PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
With the advances made in wireless charging technology, it is safe to say that convenient and efficient wireless charging has finally arrived after years of media hype surrounding this technology, and it will only keep improving. So prepare to bid farewell to the entanglement of cords and cables. In this guide, we will break down how wireless charging works in an easy-to-understand format, discuss the benefits of wireless charging, and share how to select the ideal wireless charger for your devices.
PART 2 – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WIRELESS CHARGING
2.1. What You Should Know About Wireless Charging
Gone are the days of fumbling with tangled cords and limited charging ports. Whether you keep your wireless charger on a desk at work, the nightstand at home, or clipped to the vent of your car, charging your electronic devices is an effortless endeavour. However, have you wondered how wireless charging works? Even if you use it regularly, there might be plenty you do not understand about its inner workings. So let us explore the fascinating science that makes it all possible.
What is wireless charging?
Thanks to the advancement in wireless charging technology, wireless charging is now available in various designs and can be used to charge multiple devices – both Android and Apple. Nevertheless, many, including you, will probably be most familiar with a wireless charger that comes in the form of a charging pad, where you can place a compatible device down on it.
The two wireless charging standards
In the landscape of wireless charging, there are two prominent standards: Power Matters Alliance (PMA) and Qi wireless charging. Both utilise the same inductive charging, although the latter is more commonly known and used. The difference lies in the amount of wavelength used.
PMA wireless charging standard utilises a wavelength between 277 to 357 kHz (kilohertz). Meanwhile, Qi wireless charging (pronounced “chee”) offers a 100 to 205 kHz band. As we shared, Qi is the more popular wireless charging method, with most brands utilising the latter standard inside their wireless chargers.
The science behind wireless charging
Wireless charging may be one of the modern advancements of the 21st century. However, the basic principle behind this technology dates back centuries. In fact, it can be traced to the late 1800s, with the scientific process sharing many similarities to Nikola Tesla’s resonant-inductive coupling process.
Fast forward to today: the scientific principle of electromagnetic induction remains at the heart of wireless charging technology. The wireless charger is designed with an electromagnetic coil positioned within, serving as an induction coil that generates a magnetic field, sending energy to your device.
So how does your gadget receive this electromagnetic energy? The answer lies in the receiver installed under your device’s back cover. When these two wire loops align, the receiver retrieves the energy produced by the induction coil and transfers that power back into the gadget, charging its battery.
Learn More: Debunking The Common Misconceptions About Wireless Charging
2.2. Why You Should Adopt Wireless Charging
Wireless charging has undoubtedly revolutionised how we power our devices, offering a convenient, cable-free charging experience. While this technology brings undeniable advantages, you might wonder why you should upgrade to a wireless charger if your wired charger is still functioning perfectly. Let us share the benefits and drawbacks of wireless charging to allow you to make an informed decision.
Benefits of wireless charging
Benefit #1: Convenient
With wireless chargers, your charging experience is instantly more seamless. Place your phone on the charging pad, and your device will start recharging immediately. You never have to worry about plugging in your phone only to discover hours later that the connection was not secure and the battery remains dead.
Benefit #2: Multi-device charging
Do you own multiple devices at home? In that case, you may have encountered instances where you are rushing for work or an appointment and lack sufficient time to charge all your devices simultaneously because you do not have enough chargers. Fortunately, this issue is no longer a concern with the correct wireless charger.
Various models on the market, such as a 3-in-1 wireless charger, allow you to charge multiple gadgets simultaneously, eliminating the need for several charging cables and adapters. With a single charging station, you can conveniently charge your smartphone, smartwatch, and wireless earbuds concurrently, streamlining your charging routine and minimising clutter on your work desk and at home.
Benefit #3: Less e-waste
The benefits of reducing electronic clutter at home go beyond your personal tidiness. The current lack of a fixed wired charging standard has contributed to an enormous amount of e-waste, with users frequently purchasing and replacing their USB-C and USB-C to lightning cables. While these charging cables may be small, the e-waste problem is not. In Singapore alone, we are generating about 60,000 tonnes of e-waste yearly.
However, there is positive news on the horizon, as the European Union has mandated that all mobile phones sold in Europe must utilise a USB-C charging port. This change will also impact Apple’s products in Singapore, but it is unlikely to be implemented until 2024. That means users must still replace their charging cables and adapters when they switch from Android to Apple or vice-versa within this time period.
Fortunately, wireless charging is ahead of the game when it comes to minimising e-waste. Qi wireless chargers have become the universal charging standard, with various brands like Apple, Android, and Google all adopting this wireless charging technology for their products. When you purchase a wireless charger, you can rest easy knowing that it is compatible with multiple devices, thus reducing the amount of e-waste you produce.
Benefit #4: No overheating concerns
The recent rise in household fire cases in Singapore, many of which have been attributed to faulty batteries and charging devices, has understandably raised concerns about our devices overheating mid-charge. Thankfully, the latest Qi-compatible wireless chargers feature safety measures that monitor the temperature to prevent overheating while charging. Once your gadget reaches maximum battery capacity, the wireless charger will switch off automatically, reducing the risk of overheating.
Drawbacks of wireless charging
Of course, as with any technology, there exist several drawbacks to wireless charging. Whether they are sufficient to dissuade users from adopting the technology is down to personal preferences. Nevertheless, it is good for you to have a clear idea of what to expect before committing to wireless charging.
Drawback #1: Not as efficient as wired chargers
When charging your phone wirelessly, more energy is converted to heat during the wireless power transfer process. As a result, you may experience slower charging speeds when using a wireless charger. However, this does not mean that wireless charging is necessarily slow or inefficient.
Remember, the charging speed is also dependent on the output of your power adapter. Wired chargers pre-packaged with your phone tend to have an energy output of 5W or 10W (watts). Various wireless charging pads on the market can match or even exceed these power ratings, offering users similar or faster charging times.
Drawback #2: Compatibility issues
While wireless chargers can power multiple devices simultaneously, they may not be compatible with every phone model. Devices that do not support wireless charging out of the box will require additional accessories to ensure the wireless charger works as intended. Therefore, it is essential to check device compatibility before purchasing a wireless charger.
Drawback #3: More expensive
Given the benefits of wireless charging, it is natural that wireless chargers tend to be more expensive than their wired counterparts. For some, this cost disparity may be a crucial factor to consider when deciding whether to embrace wireless charging technology. Nevertheless, if you find the various benefits we shared enticing, consider making this added investment to enjoy the advantages of wireless charging.
2.3. How To Choose Your Ideal Wireless Charger
After reading about the various benefits that wireless charging brings, you might be thinking of making the switch if you do not own a wireless charger. However, with numerous options available, choosing the best wireless charger that fits your needs can be quite a task. Let us help simplify the selection process by walking you through the vital factors to consider when selecting a wireless charger.
Factor #1: Ensure your phone is compatible
Before diving into the world of wireless charging, it is essential to ensure that your phone or device is compatible with wireless charging technology. Generally, modern smartphones support wireless charging out of the box. However, outdated gadgets will not be equipped with this feature and require a compatible wireless charging accessory.
We also recommend taking into account the type of devices that you own. For example, if you are plugged into the Apple ecosystem of products, it is advisable to get MagSafe-compatible wireless chargers. Conversely, Android devices work well on most conventional Qi wireless charging pads. So you will have more options to explore. Meanwhile, if you own a mix of different brands, it might be best to check the power specifications of your devices and decide accordingly.
Factor #2: Look for wireless chargers that use a USB-C cable
There are still some wires involved in wireless charging. So always pay attention to the cable type utilised by the wireless charger. Some wireless chargers use micro-USB cables. While they are fine, we recommend choosing those with USB-C cables. Micro-USB chargers use an older charging standard termed “QuickCharge”, which has a lower power limit than the newer USB-C “Power Delivery” standard. As a result, USB-C wireless chargers enable more efficient charging and are more futureproof.
Factor #3: Check the wattage rating of the wireless charger and your phone
Not all wireless chargers are built equally. Each comes with varying wattage ratings, directly impacting the charging speed of your devices. Naturally, the higher the power output of the adapter, the faster the charging times. We recommend looking for wireless chargers offering at least 10W output to ensure optimal charging performance and remain futureproof.
With that said, the power output of the wireless charger is not the only thing you should pay attention to. Your device must also support the corresponding power input to benefit from the higher charging speeds. If your gadget is only capable of receiving 7.5W of power, any wireless charger above this wattage rating will not make a difference in charging speed since it cannot receive the maximum power output of the wireless charger.
Factor #4: Consider the design of the wireless charger
Wireless chargers come in various shapes and sizes. Some feature a charging pad that is circular in shape. Meanwhile, others have stand designs. Regardless of your preferences, it is wise to purchase a wireless charger that fits your lifestyle and your living or workspace.
For example, you will want a compact wireless portable charger that you can easily carry in your pocket if you are constantly on the go. Alternatively, you will need a lightweight model with a maximum capacity of 27,000mAh (milliampere-hour) that easily fits into your carry-on baggage if you require a wireless charging power bank for frequent travel.
PART 3 – ACCESSORIES FOR WIRELESS CHARGING
3.1. Wireless Chargers And Phone Cases: What To Expect
With a broad range of fast wireless charging accessories available on the market, it is easier than ever to switch to wireless charging. However, you may be wondering if wireless charging works seamlessly with phone cases.
A few years ago, the answer would have been a definite no. But now, you no longer have to deal with the hassle of removing your phone’s protective casing whenever you want to charge your device wirelessly. Nevertheless, there are still some considerations and caveats to be aware of beforehand.
1. Bulky cases
Bulky phone cases are a popular choice for many smartphone users, as they provide added protection against accidental drops and bumps. However, excessively thick phone cases may impede the electromagnetic field and interfere with charging, resulting in slower or inconsistent charging. Aware of this fact, many brands have taken these issues into consideration and developed thicker phone cases that are compatible with wireless chargers.
2. Metal cases
While aluminium phone cases are durable and robust, keeping your smartphone safe and intact, they pose a unique challenge to wireless charging due to their inherent electromagnetic interference properties.
These phone cases can disrupt the connection between a wireless charger and your phone, leading to inefficient or non-existent charging. This interference is why Apple’s newer iPhone models no longer feature an aluminium shell. Instead, they have been replaced with a solid glass back that helps conduct the charge efficiently.
3. Wallet cases
Phone cases that double as wallets have gained popularity, offering a convenient all-in-one solution for those who find it a hassle to carry multiple items on the go. In general, such cases should function normally as long as the material is non-metallic and the charging coil is unobstructed.
Instead, the concern lies with the objects within the casing. The magnetic field generated from the wireless charger can damage credit cards and other items with RFID chips embedded within them. So ensure you remove these objects from the wallet portion of your phone case when charging your phone wirelessly.
4. Battery cases
Many seeking a hassle-free portable charger have landed on battery phone cases to provide the dual benefit of extra power and device protection. However, compatibility with battery cases varies when it comes to wireless charging.
Because these cases are thicker than usual (due to the addition of a device to charge the battery), they can impede the electromagnetic field required for wireless charging, similar to other thicker, heavier-duty phone cases. That being said, some manufacturers have released battery cases that work perfectly with wireless charging.
3.2. Making The Case For MagSafe Chargers
Beyond concerns about wireless charging’s compatibility with phone cases, another issue users might encounter is ensuring their devices do not slip from the charging pad mid-charge. If you share this concern, you should consider getting MagSafe chargers if you utilise Apple gadgets. Here are several reasons for embracing MagSafe technology and investing in a MagSafe charger.
What is MagSafe?
MagSafe technology is a magnetic-based charging system developed by Apple for its MacBook series in 2006. Subsequently, this feature was retired in 2019 and then brought back in 2021 for its MacBook Pro models. The success has led Apple to integrate MagSafe technology into its iPhone models.
MagSafe involves the integration of magnets into the back of the device and the use of specially designed MagSafe accessories, including chargers. The magnets align the charger with the device, ensuring a secure connection and enabling a range of convenient features. MagSafe will only attach to other compatible MagSafe accessories. So you do not need to worry about other magnets interfering or getting stuck to your phone.
Benefits of MagSafe chargers
Benefit #1: Reduce clutter
Like conventional wireless chargers, MagSafe chargers eliminate the need for charging cables and adapters, resulting in a clutter-free charging environment and saving you the headache of cable damage and misplacement of adapters.
Benefit #2: Portability
Some MagSafe chargers are designed with portability in mind, offering users convenience with their compact size and lightweight construction. The magnetic connection also ensures a secure attachment, reducing the risk of accidental disconnections with the charger and making it ideal for on-the-go charging. Whether you are on a business trip or enjoying a vacation, you can easily slip a MagSafe portable charger into your bag or pocket, ensuring that you always have a reliable charging solution at hand.
Benefit #3: Fast charging
MagSafe chargers offer higher power delivery, supporting fast wireless charging up to 15W and enabling you to charge your device quickly. This feature is especially beneficial when your phone is running on empty and you need to charge it in a hurry.
Benefit #4: Stable charging
With a MagSafe charger, you never have to worry about accidental movements or vibrations interrupting your wireless charging. The magnets will ensure proper alignment between the charger and the device, thus providing a consistent and reliable charging experience.
Benefit #5: Ease of use
Like conventional wireless chargers, MagSafe chargers offer a user-friendly experience that's made even simpler by removing the need for precise positioning and alignment. for precise alignment. The intuitive design will ensure a seamless connection every time.
PART 4 – FAQs ABOUT WIRELESS CHARGING
We hope what we shared has allowed you to better understand the science behind wireless charging and how this technology can benefit you. Nevertheless, we understand you might have several queries that might not be covered by our comprehensive guide. That is why we have compiled a list of questions we frequently receive from our customers and our responses in the hopes that this FAQ can clarify any remaining queries you have about wireless charging.
Question #1: Is wireless charging safe?
It is understandable that you might have reservations about whether the technology is safe for humans when using a new or unfamiliar device. However, rest assured that wireless charging is absolutely safe. The electromagnetic field produced is not powerful enough to have an effect on the user. It is also safe for your phone, as wireless charging will not affect its battery any differently than wired charging.
Question #2: My phone is compatible with wireless charging. So why is my wireless charger not working?
An interference with the connection between your phone and the wireless charger is often the most likely explanation for why your device is not charging. The most likely culprits for this disruption are magnets, ring grips, or thick cases. However, if the charger is still not functioning after the obstruction is removed, please consult the service provider from whom you purchased the wireless charger.
Question #3: Which is faster? Wired or wireless chargers?
At the end of the day, the charging speed boils down to the amount of energy delivered to the phone, which depends on the type and power rating of the adapter and the capabilities of your phone. For example, a 15W charger (wired or wireless) will charge your phone faster than a 5W charger. Of course, it also depends on the amount of power your phone can handle.
Question #4: How do I know if my device is charging?
Once you have placed your phone on the charging pad, you should see a charging (LED) light appearing on the device or the charging symbol flashing on the screen. Most wireless chargers will also have an LED light to indicate that your gadget is charging successfully.
Question #5: My phone is not compatible with wireless charging. Can I still use a wireless charger?
No. The only way to wirelessly charge a phone that does not have wireless charging capabilities is to purchase an adapter that supports wireless charging.
PART 5 – CONCLUSION
With more and more manufacturers including Qi charging in their devices and associated peripherals, wireless charging definitely seems like a simple solution to enhance and make your charging experience extra seamless. Fortunately, you do not have to search far to locate your ideal wireless charger. At Energea, we carry a broad range of wireless chargers to meet every tech enthusiast’s needs. Visit our website today to browse our product catalogue.
