Ivan Omelchenko
expert in the field of family budget saving
Every year the number of smart gadgets that we use daily increases. Manufacturers of digital technology come up with new devices, change our behavioral habits and force us to buy new devices: smartphones, smart watches, headphones, fitness trackers and much more. Along with gadgets, the number of chargers that service and power mobile equipment is growing. Many people are familiar with the problem when there are no free sockets left in the house - everything is occupied by power supplies.
Wireless chargers for phones, which are becoming increasingly popular in online stores, are designed to solve the problem of endlessly tangled wires and a bunch of different adapters. Many of them can simultaneously charge up to 3 devices, there are options with built-in cooling and soft leather coating, and of course, there is no escape from Apple branded products.
We studied all the intricacies of gadgets, compared models from different brands, assessed the capabilities, their application, and prepared a rating of the best wireless chargers for phones in 2022.
Best wireless charging Samsung: Samsung EP-N5200
With cooling system against overheating
Pros: Samsung's stylish wireless charger has an active cooling system in the form of a built-in cooler, which means your phone will charge faster while consuming less power. Two induction coils allow the smartphone to be powered in both vertical and horizontal positions, so the user can continue watching videos on YouTube or using instant messengers while the phone receives power from the network.
The Samsung wireless charger is suitable for a wide range of mobile phones: iPhones starting from 8 series, Samsung from S5 and higher are charged. The kit includes a 25 W power supply. You can turn Samsung fast charging on/off, and therefore control the cooling cooler, using a special application on your phone.
In a press release, the manufacturer Samsung promises version 2.0: replenishment of batteries occurs very quickly, while maintaining complete safety for the mobile device. The price in online stores is less than 4,000 rubles, while more than 95% of users were satisfied with the purchase and recommend the accessory to others.
Cons: not identified
What is wireless charging and how does it work?
The wireless method of transmitting electricity is based on the effect of electromagnetic induction, which was discovered about 200 years ago by Michael Faraday. In a generator that converts mechanical energy into electric current, a magnetic field moves relative to stationary coils, in which the movement of electrons occurs.
This property is also used in the transfer of electricity from wireless charging to the phone. The device generates an alternating magnetic field, which is converted into electric current in the telephone coil. After equalization, current is supplied to the battery contacts.
In this relatively simple way, it is possible to completely restore the battery of a mobile device. Wireless products have sufficient power, so the time required to transfer the required amount of current is slightly inferior to their wired counterparts, and some models are equipped with a fast charging function, which allows you to charge the battery at an accelerated pace.
Best Wireless Charger for iPhone: Apple MagSafe
Original accessory from California
Pros: Fast wireless charging for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro for those who prefer original Apple accessories. Round magnets around the perimeter of the device allow you to firmly fix the phone on the device and center it for more efficient charging with a power of up to 15 W.
The magnetic wireless charging wire for iPhone rotates in all directions, which allows you to comfortably use applications and watch movies. The Qi standard is supported, so iPhone 8 and newer models can be charged using the accessory. The gadget is also suitable for AirPods headphones with a wireless case.
MagSafe charges the iPhone 12 to 50% in an hour, older Apple phone models are slightly slower. The price of the device in online stores at the time of compiling the rating is less than 3,500 rubles. For normal operation, you will need a 20 W adapter, which must be purchased separately.
Now consumers are at the beginning of technological changes in the Apple smartphone line, and in a couple of years Cupertino will abandon the lightning connector in their devices, and recharging will occur only through MagSafe. Nobody knows yet whether this will happen in the new iPhone 13 or a little later, but it’s worth considering buying a magnetic wireless charger now, before its cost increases.
Cons: short cable (1 m) and the need to additionally buy a 20 W adapter.
Prospects for wireless charging
Many people have already begun to use the devices in question; they appreciate their performance and convenience. They do not harm the environment and even decorate the interior. Wireless charging has many advantages, due to which its popularity is growing not only for recharging Samsung, but also gadgets from other companies.
If we consider the positive aspects of Samsung mobile chargers, we can highlight:
- There is no cable connecting the smartphone and the adapter; in the case of the wireless option, it is enough to simply install the gadget on a special platform or place it close to it (no more than 4 cm).
- The charger serves as a stand, so it is impossible to forget to connect the phone, because it will always be on it.
- If you buy an additional adapter, you can charge several devices at the same time.
- If necessary, the docking station is convenient to take with you on a trip or to work.
- The charger can be mounted in the armrest of furniture or an empty space on the table, then it will be convenient to use and will fit perfectly into the interior.
- Wireless charging provides high speed battery replenishment.
- The charging stand is connected to electricity, while the phone is simply placed on it.
Considering the numerous advantages of such a device, owners of Samsung gadgets tend to purchase a charger immediately when purchasing a phone. The only disadvantage of such a solution will be its cost, but for the comfortable use of modern developments you always need to overpay.
Best wireless phone charger: Baseus Simple Charger
Darth Vader's favorite accessory
Pros: it stands out among competitors with its space-age design: through the transparent top glass with an oleophobic coating, all microcircuits are visible, including a 10 W phone charge indicator. At the same time, the device does not look vulgar and does not smell like Chinese consumer goods. Stylish design and silicone non-slip backing allow you to place the gadget on your desktop.
Thanks to Qi standard technology, the smartphone is charged through contact with a platform whose diameter is 93 mm. The best wireless phone charger is compatible with products from Samsung, Apple, LG and Nokia. According to user reviews, the device provides power transmission through the case up to 3-4 mm.
Tests show that when using the gadget, the battery charge, depending on the phone model, increases by 30-35% in one hour. The length of the USB-Lightning cable is 1 m. The device is almost weightless, so it is easy to take on trips. At a price of 1000 rubles. This is the best wireless phone charger available today.
Cons: none identified
How to charge wirelessly
Using wireless charging for Samsung phones is quite simple. Regardless of the model, the process of connecting the adapter is carried out in the following sequence:
- Connect the charger to the network.
- Place the phone on the docking station.
- Wait until the battery finishes charging.
Install the smartphone on a source of electromagnetic radiation only with the screen facing up. This is necessary in order to minimize the distance between the transmitter and receiver. You should also adhere to the manufacturer's recommendation regarding the location of the mobile phone strictly in the center of the docking station, otherwise the phone charging process may not be activated.
When using a separate module to charge the gadget, it is enough to combine the removable receiver with a source of electromagnetic waves, and connect the receiver itself to the Micro-USB or USB Type-C input of the phone.
Best wireless charging holder: Xiaomi Wireless Car Charger 20W
The optimal solution for all motorists
Pros: Xiaomi's smart car holder with wireless charging is equipped with infrared sensors, thanks to which the device detects a nearby phone and automatically expands the clamps to securely hold the smartphone. The maximum grip width is 81.5 mm, so the car accessory can be used with all models of modern phones, including gadgets from Samsung, Apple and Huawei.
A reliable triangular design ensures a clear fixation of the smartphone even on the most rough roads, and you can remove it from the mount with one hand by pressing a special button on the case. Xiaomi wireless charging power is enough to cope with silicone and plastic cases up to 4 mm thick. Xiaomi Car Charger is the optimal device for long trips and use in a multimillion-dollar metropolis: you can use the navigator without worrying that it will drain your phone’s battery.
Chinese developers have thought out the ergonomics to the smallest detail - the black frosted glass of the front surface creates a strict and laconic appearance that goes well with the premium interiors of new foreign cars. The mounts are equipped with rubber gaskets to prevent scratching the smartphone, and supercapacitors ensure that the electric drives of the clamp operate even when the car engine is turned off.
The kit includes two different mounts for the user: the first allows you to install the device on a ventilation grill, and the second (with an adhesive base) - on any convenient surface. Separately, it is worth mentioning the well-thought-out security system of the holder with Xiaomi wireless charging, which will protect the smartphone from overheating, uneven voltage and short circuits. More than 95% of buyers on the Yandex.Market site recommended the device for purchase to other users.
Cons: it is better not to install the device on the deflector in the cabin - it can be damaged during bumps.
Best Xiaomi wireless charging: Xiaomi Mi 20W Wireless Charging Stand
Device with two magnetic coils
Pros: Xiaomi's 20W fast wireless charging, thanks to the presence of two coils, allows you to place the phone in a vertical or horizontal position. Activation of the device occurs instantly, and the design of the device is optimized for watching videos and TikTok videos. Gadget at a price of less than 1,500 rubles. can be considered for purchase by owners of all phones that support Qi standard technology: Samsung, Apple and Xiaomi.
The monolithic charging unit, made of environmentally friendly PC plastic, has a rubberized ring at the base. It prevents slipping on smooth surfaces. The kit includes a cable; the device is connected to the network or computer via a Type-C connector. An indicator on the front panel will notify the user when the phone begins charging.
Wireless charging works well for Xiaomi phones: the Mi 9 Pro smartphone charges 50% in 35 minutes. There is no need to remove the case when using the device. An intelligent foreign object recognition system is able to detect metal objects in the charging area and stop the flow of current to avoid overheating of the device.
Xiaomi Mi 20W is the best purchase if you don’t use a watch or wireless headphones and only need to charge your smartphone.
Cons: wire length 1 meter
Best wireless charger for iPhone 12: Pastila
Popular model at an affordable price
Pros: a laconic and convenient 3-in-1 station for simultaneous charging of a smartphone, smart watch and wireless headphones. It runs on a single wire and can replace a bunch of chargers that are lying around the house. The neat white color and glossy finish of the device body can look harmonious in the interior of any space.
The cost in online stores is less than 2,000 rubles, which makes it an excellent gift for loved ones or friends. It comes with a powerful 18W QC 3.0 PD power supply that delivers excellent power output and speed, charging iPhone 12 to 50% in 40 minutes. Considering how energy-intensive smartphones are, the base is optimal for placement on a desktop in an office. This way, by the end of the day you will have a fully charged phone, which means 2-3 episodes of your favorite TV series on the way home by subway.
Wireless charging is aimed primarily at owners of Apple equipment, since the watch deck only works with Apple Watch models. There is a backlight at the bottom of the case, so the charging base can be used as a small night light. But if the light bothers you, you can turn it off.
Cons: the device is designed for iPhone 11 and higher models.
Best powerful Mi wireless charging: Xiaomi Mi 55W Wireless Charging Stand
The most powerful charging accessory
Pros: Xiaomi Mi vertical wireless charging has built-in air cooling. Thanks to the small, silent fan, good heat dissipation is ensured and optimal conditions are created for the device to operate. The cooler's noise level is comparable to that of the latest MacBook Pro, so the device can be placed at the head of the bed or on the desktop.
The Xiaomi Mi wireless charging case is made of polycarbonate and ABS plastic, the vertical stand has a pleasant texture and is scratch-resistant. Four silicone feet will clearly fix the gadget on a slippery surface. The accessory is compatible with all Qi standard devices and, according to the manufacturer, has a charging power of up to 55 W, which is enough to power the phone 100% in less than 35 minutes (true for Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra).
Such power required the introduction of 6 degrees of protection, including a security system against static electricity, overvoltage, overcurrent and foreign objects. The device is connected to the network via a USB Type-C cable, which is included in the kit.
Cons: none identified
Best fast wireless charging: Bixton MagJet
Budget MagSafe for Apple fans
Pros: a stylish wireless charging solution for those who prefer minimalism in design. There are no inscriptions, parts or buttons on the device body. You can immediately guess the reference to Apple’s proprietary accessory – MagSafe charging. The price is two times lower than the original Cupertino device and amounts to 1,600 rubles.
The diameter of the charging surface is 6 cm. The device is invisible on the bedside table and will not disturb you on your desktop. The wire does not get tangled, so the fast charger can be carried in your bag and used when necessary. It is suitable for smartphones, headphones and smart watches.
The power of the device is 10 W. Power supplies from 5 to 20 W are suitable for operation. Magnetic fixation ensures clear positioning of the device when transmitting electricity, so the risk that the contact will come off and you will get a dead phone in the morning is completely eliminated. Owners of the latest iPhone models will be able to appreciate this design feature.
When using a 20 W adapter, the phone is fully charged in 2 hours. Compatible with all electronic devices with Qi wireless charging function.
Cons: only the base and cable (Type-C) are included; the power supply for the network must be purchased separately.
Which Samsung phones support wireless charging?
Unfortunately, not all Samsung phones support wireless charging. Although, unlike other manufacturers, it is found not only in flagships. Currently, the following models have this capability:
- Samsung Galaxy Note 8;
- Samsung Galaxy Note 9;
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge;
- Samsung Galaxy S8;
- Samsung Galaxy S8+;
- Samsung Galaxy S9;
- Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus;
- Samsung Galaxy S10;
- Samsung Galaxy S10e;
- Samsung Galaxy S10+.
The listed Samsung smartphone models only come with an AC adapter, so wireless charging will need to be purchased separately. For phones that do not support modern battery recovery technology, you can purchase a universal receiver.
Best external wireless charger: Hoco CW24 Handsome
Laconic 3 in 1 solution
Pros: a modern solution for lovers of technological devices, allowing you to charge mobile gadgets in one place, from one wire, in a few hours. Hoco CW24 has a thin, minimalist and stylish design of a white platform on which you can charge your phone, wireless headset and smartwatch. Three different induction coils provide independent power supply to the devices being charged without mutual interference.
The device is connected to the network using a USB Type-C connector. Peak power – 22.5 W. The wireless charging base is suitable for all gadgets that support the Qi standard. The integrated intelligent system regulates the power of the coils, protects against voltage surges and overheating, so the batteries of smartphones and other mobile equipment will last much longer.
The dimensions of the accessory are 200x92x10 mm, it does not take up much space on the desktop or on the bedside table. The base and area for placing the phone have an anti-slip coating. The LED indicator displays the activity status. Perfectly compatible with iPhone 12, 11, X, XS, XR, 8, 8 plus, Samsung Note 5, S6 Edge, S7, S7 Edge, S8, S8+, S9, S9+ and many Xiaomi smartphones.
Cons: not identified
Best USB Wireless Charger: Samsung EP-N3300
Compact accessory with magnetic stand
Pros: the magnetic stand allows you to use Samsung wireless charging in several positions: horizontally on a table or on a stand at a convenient angle. By placing your phone at an angle, you can watch movies and favorite TV shows. There are two magnetic induction coils inside the case, so the orientation of the phone for placing it on wireless charging is not important.
The maximum power of the accessory is 9 W. For devices that support Qi technology, Samsung's maximum charging power will be 7.5 W. The kit includes a one-meter cable, a USB-C connector and a Samsung adapter with AFC (Adaptive Fast Charging). The status and process of energy supply is indicated by a color indicator.
Wireless charging is Qi certified. This means that it has four protection systems against overheating, short circuit and voltage drop. In addition to the phone, the EP-N3300 is suitable for charging wireless headphones - just place them in the appropriate case on the surface of the deck.
Cons: none identified
Principle of operation
It is based on the use of electromagnetic induction. To implement this, two components are required:
- transmitter;
- receiver.
The transmitter is the induction coil contained in the charger. This device must be connected to a power supply. After current passes through the coil, a magnetic field is created, which begins to influence the second coil located in the receiver, which is the smartphone.
Charging can only be transferred when the receiver and transmitter are in contact, which is why the gadget and the docking station must be as close as possible to each other.
The induction receiver can be built directly into the smartphone or into its case; there are options when it comes separately in the kit. The receiver (receiver) for each individual phone model is made in its own size and shape, and it also differs in the location of the contacts. This feature of these devices needs to be clarified immediately before purchasing a charger.
Several standards apply to inductive wireless charging, while the leading position is occupied by Qi, in Russian it sounds “Qi”. This standard has two varieties:
- Devices are charged at low power (it can reach only up to 5 W). This type of charger is used for modern smartphones.
- The second charge operates at a higher power, but it is used for laptops; this type is still less accessible to ordinary users than the first type.
Best wireless watch charger: Bixton QiPad
Leather covered top panel
Pros: the wireless platform for charging gadgets is an analogue of Apple AirPower, which was never released by the Cupertino team. At a price of less than 2000 rubles. The user receives a station included, as well as a cable for connecting high quality USB-C. The box contains instructions in Russian, so there should be no problems with connecting and setting up.
QiPad can simultaneously charge two smartphones or a phone and headphones. The main thing is that the device supports Qi technology. The maximum charging power is 9 W. On the right side of the twenty-centimeter case there is a window into which the original “tablet” charger from the Apple Watch is inserted. This is a very convenient solution that allows you to integrate an original Apple accessory into a single candy bar.
It is worth noting the top cover of wireless charging - it is made of eco-leather, which does not allow gadgets to slide on the surface and does not leave scratches on the phone body. A small blue indicator will inform the user about the progress of recharging the battery.
User tests show that a smartphone's battery can be fully charged using the Bixton QiPad in an average of 3.5 hours. Therefore, the device should be considered as an ideal option for charging your phone at night: the battery charges more slowly, which means it wears out more slowly.
Cons: you cannot use the phone while charging, no adapter included.
Advantages and disadvantages of technology
An undeniable advantage of wireless charging technology for Samsung phones is the ability to restore capacity without connecting a cable to the gadget. When a conventional charger is repeatedly connected, natural wear of the contacts occurs and over time the smartphone port or charger plug fails, so wireless technology is more durable and safer for a mobile phone.
The main disadvantage of wireless chargers is their high cost. The price of a new charging station can be several times more than a regular one. Unfortunately, in terms of battery recovery speed, wireless devices are slightly inferior to wired models.
Even if the smartphone supports the fast charging function, it is unlikely that it will be possible to quickly restore the battery capacity, because most models of such chargers have a maximum charging current of 2 A.
A significant disadvantage of this type of charger is the almost complete inability to use a mobile device, unlike wired products, while charging from which you can use the smartphone not only to make calls, but also to play games and turn on other energy-intensive applications.
Best Wireless Charging Station: Canyon CNS-WCS302
Charges smartphone, watch and headphones well
Pros: The Canyon wireless charging station is a real salvation for those users who are tired of the endless number of wires and power supplies that occupy all the outlets in the house. Especially for them, Canyon offers a high-tech 3-in-1 solution that can charge a smartphone, wireless headphones and watches at the same time and do it all with a single 1.2 m Type-C cable.
The device is aimed at Apple fans, but will do an excellent job of charging all gadgets that support the Qi wireless standard. In addition to four types of protection (against overheating, voltage drop, etc.), the device boasts a long effective charging distance of 7 mm. This means that you can use thick protective cases with your smartphone and not remove them before installing the phone in the deck.
The Nuvoton chipset is responsible for charging speed and security in the gadget. It is able to detect foreign metal objects and stop the power supply to prevent a short circuit. The user will receive a warning via a light indicator at the base of the charging station (if desired, it can be turned off at night so that it does not interfere).
The company recommends using 24W Quck Charge adapters so you can experience the full power of 15W fast charging. The device is optimal for bedside placement, where it will not only provide aesthetic pleasure, but also charge all major gadgets. The station does not slip, thanks to the rubberized bottom.
Cons: the sector reserved for the watch can only charge the Apple Watch.
Several wireless chargers for Samsung
Below are several common types.
MODEL EP-NG930BBRGRU
- It features increased protection against overheating; it has a fan that cools not only the charger, but also the phone itself. The docking station can be used for Samsung S7 Edge, S7, S8 and even Motorola X Force models. It has two outputs with voltages of 5 and 9 volts, there is only one output and it comes with 5V. The phone recharges from 0 to 100% in 4 hours.
The advantages of the device include:
- support for charging smartphones from other companies;
- attractive design;
- compatible with many different smartphone power supplies;
- can even work through a case, but only if it is not metallized;
- Due to the vertical position of the gadget while charging, you can easily watch videos on it.
Among the disadvantages are:
- inability to control the angle of inclination;
- The blue light (indicator of the operating status of the device) does not turn off at night.
MODEL EP-PG920IBRGRU
Suitable for the same models of gadgets that were mentioned above, as well as Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge and simply S6. Compact device weighing only 90 grams.
The advantages of the device are:
- fast charging, the gadget’s battery reaches 1% in just 2 minutes;
- stand stability;
- with a special adapter, it can be compatible with other Samsung models.
The disadvantages of the device include:
- disabling the docking station when the phone is fully charged;
- inability to charge a gadget if it has a metal case.
MODEL EP-PA710TBRGRU
It can recharge all gadgets that work in the Qi standard. The output charging voltage is 5 V, while the input voltage is 12 V.
Advantages:
- stylish design;
- can be used for most phone models that provide wireless charging;
- If necessary, and if you have a special adapter, you can recharge several smartphones at once.
This model has one drawback - its large dimensions compared to previous versions.
Best Type-C wireless charging: Baseus Wireless Charger 15W
Take her with you
Pros: an excellent device for wireless charging of phones from a modern Asian brand, which in less than 10 years has become the leader in the mobile accessories market. The smartphone's power starts automatically after it is placed on the mirror-black surface of the device with a diameter of 9.3 cm.
The thickness of the device is about 6 mm. The body is made of aluminum, and the contact surface is made of durable tempered glass. This design ensures long service life of the device without corrosion. Users note that, despite the absence of an active cooling system, the charger does not heat up and does not heat up the phone. The built-in safety system protects against power surges and short circuits.
The kit includes a cable with a Type-C connector. The maximum output power is 10 W. To increase charging speed, the manufacturer recommends using a network adapter that supports Quick Charge.3.0. The device works perfectly with both the latest iPhone models (8 and above) and the Samsung line (starting with S6 and Note 5).
Cons: Fingerprints may remain on the surface, which will become clearly visible over time.
Wireless charging modules for Samsung smartphones
If the phone does not have a built-in electromagnetic radiation converter, then it is also possible to charge such a gadget wirelessly. To do this, it is enough to purchase a special removable module. The cost of such products is low, but to ensure normal operation of the conversion, you should purchase only original products.
Due to its minimal weight, the additional element practically does not weigh down the smartphone, and the dimensions of the module, carefully selected by the manufacturer, make it easy to place it under the standard cover of a mobile device.
After installing this part into your mobile phone, the gadget can be charged both from network and wireless car chargers.
There are also models of universal modules that connect to the phone's USB port. It is much easier to connect such non-original products, but, unlike built-in converters, you will need to constantly carry them with you separately. In addition, the reliability of universal receivers is significantly reduced due to such a short-lived element as an electrical cable.
Wireless charging module
Best Desktop Wireless Charger: Samsung EP-P6300
Stylish deck for all gadgets
Pros: Less than a year ago, the Korean company introduced desktop wireless charging to the mobile technology market, which instantly became a bestseller among connoisseurs of Samsung products. EP-P6300 is a 3-in-1 device that can simultaneously infect a phone, wireless headphones and watches. Thus, the user receives a single center for replenishing the energy of all mobile gadgets.
High efficiency of energy transfer is ensured by the presence of six built-in coils. Thanks to them, there is no need for precise positioning of the phone - just place the smartphone on the wide surface of the base and energy replenishment will begin automatically.
The high output power of the gadget (up to 9 W) can significantly reduce the time required to recharge compatible devices. A significant advantage of Samsung wireless charging is the included power adapter, which you do not need to buy separately and spend extra money - everything is ready for use right out of the box.
The design is made in a minimalist style and is characterized by simplicity and conciseness of forms. Only LED indicators stand out, the light of which can be dimmed in night mode. The Samsung station copes well with smartphones in cases up to 3 mm thick.
Cons: when purchasing, it is worth considering that the right side of the station is only capable of powering the Galaxy Watch3, Active2 and Active. It will not work for Apple Watch.