I'm a tech writer who was all in on cables until a single desk charger converted me
Updated
9Product Reviews / Joshua Buchwald
I've been wired all the way, plugging in my phone to whatever outlet I can find. I saw wireless charging as a gimmick that was slower and added more clutter.
But that all changed when I moved desks at work.
I started taking advantage of a 3-in-1 Belkin Wireless Charger that was sitting there. The charger became a habit. I'd come in, drop my various phones and earbuds on the stand, and pick them up when I needed them without the inconvenience of wires.
I realised this convenience could untangle my whole life, from my bedside table to my travel bag. They've become a no-brainer to own as almost every major phone brand is now on board with wireless charging (although you'll still want to check compatibility).
Keep reading as we round up wireless charges that'll solve your wired troubles.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing
Wireless charging stands
Three-in-1 chargers are the ones I've been rocking at my desk to charge phones and AirPods. Their intent is usually to charge your phone, earbuds and smartwatch all at the same time! If you want something smaller, go for a singular stand or a 2-in-1.
Make sure to double check your phone, watch and earbud compatibility! 9Product Reviews
From left to right:
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 15W Magnetic Charging Stand, was $99.95, now $65
Belkin 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Dock with Qi2 25W, $219.95
Lamicall 3-in-1 Charging Station for Apple, was $79.99, now $69.99
Upgraded 3 in 1 Wireless Charger for Google Pixel, now $59.99
Phelinta Wireless Charger for Samsung, now $63.99
Wireless charging pads
Wireless charging pads typically lie flat, and while there are options for 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 charging pads, I would opt for a singular one if you only want to charge your phone.
Charging pads are great to have just on your desk beside your keyboard and mouse. 9Product Reviews
From left to right:
Fdgao 20W Wireless Charger, $18.79
Anker 10W 313 Wireless Charger, was $49.99, now $18.99
Belkin 15W Wireless Charging Pad, now $39.95
Travel charging pads
On the go and need something compact to charge your tech? Wireless charging travel packs are the right way to go, typically folding up and fitting inside a neat bag to help you keep organised.
These are great if you travel a lot! 9Product Reviews
From left to right:
3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charger for Samsung S Series & Ultra, was $63.09, now $44.36
Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (Foldable 3-in-1), was $249.95, now $124.98
Belkin MagSafe Charger Compatible 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Travel Pad 15W, $219.95, now $187.80
Portable wireless battery packs
These have been the original way of charging your phones on the go, and they still hold up to this day. If you can't be bothered laying your phone flat connected by cable, then wireless battery packs are for you.
Portable battery packs are always a great purchase to keep you powered through the day. 9Product Reviews
From left to right:
Kogan MagPulse 10000mAh Ultra Light MagSafe Compatible Power Bank, $29.99
Anker Zolo Magnetic Power Bank (10K, 30W), was $69.99, now $52.50
Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 5K + Stand, was $69.95, now $56.33
Car chargers
Wireless chargers for cars are the way to go if you want to quickly top up your phone without the struggle of plugging and unplugging your phone.
Make sure to double check if your phone is compatible. 9Product Reviews
From left to right:
Kogan Qi2 15W MagSafe Wireless Car Charger, now $29.99
ESR MagSafe Wireless Car Charger, was $43.99, now $32.29
Belkin Magnetic Wireless Car Charger 10W, was $79.95, now $54.23
READ MORE: The gadget you need to make sure your headphones work in-flight