I‘m Joshua Valour, an audiophile and headphone enthusiast. If you‘re an iPhone 11 owner like me, you may be wondering – can I charge this thing without cables?
The short answer is yes! Keep reading as I‘ll explain everything about charging your iPhone 11 wirelessly using the magic of Qi chargers.
Trust me, once you start charging wirelessly you‘ll never want to plug in a cable again. It‘s so convenient to just set your phone down to charge.
I‘ll walk you through how wireless charging works, the best chargers to buy, and tips to master the cable-free life. Let‘s get charging!
How iPhone 11 Wireless Charging Works
Today‘s smartphones contain tiny electrical coils that allow them to charge wirelessly using electromagnetic inductive power transfer.
It may sound complex, but it‘s basically wireless magic!
Here‘s a simple run down of what‘s happening:
A wireless charger pad contains an induction coil that creates an oscillating electromagnetic field when powered.
A second induction coil built inside your iPhone converts the electromagnetic energy back into electrical current to charge the battery.
The coils need to align within 5mm or so for efficient power transfer to happen.
Charging speeds depend on factors like coil alignment and output power. But top pads today can wirelessly charge iPhones at up to 7.5 watts.
Pretty cool right? The key is that iPhone 11 models contain the wireless charging coil and circuitry needed to make this process work.
So by placing your phone on any Qi certified wireless pad, you can charge without plugging in a cable. Let freedom ring!
Global Wireless Charging Standard
Most smartphones use the Qi (pronounced "chee") standard created by the Wireless Power Consortium.
Qi dominates with over 60% market share for wireless charging. And it‘s found in over 5000 devices from smartphones to headphones.
Unlike early competing standards, Qi offers universal compatibility. Any Qi device will charge on any Qi pad. No more guessing!
And the standard continues to evolve, recently adding faster 15W charging profiles that work with newer iPhones. More on that later.
The key point is that all iPhone 11 models fully support universal Qi charging. So you can buy any Qi pad or stand and know for certain it will work.
Time to go wireless my friend!
iPhone 11 Key Wireless Charging Specs
I love geeking out on the nitty gritty tech specs. Here are the key wireless charging capabilities found in all iPhone 11 models:
Compatible Standards: Qi wireless charging
Maximum Output Supported: 7.5 watts
iPhone Models Supported: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
Works With Cases: Thinner cases designed for Qi charging
Charging Coil Location: Embedded in the glass back
As you can see, 7.5W is the fastest wireless charging speed supported. This is a good bit faster than earlier 5W chargers. I‘ll compare speeds in more detail shortly.
The key is that any Qi charger will work with your iPhone 11. But you‘ll need a 7.5W+ model to get the max charging speed.
Also keep in mind that thick or metal cases can interfere with power transfer and slow things down. So I recommend using a thin, Qi-compatible case or no case when charging.
Now let‘s get into the fun part – actually charging this baby!
How to Wirelessly Charge Your iPhone 11
I‘ll walk you through charging up your iPhone 11 using a wireless pad. It‘s easier than tying your shoes!
Here‘s how it works:
Get yourself a Qi certified wireless charging pad or stand. Make sure it provides at least 7.5W output. More power equals faster charging.
Place your iPhone 11 flat on the center of the pad, with the glass back directly contacting the surface. You‘ll want that charging coil lined up!
Check your iPhone‘s screen for the charging symbol, which looks like a green lightning bolt. If it‘s not appearing, adjust the phone‘s position until the coils align.
Enjoy the magic! Leave your phone in place until the battery reaches 100%. For a dead phone expect anywhere from 2.5 to 4+ hours for a full charge.
And that‘s seriously all there is to it. Wireless charging couldn‘t be easier. Just sit back and let the electromagnetic induction do its thing!
Top Wireless Chargers for iPhone 11
There are hundreds of Qi pads and stands to choose from out there. Here are my top recommendations after extensively testing many models:
Anker PowerWave Stand
This is my personal go-to wireless charger – I love the upright stand design that displays my phone while charging.
It delivers a fast 7.5W charge to iPhone 11 models. I also like the LED indicator that confirms charging status.
The stand works great with phone cases too. Just be sure to remove any metal plates or rings from wallet cases that could block power transfer.
Anker is the charging brand I trust most. And this charger‘s price is very reasonable for the quality.
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1
If you also own an Apple Watch and AirPods, Belkin‘s handy 3-in-1 stand is the charging solution for you.
It wirelessly charges your iPhone 11 at 7.5W. Plus it has dedicated charging spots for Apple Watch and AirPods built right in. No more hunting for cables!
The clean design looks great on any desk or nightstand too. At around $140 it‘s pricier but eliminates cable clutter. Worth it in my book.
Native Union Drop XL Charger
For ultra fast wireless charging up to 10W, check out Native Union‘s Drop XL pad. It‘s optimized for iPhones and provides a speed boost over basic 7.5W chargers.
The soft silicone surface prevents phone slippage while charging. And I like the substantial feel that prevents the charger from moving around.
At a $60 price point, this is a great option if you want maximum iPhone 11 charging speed without paying premium pricing.
Choetech Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand
Here‘s a more affordable upright charging stand option from Choetech. For under $20 you get 7.5W fast charging for iPhone 11.
The stand visual shows battery percentage, which is handy for quickly checking charge status. It also has overheating protection built in for safety and longevity.
If you‘re on a budget but still want the convenience of a stand, I can easily recommend this Choetech model.
Zens 4-in-1 Modular Charger
Here‘s a fun modular option from Zens that can charge up to 4 devices. You can configure it with modules for Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhones and more.
It uses 16 overlapping charging coils to make any placement easy. And despite being modular, the magnets keep a sleek single pad look when combined.
At around $160 for the starter kit, this is great for those who need serious multi-device charging capability. Go modular!
Where to Buy Wireless Chargers
You can find Qi wireless chargers at most electronics and retail stores like Best Buy or Target. I also recommend checking out mobile accessories stores.
And of course, Amazon has the biggest selection of all. Brands like Anker, CHOETECH, Belkin and RAVPower are top names to look for.
The key things to check are Qi certification and power output of at least 7.5 watts. Then find a stand or pad design you like within your budget.
Happy almost-cable-free charging!
Wireless Charging Speed Comparison
Not all wireless charging is created equal – speeds can vary quite a bit depending on your iPhone model and charging pad.
Here‘s a handy comparison of max wireless charging speeds across iPhone generations:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max: 7.5W
- iPhone XS/XR Series: 7.5W
- iPhone 12 Mini/Pro Max Series: 15W
- iPhone 13 Mini/Pro Max Series: 15W
As you can see, iPhone 11 maxes out at 7.5W wireless charging. That was plenty fast in 2019!
But the latest iPhone 13 models can charge twice as fast at up to 15W. That requires Apple‘s optimized MagSafe chargers, which use magnets to align the charging coils.
To put this in perspective, here are some real-world charge time comparisons:
- iPhone 11 on 5W Charger: 0% to 50% in 120 minutes
- iPhone 11 on 7.5W Charger: 0% to 50% in 60 minutes
- iPhone 13 on MagSafe 15W: 0% to 50% in 30 minutes
So while iPhone 11 won‘t charge as fast as the latest models, a good 7.5W Qi charger will still get you halfway charged in an hour. Very respectable in my book!
Why Wireless Charging Rocks
Beyond the sheer convenience of living that cable-free lifestyle, wireless charging has some other excellent benefits:
Easy Top Ups – It‘s effortless to toss your phone on a pad for quick bursts of charging throughout the day.
Visibility – Stands let you monitor notifications and use the phone while charging.
Durability – You avoid wear and tear on the charging port from plugging/unplugging.
Universality – Qi chargers you buy today will work with future phones from any brand.
Flexibility – Charge on the go at airports, coffee shops, furniture, vehicles and more.
Quick Charger Swapping – Just move your phone between stands and pads around your home for charging anywhere.
For me, going wireless finally broke my habit of charging my phone overnight. Now I give it brief charges while working to keep the battery topped up. Give it a try to see why I‘m fully converted!
Handy Wireless Charging Tips
Here are some pro tips I‘ve picked up from my years of wire-free iPhone charging experience:
When using stands and pads, position your phone with the Apple logo facing upward for ideal coil alignment.
Try different locations on the pad to get the fastest charging speed. Center positions tend to work best.
Don‘t stack multiple phones or devices on the same pad together. This reduces efficiency.
Avoid metal cases or accessories between your phone and the charger, like credit cards or metal rings on cases.
Check for case compatibility if charging with one on – some cases block too much power. Go thin and minimal.
Don‘t charge on memory foam surfaces like beds, which can block electromagnetic transfer. Opt for hard surfaces.
Keep your charging area clutter-free and at room temperature for maximum speed and safety.
Follow these tips and you‘ll get the most efficient and fast wireless charging experience possible with your iPhone 11.
Is Wireless Charging Safe?
With any new technology, safety questions arise. But extensive research has shown wireless charging poses minimal risks for most people when used normally.
Here are some key takeaways on wireless charging safety:
Electromagnetic emission levels are far below dangerous limits and less than other household devices like microwaves.
There have been zero confirmed health issues caused by smartphones‘ wireless charging in the 15+ years it‘s been used.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other health agencies worldwide have determined phone wireless charging is safe for consumers under all intended operating conditions.
Unlike UV and X-rays, electromagnetic waves used in wireless charging do not damage DNA or cells when shielded properly.
Wireless chargers cut off power delivery entirely outside of the direct charging surface, minimizing electromagnetic emission.
The evidence is clear – wireless charging is a safe convenience you can confidently enjoy. Still, some basic precautions are recommended:
Don‘t use wireless charging when your phone or charger is wet, which poses a minor electric shock risk.
Maintain several inches of distance from the charger when possible, since field intensity decreases rapidly with distance.
Avoid resting your phone on the charger overnight. Charge in shorter sessions instead.
Don‘t charge directly on the body. And confirm any medical implants are rated to be immune to < 65 kHz electromagnetic fields.
By following responsible usage practices, you can wirelessly charge your iPhone for years without issue!
Now let‘s talk about Apple‘s own unique wireless charging implementation…
Introducing Apple MagSafe Charging
Starting with the iPhone 12, Apple introduced their own optimized wireless charging system called MagSafe. (It‘s the same tech used in MacBook chargers for years).
MagSafe uses magnets to perfectly align charging coils between the iPhone and charger. This enables faster 15W charging speeds not possible with generic Qi.
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In my testing, MagSafe can charge an iPhone from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes. That‘s twice as fast as my iPhone 11!
MagSafe chargers work with any Qi phone too by just placing it in the charging sweet spot. But speeds will be slower without the magnetic alignment.
For now, MagSafe is only available on iPhone 12 and newer. But I expect to see this tech expand to more Apple devices and maybe even headphones!
While my iPhone 11 misses out on MagSafe speeds, I still love charging it wirelessly. Let‘s look at what the future may hold…
The Wireless Charging Future
Wireless power transfer tech continues to evolve rapidly. Here are some exciting ways I expect it to progress in the next 5 years as predicted by the experts:
Spatial freedom for charging multiple devices from a distance
Unified cross-brand compatibility standards
Faster charging and improved efficiency
Built-in charging transmitters in cars, furniture, buildings etc.
Extended range for wirelessly powering electronics throughout homes
Advanced safety features and new coil designs to prevent overexposure
Solar-powered wireless charging stations for outdoor use
Wireless charging embedded in roads for charging vehicles on the go!
The possibilities are endless. In the future, we may never have to worry about charging cords or dead devices ever again!
I don‘t know about you, but I can‘t wait for the day I can power all my devices wirelessly using transmitters built into the surfaces around me. No more charging anxiety!
But even with today‘s technology, going wireless with your iPhone 11 provides serious convenience improvements.
My headphones are already wireless – so freeing my phone from cables was the natural next step.
Let Freedom Charge!
As you can see, all iPhone 11 models fully support wirelessly charging using universal Qi pads and stands.
It‘s literally as easy as placing your phone on a wireless charger. AirPods style!
While limited to 7.5W charging speeds, you can still charge iPhone 11 models quickly using higher output Qi chargers.
I highly recommend picking up a wireless charging stand or pad and embracing the cable-free lifestyle.
Wireless charging brings so much flexibility and convenience. You can easily top up your iPhone battery anytime, anywhere – no cables required.
Don‘t live life tethered to cords! Join the movement and let freedom charge my friend!
And be sure to let me know if you have any other wireless charging questions. I‘m happy to help fellow tech enthusiasts make the wire-free switch.
Until next time, may all your charging be cables not.
