Guidemaster: The best Qi wireless charging pads for your smartphone

[Karlston]

Wireless charging can be tricky to understand—these devices make it a no-brainer.

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Valentina Palladino

Wireless charging has a long way to go before it replaces wired charging, but the technology has advanced dramatically in the past few years. Everyone with the newest smartphones, wearables, and other gadgets can get behind the idea—simply place your device on a charging pad or stand and let it sit. Within a few minutes, you'll have more battery power than you did before, and you didn't have to fuss with wires or cables to get it.

 

But quite a bit of technology goes into making an accessory that makes your life that much easier. Most wireless chargers come in the form of circular or rectangular pads, some of which are propped up on legs to make stands that take up minimal space and work well as nightstand or desk accessories. But don't be fooled by their minimalist exteriors—there are a number of things you should know before investing in a wireless charging pad. To navigate this murky world, Ars tested out some of the most popular devices available now to see which are worth buying.

 

Note: Ars Technica may earn compensation for sales from links on this post through affiliate programs.

Table of Contents

• How does wireless charging work?
• Qi standard and your smartphone
• Wired or wireless charging?
• A note about Qualcomm Quick Charge
• How we tested
• Best overall
• RavPower RP-PC034 Fast Charger
• The Good
• The Bad
• Runner up
• Mophie Charge Stream Pad+
• The Good
• The Bad
• Best budget charger
• RavPower RP-PC063 Wireless Charger
• The Good
• The Bad
• Best wireless charging stand
• Belkin Boost Up Stand
• The Good
• The Bad

 

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Poster's note: The original article is multi-page with several image galleries and tables. To view the full article, please visit the link below.

 

Source: Guidemaster: The best Qi wireless charging pads for your smartphone (Ars Technica)