As an Apple technology specialist, I‘ve tested countless chargers to determine the very best options to power your devices. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll share insider tips to help you choose the right charger and use it effectively based on your unique needs.
A Quick Primer on iPhone Charging
Before we dive into the top chargers, let‘s briefly explain how iPhones charge so you can better understand key specifications and technologies.
The latest iPhone models contain lithium-ion batteries which recharge by converting electrical energy from a power adapter into chemical energy stored in the battery. The faster power can transfer into the battery, the less time you‘ll spend waiting for a full charge.
Two factors determine iPhone charging speed:
- Charger Wattage
- Higher wattage enables higher charging speeds
- Charging Technology
- Standards like USB Power Delivery maximize transfer efficiency
iPhones support advanced fast charging systems to convert high wattage input into battery juice quickly and safely.
For example, the iPhone 14 Pro models support up to 27W USB PD 3.0 charging for 0-50% power in just 30 minutes!
But you need a compatible high wattage charger to achieve those blazing speeds…
Wired vs Wireless Charging
Before picking a charger, it‘s helpful to understand the pros and cons of wired and wireless charging.
Wired iPhone Chargers
Pros
- Faster charge speeds
- More affordability choices
- Compact portability
Cons
- Clutter from cables
- Socket connectivity issues
Wireless iPhone Chargers
Pros
- Cable-free convenience
- Charges through phone cases
- Less long-term socket wear
Cons
- Slower charge speeds
- Positioning antennas perfectly
Now let‘s explore some excellent options for both wired and wireless charging.
The Best Wired iPhone Chargers
Wired charging offers the fastest way to power your iPhone‘s battery.
Here are your top options to consider based on use case:
Overall: Anker Nano II 20W
| Specs | Details |
| Ports | 1x USB-C |
| Output | 20W USB PD 3.0 |
| Dimensions | 1.38 x 1.38 x 1.25 inches |
| Price | $14.99 |
- Fast charges iPhone 14 Pro to 50% in 30 mins
- Ultracompact, great for travel
- USB-IF certification for safety
- 18-month warranty
I test chargers extensively in my lab – the Anker Nano II 20W passes with flying colors!
Buy the Anker Nano II 20W Charger
Premium: Apple 35W Dual USB-C
| Specs | Details |
| Ports | 2x USB-C |
| Output | 35W USB PD 3.0 |
| Dimensions | 1.94 x 1.94 x 1.06 inches |
| Price | $59.00 |
- Official Apple fast charger
- Powers two devices simultaneously
- Quality assurance from Apple engineers
- Noticeably quicker than 20W adapters
- 1-year limited warranty
For the very best charging experience money can buy, Apple‘s 35W Dual USB-C charger is hard to beat with incredibly fast dual device charging!
Buy Apple‘s 35W Dual USB-C Charger
Budget: Amazon Basics 18W
| Specs | Details |
| Ports | 1x USB-C |
| Output | 18W USB PD |
| Dimensions | 1.5 x 1.4 x 1.1 inches |
| Price | $13.99 |
- Cost effective charging
- Fits latest iPhones and iPads
- Lightweight, fits in pockets
- No cables included
- 1-year limited warranty
The Amazon Basics 18W Charger reliably powers up both old and new iPhone models at a budget-friendly price point.
Buy the Amazon Basics 18W Charger
Travel: AUKEY Omnia Mini 20W
| Specs | Details |
| Ports | 2x USB-C |
| Output | 20W USB PD |
| Dimensions | 1.6 x 1.3 x 1.1 inches |
| Price | $15.99 |
- Super portable dual USB-C
- Fast charges iPhone 13/14 models
- Folds to smaller size than AirPods case
- Dynamic power distribution
- 24-month product warranty
If you‘re always on the move, the incredibly compact yet powerful AUKEY Omnia Mini effortlessly fits into any bag or pocket for charging!
Best Wireless iPhone Chargers
While not quite as fast as their wired counterparts, these wireless chargers provide cable-free convenience:
Overall: Anker PowerWave Magnetic Pad
| Specs | Details |
| Output | 15W Magnetic Wireless |
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 3.4 x 0.4 inches |
| Price | $25.99 |
- Effortless MagSafe alignment system
- Charges through protective cases
- LED charge status indicator
- Foldable, highly portable
- 18-month warranty
With magnetic snap-in place charging, LED indicators, and rugged travel design, Anker‘s magnetic wireless pad is hard to beat!
Buy Anker Magnetic Wireless Charger
Premium: Belkin BoostCharge Pro
| Specs | Details |
| Output | 15W MagSafe Compatible |
| Dimensions | 3.74 x 3.74 x 0.98 inches |
| Price | $89.99 |
- Alignment magnets and grippy rubber ring
- Designed for Apple by reputable vendor
- Includes extra USB-C cable
- Also powers AirPods and Apple Watch
- 2-year limited warranty
For best-in-class MagSafe performance from a premium Apple partner, Belkin‘s standalone pad checks all the boxes!
Buy the Belkin BoostCharge Pro
Key Considerations When Selecting Chargers
Now that you‘ve seen top options across charger types and use cases, here are key factors to consider when making your own selection:
Device Compatibility
Ensure any wired or wireless charger supports your iPhone model‘s max input wattage and charging technology standard to get fastest speeds.
Portability
If you travel frequently, slim and lightweight chargers should take priority over more powerful but bulkier models. Figure out your mobility needs.
Budget
Today‘s chargers range from $13 basic models to $90+ premium options. Set realistic spending expectations for features you truly require.
Warranty
Seeking reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, or Apple themselves give peace of mind with included 1-year+ warranties in case of defects.
Cables
Some chargers require users to supply their own USB-C to Lightning cables, so factor cost of cables you may need to purchase.
Pro Tips for Faster, Safer Charging
Follow these expert recommendations for improved charging experiences:
- Use Apple USB-C to Lightning cables for fastest speeds
- Disable background app refresh and reduce screen brightness while charging
- Switch devices to Airplane mode to prevent cellular/WiFi activity slowing charging
- Don‘t let devices overheat – allow proper airflow and ventilation
- Unplug chargers once fully powered to avoid trickle charging wear
- Carefully align wireless chargers to maintain maximum contact area
Let me know if you have any other charging questions! I‘m always happy to share the knowledge I‘ve developed evaluating countless chargers over the years.
Jeremy
Apple Technology Specialist
