As technology continues to advance and we become more dependent on our phones in our daily lives, wireless chargers have become a must-have accessory that many of us crave. Wireless charging technology provides many advantages, such as: ease of use and convenience.
However, before you buy a wireless charger, there are a few things you should consider to make sure you choose the right charger for your phone model, one with safety and quality features that won't negatively affect your phone.
To help you choose the right charger for your phone, here are the key things to consider before buying a wireless charger:
1- Compatibility with your phone:
One of the most important things to consider before purchasing a wireless charger is the compatibility of the charger with your phone. Although many modern smartphones such as the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones support the Qi standard, you should check the specifications of your charger before purchasing.
iPhone users should look for chargers that are labeled MagSafe compatible. You can make sure that the wireless charger is fully compatible with your device type by looking for your phone type in the list of supported devices. Example: If you own an iPhone 13 Pro model, make sure that the product description includes “Compatible with iPhone 13 Pro” as this will ensure that the charger will work effectively with your phone.
2- Charging speed and efficiency:
While wireless charging is generally slower than wired charging, advances in technology have increased speeds exponentially. The charging speed is usually determined by the wireless charger's power output, measured in watts (W). If your phone supports the same charging capacity, the higher the power, the faster your device will charge.
For example: Qi standard wireless chargers can provide 5W charging power, which is more than enough for most smartphones. However, more advanced chargers can deliver 10W, 15W, or 20W of power, which will charge your device faster. However, this is limited to the phone's maximum charging speed. So if your phone only supports 5W wireless charging, the 20W wireless charger won't charge you any faster.
Another factor to focus on is the efficiency of the charger. Wireless chargers lose power in the form of heat, which is a common problem with wireless chargers. High-quality chargers waste less energy and charge your device faster. Refer to product specifications for information on power loss and efficiency.
In addition, the way you place your device on the charger affects charging efficiency, as wireless charging requires precise alignment between the charger and the phone for best results. Some chargers have built-in aligners or guides to help you properly set up your device for optimal charging.
Therefore, it is important to read customer reviews before making a purchase to see if users have had any trouble keeping their phones on the charger.
3- Design and color:
When it comes to wireless chargers, specifications aren't everything. Because these devices often take up visible space on your desktop. So, consider the shape, color, and material of the charger to make sure it's durable and matches the other items in the room.
4- Security features and security certificate:
Look for wireless chargers with built-in safety features like temperature monitoring, foreign object detection, and device overcharge protection.
Also look for safety certifications such as: European Compliance Safety Certifications, RoHS (Reducing Hazardous Substances) and FCC (Federal Communications Commission). Qi-certified chargers are tested to ensure they meet the Wireless Power Association's safety standards.
5- Price and Brand:
Wireless charger prices vary widely, ranging from $10 to over $100 for high-end models with multi-device support, advanced features, and stylish designs.
Less popular and cheaper wireless chargers may present compatibility or security issues. Well-known brands such as Anker, Belkin, and Samsung are reliable and offer high-quality products that are tested for safety and effectiveness. These types of batteries may be a little more expensive, but they will likely give you a better, safer charging experience and longer life.