Wireless vs Wired Chargers: Which One is Right For You?

If you could tell someone from the past about wireless chargers, they'd think it was science fiction. Finally, we could do away with annoying wires, enjoying the full benefits of a cable-free experience. Except: many people argue that wired chargers aren't far superior to their wireless counterparts. Some even say that certain types of chargers destroy your battery's lifespan.

But is any of this true? Below, we're settling the great wireless vs wired charger debate, pitting the two options against one another in a fact-based charged comparison. Read on to learn more.

Wireless Chargers

Wireless chargers are a landmark shift in the tech industry. Instead of dealing with cumbersome cables, you can place your smartphone, laptop, earbuds, or any other compatible device on a wireless charging pad, and it powers up.

The magic behind the mystery relies on the principle of electromagnetic induction. A transmitter coil inside the pad carries an electric current, which generates an electromagnetic field. This field induces an electric current in any proximal compatible device.

Pros of Wireless Chargers

Simple and Convenient. There's no denying that wireless chargers are more convenient. Just put your device on the pad or stand and watch as it charges.
Universally Compatible. Forget about packing the right charger cable for each device. Every compatible device can use a universal wireless standard.
No Costly Replacements. Cables eventually break – even the best ones. With a simple stand, you'll never need to buy a new set of cables.

Cons of Wireless Chargers

Energy Inefficiency. Electromagnetic induction is less efficient than wired chargers, increasing your electricity consumption.
Slower Charging Speeds. It's not just less efficient; it's slower, too. If you want to charge your device rapidly, then electromagnetic induction will always be slower.

Wired Chargers

Wired chargers are the current default option. It's simple: plug a charger into the wall and run the cable into your device. Most modern smartphones use a USB-C cable; however, other options are available, such as micro-USB and Lightning connectors.

It works by drawing power directly from the grid and feeding it into your device. There's no middleman or complicated physics – just straightforward currents and circuits.

Pros of Wired Chargers

Faster Charging Speed. Direct access to the battery is generally faster than wireless options, especially with rapid charging technologies like QuickCharge or VOOC.
Less Wasted Energy. Wired chargers waste minimal energy, directing every volt straight into the battery pack.
Generally Cheaper. Wired chargers are much cheaper to produce than other options. Higher prices usually result from a monopoly on a particular charger, not the charger itself.

Cons of Wired Chargers

Endless Wear and Tear. Cables break – again and again. The constant plugging and unplugging means that they need to be replaced every year or so.
Too Much Clutter. Cables are inconvenient and take up space. Not only do you have to remember them wherever you go, but they can make a mess of your home or workspace.

Charger Comparison: The Verdict

So, which one is right for you? Well, it really depends on your needs. Despite most concerns, wireless chargers aren't quite as inefficient or slow as some might expect. Some of the latest wireless charging stands reach truly impressive charging speeds. Indeed, for most consumers, wireless charging stands are the future – it's just too convenient to ignore.

That being said, for the moment, there remain a few use cases for wired chargers when speed or efficiency is paramount.

As technology advances, the performance gap is narrowing, making wireless chargers increasingly viable for more and more people. So, if you're looking for ease, aesthetics, and forward-thinking tech, wireless is the clear winner.