MagSafe or Qi2? How to find the right wireless iPhone charger for you

Qi2 versus MagSafe

You’re welcome to charge your iPhone with a wire and pretend it’s 2007, but most of us these days prefer to charge wirelessly. It’s quicker and easier, you don’t have to carry around the correct cable, and it keeps your desk or bedside table looking neat and tidy. The problem, however, is that there’s a wide range of wireless iPhone chargers out there. Which one is right for your needs and budget?

The first question to ask is whether you should go for a Qi2 or MagSafe charger. While these are two separate charging standards, the former open and the latter proprietary to Apple, there’s a lot of overlap between them. It’s important when buying a charger to check which standard(s) it supports so you know that it’s compatible with your phone, as well as the specs and features you can expect.

Most recent iPhones are compatible with both Qi2 and MagSafe. The 15-series iPhones support both out of the box, and the 13- and 14-series support them provided you update to iOS 17.2 or later. Older iPhones (iPhone 8 and later) support the older Qi standard, but that doesn’t offer the same magnetic attachment as MagSafe. This magnetic feature helps to ensure your device sits on the sweet spot and charges correctly: no more frustration when you find it slipped off and stopped charging a couple of minutes after you put it on the pad. Both Qi2 and MagSafe offer this feature.

In terms of speed, Qi2 chargers can go just as fast as MagSafe ones, both on paper (15W) and in our testing. The main difference is that Apple controls MagSafe certification, which makes it more expensive for companies to make MagSafe accessories. In theory a Qi2 charger should provide the same quality and performance as a MagSafe accessory at a lower price. But there are other factors to take into consideration.

How to find the best charger for you

Reputable brand: It’s important to buy from a company you can trust. Look for a lengthy track record producing tech accessories, and large numbers of positive reviews online.

Certification: Similarly, for peace of mind you should check the accessory has full certification in whichever standard you prefer. Otherwise you can’t be sure it will be compatible with your iPhone, or produce optimal performance.

Price: Compare to rival products, and to the prices of Apple-certified MagSafe chargers. A Qi2 accessory should cost less than the MagSafe equivalent.

Ability to charge other devices: Some Qi2 iPhone chargers double up as AirPods and/or Apple Watch chargers too. Don’t clog up your desk with multiple accessories if a single versatile unit can serve all your needs.

ESR’s charger range

Bearing the above in mind, we feel that ESR’s range of wireless chargers is well worth your consideration. The company, which is currently celebrating its 15-year anniversary, is a highly rated brand on Amazon with more than 16 million products sold and 402,000 five-star reviews.

It offers a wide range of fully certified MagSafe and Qi2 chargers, so you know what you’re getting. The company’s prices are good, its chargers will be compatible with future iOS and watchOS updates, including iOS 18, and there’s plenty of versatility available. Consider a few options:

Qi2 3-in-1 Travel Wireless Charging Set

ESR

ESR

ESR

This compact charging unit can handle your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods. It quickly powers up, and the foldable design fits effortlessly into any bag, making it an essential travel companion. Just $67.99 from Amazon.

Qi2 3-in-1 Watch Wireless Charging Set

ESR

ESR

ESR

Officially certified for both the Qi2 standard and Made for Apple Watch, and featuring full StandBy support, this is your all-in-one fast charging station. Excellent value at $89.99, this is currently on sale for just $59.99 from Amazon.

Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger

ESR

ESR

ESR

Boasting 15W fast charging, customizable viewing angles, a 1,600g magnetic connection and secure mounting options for both air vent and dashboard, this is a bargain at $29.99. Even better, it’s currently just $27.99 from Amazon.

Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger

ESR

ESR

ESR

If you need to charge only one device at a time, this mini charging pad is ideal. It supports fast 15W wireless charging, and a strong 1,200g magnetic lock. Buy it now for $17.99 from Amazon.

Whatever you need from a charger, ESR can help. Take a look today!