Wireless chargers use more electricity than wired chargers

In recent years, wireless charging has become increasingly common and many smartphones now support this feature. The main advantage of wireless charging is convenience. Instead of connecting your device with a USB-C cable, you simply place it on a charging pad.

However, despite its convenience, wireless charging technology also has several drawbacks. In fact, wireless chargers generally consume more electricity than traditional wired chargers. Yes, wireless chargers typically use more power than wired chargers.

For example, when charging a modern smartphone from 0 to 100 percent, a 25-watt wired charger uses approximately 25 watts of power per hour while a wireless charger may consume around 40 percent more power over the same period. The exact amount of electricity used depends on the charger’s brand, design and how it is used.

One study found that Apple’s MagSafe wireless charger consumes 36 percent more electricity than a conventional wired charger. The study also noted that if the phone is not properly aligned on the charging pad, the efficiency of wireless charging decreases significantly.

Another disadvantage is that wireless chargers generate more heat than traditional wired chargers. Charging pads often become quite hot during use which is a clear sign of energy being lost as heat.

Wireless chargers transfer power to the phone through electromagnetic induction, a process that is less efficient than charging through a cable. The heat generated during wireless charging can also accelerate battery degradation over time potentially reducing the battery’s lifespan.