We selected the best wireless charger by reviewing the following factors — phone compatibility, charging speed, and power source. While phone compatibility is the most variable feature and will depend on the type of smartphone you own, we did prioritize looking at charger models with wider support for varying manufacturers and phone models. We also considered maximum charging speed outputs, even though this is also dependent upon the type of phone you own. And finally, we considered the charging power source as an important factor since the source connected to a wireless charger will impact how quickly it can recharge your smartphone. These days we all need the best portable chargers for our many devices.
Because of the above, we selected the Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Charging Pad as our Top Pick. In addition to supporting a vast range of Apple, Samsung, Google, and even other smartphone makes and models, we liked the slim design and charging speeds that adjusted to the maximum output of each phone manufacturer. In addition to that, we liked that this model specifically supported Apple AirPod charging across multiple generations and provides two USB-based chargers for enhanced compatibility.
Top 4 Best Wireless Charger
#1 Yootech 10W Max Fast Wireless Charging Pad
Award: Top Pick
WHY WE LIKE IT: A slim 4-millimeter charging pad with 3 charging modes to support Apple, Google, and Samsung devices (and all other Qi compatible devices), along with safety features such as temperature control, and surge protection.
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- Supports Google, Apple & Samsung devices
- Supports AirPod & case charging
- 3 charging modes
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- Lacks AC adapter
- Only supports 1 device
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Device compatibility is probably one of the biggest pain points with wireless chargers. And because of that, we selected the Yootech Wireless Charger as our Top Pick. Depending on your device, you can quickly charge your phone thanks to the maximum 10-watt charging speeds. Google Pixel devices (3/3XL/4XL) can reach maximum outputs of five watts, Apple devices can charge at 7.5 watts, and Samsung devices achieve Fast Charging Mode with a 10-watt output.
But the Yootech model also supports wireless charging for the Apple Airpods Pro and the standard AirPods with their wireless charging case. While this model doesn’t come with an AC adapter, you’ll like that it comes with a USB-A to USB-C wire and a USB-C to USB-C wire that will connect with most computer and USB wall adapters/plugs. You’ll also like that this model features an LED indicator that powers off after three seconds. And as has become the standard for wireless chargers (and all of the models in our list), the Yootech model features temperature control, surge protection, and short-circuit prevention for a safer charging experience. And as mentioned, it is also compatible with the best Android phones.
#2 TOZO W1 Ultra Thin Aviation Wireless Charger
Award: Honorable Mention
WHY WE LIKE IT: A single-device wireless charger with a slim 5-millimeter profile that supports Apple and Samsung phones and many other smartphone brands in a sleek and glossy lacquered design.
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- Best Design
- Enhanced device support
- Fast charging mode (requires cable)
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- Lacks AC adapter
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If you hate wireless chargers because they look more functional than fashionable, you’ll love the Tozo W2 Wireless Charger. This model features a slick lacquered design with trim LED indicator lights as well as a thin five-millimeter profile. Put together, this creates a wireless charger that you’ll want to showcase in your living room or on your bedside table. While this model prioritizes Samsung and Apple compatibility, it does also support a range of Motorola, Nokia, and other Qi-enabled wireless charging phones. And, if you are looking for a charger that is easy to carry while traveling, then go for the best USB charger.
And as is standard, this model also highlights their built-in safety features — temperature control, surge protection, and prevention of overcharging your devices. With six different designs, you’ll want to embrace your inner interior designer with this fashion-forward charging pad. Now if you want power built into the case itself, read about the best iPhone battery charging cases, which are very popular.
#3 Mophie Wireless Charging Pad
Award: Best Apple Charging Speeds
WHY WE LIKE IT: A straightforward wireless charger designed specifically for Apple technology with a maximum charging speed of 7.5-watts and the promise of charging your Apple devices 50% faster than the competition.
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- 50% faster charge for Apple devices
- Foreign object detection
- Compatible with Mophie charge force accessories
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- Only Apple compatible
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While limited compatibility is normally not ideal for a wireless charger, if you’re an Apple owner and you find a charger that only supports your brand, that’s a win. We selected the Mophie Wireless Charging Pad as the best option for Apple Owners because this pad is rated to only work with Apple products — including the AirPod Pros and AirPod 2 with its charging case. But one of the biggest draws here is that Mophie promises to charge your Apple device up to 50 percent faster than traditional wireless chargers.
This is because of all the brands on our list, Mophie is the only one that is in a formal partnership with Apple. And specifically for iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X owners, this means you enjoy optimized charging. But all Apple users will like the 7.5-watt charging speed output. And as is standard with these chargers, this model also features temperature control and prevents overcharging and power surges. Also keep in mind that the best Bluetooth headsets will use more of your phone’s juice, so keeping a charger handy makes sense. Plus, check out the Best Qi Wireless Charging Stands and Pads.
#4 Anker PowerWave Wireless Charger Pad
Award: Best Budget
WHY WE LIKE IT: An industry favorite brand in the wireless charging world that pairs modest prices with powerful charging speeds, making this ideal for budget-focused shoppers who want wireless charging capabilities without the sticker shock.
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- Phone case compatible
- 10% faster iPhone charging
- Smart LED indicator
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- Lacks AC adapter
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Anker has become a fan favorite of industry insiders and consumers because they create quality products at reasonable prices. We selected their PowerWave Pad as our Best Budget option because of the extremely affordable MSRP and range of charging speeds that adapts based on your device’s maximum output rating. However, what we like is that — although it requires having a Quick Charge charger which is not included — you can tap into fast charging modes for iPhones and Samsung devices for a 10 percent faster-charging rate. iPhones can achieve a maximum of 7.5-watt output while Samsung phones can reach 10 watts.
You’ll like that the intuitive LED indicator informs you of whether you’ve properly placed your device on the pad, if your phone is properly charging, or if your cables haven’t been properly attached. And just like the other models on our list, the Anker wireless charger offers the standard safety features of surge protection, temperature control and overcharging your devices. Speaking of phones and reliability, the best cell phone plans will also help keep everything streamlined. And to ensure that you stay connected while camping or on a long drive, always pack one of the best portable chargers.
How We Decided
Wireless chargers for both iPhone or Android can be a great way to streamline a common pain point that many people have — charging your phone without a direct-wired connection to a power source. But with so many options, it’s understandable that it can be hard to find a quality wireless charger. So, to narrow the field, we considered the following features — phone compatibility, charging speed, and power source. For your disposable battery needs as well, take a look at the best c batteries too.
Before we drill further into those features it’s important to note that most wireless chargers (including all of the options in our guide) support charging a phone with the case on it. However, there’s a caveat to this. If your phone’s case includes metal or features a pouch where you can store credit cards, you cannot charge your phone inside the case. The metal will interfere with the charging capabilities and wireless chargers will deactivate the magnetic strip on credit or debit cards.
We began by looking at phone compatibility. For the most part, Samsung and Apple phone owners should have no trouble finding a wireless charger that will support their phone as long as they own a model that’s designed with wireless charging capabilities. But, if you own an alternate wireless charging capable phone (i.e. Google Pixel, Motorola, Nokia, etc), it’s important to read through the product information thoroughly to ensure compatibility. Except for our #3 selection, all of the other models in our list support a wide range of phone models beyond Samsung and Apple. And in the case of our Top Pick and #3 selection, AirPod charging for select models is also supported.
We then continued with charging speed. Most wireless chargers will promise a range of speeds between five watts to as high as 10 watts. Again, it’s important to note that your actual charging speed is more likely to be dictated by the model of your phone, versus your actual wireless charger. With all of the brands in our list, they promoted multiple maximum charging speed outputs that depended upon your device. Typically, non-Apple or Samsung devices will reach a maximum of five watts, Apple devices reach up to 7.5 watts, and Samsung achieves 10 watts.
However, some wireless chargers do promote “fast charging” but this will usually require owning an AC adapter plug that supports faster charging. Our #1, #2, and #4 choices all support fast charging. Yet, all the models in our list failed to include any type of AC adapter even though they do include USB cables to connect your wireless charger to a power source.
Other wireless chargers that just missed our list include the Logitech Qi Charger (supports both landscape or portrait charging), the Google Pixel Stand, the Samsung Galaxy Black Qi Wireless Charger Pad, and the Belkin BOOST UP Wireless Charging Pad (5W charging).
Wireless Charger Buying Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Phone Compatibility
By far, the most important aspect to consider is whether the wireless phone charger is compatible with the make and model of your phone. While many wireless chargers are compatible with both Samsung and Apple smartphones, that doesn’t mean they work with other phone models such as Google Pixel. And even if you do own a Samsung or Apple smartphone, you still need to confirm that your specific generation supports wireless charging as this is only supported in more recent phone releases. These days, most reputable wireless chargers will meet the Qi standard which outlines how many watts the charging speed can support. - Charging Speed
This feature will matter if you want to quickly top off your smartphone’s battery or get it out of the low-battery zone. Most wireless chargers can charge phones fairly quickly. But typically you’ll see a range of charging speeds between 5W (5 watts), 7.5W, 9W, 10W, and occasionally 15W. However, it’s important to note that not all phones can support faster charging speeds. Most iPhones max out at 7.5 watts while select Android models can support up to 10 watts. - Single vs. Multiple Device Charging
Unless you live by yourself, finding a wireless charger that supports multiple devices is going to be important for at least one or more rooms in your home. Within this division, you can find wireless chargers for multiple phones or wireless chargers that support a range of devices such as smartwatches and smartphones (Check out our review of the Apple Watch Series 4). However, it’s important to note that for some multi-device chargers, the overall charging speed will drop as more devices are added to the pad. - Enhanced Functionality
If you want a wireless charger that can do more than simply charge your phone, consider other electronics that include a wireless charging pad as part of the overall design. These types of options can include digital clock radios with charging pads on their top surface or even desk lamps with a built-in charging pad. These can add to the overall function and design of your home, and keep your smartphone close at hand in case you need to use it. - Power Source
This is going to be a factor that’s going to depend on what’s most convenient for you. These days you can find wireless chargers that rely on a range of plugs. Some will feature traditional two-prong plugs or QC3.0 adapters that connect directly to an electrical outlet. But these days, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1 and USB-C ports are common alternatives to traditional electrical outlet powered devices.
