WIRED tests over 100 wireless chargers to identify 2026 top picks
The publication’s updated guide highlights the shift to Qi2 25W standards and convenience-focused designs for phones, earbuds, and watches.
WIRED has published an updated buying guide for wireless chargers in May 2026, following extensive testing of more than 100 devices. The publication prioritises convenience and ease of use for phones, earbuds, and watches, acknowledging that wireless charging remains slower than wired alternatives. A key focus is the Qi2 standard, which supports charging speeds of up to 25 watts, a significant increase from the previous 15-watt limit.
The guide highlights specific products such as the Nomad MagSafe and Qi2 stand, Anker’s affordable pads, Spigen’s cooling stand, Belkin’s UltraCharge 2-in-1, and the Kew Labs UTS-2 under-surface charger. The article provides technical context on the Qi2 standard, noting charging speeds up to 25 watts and compatibility with devices such as the iPhone 17 range and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL.
The Nomad stand is noted for its ability to charge at up to 25 watts and its suitability for nightstands due to the lack of superfluous lights or sounds. It features a weighty mix of metal and glass with a ring of powerful magnets to hold phones in portrait or landscape orientation. The guide also highlights the Belkin UltraCharge 2-in-1, which is praised for including a 45-watt power adapter, described as offering incredible value.
For users seeking speed, the Xiaomi Mi 80-W Wireless Charging Stand is identified as the fastest tested charger, though it is primarily suitable for Xiaomi phones. In contrast, the Kew Labs UTS-2 is highlighted as a unique under-surface charger that mounts below non-metallic surfaces like nightstands or desks, offering a true wireless experience at the cost of slower charging speeds.
The publication also covers multi-device stations from Zens and Courant, car mounts from Pitaka, and niche designs from Peak Design, UGreen, and Twelve South. Technical advice on battery health and compatibility with magnetic cases is included, noting that while Qi2 is backward compatible, some older devices may charge at slower rates depending on their internal hardware.
