Wireless Chargers: What to Look For

Depending on what smartphone you own, a wireless charger may or may not work with your device because it is up to device manufacturers to determine if their product lines are compatible wireless charging.

Most (but not all) wireless chargers use a charging standard called Qi. Although more than 55 smartphones embrace the Qi charging standard, there are still many popular cellphones that can't charge wirelessly without using a special case or receiver. This even includes the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy smartphones. However, there is an array of battery doors, cases, skins and sleeves available to incorporate the technology into your phone if your device manufacturer opted not to.

After determining if your device is compatible with wireless charging, you'll want to look at specific models decide which wireless charger to purchase. We've evaluated the top 10 models based on the following criteria.

Specifications
Typically chargers have a low energy output around 5 volts, but some are even more powerful, resulting in lower charge times. In addition to power output and charge times, we rated chargers based on what manufacturers include in the box. Most models include an AC adapter, while others don't. Though all the charging pads we reviewed include a USB cable. You'll also want to be aware of the light and sound indicators that let you know that your wireless charger is operating correctly.

Design
Since this charger will become part of your desk or decor of your home, you want it to look nice. Since the whole point of wireless chargers is to keep cords out of the way, so you really don't want the charging pad to be in your way either. Wireless chargers come in all sorts of different shapes and sizes, and some models come in an array of colors. Some are round, unobtrusive and take up very little tabletop space. Others are larger, which makes them better suited for tablets or to keep on a nightstand to charge your phone while you sleep. Some are manufactured to be incredibly thin, making them easy to transport. A few of the wireless chargers we reviewed can also double as stands, allowing you to operate your device while it is charging.

Help & Support
Wireless chargers are as easy to use as plugging them in and setting your phone on top of them, but if you need some extra help, a component breaks, or your charger begins to overheat, the manufacturer's support options will become an issue. The best wireless charger companies offer multiple contact options and include limited warranties. Most manufacturers offer a standard one-year warranty, but the best warranties are closer to two years.

The best wireless charger to choose depends on a number of factors. Most importantly, you need to make sure your device is compatible with Qi wireless chargers. Wireless charging is still a relatively new field, but it has certainly grown over the years. Now, there are a variety of models to choose from that will allow you to clean cords off your countertop and keep your device powered.