyze the characteristics of the various chargers, the types, and the value for money.
Compatibility
The latest generation of medium-high-end devices supports this technology. It is possible to transform almost all smartphones into devices compatible with wireless chargers via external receivers with a minimum thickness connected to the smartphone’s Micro USB socket and inserted between the device and the cover.
In some cases, purchasing a protective case with a module inside that allows wireless charging is possible.
Magnetic induction charging
The technology used for this wireless charging process is based on magnetic induction. It is a low-voltage charging type requiring a minimum distance between the device and the base.
The distance at which it is possible to carry out the charging process is between a few millimeters up to 4 cm maximum, but, taking into account the thickness of the cover, it is often recommended to place the smartphone directly on the charging base.
Qi Technology
Qi technology was introduced to the market in 2008 and immediately became the most popular standard, thanks to its devices by large companies such as Samsung, LG, and Sony.
Qi derives from the Chinese term, translated as ” energy, vital breath, ” In 2008, new wireless devices that could improve this technology began to be developed.
The frequency used by Qi wireless chargers is between 100 and 205 kHz, and the standard power that can be reached by the chargers that support it is 5 W, even if the best models can reach higher values, also depending on the type of smartphones to be recharged.
For example, wireless chargers can support 10W fast charging of Samsung devices, while Apple devices cannot exceed 7.5W. Moreover, it can reach higher values through smartphone models’ fast charging function, even up to 15W in high-end chargers.
Technology PMA (Power Matter Alliance)
This is the second standard technology currently available on the Italian market. Although it appeared for the first time in 2012, its operation is very similar to Qi technology, but the frequency used for charging is between 277 and 357 kHz.
This technology is used by several companies, including Powermat, TDK, and Huawei, and is supported in all the Starbucks branches’ charging stations as a service for its customers.
A4WP (Alliance for Wireless Power) technology
This third standard, born in 2012, has not yet been marketed due to the amount of radiation emitted. The acronym A4WP is the company’s acronym for developing this technology. The aim is to create a charging device that allows freedom of movement even when simultaneously charging several devices.
Design
Aesthetically, a wireless charger is more attractive, and the absence of wires guarantees a feeling of order wherever you intend to use it. Depending on the smartphone’s placement on the base, you can find two types of chargers on the market. There is no better type, but you must choose based on your aesthetic preferences and ease of use.
Stand
The stand chargers allow you to place your smartphone vertically or horizontally at an angle that lets you keep the screen in view to check calls or notifications at a glance.
Although using the mobile phone while charging is not recommended, it is possible to answer calls or view videos without affecting the battery charging process with this charger.
This type of charger allows you to carry out charges without interruption since it will not be necessary to take the device’s hand and stop charging. In addition, many consider the stands more practical and safe, as they are equipped with support that prevents the smartphone from falling or moving during charging due to an accidental impact.
Usually, the stands have a more elegant and minimal design and take up less space on the desk or bedside table.
Pad
Pads are wireless chargers with a flat, usually round, base on which to place the smartphone, which must remain in this position to allow charging to take place correctly, keeping the right angle and remaining in the center of the pad.
Both the upper and lower parts of the pad have silicone edges to prevent the smartphone from moving during charging (upper silicone edge) and make the pad more stable on the table’s surface or bedside table on which placed it.
Many believe that with these chargers, it is easier to hit the smartphone and drop it accidentally, which is why it is not the most recommended model for those who are clumsy or distracted.
Dock Station
Dock stations are chargers that allow you to wirelessly charge multiple devices simultaneously, such as smartphones and headphones, such as AirPods or Samsung Buds.
Some dock station models have different modular bases to adapt to the user’s needs; each base has an LED that allows you to view each base’s charge status.
Operation
The wireless chargers consist of a base connected to the power outlet, placing the smartphone horizontally or vertically.
Practically all models have indicator lights that allow you to check your device’s charging status. It is possible to check the charging icon’s appearance on the smartphone itself.
Reload with cover
Some wireless chargers allow you to recharge your smartphone without removing the case, as long as it is less than 3-5 mm thick. In addition, the covers must be in plastic or silicone, while the metal covers or inserts for inserting credit cards can contrast with the refilling process.
Efficiency
Although wireless chargers are very convenient, their efficiency level is still not comparable to wire charging. This does not mean that charging is slow, but it will consume more energy during the charging process.
The first chargers on the market, which used only 30% of the energy, would waste 70% of the energy consumed. On the other hand, current charger models ensure 80% efficiency, with a 20% waste of energy.
These data show us how using an excellent wireless charger represents an acceptable compromise to take advantage of the convenience of recharging your device without using cables.
Materials
Wireless chargers are made of plastic, although sometimes they may have some metal surfaces. In addition, the pads often have silicone edges to ensure greater friction between the base and the smartphone and keep the device charging in the right position.
It is good to consider that silicone can easily spoil and become particularly sticky if exposed to high temperatures.
Advantages of using a wireless charger
Among the advantages of using a wireless charger, there is certainly the convenience of not using cables and not having to carry several wires with you if you have devices with different outputs. In addition, most models’ elegant and compact design allows them to be positioned easily as furnishing elements.
Disadvantages compared to traditional cable charging.
The main disadvantage is the inability to recharge multiple devices without using particular dock stations simultaneously. For example, some dock stations simultaneously charge smartphones and other accessories, such as Apple Watch or AirPods, but not two cellphones.
You cannot use quick charging without connecting your device to a fast wireless charger. In addition, some brands of devices may not be supported for a charge of more than 5W, limiting the charging speed of the same. Finally, especially with the pads, where the devices must remain parallel to the base’s surface, it is inconvenient to use the smartphone while charging.
Are our wireless chargers dangerous?
The wireless charging process involves creating a magnetic field, making one wonder about the safety related to one’s health in using a wireless charger. Every day we are surrounded by different types of wireless signals, and the charger would be nothing more than an addition to the many devices in our possession.
In reality, the magnetic field created by wireless chargers is negligible, with a very minimal amount of radiation. In addition, the wireless chargers are also equipped with coils that protect the user further and be equipped with a protection system against short circuits, overloads, and overvoltages.
Furthermore, wireless chargers must be tested and considered safe by the international community before being marketed. Suffice it to say that A4WP technology has not yet received the possibility of being marketed because the amount of radiation emitted was deemed dangerous for users.
The best wireless chargers to buy
To facilitate your choice, these are the best wireless chargers to buy right now, selected according to type and characteristics and included in a price range between $10 and $100.
- From INIU--the SAFE Fast Charge Pro: Experience the safest charging with over 38 million...
- Save Up to 45 mins via Next-Gen 15W: Embrace INIU 15W speed-boosting charging with our...
- No More Annoying Lights: Features the first-seen self-adaptive LED indicator to bright in...
- 【Compatible with iPhones and Android Devices】Enabled wireless charging devices or...
- 【Upgraded Charging Efficiency Up to 15W】The TOZO W1 charger has passed millions of...
- 【Type-C Charging Port and Intelligent Protection】Type-C charging port has a reversible...
- Charge your smartphone, earphones, and watch with this one device! No need to plug and...
- Lightweight and portable5mm thick, 55mm in diameter, and weighs about 47g. It is...
- Compatible Models iPhone 16/15/14/13/12 All series,AirPods Pro (2nd generation),AirPods...
- 【15W High-Speed Charging Model】15W compatible with SAMSUNG S20/ S21/ S22/ LG V50/ V40/...
- 【Other Charging Model】10W compatible with Samsung Galaxy S10/S10+/S9/S9+/S8/Note...
- 【Easy Charging】 Just center your devices on the wireless charger to get started, an...
- 👍【𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿...
- 👍【𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁...
- 👍【𝟭𝟱𝗪 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗴-𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲...
- The MagSafe Charger makes wireless charging a snap. The perfectly aligned magnets attach...
- The MagSafe Charger is compatible with Qi2 and Qi charging, so it can be used to...
- The magnetic alignment experience only applies to iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone...
- ✅𝙎𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙎𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣: This 3 in 1 charger...
- ✅3 𝙞𝙣 1 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣: This...
- ✅𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙒𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙧:...
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 55+ million powered by our leading technology
- A Galaxy of Speed: A high-efficiency chipset provides 10W high-speed charging for Samsung...
- Flip It: Charge in landscape orientation while watching videos or portrait mode for...
- HIGH-SPEED DYNAMIC CHARGING: Enjoy fast and efficient charging with optimized chipsets...
- SLEEP-FRIENDLY LED INDICATOR: The wireless charging mat uses LED lights to quietly...
- CASE FRIENDLY DESIGN: This wireless phone charger pad lets you conveniently charge without...
- 【3 Charging modes Available for Different Phones】7.5W charging mode is for iPhone...
- 【Unique Design Perfect for AirPods】 It is compatible with AirPods (with wireless...
- 【Safer and Easier to USE】Exclusive Multifunctional Intelligent Protect Technology...
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