Apple’s decision not to include a charger in the new iPhone 12 series is quite controversial. The tech giant undoubtedly has its reasons for taking this step, and a case may well be brought against bundled chargers. However, every first-time iPhone buyer needs a charger. Unless you’re upgrading from an iPhone 11, you’ll likely need a new one for cable compatibility and fast charging.
Are you looking for a new charger or do you need a replacement? We’ll cover you! Everything you need to know about shopping for iPhone chargers can be found here.
Cover all of your charging and accessories needs with our guides on all of the phone accessories and the best charging accessories you can get!
Apple iPhone chargers versus third-party charging accessories
Any smartphone OEM will tell you that the best charger for their smartphone is a first-party charger. The latest iPhone doesn’t come with a charger, but you can still purchase a compatible Apple charger to use it. Of course, every Apple charger is also compatible with other iPhone generations.
Unfortunately, lost chargers, torn cables, and chargers that don’t support the latest features belong with the smartphone. You can always get a first-party charger, but third-party options have some perks that make them more enticing.
Pros and cons of Apple iPhone chargers
The biggest advantage of a first-party accessory is that it will usually work with a specific range of phones. The 20 W USB-C charger from Apple is ideal for the new iPhone 12 series. However, you can also use it with previous iPhones with the correct cable.
Nevertheless, there is not much variety with first-party charging accessories other than the standard charging stones. If you need multi-port charging stations, third-party options are the only way to go.
Pros and cons of third-party charging accessories
Third-party accessories come out on top in many ways, especially in categories like multi-port chargers, car charging accessories, and cables. These are usually cheaper too.
However, the generic nature of these products may not produce the best results in terms of functional compatibility. The charging speed may not be the fastest, and some chargers may not work at all with certain phones.
The much bigger problem, however, is the number of accessories available. Many come from companies that are not known or even unknown. Buying a bad charging accessory can have serious consequences, including possible damage to your device.
Things To Look For When Buying Third Party Chargers For iPhone
Before buying an accessory from a brand you are unfamiliar with, check the following:
- Search owner submitted reviews on sites like Amazon. Are the ratings for the right product? Are users raising legitimate concerns? For example, some submissions can be sponsored if they are very vague and poorly written.
- Look for curios! It is most common when the product reviews do not apply to the product. A 5 star rating on a protein powder is not what you want to see when trying to buy a wall charger.
- Check the return policy. Many products have return periods. Some may only have a spare window. In this case, refunds are not possible.
The best iPhone chargers
Apple 20W USB-C charger
Recognition: Ankit Banerjee / Android Authority
With the 20 W USB-C charger from Apple, you can use all the fast charging functions of the iPhone. You’ll need a USB-C to Lightning cable, which you can find on both the iPhone 12 series and iPhone 11 series. If you want to stick with first-party accessories, this is the charger.
Anker Powerport III Pod
The Anker Powerport III Pod is a great option for the iPhone, but it’s all-encompassing. If you’re looking for a charger for your phone, tablet, Nintendo Switch, or even laptop, this is one of the best chargers you can get. It comes with the latest version of Anker’s Power IQ technology which ensures fast charging for most smartphones and tablets. It’s also impressively compact. It’s a perfect travel companion.
further reading: The best chargers
The best iPhone multi-port chargers
RAVPower two-port
This Ravpower charger is a great option for iPhone. The USB-C port lets you quickly charge supported 20W iPhones, while the USB-A port lets you charge everything else at the same time. It’s also compact and lightweight, so you can take the RAVPower with you wherever you go. An MFi-certified USB-C to Lightning cable is also included.
Satechi four port
The Satechi USB charger balances two USB-C options and two USB-A options. The two USB-C ports add a total charge of 108W, while the USB-A options add 12W. It’s an easy way to charge all of your devices, from iPhones to Macbooks, at the same time. It’s not particularly travel-friendly, but the sleek gray finish won’t look out of place on a desk next to Macbooks and iPhones, too.
Are you looking for more options? These are the best charging stations right now!
Wireless chargers for iPhone
Apple MagSafe charger
Apple finally has its own wireless charging solution in the form of the MagSafe charger. It magnetically snaps into place on the back of compatible iPhones so you don’t have to worry about orientation. MagSafe also works as a Qi-compatible wireless charger, so you can charge any iPhone that returns to the iPhone 8, as well as AirPods. Apple recommends pairing the MagSafe charger with the 20W USB-C charger and 1m USB-C to Lightning cable.
Belkin wireless charging pad
The Belkin Wireless Charging Pad quickly charges compatible phones up to 15W so you shouldn’t have any problems with a new iPhone. Every other Qi-enabled device charges at 5W, including Apple’s Airpods and other true wireless earbuds.
Belkin 3-in-1 wireless charging station
With this Belkin charging station, you can go two steps further and charge an iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch at the same time. It’s 7.5W for iPhones and up to 5W for your watch or wireless earbuds. This dock is compatible with all iPhones that support wireless charging and every iteration of the Apple Watch, including the new Series 6.
See more: The best wireless chargers you can get
FAQ
Q: Can I take my iPhone chargers on an airplane?
ONE: Absolutely. You shouldn’t have any problems bringing the chargers on this list into your hand luggage. If it’s a long flight, have one on hand to charge your phone.
Q: Should I let my iPhone charge overnight?
ONE: Leaving the phone to charge overnight is not recommended and it is definitely a bad idea if your phone and charger have fast charging capabilities.
Q: Can I charge a phone with another one?
ONE: You cannot charge one phone with another by simply connecting a charging cable to both phones. Like many recent flagships, some iPhones have a power share feature that uses reverse wireless charging. In this case, the phone acts as a Qi charger for another device, e.g. B. a smartphone, a smartwatch or wireless earphones.
Q: Is Overcharging Bad for iPhone?
ONE: Continuing to charge your phone after reaching 100 percent is a recipe for voltage and temperature stress as it generates heat. High temperatures cause the battery to lose capacity much more quickly.
Q: Is it okay to leave an iPhone charger in a wall unit without a phone connected?
ONE: If you leave a charger connected even when it isn’t charging, it will use some power. This is usually negligible and will not add to your electric bill noticeably. Depending on how many chargers you have, how long they’re plugged in, and how much power it costs, things can add up.
Q: Is wireless charging faster than a charger?
Unfortunately not. Most wall chargers still offer a much faster charge time. Only OnePlus comes close with its Warp Charge 30W wireless charger, but even that’s a bit slower.
Q: Does your iPhone support wireless charging?
A: Any iPhone that returns to the iPhone 8 will support wireless charging. You can even use the new MagSafe charger with these phones.