Even though smartphones are an integral part of our lives, keeping them charged can be a real drag. Luckily, wireless chargers are here as a convenient, easy way to charge your phone without the annoyance of wires and cables. But is there any danger in leaving your wireless charger plugged in for extended periods?
There’s no harm in leaving your wireless charger plugged in because it typically doesn’t use any power when there is no device charging. In fact, when your phone is fully charged, the wireless charger will automatically turn off to avoid trickle-charging the phone unnecessarily.
Let’s take a more comprehensive look at the pros and cons of leaving your wireless charger on or off. We’ll also highlight whether wireless charges are better than wired ones, and we’ll take a look at some of the best wireless chargers worth spending your money on. Let’s get started!
Can You Leave Your Wireless Charger Plugged In?
This is because wireless chargers don’t transmit power if there’s no device on the charging pad. Wireless chargers also produce more heat when charging rather than when idle. So, they are relatively safe to leave plugged in.
The best part is that wireless chargers have built-in features that detect when your phone or tablet has fully charged. Once this happens, they automatically shut off, ensuring you don’t damage your device by keeping it plugged in longer than necessary — or risk burning down your house.
You should note, however, that some manufacturers recommend unplugging your wireless charger when it’s not in use. They suggest that the continuous passage of current may reduce its lifespan.
Also, if a metal object lands on the pad, there may be a fire risk. That said, the chargers do come with Foreign Object Detection (FOD) technology.
In a nutshell, you can leave your wireless charger plugged in without worrying about damaging anything or starting an electrical fire. But to reduce associated risks, it can’t hurt to unplug it when not in use.
Are Wireless Charges Better Than Wired Chargers?
There’s no doubt that wireless chargers are more convenient than wired chargers. You don’t have to worry about losing the charger or damaging it when in use, as is common with charging cables.
Even though wireless chargers are more expensive than wired ones, they offer more value and are therefore more cost-effective in the long run.
Despite these advantages, there are instances where wired chargers are better. For instance, if you’re short on time, wireless chargers may not be the best option because they charge slower.
They’re also less ideal if you’re trying to use your phone while it charges; trying to operate the phone while it’s on the wireless pad can be pretty tough.
Ultimately, while both types of chargers are great, it all boils down to convenience and your specific needs. Each kind of charger has its distinct benefits and drawbacks, and you should make your decision based on which type of charger meets your needs best.
Leaving Your Phone on the Charger All Day
What happens when you accidentally leave your phone on the wireless charger for long periods of time? The most important thing to remember is that your phone isn’t going to explode. It will not catch fire and leave you with a smoky, charred mess in place of your beloved device.
While you can leave your phone to charge all night there are a few things worth noting:
- Leaving your phone to charge for extended periods may cause damage over time (heat generation) and reduce battery life.
- Some people have reported issues with charging while using their devices because they’re using low-quality pads, outdated chargers, or cables that aren’t compatible with newer products.
- Try to keep your phone charged between 50 and 80%. If you keep it higher or lower, it will affect the battery’s lifespan in the long run.
- Always close apps when they’re not in use instead of leaving them running in the background.
Best Wireless Chargers
If you’re thinking of purchasing a wireless charger to complement or replace your wired one, here are the best options:
Nanami Fast Wireless Charger
The Nanami Fast Wireless Charger (on Amazon) is at the top of the list because of its power output, dimensions, and weight. This charger is relatively lightweight, coming in at 0.74 ounces, and measures 5.3 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches with a power output of 10W.
It’s ideal for small devices, comes at a great price, is safe, and is sleep-friendly. Additionally, it supports Samsung phones and 7.5W iPhones, although you will need an adapter for faster charging speeds.
Anker PowerWave Charger
If you need a case-friendly charger with an internal cooling feature, the Anker PowerWave Charger (on Amazon) is a must-have. It weighs just 5 ounces and has a relatively small size of 4.3 x 4.3 x 0.7 inches — ideal even if you have limited space.
It doesn’t overheat thanks to the cooling fan, and it comes with a one-and-a-half-year warranty. This charger can also charge up to 7.5W for iPhones and 10W for Android phones.
Belkin 3-in-1 wireless charger
The Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger (on Amazon) is one of the best wireless chargers available as it can charge iPods, iPhones, and Apple Watches simultaneously.
It is shaped as a stand to support the three devices, and it can charge devices with cases up to 3mm thick. It also comes with a sleep-mode system and a two-year guarantee.