3 recommended wireless chargers for Apple products. Just place your iPhone or Apple Watch to charge! | Gizmodo Japan facebook Twitter Youtube RSS Facebook Twitter YouTube GIZMODO FUZE

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Does your desk get cluttered with cords when you have more chargers for each new device? If you're an Apple user, the latest multi-device wireless charger may be your one-stop solution. So this time, we will introduce the "best Apple wireless chargers" carefully selected by the review site Wirecutter!

Among those who use Apple's ecosystem, many of them may have multiple Apple products such as Apple Watch and AirPods in addition to the iPhone. If you want to charge all three at once, we recommend a multi-device wireless charging station. Among them, Mophie's 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand is recommended for those who use iPhone 11 or earlier models. Provides fast wireless charging for all Apple devices (except MacBook and iPad). The easy-to-use design that matches the price is also attractive. For those using iPhone 12 or later products, we also introduce products that support MagSafe charging and mounting systems, so please take a look.

Recommended No.1 Trinity Charging Stand: Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand

The perfect 3-in-1 charging stand for iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods that do not support MagSafe. Not only is it a stand-type iPhone charger, but it is also very easy to use, such as a recess for setting AirPods together with the case. The Apple Watch is also suitable for landscape orientation and is ideal for using nightstand mode and alarm functions.

If you want to charge your iPhone (8 to 13), Apple Watch and AirPods at the same time, Mophie's 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand is perfect. While many chargers use a flat pad, this one has an angled stand for easy alignment. AirPods fit perfectly with the case, and the Apple Watch is perfect for nightstand mode as the display can be placed sideways. The charging speed is also the fastest level for a charging station without MagSafe, and it has a good balance of advanced functions that are unique in this price range.

Recommended MagSafe charger for iPhone 12+: Belkin Boost Charge Pro 3-in-1

The best charging stand for iPhone 12. This multi-device charger is an excellent stand that combines ease of use, looks and speedy wireless charging. Compatible with iPhone 12 and newer models only.

The Belkin Boost Charge Pro 3-in-1 features MagSafe charging up to 15W. It is the best option for those who have the iPhone 12 series because it is easy to use even among the ones tested this time. The appearance is different from that of a flat pad or a stand, with a unique style in which the iPhone "floats" on a porcelain mount. The magnet holds your smartphone firmly, so you don't have to worry about it slipping. The stainless steel stanchions look like contemporary art sculptures. An AC adapter is included, so you can use it right out of the box. Don't worry if your iPhone, Apple Watch, or AirPods have issues with charging, we've got you covered with a 2-year warranty.

Compact and highly portable! : Apple MagSafe Dual Charging Pad

The perfect charging station for those who travel a lot. An ultra-portable charger for your iPhone and Apple Watch that charges your iPhone at its maximum speed. However, I was able to charge 3 devices at the same time.

If you want to use it as a nightstand, you'll want to charge 3 devices at the same time, but if portability is a priority, the Apple MagSafe Dual Charging Pad is recommended. Compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand when folded. Equipped with MagSafe, the high-speed charging function of up to 14W is quite excellent compared to other multi-device wireless chargers. With the magnetic charging system, you don't have to worry about your smartphone being misaligned and not charging. However, there are only two charging spots (for both iPhone and AirPods cases, and for Apple Watch), and no power adapter is included. An additional 20W adapter for the fastest charging speed costs an additional 2,000 yen.

Disadvantages of wireless chargers

Wireless chargers are not as fast as wired charging. Just pair a USB-C-Lightning cable with a cheap wired 20W USB-PD charger and you'll get 30% faster charging than the fastest wireless charging. Wireless is all about convenience, not speed.

Another downside to wireless charging is that you can't pick up and use your phone while it's charging. That means it's better to charge while you're sleeping at night, or in the kitchen or at your desk when you just need to see the display, rather than watching Netflix or scrolling through Twitter.

Taking a New Step with Apple's "MagSafe Charging and Porcelain Mounting System"

In late 2017, Apple announced AirPower, a wireless charger. Apple users were excited. The flat design charger is an excellent one that can charge not only iPhone but also Apple Watch and AirPods at once. … but Apple pulled the project back in 2019.

And in 2020, Apple introduced the MagSafe charging and porcelain mounting system to the iPhone 12 series lineup. Using the magnet inside the smartphone, we have realized charging at a maximum of 15W, which overwhelms the 7W of other Qi chargers. This magnet also serves as a "alignment", preventing situations where "my phone was misaligned and I couldn't charge it!" There are magnetic chargers other than MagSafe, but they are still inferior to MagSafe in terms of speed.

Our #1 Trinity Charging Stand: Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand

Mophie's 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand is a Qi wireless charging compatible iPhone (8 to 13), A great option for those who want to charge their Apple Watch and AirPods at the same time. Boasting a charging speed that is comparable to other products, the stand-type smartphone holder and cross-shaped indentation firmly hold various devices. The thoughtful design makes it easy to adjust the position of the device. Apple Watch can also be placed horizontally, so it is convenient when using it as an alarm clock.

When I tested the Qi charger for single devices, I felt that the stand type is recommended for charging the smartphone because the smartphone does not slip easily and the screen is easy to see while charging. The Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand and Logitech Powered 3-in-1 Dock are pioneers in the use of stands for multi-device charging. The stand type is very convenient for daily use, including at night and in dark places.

On the right side of the smartphone charger is the Apple Watch charger, and on the left side is a cross-shaped indentation where you can place the AirPods (Pro) case. With ordinary Qi charging stands, there are many cases where the AirPods case is placed on a flat surface or does not feel stable even if it has a dent.

Apple-certified Apple Watch chargers are limited to those equipped with charging packs approved by the company, but this model from Mophie is a certified product. In other words, this Apple Watch charger offers first-party safety. The band can be closed or open. Both 40mm and 44mm sizes fit snugly, so you can press the digital crown to turn off the alarm in nightstand mode without worrying about tipping over or falling off. It is easy to use because it is meticulously designed.

Speed ​​is better for single-device products

Wirecutter has tested many multi-charging stands for iPhone and Apple Watch, and it is still the fastest in terms of charging speed. There was no product on par with the device charging stand. However, the multi-charging stand is originally intended for nighttime charging, so even if the charging speed is slightly inferior, it shouldn't be too much of a problem. By the way, this product charges the iPhone 12 about 26% in 30 minutes and 50% in 1 hour. Apple Watch SE charged 30% in 30 minutes and 50% in 1 hour.

Charging efficiency of Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand

The Mophie charger features a basic design. The rectangular body measuring approximately 20cm x 10cm is made of glossy black plastic. I appreciate that the bottom is made of rubber and is non-slip. It doesn't have the weight of premium materials, but it doesn't hinder performance. The front indicator light is moderately bright and goes out after a few seconds of charging.

The power cord that plugs into the back is not a Micro-USB or USB-C, but a unique cylindrical cord, so if you lose it or break it, it will be troublesome to replace it.

Belkin, a MagSafe-compatible product, is recommended for iPhone 12 and later

When charging an iPhone 12 Pro with a MagSafe case, intermittent problems occurred, so I contacted Mophie. It has been confirmed to be a known issue in the 12 series. The company has already implemented a firmware update that fixes the iPhone problem, and if there is a problem, you should contact customer service for a replacement. In any case, if you are an iPhone 12 user, it would be better to get a Belkin charger. If you have already purchased Mophie and are having these issues, please request a replacement. In the meantime, please remove the MagSafe case.

Points of concern

Unlike other models, Mophie's charger is a device that is used in combination with an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. You can't leave it to charge.

Furthermore, the glossy surface tends to attract fingerprints. If you're curious, the Logitech Powered 3-in-1 Dock or the Belkin Boost Charge 3-in-1 Wireless Charger might be better.

Stylish MagSafe charger recommended for iPhone 12 and later: Belkin Boost Charge Pro 3-in-1

For iPhone 12 series owners, Belkin Boost Charge Pro with MagSafe We recommend the 3-in-1. This is one of the first chargers to feature Apple's MagSafe, and it's one of the best implementations so far. You don't have to worry about your smartphone slipping, it has the fastest charging speed for a wireless charger, and above all, it looks stylish. It costs about the same as Mophie and comes with an AC adapter. The 2-year warranty applies not only to the charger, but also to connected devices.

MagSafe has two main benefits. Perfect positioning and fast charging up to 15W. This product is officially licensed by Apple so you can take full advantage of its features. In fact, unlicensed models cannot charge at full speed.

While many chargers place your phone on a flat pad or angled stand to obscure the Qi charging coil, the Belkin holds your phone in the air. Magnets on both ends of the arm firmly support your smartphone and Apple Watch. The surface is made of circular rubber, and the combination with the metal arm makes it look like modern architecture. A wireless charging pad is built into the circular recess at the foot, and AirPods can also be charged at the same time. 5W and power are weak, but you can also put another smartphone.

If you're using your iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, or 12 mini without a case (or with a MagSafe-compatible case), you won't have to worry about it shifting, and you can even turn it around while charging. is. Since the base is solid, even if you operate your smartphone while charging, the charger will not wobble, and the bottom is made of rubber, so you can easily remove the iPhone from the charger with one hand. The Apple Watch charging part is the same, and it supports various bands.

So far, it's the only Apple-licensed device that supports 15W charging speeds (Mophie 3-in-1 up to 7.5W). However, the actual speed is not "doubled" according to the numbers, and in this test, the iPhone 12 charged from 0% to an average of 33% in 30 minutes, and 58% in 1 hour (Mophie charged 26% and 26% respectively). 50%). This is a level that is comparable to Apple's genuine MagSafe accessories.

The Boost Charge Pro 3-in-1 is not only packed with features, but also has a sleek design. There are two colors, black and white, and both have a matte finish, so fingerprints won't stand out like Mophie. It tastes like modern sculpture rather than high-tech equipment. If there's a downside to this design, it's that the indicator lights are a bit bright. If you can't sleep when it's bright, you may feel that it's a minus point.

Belkin's two-year warranty covers not only the charger itself, but also the connected device, and if damage occurs during normal use, the cost of repairing or replacing the connected device will be up to $2,500. He said he would cover it. Having a wide warranty is a real relief.

Compact and highly portable charger: Apple MagSafe Dual Charging Pad

The stand type is convenient for charging at the bedside, but for those who travel a lot, Apple's MagSafe is easy to carry around. A dual charging pad is recommended. This product features a feeling of size of the smallest class even if I say anything. It can be folded in half when not in use, so it can be easily carried in a bag or pocket.

Compatible with Apple's MagSafe charging system for fast charging your iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 mini, and 12 Pro Max. Since the position is fixed with a magnet, there is no need to worry about "not being able to charge due to misalignment". It's a relatively expensive option considering it has two charging spots (you can't charge iPhones and AirPods at the same time) and doesn't come with an AC adapter, but it's the easiest charger to carry around.

A compact size that stands out from the rest, and the surface of the charging pad is coated with soft-touch rubber. Each square is about 7 cm long. When not in use, it can be folded even smaller and has a magnet so it can be snapped closed. By the way, when folded, it is about the same size as a cosmetic compact. The MagSafe smartphone charger on the left can charge not only smartphones but also AirPods and Qi compatible devices. The right side is for the Apple Watch and supports both flat and nightstand modes.

Another important feature is MagSafe. It holds your iPhone in place with magnets and charges faster than traditional Qi chargers (such as those recommended by Mophie). It supports charging up to 14W for the iPhone 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max, and up to 12W for the iPhone 12 mini, and was significantly faster than the Mophie 3-in-1 in Wirecutter's tests. When charging the Apple Watch and iPhone 12 at the same time, the iPhone 12 was able to charge 34% in 30 minutes and 61% in 1 hour. Apple also sells a standalone MagSafe phone charger, but it doesn't charge faster than the MagSafe Dual Charging Pad. You can charge older iPhones and other Qi-compatible devices with this charger, but you won't be able to use features like fast charging or magnetic attachments.

The MagSafe dual charging pad typically costs around $130, but that doesn't include the price of the 20W adapter. You'll need an adapter to get the fastest charging speeds, so buying this accessory will cost you an extra $20, making it in line with other recommended products.

Since it has one less charging pad than the others, you may be wondering if it's worth buying, but I can't imagine traveling with any other charger. Recommended for those who value portability.

Introducing competing products!

The Belkin Boost Charge 3-in-1 Wireless Charger was once featured as our number one recommendation, but despite having a recess for the AirPods charging case, it lacks the size and shape, and the position is a bit off. It was a difficult point to take a little time to match. Also, since the AirPods charging spot is right behind the Apple Watch charger, you have to be careful not to hit the AirPods if you are wearing a solo loop or the like.

ESR HaloLock 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger is a flat pad type with two charging spaces. One is a standard Qi charger, and the other is magnetic and holds a MagSafe-equipped iPhone or case. It's not an officially licensed MagSafe charger, so it's not as fast as the Belkin or Apple models we've shown, and it's on par with other third-party magnetic chargers. In this test, the iPhone 12 was charged 22% in 30 minutes and 48% in 1 hour. It didn't rank high in this guide because it doesn't have a spot for Apple Watch, but it's priced at $30 (about 3,400 yen) with an 18W USB-C power supply, so if you're interested, check it out. .

The Zens Liberty Wireless Charger Glass Edition was the first "go anywhere" wireless charger. It's pretty close to what Apple originally said it would offer with AirPower. It features a geometric design with 16 charging coils visible through a clear glass surface. You can charge two smartphones or any other Qi-enabled device anywhere, eliminating the biggest drawback of wireless charging: placement. The fact that it uses USB-C instead of its own power supply is a plus point, but it also has the disadvantage of being large and expensive (the low-priced version does not have a glass top). The fan makes a lot of noise while charging, and you can't charge the Apple Watch without buying a $45 accessory, so it's a product for those who love new gadgets.

The Nomad Base Station Pro is similar in concept to the Zens Liberty, but with a sleeker design in slim, sleek aluminum and leather. Underneath the 13cm x 23cm surface are 18 charging coils that can charge up to 3 Qi-enabled devices at once, no matter where they are placed. The Base Station Pro is announced to charge up to 7.5W for iPhones and up to 5W for all other devices, so it may not be possible to charge at the highest speeds for non-Apple products. In the actual test, the overall impression was slow, and the iPhone 11 was able to charge about 15% in 30 minutes and 26% in 1 hour. By the way, the LG V30 has a low charge of 9% and 16% respectively in the same time. Base Station Pro is not optimized for Android devices and may be improved with future firmware updates.

According to Nomad and partner Aira, the point of this product is convenience, not speed. It is certainly convenient to be able to charge your smartphone without worrying about its position, but it is quite expensive compared to the recommended high-end models, so it cannot be said that the cost performance is good. In the first place, it's not so difficult to place even a conventional 3in1 charger. I hope that the technology will advance further and the price will come down in the future, but at the moment I can't say I want to buy it.

The Mophie 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad was once a top pick, and is still one of the best. I love the simple, clean aesthetic and the attention to detail. Features such as the non-slip rubber material and the recess for AirPods are especially useful. However, I would like to recommend the stand type rather than the flat type. By the way, the surface is a material that is easy to worry about fingerprints, just like iPhones and iPads.

The Native Union Drop XL Wireless Charger (Watch Edition) has a small charging surface and a non-technical look. The neutral gray fabric and rubber material gives the impression of less gadget feeling than other products. Charging speed is fast. The lack of clear alignment markings can make the AirPods a little tricky to set up, but other than that, there are no major drawbacks.

The Satech Trio Wireless Charging Pad is slightly slower than the recommended high-end models. Because it is a flat type, it is harder to fix your smartphone than a stand type, and it takes up space on your desk. However, the AirPods recess is easy to use, and it has user-pleasing features such as a foldable Apple Watch holder and a USB-C charger.

The Zens Dual+Watch Aluminum Wireless Charger is a great multi-device charger for charging two phones at the same time. There are no markings or indentations for the AirPods case, though, and it can be a little tricky to get your phone in the right place.

The Nomad Base Station Apple Watch Edition has a handsome design, but it's hard to find the correct charging position, and the lack of an indicator can make you wonder, "Is this really charging?" The leather surface is more slippery than the rubber material on Mophie products. It's a fairly minimalist design, but because it's simple, it will take some time to get used to it.

When the STM ChargeTree comes out, it's an alternative to chargers costing over $100! I was excited, but when I opened the lid, it turned out to be a so-called generic product of a brand change. Later, an Instagram ad found that at least two companies were selling the same product. That's not a negative point in and of itself, but the ChargeTree isn't MFi certified and doesn't come with an AC adapter, so it's not an overall recommendation.

*Prices and other information displayed are current as of writing. There is a possibility of change, so please check the sales page.

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