Anker Introduces Affordable Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Chargers for iPhone Users
Anker, a leading consumer electronics brand, has unveiled its latest lineup of Qi2 magnetic wireless chargers, providing an affordable alternative for iPhone users. These new chargers offer the same charging speed as certified MagSafe chargers but at a lower price point.
For Android users and mixed-platform households, however, the appeal of the Qi2 chargers is somewhat limited. While the charging speed for non-certified devices on the Qi2 platform is slower compared to regular Qi charging, it still offers compatibility and the potential for future parity with Android and iPhone devices.
The Anker Qi2 lineup consists of three devices: the MagGo Wireless Charging Station (Foldable 3-in-1), the MagGo Power Bank with a 6,600mAh capacity, and the MagGo Magnetic Charging Station (8-in-1), also known as the Orb. Priced at $109.99, $69.99, and $99.99 respectively, all three devices charge at the expected rate and are more affordable than MagSafe-certified chargers.
Qi2 (Qi v2.0 MPP) is a new magnetic wireless charging standard that draws inspiration from Apple’s MagSafe technology. Administered by the Wireless Power Consortium, Qi2 chargers do not require special Apple hardware or MFi certification, making them less expensive to produce compared to MagSafe-certified chargers.
Anker’s MagGo Power Bank, despite being bulkier than expected for its 6,600mAh capacity, offers a robust hinge, fast charging speed, and passthrough charging capability. Moreover, the MagGo Wireless Charging Station (Foldable 3-in-1) features a similar design to the power bank, including a foldable Apple Watch puck. The charging stand also supports various angles and includes a 5W Qi charger inside.
The Orb, Anker’s eight-in-one charger, is equipped with Qi2 charging (15W), four USB ports, and three AC outlets, providing an impressive total power output of up to 67W.
Furthermore, Anker offers additional Qi2 chargers, including a wireless charger pad, a 10,000mAh power bank with a kickstand and LCD display, a three-in-one charging stand, and a three-in-one charging pad with pop-up Qi2 and Apple Watch chargers.
During testing, Qi2 chargers have demonstrated charging rates of up to 15W for Qi2-certified iPhones and up to 7.5W for non-certified iPhones (before updating to iOS 17.2). On the other hand, Qi v1 devices charge at a maximum rate of 5W when paired with Qi2 chargers.
The appeal of the Qi2 chargers for iPhone users lies in the ability to achieve MagSafe charge rates at a lower cost compared to official MagSafe-certified chargers. Anker’s Qi2 chargers offer a wider range of options and are priced more affordably than their MagSafe counterparts.
With the introduction of Anker’s Qi2 chargers, iPhone users now have a more economical choice without sacrificing the convenience of high-speed wireless charging.
“Zombie enthusiast. Subtly charming travel practitioner. Webaholic. Internet expert.”