Since Apple launched the MagSafe-enabled iPhone 12 model, accessory manufacturers have been coming up with various magnetic charging options designed to replace the standard Qi-based chargers available for the iPhone.
Belkin recently launched the Boost Charge Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger Pad, one of its more affordable charging options at $29. Magnetic charger pad is no Can’t charge at MagSafe and 15W. Like other such chargers, it is limited to 7.5W charging speed.
‘MagSafe’ is Apple technology so to get that 15W speed, you need to use hardware licensed from Apple. Belkin does this for its multi-charging option, but it’s more cost-effective not to use MagSafe.
At $39, Belkin’s charger costs the same as Apple’s MagSafe–charger, but at that price point includes a 6.6-foot charging cable and a 20W USB-C charger to power it. Along with MagSafe, the charger is sold separately and is another $19 if you don’t already have one. If you already have a 20W charger, you can get the Belkin charger for $29, $10 less than Apple’s MagSafe charger.
By design, Belkin’s charger is a small wireless charging pad that magnetically snaps onto the back of an iPhone–12 model. Like other magnetic chargers, the magnets help align it in the right place to charge, so even if you’re not getting 15W, you’re getting hassle-free alignment and optimal 7.5W charging.
The Belkin charger is made from a black or white plastic material that’s nothing special, although I appreciate the long cord as it’s ideal if you want to charge while using your iPhone at the same time. It comes with a cord wrap if you don’t need all the cords. The charger is thicker and slightly larger than a ‘MagSafe’ charger.
You can use it with any iPhone that charges with a Qi-based wireless charger, but it’s best suited for the iPhone 12 model because of the magnets.
I tested the charging speed on the Boost Charge Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger Pad and it’s about what I’d expect from any 7.5W charger. It’s not a charging speed that’s ideal if you need power in a hurry, but it’s just as effective as other Qi chargers for charging at night or during the day when your iPhone is on your desk.
bottom line
If you want 15W charging speed or already have a decent 20W+ charger for use with Apple’s MagSafe charger, I definitely recommend it. It’s smoother and faster than this charger from Belkin, and there’s no real reason to choose an inferior charger.
However, if you don’t have a 20W charger and you don’t need 15W charging speed because you’re going to use it overnight or in a trickle charge situation, then Belkin’s Boost Charge Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger Pad is perfectly adequate and worth checking out as an alternative option.
How to buy
The Boost Charge Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger Pad can be purchased from Belkin or Amazon for $30 without a charger and $40 with a 20W charger.
