Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Let’s talk about something that’s become a ‘must-have’ for our cars: wireless chargers. No more tangled cords or phones dying in the middle of the drive from Vancouver to Whistler, right? Whether you’re looking for a wireless car charger for iPhone or Android, we’ve rounded up some of the best options out there. We’re highlighting their features, their pros, and cons, plus a few tips on picking the right one for your ride.
Best Wireless Car Chargers – Everything to know before buying
Charging Speed: Charging speed is crucial, especially if you often take short trips. Wireless chargers typically offer speeds ranging from 5W to 15W. The faster the charging speed, the quicker your phone will be ready for use. In colder climates, charging efficiency can decrease. Opt for a charger that maintains consistent performance in varying temperatures, a feature often noted in product reviews.
Mount Type: Consider which mount type makes the most sense for you and your vehicle. A dashboard/windshield mount offers flexible placement options and are generally more secure. They’re ideal if you prefer your phone to be in your line of sight for navigation. Vent mounts keep your phone within easy reach without obstructing your view. However, they may not be suitable for all car models, especially in extreme weather conditions where blocking the vent could affect your car’s heating or cooling. There are also ones that are automatic clamping. Whichever type you choose, also consider the durability of the mount’s suction or clip, considering that in winter the cold can affect the adhesive strength of suction cups.
Phone Compatibility: Ensure the charger is compatible with your specific phone model. While most wireless chargers use Qi technology and work with a wide range of devices, some are optimized for specific brands or models, like MagSafe chargers for iPhones.
Ease of Use: Look for features like automatic clamping or one-touch mechanisms that make it easy to mount and remove your phone, especially while on the go. It’s not just about convenience — they also enhance safety by allowing you to focus on driving and less on fumbling around with your phone. Canada’s strict distracted driving laws mean ease of use is a critical function.
One more thing… While wireless charging is super convenient, it’s not as energy-efficient as good old cables. If you’re big on being green, look for chargers made from recycled materials to help reduce environmental impact.
iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2
This wireless charger supports fast charging up to 10W and sticks to your dashboard or windshield like its got superglue. The one-touch system makes it a breeze to pop your phone in and out. It’s sturdy, works with most smartphones, and won’t let you down. Just watch out for the suction cup in those brutal Canadian winters — it might get a bit finicky.
Where to buy: iOttie | Walmart | BestBuy
Anker PowerWave Wireless Car Charger
Anker’s known for making solid stuff, and this charger’s no exception. It’ll charge through cases up to 5mm thick and comes with options to mount on your dashboard, windshield, or air vent. It’ll give iPhones 7.5W and Android phones 10W of juice. The downside? The air vent mount might not fit all cars, and it can get a bit warm.
Mpow Wireless Car Charger Mount
This fancy gadget’s got a motorized clamp that grabs your phone automatically and lets you spin it 360 degrees. It’s got some smart features to stop your phone from overheating or overcharging, too. The auto-clamping is cool, but it’s a bit slower than doing it yourself, and it’s not exactly sleek. However, if you’re all about ease of use and safety features, Mpow makes a lot of sense.
Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Vent Mount
If you want to keep your dashboard clear, this Belkin charger clips right onto your air vent. It’ll hold your phone tight even on those bumpy backroads and works with any Qi-enabled phone. The catch? It only works on vents and might block your air flow. But if you want something compact and out of the way, this is your best bet.
Where to buy: Belkin | Amazon — you can also grab one at Best Buy, The Source, or Belkin’s Canadian site.
ESR HaloLock Magnetic Wireless Car Charger
Got a newer iPhone? This one’s for you. The ESR HaloLock uses some serious magnets to keep your phone perfectly aligned and charges at a zippy 15W. It clips onto your air vent and is super easy to use one-handed. The downside? It’s only for MagSafe iPhones and it’s a bit pricier. If you’re an iPhone fan looking for a slick charging experience, we recommend the HaloLock.
Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on Instagram ,Facebook and X to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.