Apple released the iPhone 15, which features an improved Apple wireless charger. However, the question regarding which is better between wireless charging and wired charging remains.
The article below will discuss the various disadvantages and advantages of wireless and wired charging.
Apple Wired Charging Understanding
It’s safe to assume that everyone knows what a wired charger is. Most laptops, phones, and tablets have an adapter and cable that power the device.
A wired charger needs a physical connection between the device and the power source.
The connection process is simple; you only need to plug your power adapter into a source (such as a wall outlet or socket).
Then, connect one end of the cable to your adapter and the other to your device. Electricity then passes from the socket to your device via your cable.
Over the years, wired charging has undergone significant changes, introducing over 14 USB types.
However, the most commonly used USB types are the Apple lightning cable and the Pixel or Samsung USB-C.
Apple Lightning Charger
In 2012, Apple introduced lightning technology to sync and charge their devices. To identify a lightning cable, you’ll notice an 8-pin connector at the end of the cable.
Lightning cables have reverse and compact chargers for iPads, iPhones, and MacBooks. Compared to USB-C cables, lightning cables are slower.
They offer transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps and power output of about 20 Watts. However, lightning cables can still power an iPhone from 0% to 50% in under 30 minutes.
Their reliable performance, durability, and size have made lightning cables popular. However their exclusivity to only Apple products is a major drawback.
A lightning Cable
Apple Wireless Charging Understanding
Wireless charging enables someone to charge their device by simply placing them on top of a charging station.
There are no cables involved to charge the device. Although as early as in the 19th century, Nikola Tesla demonstrated such a technology, it has just become commercially available over the last decade.
With the technology gaining popularity thanks to its convenience, many devices have begun featuring wireless charging.
Although wired charging is still the dominant method of powering devices, major manufacturers continue to come up with new wireless chargers that integrate with the needs of the user.
Wireless charging functions through inductive charging. Once you place your device on the charging platform, the station functions as a transmitter to create an electromagnetic field with the receiver.
There’s a small coil in charge of producing current and powering the battery. Most wireless chargers depend on two different charging types: MagSafe and Qi standard.
Qi non-contact charging system
Apple MagSafe Charging
MagSafe, first introduced by Apple in the 2016 MacBook Pro, is a magnetic charging capability built into iPhone series 12 – 15.
Its design uses open standard Qi technology, which functions similarly to Google and Android wireless chargers.
In addition, the charger provides power to your device via a series of magnets encircling the coil inside your device, providing a precise and secure connection between your device and the charger.
MagSafe provides a reliable and stable charge without untangling any cables or plugging in your device.
Also, it can be easily connected to various accessories such as car mounts, battery packs, and wallets.
Some other key advantages of the MagSafe are fast charging and the ability to use your phone while charging it.
However, its major disadvantage is that non-Apple devices like the Samsung S23 aren’t compatible.
Apple Wired Charger vs Apple Wireless Charger: Which is Better
Both wireless and wired chargers present their disadvantages and advantages.
Speed and Efficiency
Charging speed and efficiency are especially important if you rush to leave your home.
Wired chargers are quicker, and the charging capabilities always improve with every new model.
Since there’s a direct connection between your device and the power source, you can expect to fully charge your phone in roughly 1 hour.
However, wireless charging takes longer to fully charge a device. The small size of the copper coils allows them to produce a weak magnetic field, thus losing energy via transmission.
Most people charge their devices via wireless charging at night because there’s enough time to fully charge.
Furthermore, it’s way easier to place your phone on the wireless charger than having to manually plug in your phone to your charger in the dark.
Portability and Convenience
A wired charger grounds your phone to a stationary position while charging. Although you can still use your phone as it charges, there’s limited movement.
You must be careful not to damage your cable when stretching or tangling it. Also, the frequent connecting and disconnecting eventually tears and wears your charger, forcing you to buy several replacements over your phone’s lifetime.
However, wired chargers are perfect for when you’re on the move because all you need to carry is your cable and locate a power source.
Countless coffee shops, libraries, and colleges are equipped with USB outlets. Therefore, you don’t even have to bring your adapter.
Furthermore, with a wired charger, you can give your phone a boost in the car by connecting the cable to a USB port.
On the other hand, wireless chargers give you full access to your device at any angle or time without having to plug in anything.
The majority of wireless technologies comply with the Qi standard, therefore enabling you to charge all your devices using one station.
However, you can’t use your device as it charges, but you can easily pick it up or put it down to charge without worrying about damaging your cable.
Wireless charging stations are normally pads or stands heavier than a simple cable.
Although they eliminate the cable clutter in your house, they’re fragile and difficult to carry with you on the go.
Reliability and Safety
Both wired and wireless charging techniques are generally reliable and safe.
However, with time, due to frequent plugging and unplugging, wired chargers wear out, resulting in exposed wires and unsafe connections. Also, the cables lying around your house are a potential tripping hazard.
Whether MagSafe or Qi, wireless charging stations minimize the risk of causing electrical shock or tripping you.
They generate increased heat during extensive use, but safety measures prevent your device from overheating.
Apple Wireless Charger: Appearance
With the wired charger, a few cables lying around are enough to make the table look untidy.
Apple Wireless Charger: Price
Wired chargers are significantly cheaper than wireless chargers, as a wireless charger could cost up to twice the price of a regular charger.
Charging Cables Tangled on a Table
Conclusion
Therefore, your final decision should be based on your needs and preferences. Cables are still the go-to choice for quick charging and portability.
On the other hand, wireless chargers are a great choice if you’re looking to reduce the clutter of cables and prioritize convenience.
To enjoy the best user experience, integrate both charging methods.
For all your wired charger needs, feel free to contact Cloom Tech.