Best MagSafe power banks 2025 — why Qi2 25W changes the game
Qi2 25W wireless charging is arriving in magnetic power banks and it makes a practical difference. In tests, older MagSafe‑style banks (7.5–15W) often took nearly two hours to reach 50% on modern iPhones, while Qi2 25W‑certified banks reached roughly 50% in about 30 minutes when both phone and charger supported the standard.
That speed jump matters if you want quick top‑ups on the go. But to get the full benefit you need both a Qi2 25W‑certified charger and a compatible phone — otherwise you’ll be limited to lower rates.
Quick buying checklist
- Capacity: Most MagSafe banks are 5,000mAh or 10,000mAh. Expect energy loss (wireless delivery tends to be ~60%), so a 5K bank will typically give ~80–90% of an iPhone charge.
- Certification & naming: “MagSafe” is Apple’s brand; Qi2 (Qi2.2 / 25W) is the WPC standard that enables up to 25W wireless on certified devices. Third‑party makers may use names like MagGo or MagFlow — check specs for Qi2 certification.
- Compatibility: Newer phones (iPhone 17 series, Pixel 10 Pro XL) support 25W natively; some earlier models (iPhone 16 series) may need an iOS update to unlock higher speeds.
- Travel & safety: Most MagSafe power banks are under the 100 Wh airline limit (carry‑on only). Keep banks visible while charging on flights if required by some carriers.
Top picks we tested
- Anker Nano MagGo Slim — Slim, stylish, broadly compatible and better value than Apple’s iPhone Air MagSafe Battery for most users.
- Mophie Powerstation Slim 5K — Very slim with solid delivery (~90% refill on an iPhone 15); pricier but performs well.
- Belkin BoostCharge Pro 10K — Qi2‑certified with a sturdy stand; premium build but runs warmer and is slightly bulkier.
- Baseus Picogo 5K — Tiny unit with a built‑in stand; good option if you want a prop while charging.
Practical tips
- Prefer Qi2 25W‑certified banks if fast wireless top‑ups are a priority — verify certification in product specs.
- Balance capacity vs. portability: 5K is pocketable and fast; 10K gives extra full charges but adds bulk.
- Look for extras you value: LED percentage displays, built‑in stands, straps, and case‑friendly magnetic alignment.
If you want to shop current options, try this search (affiliate link, opens in a new tab): MagSafe power banks on Amazon.
For detailed model testing and comparisons, see the original tests and reviews (opens in a new tab): Engadget — Best MagSafe power banks.
Discussion: Are you upgrading to a Qi2 25W power bank for speed — or sticking with a larger‑capacity pack? What features matter most in your portable charger?
