Technology has allowed us to do many things we never thought possible, such as wirelessly charging devices. These chargers are incredibly convenient, especially in the fast-paced world. But one of the common questions that remains largely unanswered is whether you can plug the charger into a computer. So, is it possible, and can it work?
Even though you can plug a wireless charger into a computer, they can be tricky due to adaptability issues. If you have a wireless charger and want to use it with your computer, you will need an adapter that plugs into your USB port and is compatible with the wireless charger.
But this is not all. There are more aspects regarding connecting these chargers to a laptop’s USB. This post explores whether such a connection can charge your phone, the complications of plugging a wireless charger into a computer, and how wireless chargers work.
How do Wireless Chargers Work?
Wireless chargers like this simple Anker one (on Amazon), or the official Apple MagSafe Charger (also on Amazon) are a great way to charge your smartphone or tablet without having to plug anything into it. Here is how it works.
Generally, these chargers transmit power through an electromagnetic field to the charged device. The wireless charger has an internal coil that generates an alternating magnetic field.
This field extends outside the device and induces an electric current in a coiled wire in the receiving base of the battery-powered device. The current then flows through a resistor and charges the battery.
The Types of Chargers
This technology has two main types of chargers; inductive and resonant.
Inductive
It uses magnetic fields to transmit electricity through the air between two objects, such as a transmitter and receiver. These chargers must be touching each other to work correctly. If they are not in contact or there’s too much distance between them, it won’t charge your device correctly.
Resonant
It uses electromagnetic induction coils within one object, usually the charging base, to create alternating currents in another, typically your smartphone, which powers up its battery without having direct physical contact with anything else.
What do You Plug a Wireless Charger Into?
The three ways of plugging your wireless charger are USB, wall outlet, and laptop. You can use any of these methods according to your convenience.
Wall Outlet
This is the most common method of connecting your charger to a power source. For example, if you have an electric socket in your room, you can plug the charger into that socket and connect it with an adapter so it can charge your device wirelessly.
USB
It is a popular method if you have laptops or tablets. You must connect the charger to a power source through the USB port, and it will start charging your device.
Laptop
If you have a laptop with a USB port, you need to connect your wireless charger to the computer via a USB cable and place it on the wireless charging pad, which will start charging automatically.
However, it is a bit problematic, but if you have no other option, it will serve the purpose until you get an alternative.
Do Wireless Chargers Work with USB Ports on a Computer?
If you are looking to charge your phone wirelessly, you may be wondering if you can plug a wireless charger into a computer. The answer is yes. In fact, most wireless chargers work with USB ports on computers, but there is a caveat.
This is because there are some differences between the two types of chargers that you should keep in mind. For example, while some wireless chargers work with USB ports on computers, others won’t because they require more power than USB ports can provide.
While some wireless chargers only work with USB ports on computers and not other devices, others will work with any device with a USB port, including smartphones and tablets.
Ways to Use Wireless Chargers on Computers
Despite this challenge, there are a few tricks to navigate and still charge your device. However, it is not the best option but only a stop-gap measure until you find a wall socket. Here are your options:
Get an Adapter
As mentioned, wireless chargers can work with USB ports on your computer or laptop, but the process is not as simple as plugging it in and hoping for the best. You’ll need to ensure that your wireless charger comes with an adapter to be used with a USB port.
If you’re using an older computer or laptop or one without USB Type-C, you’ll need to buy an adapter that converts your charger’s micro USB cable into a USB Type-C port.
This adapter will let you plug in any charger with a micro USB cable, but it won’t work on more recent devices that have replaced their micro USB ports with USB Type-C ports.
To check if your computer has a USB-C port, look for the USB symbol on the side of the laptop or desktop. If there is no symbol, you should look for an HDMI port instead. If there is no HDMI port, then your computer probably doesn’t have USB-C capabilities.
Get a High Output Power Source
Additionally, wireless charging technology is changing rapidly, with fast charging being the latest advancement. Therefore, if you have this type of charger, you will need a power source that can dispense a higher power output. For instance, this external power bank from IDMIX (on Amazon) is designed specifically deliver a high power output rate, and will charge any device quickly, including via wireless charging methods.
Typically, these high-speed chargers also need a compatible wall adapter to work. Further, they won’t charge your phone if the power source is below the required minimum. For example, any new iPhone series needs a charger with an output of 7.5W, while Androids need 9W.
This means if you use a laptop or computer, your phone will not charge because the power source is weak and cannot sustain the charger’s need to fast charge your phone.