Qi2 Wireless Charging Stand
Available in 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 options, Satechi’s new Qi2 wireless charging stands might be the only accessories you’ll need for your Apple devices.
Pros
- Charge twice as fast as Qi1 chargers
- Foldable
- 3-in-1 option comes with 45W power brick
Cons
- Could have a longer USB-C cable
- 2-in-1 option doesn’t come with a power brick
Last month, Satechi released its new batch of Qi2 wireless charging stands. Available in 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 options, they offer the best-integrated charging experience for your main Apple devices, such as the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods – although they also work with devices from other brands, not just Apple.
After a few weeks of testing, BGR shares our impressions of these new Satechi Qi2 wireless charging stands, and we’ll tell you which you should choose depending on your needs.
Design and connectivity
Both Satechi 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 options have a similar design, with a square wireless charging pedestal for AirPods, a foldable arm where you can connect your iPhone, and the 3-in-1 option adds a fold-out Apple Watch charger. They’re made of aluminum and vegan leather, with a silicone pad for placing the iPhone.
These are very premium choices that show care for your Apple products, as they won’t scratch when you place and remove them.
What I like the most about Satechi Qi2 wireless charging stands is that they’re foldable, so it’s easy to take them on a trip because they can fit any backpack. It’s easy to place the iPhone where you can always look at the display. You can also enjoy iOS 17’s StandBy Mode for a cleaner and sleeker look.
It’s important to note that the 3-in-1 option includes a 45W power adapter and interchangeable lugs for international travel. In contrast, the 2-in-1 option has a plain back USB-C cable, so you must use your power adapter.
It would have been nice if Satechi included a 2m cable instead of a 1m option, as the power brick of the 3-in-1 option can be used to charge some MacBook models – a bonus for taking one less power brick and cable to your travel.
Charging speed
What makes these devices go-to choices is the addition of the Qi2 standard. With this technology, iPhone users can charge the iPhone 12 or newer with up to 15W of power. This performance was only possible with MagSafe-approved chargers, and it’s now available to any company that embraces this new standard.
Over 30 minutes of charge, you can get around 30% of the total charge on your iPhone. In addition, your Apple Watch Series 7 (or newer) also takes advantage of faster charging speeds in the 3-in-1 version.
On the other hand, AirPods still charge at 5W, but this is not an issue since the case has a smaller battery.
Here’s how I’ve been using Satechi Qi2 wireless charging stands
Since Satechi sent BGR the two charging stand options, I decided to have the 3-in-1 charging stand in my bedroom and the 2-in-1 option on my office desk.
Not only am I charging my Apple devices more often, but these stands really look good anywhere you place them. For the first time in months, I started using StandBy Mode, a nice tweak when preparing to go to bed or during my working hours, so I can check my calendar, photos, or other suggestions the iPhone brings.
I have also traveled a bit with the SatechI 3-in-1 Qi2 charging stand, and it was nice, mainly because it was the only power adapter and USB-C cable I brought with me. I could keep my iPhone 15 Pro, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and AirPods Pro 2 always charged, and when I was not using it for my Apple devices, I could charge my Nintendo Switch. It was a win-win situation.
Although the 45W charger isn’t the best option to carry with my 14-inch MacBook Pro, it can help me in an emergency. It can also charge any iPad I bring, so it’s the ultimate charging accessory you’ll need.
Pricing and which one to choose
The Satechi 3-in-1 model is priced at $130, while the 2-in-1 option is priced at $80. The 3-in-1 option is a bit more expensive since the company is still licensing Apple Watch technology from Cupertino while also adding a 45W power brick and international plug adapters.
I think this is the go-to option since it’s more convenient for both at-home and traveling experiences. However, if you don’t own an Apple Watch, you should go with the affordable 2-in-1 option and use your own power brick with this accessory.
That said, Qi2 chargers don’t replace a good, quick charge by connecting a cable to your iPhone. However, you’ll get better speeds while adding more convenience since it’s easier to attach your iPhone/Apple Watch/AirPods to this stand instead of powering them with several cables.
Customers agree with me, as Satechi’s 3-in-1 Qi2 wireless charging stand is usually sold out – but the company just restocked it. The 2-in-1 option is also available on Satechi’s website.
