Wireless charging, a remarkably convenient and hassle-free solution, liberates you from the tangles of cables, offering a sense of freedom. It effortlessly keeps your smartphone battery topped up. Qi, the most widely used wireless charging standard, is compatible with many smartphones, including iPhones, Samsung, and Google. Qi wireless chargers utilize electromagnetic induction to seamlessly transfer power from a pad or stand to your device, making charging a breeze.
However, not all Qi wireless chargers are created equal. Some may necessitate complicated setup, additional accessories, or precise alignment to function optimally. To ensure you make a well-informed decision, we have meticulously scrutinized and reviewed some of the top Qi wireless chargers available in the UK. Our reviews are based on their simplicity, ease of use, features, performance, compatibility, and price, providing a comprehensive guide to choosing the best one for your needs.
Here are our picks for the best Qi wireless chargers in the UK that are simple to install and operate. For a quick comparison, check out the table below:
Best overall: iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Charger Vent Mount
The iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Charger Vent Mount is our top choice for the best Qi wireless charger in the UK. It offers fast charging speeds of up to 10W for compatible devices, such as Samsung Galaxy S21, iPhone 13, and Google Pixel 6. It also works with other Qi-enabled devices at 5W or 7.5W.
The iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Charger Vent Mount is simple to install and operate because it attaches to your car’s air vent with a twist-lock mechanism and holds your device securely with a one-touch button1. It also has a 360-degree rotating ball joint that allows you to adjust the viewing angle and a dual USB car charger that plugs into a cigarette lighter socket.
The iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Charger Vent Mount is available for £49.95 at Amazon.
Best for iPhone: Apple MagSafe Charger
The Apple MagSafe Charger is the best Qi wireless charger for iPhone users. It uses magnets to align perfectly with the iPhone 12 and 13 models, delivering up to 15W of power. It also works with older iPhone models that support wireless charging and AirPods with a wireless charging case. Please note that the charging speed may vary depending on your device’s model and the power adapter used.
The Apple MagSafe Charger is simple to install and operate. To install it, snap it magnetically onto the back of your iPhone. It starts charging instantly. It also has a smooth white surface that attaches to your iPhone quickly and a 1m USB-C cable that connects to a power adapter (sold separately).
The Apple MagSafe Charger costs £39 at Apple or £34.99 at John Lewis. Please note that the prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions or discounts.
Best for Android: Samsung 10W Wireless Charger
The Samsung 10W Wireless Charger is Android’s best Qi wireless charger. It delivers up to 10W of power for Samsung Galaxy smartphones, such as S20, S10 and S9 series. It also works with other Qi-enabled devices at 5W or 7.5W.
The Samsung 10W Wireless Charger is simple to install and operate. To charge your device, place it on the charger’s surface. The charger uses a micro-USB cable connected to a power adapter (sold separately) and an LED ring showing the charging status. It also has a rubberized surface that prevents your device from sliding off and a fan that keeps it cool during charging.
The Samsung 10W Wireless Charger, Android’s best Qi wireless charger, is a top performer and a budget-friendly option. It delivers up to 10W of power for Samsung Galaxy smartphones, such as the S20, S10, and S9 series, and also works with other Qi-enabled devices at 5W or 7.5W. It’s available for an incredibly affordable price of just £9.99 at Argos or £14.99 at Samsung.
Best for multiple devices: Anker PowerWave Pad
The Anker PowerWave Pad is the best Qi wireless charger for multiple devices. Using a single pad, it can simultaneously charge up to two devices, such as a smartphone and earbuds. It delivers up to 10W of power for Samsung Galaxy smartphones, 7.5W for iPhone models, and 5W for other Qi-enabled devices. It’s compatible with many devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds, making it a versatile charging solution for your home or office.
The Anker PowerWave Pad is simple to install and operate because it comes with a 3ft micro-USB cable connected to a Quick Charge 3.0 adapter (sold separately) and an LED indicator showing the charging status4. It also has a non-slip surface that keeps your devices in place and a temperature control system that prevents overheating.
The Anker PowerWave Pad, a budget-friendly option, is available for just £16.99 at Amazon. Please note that the prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions or discounts. It offers excellent value for money, ensuring you get the most out of your purchase.
How to choose the best Qi wireless charger for you
When shopping for a Qi wireless charger, there are some factors to consider, such as:
- Simplicity: Qi wireless chargers can have different levels of simplicity depending on the installation, operation, and maintenance they require. Some wireless chargers may require minimal setup, additional accessories, or precise alignment to work correctly. Some wireless chargers may have easy-to-use features like magnetic attachment, one-touch button, or 360-degree rotation. Some wireless chargers may be easy to clean, store, or travel with. Depending on your convenience, choose a simple wireless charger.
- Ease of use: Qi wireless chargers can have different levels of ease of use depending on the feedback, visibility, and accessibility they provide. Some wireless chargers may have clear indicators, such as LED lights or sounds, that show the charging status or alert you of any issues. Some wireless chargers may have visible surfaces, such as white or bright colors, that make them easy to find or recognize. Some wireless chargers may have accessible designs, such as stands or docks, that make them easy to reach or adjust. Choose a wireless charger that is easy to use, depending on your comfort.
- Charging speed: Qi wireless chargers can deliver different power outputs depending on the device and the charger. The higher the wattage, the faster the charging speed. However, not all devices can support the maximum wattage of the charger, so you need to check the compatibility before buying. For example, Samsung Galaxy smartphones can support up to 15W wireless charging, while iPhone models can only support up to 7.5W (or 15W with MagSafe).
- Charging position: Qi wireless chargers can come in different shapes and sizes, such as pads, stands, or docks. Pads are flat surfaces that allow you to place your device horizontally or vertically. Stands are angled surfaces that enable you to prop up your device in portrait or landscape mode. Docks are specialized surfaces designed for devices like Apple Watch or AirPods. Choose a charger that suits your charging position, depending on your preference and usage.
- Charging number: Qi wireless chargers can also vary in how many devices they can charge simultaneously. Some chargers can only charge one device simultaneously, while others can charge two or more devices simultaneously. Opt for a multi-device charger if multiple devices need wireless charging to save space and time.
- Charging design: Qi wireless chargers can also differ in how they look and feel. Some chargers have sleek and elegant designs that complement your decor, while others have simple and functional designs that do the job. Some chargers have LED indicators showing charging status, while others have fans that keep them cool during charging. Depending on your taste and needs, choose a charger that matches your style and comfort.
Conclusion
Qi wireless charging is convenient and hassle-free. It can keep your smartphone battery topped up without cables. It is the most widely used wireless charging standard and works with most smartphones, such as iPhones, Samsung, and Google.
We have reviewed some of the best Qi wireless chargers in the UK based on their simplicity, ease of use, features, performance, compatibility, and price. Our top picks are:
- Best overall: iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Charger Vent Mount
- Best for iPhone: Apple MagSafe Charger