Everything You Need to Know About MagSafe:
Ultimate Guide

Curious about all things MagSafe? Well, you’ve come to the right place. MagSafe charging is a seamless way to wirelessly fast charge your iPhone and other MagSafe-enabled devices. Even though MagSafe technology has existed since 2020, it still feels like a new and unfamiliar concept for many of us.

How does it work, how do we know if our phone is compatible, and what makes it different from Qi2 charging? In this blog, we answer all these questions and more in the ultimate guide to MagSafe technology. We’ll learn the benefits and functionality of MagSafe devices, and discover the best MagSafe chargers and accessories available. Let’s get started!

A smartphone and wireless earbuds charging on a Belkin MagSafe-compatible wireless charging pad. The phone screen displays a green charging icon with '100% Charged' text, indicating full battery status. — What is MagSafe?

MagSafe is a magnetic technology from Apple, built into the iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, and 12. Originally created as a safety feature for MacBook charging cords, MagSafe was incorporated into the iPhone to create a new ecosystem of accessories for easy attachment and faster wireless charging.

A close-up 3D rendering of a wireless charging device with an exposed copper coil, likely showcasing MagSafe or Qi wireless charging technology. The charger appears disassembled, revealing internal components against a black background. — How Does MagSafe Work?

MagSafe is a series of magnets placed around the iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, and 12’s internal charging coil, which senses other MagSafe-compatible accessories and snaps seamlessly and securely into place. MagSafe will only attach to other compatible MagSafe accessories, so there’s no need to worry about other magnets interfering or getting stuck to your phone.

A person’s hand holding an iPhone near a white Belkin MagSafe charging stand on a light wooden surface. The stand has a modern, minimalist design with a circular magnetic charging pad, angled for easy phone attachment. The person is wearing a delicate gold bracelet. — Why Should I Get MagSafe Chargers and Accessories?

Aside from faster wireless charging, the MagSafe snap-on attachment creates new and exciting accessories such as magnetic car vent and fitness mounts, face motion trackers and power banks to enhance your experience with the iPhone 16, 15,14, 13, and 12.

How Is MagSafe Charging Different From Qi2 Charging?

Both MagSafe and Qi2 use magnets to provide a secure, power-efficient way to wirelessly attach chargers to
smartphones, and both deliver faster charging speeds than standard Qi. Qi2 offers 15W fast charging capabilities
like MagSafe, but is expected to support even faster charging speeds and higher wattage in the future.

A lineup of four modern smartphones displayed at an angle, showcasing different models with sleek designs and edge-to-edge screens. Each phone has a unique wallpaper with abstract lighting effects, emphasizing their high-resolution displays. The background is a clean, light gray color. — Which iPhones Are Compatible with MagSafe?

iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, or 12 models can safely charge with a MagSafe Charger.

A pair of modern Samsung smartphones displayed side by side. The phone on the left has a large screen, multiple rear cameras, and an S Pen stylus resting beside it. The phone on the right has a sleek design with a centered front camera and a vibrant pink abstract wallpaper. The background is a clean, light gray color. — Are Androids Compatible with MagSafe?

Certain Androids are MagSafe compatible, but it depends. If your Android does not have MagSafe compatibility, you can still enjoy the benefits of MagSafe charging with a third party protective case or adhesive ring. Keep in mind that these accessories don’t have the official MagSafe technology inside, so wireless chargers will only charge at 7.5W.

Are Made for MagSafe products safe?

Yes, it’s safe to leave your iPhone on a MagSafe charger overnight. Apple has intelligently designed your phone to automatically stop charging when the battery is full to help maintain your battery health.

A person placing wireless earbuds onto a Belkin 3-in-1 MagSafe charging station, which is charging a smartphone in landscape mode and a smartwatch. The setup is on a wooden surface with a plant and decorative objects in the background. — Will MagSafe Weaken Over Time?

No, the magnets in MagSafe are designed to retain their strength for years, so you shouldn't notice any significant decline in the magnetic connection over time.

A smartphone wirelessly charging with a Belkin MagSafe-compatible charging pad, which is propped up with a foldable plug. A glowing green ring highlights the magnetic alignment between the phone and charger. — Are Old MagSafe Chargers Still Good?

Yes, older MagSafe chargers are still good and compatible with newer iPhone models, including iPhone 16. Newer iPhones may support faster charging speeds (25W with iPhone 16), but your older MagSafe charger will still work at the standard charging speed of up to 15W.

A black MagSafe wireless charger on a wooden nightstand, with a smartphone hovering above it, displaying a charging icon. Below the phone, a transparent MagSafe-compatible case is also hovering, showing its built-in magnetic ring. To the right, an open book rests on the nightstand, and a soft light casts shadows on the white wall in the background. — What Is a MagSafe Case?

A MagSafe case is an iPhone case equipped with built-in magnets designed to align perfectly with MagSafe-compatible chargers and accessories. MagSafe cases also support various accessories like wallets, car mounts, and stands that snap on easily.

Can I Use a MagSafe Charger Without a MagSafe Case?

Yes! A MagSafe charger works directly with your iPhone, even without a MagSafe case. However, without MagSafe compatibility, charging may be slower, and the connection less stable.

Does MagSafe Work With All Cases?

MagSafe only works with cases that have built-in MagSafe magnets or are labeled as "MagSafe compatible." Regular cases without these magnets might not allow proper alignment or charging when using MagSafe accessories.

Editors' Top Picks

Our editors round up their favorite MagSafe and MagSafe-compatible Belkin products in this list of top picks.
Perfect for holiday gifting for everyone in the family, or even just elevating your everyday tech, these standout
products are their top 5 essential accessories.