Best wireless chargers for 2025: top picks and a practical buying guide

Wireless charging is easier and faster than ever. Our roundup highlights the best wireless chargers for 2025 — from simple bedside pads and upright stands to MagSafe docks, 3‑in‑1 stations and compact travel pucks. Below you’ll find what to look for, how charging performance differs, and recommendations for common use cases.

Key takeaways

• Choose MagSafe‑compatible chargers if you use iPhone and want faster, aligned charging.
• Look for Qi2 certification and 15W+ output for the best universal performance.
• Think about use: pads for nightstands, stands for desks, pucks for travel, and multi‑device stations for nightstands or family setups.

What to look for in a wireless charger

Don’t just buy for the phone you have today — consider future devices. Important criteria include:

• Compatibility: MagSafe vs universal Qi. MagSafe provides magnetic alignment and higher peak speeds on iPhones, while Qi2 and other standards work across many Android and accessory models.
• Wattage & speed: 15W is a solid target for fast wireless charging; some proprietary solutions or Apple’s latest MagSafe gear can exceed that if paired with the right adapter.
• Case support: Check if the charger works through thicker cases (typically up to 3–5mm).
• Form factor: pad, stand, puck, or multi‑device station — choose based on bedside, desk, or travel needs.
• Box contents: Some chargers omit adapters or cables — verify what’s included so you don’t need to buy extras.
• Build quality: Non‑slip bases, textured surfaces, status lights that dim, and adequate weight to prevent shifting matter for daily use.

Where you’ll use it

Match the charger to the location:

• Nightstand: A pad or a MagSafe stand that supports StandBy features is ideal for overnight top‑ups and easy access.
• Desk: An upright stand keeps notifications visible while charging and is handy for video calls or quick glances.
• Travel: Puck‑style or foldable chargers are compact and pack flat; check whether they include a travel adapter or require you to bring one.
• Multi‑device: 3‑in‑1 stations charge a phone, earbuds and a watch in one footprint — great for consolidating bedside clutter.

Wireless charging performance

Wireless charging is generally slower than wired, but performance has improved. Aim for Qi2 support and at least 15W for efficient charging. For iPhone users wanting top speeds, MagSafe‑certified chargers plus a 30W–35W adapter can approach 20–25W in certain cases. Remember: adapter and cable quality influence final speed.

Quality, box contents & extras

Check if the charger includes:

• A power adapter capable of delivering the charger’s rated wattage
• A suitable USB‑C cable
• Documentation noting case thickness limits and device compatibility

Also review the charger’s warranty and whether it offers features like temperature protection or hardware encryption for magnetic alignment data on MagSafe devices.

Quick recommendations (examples)

• Best bedside pad: Simple 15W Qi pad with grippy surface and dimmable status LED.
• Best MagSafe stand: Magnetic 15–20W stand that supports iPhone StandBy and case‑friendly alignment.
• Best travel pick: Folding puck with included USB‑C cable and compact adapter support.
• Best 3‑in‑1 station: Charger that handles phone + earbuds + watch with separate coils and an anchored base to prevent tipping.

FAQs

Do wireless chargers work with phone cases?

Often yes — most chargers work through cases up to around 3–5mm thick, but check manufacturer specs. Metal or magnetic attachments can interfere.

How fast is wireless compared with wired?

Wired charging is typically faster. Wireless can be excellent for overnight top‑ups or short desk boosts, but a wired fast charger (PD 30W+) will top up much quicker for a full battery refill.

Does MagSafe charge faster?

MagSafe offers better alignment and can deliver higher peak wireless power to compatible iPhones when paired with a powerful adapter; it’s the best choice for modern iPhone users who want wireless speed and convenience.

For more detailed hands‑on picks and full reviews, see our original roundup: Engadget’s Best Wireless Chargers for 2025.

Discussion: Where would you use a wireless charger most — bedside, desk, or travel — and which features matter most to you (speed, MagSafe, multi‑device)? Tell us and I’ll recommend specific models for your needs.