Wireless charging eliminates cable clutter and extends your phone's battery life. With the right charger, you can power up iPhones, Android phones, and AirPods simultaneously without a tangle of cables. We've tested 15 of the best wireless chargers available in the UK.
Why Wireless Charging?
- No cable wear — Eliminates Lightning/USB-C port damage from constant plugging
- Cable-free convenience — Just place your phone and forget about it
- Cleaner desk — No more cable spaghetti
- Multi-device charging — Charge phone + AirPods at once
- Faster charging — Modern fast-charge pads rival wired speeds
Our Top 3 Picks
1. Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £119.99
The best multi-device charger. Charges iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. Magnetic alignment for iPhones, premium materials, and fast charging all in one elegant stand.
What We Like
- Charges 3 devices at once
- Magnetic alignment keeps phone in place
- 15W fast charging for iPhones
- Premium design and build
- Foldable for travel
What to Consider
- Higher price point
- Apple-focused (works with Android but less optimized)
2. Anker PowerWave Pad
Rating: ★★★★☆
Price: £24.99
Best budget wireless charger. Simple, reliable, works with any Qi-enabled phone. Fast charging at a fraction of premium prices. Perfect for office desks or bedside tables.
What We Like
- Excellent value for money
- 10W fast charging
- Compact flat design
- Works with any Qi phone
- Includes USB-C cable and adapter
What to Consider
- Single device only
- Flat pad (less stable than stands)
3. Samsung Wireless Charging Pad (25W)
Rating: ★★★★☆
Price: £39.99
Best for Android users. 25W super-fast charging for Samsung Galaxy phones. Sleek design that complements modern smartphones. Better value than Belkin for Android-only households.
What We Like
- Super-fast 25W charging
- Great for Samsung Galaxy phones
- Sleek minimalist design
- Good value for speed
- Thermal management to prevent overheating
What to Consider
- Single device only
- Requires compatible Samsung power adapter
Wireless Charging Standards
Qi Standard (Universal)
The most common standard. Works with iPhones (iPhone 8+), Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and most Android phones. Look for "Qi certified" label for compatibility.
MagSafe (Apple-Specific)
Magnetic alignment makes iPhone charging easier and faster. Works with iPhone 12 and newer. Better alignment = better charging efficiency.
Android Fast Charge
Samsung Galaxy phones support up to 25W wireless charging. Much faster than standard Qi. Requires compatible charger.
Comparison Table
| Charger | Devices | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belkin 3-in-1 | 3 devices | 15W | £119.99 |
| Anker PowerWave | 1 device | 10W | £24.99 |
| Samsung 25W | 1 device | 25W | £39.99 |
How to Choose
1. How Many Devices Do You Charge?
Just a phone? Budget chargers work great. Phone + watch + AirPods? Get a 3-in-1 stand. Single-device chargers are cheaper but less convenient.
2. Speed vs. Price
Need super-fast charging? Samsung 25W pad. Want multi-device and fast? Belkin 3-in-1. Just need basic charging? Anker pad saves money.
3. Phone Type
iPhone? Belkin with MagSafe is best. Android? Samsung chargers optimized for Galaxy. Both? Universal Qi chargers work but slower on Android fast-charge phones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is wireless charging as fast as wired?
A: Modern fast-charge pads are nearly identical. 25W wireless ≈ 25W wired. Main benefit is convenience, not speed.
Q: Will wireless charging damage my phone battery?
A: No. Modern chargers have thermal management. Wireless may slightly slow battery degradation since it's gentler than wired.
Q: Do all phones support wireless charging?
A: No. iPhone 8+, Samsung Galaxy (recent models), Google Pixel, and most modern premium phones do. Budget phones often don't. Check your phone specs.
Q: Is Qi certification important?
A: Yes. Qi-certified chargers are safety tested. Cheap unbranded chargers risk overheating and battery damage.
Q: Can I use a case with wireless charging?
A: Usually yes if under 5mm thick. Leather cases may have issues. Remove very thick cases or check charger compatibility.