With the release of new iPhone models, knowing which charger to use to optimize the charging of your device is becoming a headache. Between the recent change of port to USB-C, the adapter not supplied in the box, wireless charging or even the number of Watts required for fast charging, you can quickly get lost. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the right charger, whether wired or wireless, depending on your iPhone model.
Wired charger: which cable for which iPhone?
First of all, the choice of wired charger depends on the model of your iPhone and the type of compatible cable. Over the generations, Apple has gradually introduced different cables and connectors.
From iPhone 15 to iPhone 16
What hardware for the iPhone 15 and 16?
- USB-C adapter
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- 27 W max pour l’iPhone 15
- 45 W max pour l’iPhone 16
The most recent change came in 2023 with the iPhone 15. Indeed, the most recent models, namely the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16, abandoned the Lightning port in favor of a USB-C port . This transition to USB-C, already used on MacBooks and iPads, has several advantages, including expanded compatibility with other devices.
Our recommendation for the iPhone 16
The fast charging of the iPhone 16 goes up to 45 W, although the brand does not particularly highlight this feature. It should be borne in mind that such constant charging power can lead to premature battery wear in the long term. Apple could therefore favor fast charging up to a certain threshold, before gradually reducing the speed to preserve battery longevity.
With this adapter, you can enjoy the most optimized charging for the latest model and later, provided you use a sufficiently powerful USB-C cable. Anker’s 100W cable will work great with this adapter and should last a long time with its braided design.
Anker USB-C to USB-C braided cable // Source: Anker
Our recommendation for the iPhone 15
According to Apple, it is possible to charge up to 50% of the battery in approximately 30 minutes with a 20W USB-C power adapter, regardless of the iPhone 15 model. However, the model can record data. peaks up to 27 W so it is better to take wider.
The cable is also not supplied with this adapter, so you must also go to the Anker USB-C braided cable.
From iPhone 14 to iPhone 8
What hardware for iPhone 8 to 14?
- USB-C adapter
- Câble USB-C vers lightning
- 12 W max for iPhone 8 and X
- 15 W max pour l’iPhone 11
- 20 W max for iPhone 12 and 13
- 25 W max pour l’iPhone 14
If you have an iPhone 8, X, 11, 12, 13 or 14, you will need a Lightning to USB-C cable. These models continue to use the Lightning port, but they come with a USB-C to Lightning cable in the box from the 12th – for better compatibility with newer chargers. However, this is not the case for iPhone 8, X, 11 which come with Lightning to USB-A cables. These models are no longer up to date, especially if you want to benefit from faster charging on certain models.
Since yes, iPhones of the time can also benefit from relatively fast charging using the necessary accessories. Therefore, it is essential to purchase an MFI certified USB-C to Lightning cable combined with an adapter of 20W or more – although the charging speed remains limited by the capacity of the device.
Our recommendation for iPhone 14 or earlier :
For these models, Anker’s 511 (Nano 3) charger is still a solid option to get the most out of the fast charging of these devices.
However, you must have an MFi certified lightning cable to get the most out of it. The braided reference from Anker will do the job perfectly.
Anker USB C to Lightning braided cable // Source: Anker
Which wireless charger to choose for your iPhone?
What wireless hardware for iPhones?
- Standards Qi to Qi2
- 7.5 W max for iPhone 8 to 11
- 15 W max for iPhone 12 to 15
- 25 W max pour l’iPhone 16
Since the iPhone 8 it has been possible to recharge your iPhone without even using the port. Charging works by induction and is generally slower than wired. To charge your iPhone wirelessly, choose a station compatible with the Qi 2.0 standard. This is the standard used by Apple since the iPhone 12, which guarantees secure and stable charging.
Our recommendation for iPhone 16 or later
Apple’s MagSafe accessory is currently the most expensive, but the only one capable of providing fast induction charging for more recent models up to 25W.
Our recommendation for iPhone 12 to iPhone 15 :
A 15 W charger is more than sufficient for these generations of iPhone as they are compatible with the Qi 2 standard. In fact, these models do not need high charging power to function optimally. Additionally, opting for a 15W charger saves some money, as it is generally less expensive than the MagSafe charger. With this in mind, the Anker MagGo charger is a very good alternative designed for fast charging at 15 W from the iPhone 12. Previous models can also benefit from it, but remain very limited by the maximum 7.5 W and do not will not benefit from the magnet – so you might as well switch to wired in this case.
In addition to magnetic wired chargers, wireless charging can be done via a dedicated station. This option is generally quite discreet and fits quite well into interiors. In this case, the Belkin BoostCharge Pro station is a very good choice to consider.
Which charger to choose? Everything you need to know
What is PD 3.0 and PD 3.1 (Power Delivery) ?
Power Delivery (PD) is a charging technology that adapts power according to the needs of your device. The PD 3.0 version can deliver up to 100 watts, which is enough to charge devices like smartphones, tablets and even some laptops. The PD 3.1 version, for its part, goes up to 240 watts, which is ideal for large devices such as monitors or powerful laptops. However, for an iPhone, version 3.0 is already more than sufficient.
What are MFi cables used for?
The MFi (Made for iPhone) certification is an Apple guarantee which ensures that the lightning cable tip was supplied by the brand. Cala ensures perfect compatibility with the iPhone, but also control of third-party accessories by the brand. An MFi accessory will not overheat, cause unexpected outages or damage your battery in the long term. If you use an uncertified accessory, you may encounter error messages and, above all, you expose your device to the risk of overheating or damage.
How to store your iPhone charger?
To preserve your charger and prevent it from getting tangled or damaged, carefully wrap the cable and use suitable ties or clips. Avoid bending the cable at the connectors, as these points are the most fragile. If you carry your charger often, opt for a dedicated pouch to avoid friction and twisting.
Can you charge your iPhone with your iPad or Mac charger?
Yes, and it is even recommended in certain cases. iPad or MacBook chargers typically deliver more power, which can charge your iPhone faster, especially if it’s fast charging compatible. For example, a 30W MacBook charger works perfectly with an iPhone 15 and allows you to benefit from fast charging without harming the battery.
Why does Apple no longer include adapters in the box of new iPhones?
Apple has removed power adapters from iPhone boxes since the 12th generation for environmental reasons. The aim is to reduce electronic waste, as many users already have a charger at home. This also makes it possible to reduce the size of boxes and optimize logistics. However, this decision is sometimes criticized, as users must purchase a charger separately if they do not already own a compatible model.
What is MagSafe wireless charging for iPhone?
MagSafe charging is a technology developed by Apple that improves wireless charging by adding a system of magnets to the back of the iPhone. This allows the charger to be perfectly aligned with the device to further optimize charging. Magsafe has been standardized by the Qi consortium with the Qi 2.0 standard which can reach up to 15W. Apple outbid with charging up to 25W on the iPhone 16 with its Magsafe adapter.
