How to choose a wireless charger: Qi2, MagSafe and watts explained

Wireless charging looks simple: put your phone down, watch it charge. But the pad, the power adapter behind it and the phone itself all decide how fast that actually happens. Here's what to look for before you buy.

Qi, Qi2 and MagSafe: what the names mean

Qi is the universal wireless charging standard used by most modern phones, earbuds cases and some watches. If your phone supports wireless charging at all, it supports Qi.

Qi2 adds a ring of magnets so the phone snaps into the right spot every time. That alignment matters: wireless charging loses efficiency when the coils in the phone and pad don't line up, so magnetic pads charge more consistently and run cooler.

MagSafe is Apple's magnetic system for iPhone 12 and later. Qi2 was built on the same idea, which is why many magnetic pads are described as MagSafe-compatible.

Watts: why the number on the box isn't the whole story

A 15W pad can deliver up to 15 watts, but only if three things line up:

• The power adapter. Many pads ship without a wall plug. A pad can only pass on what it's given, so pair it with a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) adapter of around 20W or more. An old 5W phone cube will leave a fast pad charging slowly.
• The phone. Every phone has its own wireless limit. A phone that tops out at 7.5W or 10W wirelessly won't go faster on a 15W pad, although it won't be harmed either.
• Heat. Phones slow charging down as they warm up. Thick cases, metal plates and pop sockets get in the way of both the signal and the cooling.

Pad, stand or 3-in-1?

• Flat pads are compact and great on a bedside table.
• Stands hold the phone upright, so you can still read notifications or use it for video calls while it charges.
• Multi-device chargers handle a phone, earbuds and a watch at once, which tidies up a desk or nightstand.

Quick checklist before you buy

• Does your phone support wireless charging, and at what wattage?
• Do you already own a USB-C PD adapter (20W or more)? If not, budget for one.
• Is your case wireless-friendly? Thin cases under about 5mm are usually fine; magnetic cases help with Qi2 and MagSafe pads.
• Where will it live? Choose a stand for a desk and a flat pad for a bedside table.

Not sure what suits your phone? Tell us your model and we'll point you to the right option, or browse our charging range.