I’ve tested countless wireless chargers. These 5 are anything but boring
Unique, different, and cool wireless chargers for people who don't want another boring phone charger.
It's not hard to find a wireless iPhone charger. It seems like there are a million of them. However, finding a good one with a unique design or functionality can be trickier.
I've been testing these charging gadgets for years. So, I have experience with what makes a good charger. All of these picks have something to offer that most others don't.
But more than anything, these wireless chargers offer interesting style and features. These aren't the same old boring devices that are readily available anywhere.
Twelve South Valet 4.25
For people who care about the aesthetics of their chargers just as much as the technical aspects, the Twelve South Valet 4.25 is a perfect blend of form and function. The smaller Valet, compared to the company's larger one, has a 25W charging spot, as well as an additional USB-C port on the bottom to plug in a second device.
I love the smaller size. It’s easy to place on nearly any surface and in any orientation. If there’s one disappointment, it’s that there is no Apple Watch charger built in. You can add one to the port underneath, but then you have a cable snaking out.
Mophie 4-in-1 Stand
The Mophie 4-in-1 Stand doesn’t particularly look interesting. Although it's sleek and elegant, it’s easy to write it off as boring. Still, the hidden 60W retractable USB-C cable in the back of the stand—its fourth charging spot—makes it indispensable.
The stand comes with a 100W power adapter in the box so there’s enough power flowing through the 4-in-1 Stand to power an iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and MacBook Neo all at once. This will be one of my favorite gadgets of the year.
MagFlow Pro 3-in-1 Stand
The Ugreen MagFlow Pro 3-in-1 Stand puts the main charging spot off to the side, which gives this charger an instantly intriguing design. Better yet, that structure includes a tiny screen so you can see the power and temperature of your charging session.
The top magnetic charger is 25 watts and can rotate from flat to vertical. Standby Mode is still on the table. Underneath, the Apple Watch charger can also be tilted up and laid down.
Kuxiu D5
The Kuxiu D5 probably looks more futuristic than it actually is. It still has a few tricks up its sleeve, however. The top charger can power the latest iPhones at 25 watts. That top section rotates to lie flat or be nearly vertical. There’s a 5-watt AirPods charging spot behind it.
The screen shows an animated face, but more importantly, it can show charging speeds and the time. To go along with its futuristic vibe, there’s a motorized Apple Watch charger that pops out when the button is pressed.
The biggest downside is the confusing advertising. Kuxiu says the D5 is a 5-in-1 wireless charger, but there are only three charging pads. I can’t quite figure out what the five specific features are. Nevertheless, the charger is priced competitively—around $60—for a Qi2.2 25W charger with a screen.
Belkin UltraCharge Pro 2-in-1
The Belkin UltraCharge Pro 2-in-1 can work as a permanent charger on your nightstand, but it’s best suited to travel. It folds down compactly when it’s not in use. But it can unfold to expose an Apple Watch charger that can be set to multiple angles.
Similarly, the 25W Qi 2.2 charging spot can be used flat or angled up for Standby Mode. It might not be obvious, but if you do tilt that charging spot up, then it can be extended up so an iPhone can fit vertically or horizontally.
This charger may look like a hockey puck, but it’s incredibly versatile and useful.