What Is the Difference Between a Power Bank and a Wireless Charger?
January 6, 2025
In today’s tech-driven world, keeping our devices powered is top priority. Whether you're navigating a busy workday or relaxing at home, having the right charging accessory can make all the difference. Two popular options are power banks and wireless chargers. But what’s the difference, and which one is right for you? This guide will explore their features, benefits and ideal use cases, helping you make the best choice depending on your needs.
What Is a Power Bank?
A power bank is a portable battery designed to charge your devices on the go. These compact gadgets store electrical energy that can be used to recharge your phone, tablet or other devices whenever you’re away from a power outlet.
Key Features:
- Capacity: Measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), with higher capacities able to charge devices multiple times.
- Ports: USB-A, USB-C and sometimes lightning connectors for versatility.
- Fast Charging: Many power banks now support technologies like Quick Charge or Power Delivery for rapid refueling.
- Magnetic Alignment: Some modern power banks offer magnetic attachment (e.g., MagSafe-compatible models), enabling wireless charging without needing cables.
Fun Trivia:
Did you know the largest power bank on record can hold over 500,000 mAh? That’s enough to charge a smartphone more than 100 times! Power banks are also a massive market, with sales expected to reach $25 billion globally by 2027.
What Is a Wireless Charger?
A wireless charger is a device that uses electromagnetic induction to charge your gadgets without having to plug in a cable. Most modern wireless chargers use the Qi standard, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Key Features:
- Ease of Use: Just place your phone or other compatible device on the charging pad or stand.
- Design Options: Pads, stands or multi-device docks for added convenience.
- Speed Variations: Depending on the wattage, some wireless chargers deliver faster charging than others.
Fun Trivia:
Wireless charging technology dates back to Nikola Tesla’s experiments with electromagnetic fields in the 1890s. Today, IKEA sells furniture with built-in wireless charging pads!
Magnetic Power Banks vs. Wireless Chargers:
Magnetic power banks bridge the gap between traditional power banks and wireless chargers. They combine portability with the convenience of cable-free charging, attaching directly to your device for seamless power on the go.
Which One Should You Choose?
- For Travelers: A power bank is your best friend when you're on the move. For added convenience, a magnetic power bank offers wireless charging capabilities without compromising portability.
- For Home or Office Use: Wireless chargers are ideal for your desk or bedside. They eliminate cable clutter and keep your device accessible while charging.
- For Multi-Device Users: If you juggle a phone, smartwatch and earbuds, some wireless chargers offer multi-device charging. Alternatively, opt for a high-capacity or multi-port power bank.
Pro Tip: Why choose? Many users benefit from owning both. Use a power bank (especially magnetic ones) for mobility and a wireless charger for stationary convenience. Even better, try a power bank that has pass through wireless charging, so you can charge your phone while topping up your power bank.
Advanced Considerations
- Compatibility: Ensure your devices support Qi wireless charging for both wireless chargers and magnetic power banks.
- Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly options, like solar power banks or chargers made from sustainable materials.
- Future Trends: Magnetic power banks and wireless chargers are leading the charge (pun intended!) in modern charging innovation. Features like snap-and-go attachment and integration with MagSafe are setting new benchmarks for convenience.
Why Choose Belkin Power Banks and Wireless Chargers?
Belkin is known for its quality and performance products, with more than 40 years' experience innovating tech accessories. Each one of Belkin’s products goes through multiple tests for strength, durability, and usage to pass our standards before it’s released. When it comes to power products, Belkin will repair or replace electronic devices up to $2,500. This includes a Connected Equipment Warranty which covers damage to any devices being used with a Belkin product.
Why not explore our range of power banks and wireless chargers to find your perfect match? With the right tools, staying powered up has never been easier.
Our Top Picks for Power Banks
For camping, long flights and road trips:
- Power Delivery up to 65W from 1 USB-C port
- 20K§ battery charges 3 devices at once
- Universal compatibility with 2 USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port
For hassle-free charging with built-in cables:
- Charge 2 devices at once with 23W of power
- 43 hours of playback
- Integrated lightning and USB-C cables attached
For everyday use that’s portable and ultra convenient:
- Up to 15W fast charging with Qi2
- Integrated kickstand
- 16 hours additional battery life†
Our Top Picks for Wireless Chargers
For the fast charging of all your devices at once with Qi2:
- Up to 15W Qi2 fast charging
- Charges 3 devices at once
- 36W power supply with USB-C cable included
For portable fast charging of all your devices simultaneously while traveling:
- Folding stand design is compact and travel ready
- Wirelessly charge 3 devices at once
- Qi2 technology charges iPhone up to 2x faster ‡
For a stand that doubles as a pad and powers up devices 2x faster**:
- Up to 15W Qi2 fast charging
- Folding stand design is compact and travel ready
- 20W power supply and USB-C cable included
FAQ: Power Bank vs. Wireless Charger
Some advanced power banks include built-in wireless charging functionality. Check for Qi-compatible models if you want this feature.
Power banks work with any device that supports USB charging, while wireless chargers require devices compatible with Qi wireless charging technology.
Yes, wireless chargers are typically slower than power banks because they use inductive charging, which is less efficient than wired charging.
Power banks are more portable as they don’t require a constant power source, unlike most wireless chargers.
Many power banks have multiple ports for wired charging, while some wireless chargers support charging multiple Qi-enabled devices at once.
Both are safe when purchased from reputable brands, but power banks can overheat if improperly used or overcharged.
Consider your lifestyle: choose a power bank for travel and on-the-go charging, and a wireless charger for convenient, cable-free charging at home or work.
Power banks typically last 2–3 years with regular use, while wireless chargers can last longer if handled properly.
We hope you enjoyed this post!
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§Contains a 19,200 mAh internal battery. Amount of discharge to user's device is less and may vary depending on various conditions.
†Maximum additional video playback hours calculated by comparing the mAh capacity of this power bank with the maximum video playback hours achievable by the iPhone 15 under normal conditions. Actual results will vary depending on differing factors for individual users.
‡Based on internal testing. Belkin Qi2 15W wireless charger charges iPhone 15 from 0-50% up to 2x faster than a Qi 5W wireless charger and up to 1.5x faster than a Qi 7.5W wireless charger. Charge time varies with environmental factors; results may vary.
**Belkin will repair or replace electronic devices damaged by an electrical charge while properly connected to this charger, up to $2500. Visit belkin.com/cew for details.