How Do Contactless Chargers Work?

Wireless charging feels like magic—just place your phone down and it starts charging. No plugging in. No fumbling with cables. But once the novelty wears off, the questions usually begin. How do contactless chargers work? Is it actually safe for your phone? Does it charge slower than a regular cable?

These are the kinds of questions we often hear at Anker, especially from people who've just upgraded to a newer model or want to simplify their setup. If you're curious about contactless chargers, this guide walks you through everything. And if you're shopping around, we'll also highlight a few products that work well in everyday life, not just on paper.

 

Alt: How do contactless chargers work

What Is A Wireless Charger?

A wireless—or contactless—charger uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from a charging pad to your device—no cord between them. It relies on a principle called inductive charging, which means power is sent wirelessly between coils inside the charger and the phone. You still plug the charging pad into an outlet, but your device doesn't need to connect directly with a cable.

Some newer ones, like MagSafe for iPhones, also add magnets for better alignment and efficiency.

Types of Wireless Charging Technologies and How They Work

So, how do wireless chargers work? There are a few different kinds of wireless charging technologies, but let's start with the one you're most likely using.

Qi Wireless Charging (Used in Most Phones)

Qi uses inductive charging. Inside the charging pad is a coil of wire. Inside your phone is another coil. When these coils are close together (usually within a few millimetres), an electromagnetic field forms between them.

That field creates a current in the phone's coil, which then gets converted into power to charge the battery.

This is the standard method for most consumer electronics today. It's used in:

-Apple iPhones (iPhone 8 and up)

-Samsung Galaxy phones

-Google Pixel models

-Other Android Devices like OnePlus, Xiaomi, Huawei, LG, Motorola, Oppo, and Realme in various recent models.

-Wireless earbuds like AirPods and Galaxy Buds

According to the Wireless Power Consortium, over 500 million Qi-certified devices are now in circulation.

Magnetic Wireless Charging (e.g., MagSafe)

Magnetic wireless chargers, like Apple's MagSafe, take Qi charging a step further. They use magnetic rings in both the phone and charger to line up the coils perfectly.

This gives you:

Faster, more consistent charging

Less heat from poor alignment

The ability to use your phone while it charges (since it snaps on securely)

So how do magnetic chargers work? The charging method is still inductive, but magnets help guide your phone into the ideal position. With proper alignment, charging is smoother and a bit more efficient—up to 15W, compared to 7.5W on regular Qi chargers.

Alt: Magnetic wireless charging

Resonant Wireless Charging (Less Common)

Some high-end or experimental setups use resonant inductive coupling, which allows a bit more freedom between the charger and device. Instead of needing close contact, you can be a few centimetres away—though efficiency drops, and this tech isn't widely used in phones yet.

Still, it's an area to watch as the tech continues to evolve.

Advantages and Limitations of Wireless Charging

So, now that you know how wireless charging works, should you use it daily? Here's a quick look at what it's great for—and what to keep in mind.

What Wireless Charging Does Well

Tidy and Convenient: No more tangled cables or worn-out connectors.

Works While You Sleep: Place it on your nightstand and let it do its thing.

Perfect for Multi-Device Charging: Some pads charge your phone, earbuds, and smartwatch at once.

Safer Connectors: No wear on your phone's charging port over time.

What It Doesn't Do (Yet)

Charging is Slower: Most wireless chargers power your phone at 7.5W–15W. Wired fast charging can go well above 30W or even 100W in premium models.

Positioning Matters: If your phone isn't lined up right, charging may stop or heat up. That's where magnetic models shine.

Less Efficient: Wired charging transfers about 95–98% of power. Wireless chargers average around 70–80%. More energy is lost as heat.

May Not Work With All Cases: Thick cases or metal components can block the charge.

Still, for many people, the trade-off is worth it. Especially for overnight charging or office desks where convenience matters more than speed.

Is Wireless Charging Right for You?

Wireless charging is an excellent choice if you prefer a cleaner, more convenient way to power up your devices, especially when charging overnight or while working. With no need for cables, it's perfect for creating a minimalist charging setup at home, at work, or in your car. Plus, if you have multiple devices that support wireless charging—like your phone, earbuds, and smartwatch—a multi-device pad can make charging all your gadgets effortless.

However, if you rely on fast charging or often need to top up during the day, wireless charging might not be the best fit. It typically charges slower than wired options, so you may not get a quick power boost when needed. If you use your phone while charging, a cable might still be more practical as it provides a direct connection. Additionally, if your device doesn't support Qi wireless charging, you might prefer sticking with cables.

Our team at Anker often recommends wireless charging for people who like a tidy setup and charge mostly while stationary. If you prefer an all-in-one solution, the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1, Foldable Pad) offers a compact, foldable design that accommodates a phone, earbuds, and even a smartwatch. Its sleek and versatile nature makes it perfect for nightstands or workspaces.

Alt: Anker maggo 3in1 foldable wireless charging station with a compact design, featuring a phone, earbuds, and apple watch charger

For individuals seeking a more portable option that still packs a punch, the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (Foldable 3-in-1) is an excellent choice. This station is easy to fold and carry, making it a great travel companion. It combines convenience and efficiency by supporting multiple devices at once, all in a single foldable unit, which is perfect for users who need to keep their devices powered while on the move.

Alt: Anker maggo wireless charging station 3in1 including a charging pad apple watch charger and power adapter

However, if you're looking for something even more versatile, the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe is an option that goes beyond typical charging stations. This cube design combines the charging capability for your phone, AirPods, and Apple Watch into one compact device. With MagSafe compatibility, it ensures fast and reliable charging for all your Apple devices. Whether at home, in the office, or on the go, this cube is a great choice for those who need a functional, space-saving solution for charging.

Alt: Anker 3 in 1 cube with magsafe compact charging station with USB c adapter

Conclusion

So, how do contactless chargers work? Through simple but smart tech—coils, magnets, and electromagnetic fields. It may feel like magic, but it's well-tested and built into millions of devices already.

At Anker, we design wireless chargers that make everyday charging easier—whether you're setting one on your nightstand, work desk, or dashboard. If you're looking for a cleaner setup with less fuss and solid performance, wireless charging could be the upgrade you didn't know you needed.

FAQs

How do touchless phone chargers work?

Touchless phone chargers, also known as wireless chargers, use electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from a charging pad to your phone. The pad creates an alternating magnetic field, which a coil inside the phone converts back into electrical energy to charge the device. This process eliminates the need for physical connectors, offering more convenience.

What is the disadvantage of wireless charging?

The main disadvantage of wireless charging is slower charging speeds compared to wired options. Wireless charging can also generate more heat, which may impact efficiency and battery life. Additionally, the device must be placed correctly on the charging pad, and some chargers are more expensive than traditional wired chargers, making them less accessible.

Are contactless chargers safe?

Yes, contactless chargers are generally safe. They use low electromagnetic fields to transfer energy, which are regulated to ensure they do not interfere with electronics or cause harm. However, it's important to use chargers from reputable brands, avoid overcharging, and ensure proper cooling to prevent overheating or potential damage to the device's battery.

Do you need a special case for wireless charging?

Typically, no special case is required for wireless charging, as most modern phones support wireless charging through standard cases. However, if your phone case is too thick or made of metal, it may interfere with the charging process. Opt for thin or non-metallic cases to ensure efficient energy transfer between the charger and the device.