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As we wear and carry more and more wireless devices, making sure all of them are consistently charged can become an annoying chore, since some can hold a charge much longer than others. Having multiple USB ports can help somewhat, but since different devices need varying chargers, finding and untangling wires every time can be tedious and make your workspace look disheveled and messy.
That’s where a wireless charging station can come in to solve your charging problems. These all-in-one units are designed specifically as Apple device chargers — they can not only charge up everything at once, but also provide a clean and uncluttered look, while still allowing you to use and monitor your screened devices as they refuel.
It may seem obvious, but the more wireless power a station can push through, the faster a device can charge. The first generation of wireless power was about 5W, the second gen increased up to 18W, and Apple’s MagSafe charging pushes it up to 20W.
Qi (pronounced “chee”) technology is what allows devices to be charged wirelessly using inductive charging, which is used in everything from mobile devices to electric cars. It’s super convenient for phones especially, and satisfying to just drop a device on the wireless charging pad and know it’s juicing up. It’s become pretty standard across all smartphones, tablets and various devices (160 at last count), and is a safe bet for what the future of charging is going to look like.
For Apple watches on most of these units, it’ll still wirelessly charge, but you’ll need to thread the specific cable for it through the desired holes and around the back to reach its resting spot unless it’s already built-in. Another accessory that can make charging even speedier is a QC (Quick Charge) adapter to plug into a wall outlet. Not all charging stations come with one, but it can make a noticeable difference when you’re in a hurry to reach 100%.
With AirPods, charging is a bit different than the others, since there are two factors: both the pods themselves, as well as the case. Be aware that these charge at different speeds, and can usually be monitored on the screen of the device it’s paired to.
Whether you want a wireless charging station on your desk or at your bedside, it’s an easy way to keep all your daily mobile tech organized and refueling while you work, scroll, or sleep.
