We often tend to underestimate wireless charging due to its smaller numbers compared to traditional wired charging. Even more so since the emergence of extremely dizzying fast charges, and even if it generates a little more heat and consumes more electricity, it is a very useful and above all very comfortable resource. As if that weren’t enough, conversely it allows you to use your cell phone to recharge accessories.
However, the fact that it performs poorly compared to wired charging in different situations doesn’t make it any less interesting. Additionally, thanks to advances in technology, it has overcome its main obstacles: the slow charging process and compatibility with cell phones. Of course, you have to think carefully before buying a new wireless charger. That’s why we help you choose it.
Wireless charging: technologies and standards
Let’s start with a small notion: current wireless charging should be called charging by induction or electromagnetic as this requires there to be contact between the charging base and the device. At the moment it has not yet reached the point of entering an enclosure and our devices are starting to charge – that is the goal – so its operation is reduced to an electromagnetic field.
Of course, both devices, transmitter and receiver, need electromagnetic induction coils to work. Now, when a technology emerges, it is necessary to develop standards for widespread implementation. It’s coming the term Qione of the most popular standards.
As an alternative we find PMA although it pales in comparison to Qi in terms of energy efficiency. Others like WattUp or Cota are not very widespread, even if it would be true wireless charging: several meters from the charging base. Focusing on Qi, it comes in several versions:
- Qi1.0: first version and surely the one you have on your devices. From Qi 1.0 to 1.2, the 5 watts of maximum power are maintained, even if certain technologies allow it to be extended to more than 15 watts with EPP.
- Qi 2.0: At the end of 2023, more than 100 devices were preparing to receive this second iteration. It has a power of 15 watts and will add magnets for a better hold. Its expansion is expected in 2024.
Aspects for choosing your ideal charging base
Now, knowing the most popular standard and how it works, let’s get to the heart of the matter: what should I look for when purchasing my ideal charging base. Well, the truth is that we don’t have to complicate things too much, the first thing will be to check the wireless charging specifications of our particular mobile phone.
We must take into account the following aspects:
- Output power: Choose the appropriate wattage for your device, whether it is 5, 10, 15 or more watts (W). This is the main and most important thing, in order to fully enjoy the technical specifications of wireless charging. Of course, we have to make sure that our mobile supports it. It’s best to look online or directly in the original box.
- Device Compatibility– Ensure compatibility with charging standard and phone brand. You shouldn’t have any problems here, since the Qi standard is the most widespread.
- Additional design and features: Depending on our needs, we will opt for simpler designs, with support, or accepting multiple devices. There are horizontal ones, vertical ones… it all depends on what you are looking for.
- Prices and brands: There are different options in the market for different budgets and needs, with just a glance you will see it. This gives us a wider range to narrow down our choice.
- Tips for fast and safe charging: We must consider in which position we want to leave our devices, as well as the ambient temperature and possible interference. It should be borne in mind that wireless charging is less efficient than wired charging, it generates more heat.
Having all this in mind, we will choose more wisely to Make the most of wireless charging capabilities of our devices. It is a technology that allows for a lot of comfort, and its arrival and departure on base is appreciated on a daily basis.
Cover image | Microsoft Designer Image Creator (with editing)
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