Here's how wireless phones compare to regular chargers – and how to choose the right one

While they look like a novelty, they have emerged as a new type of mobile device, and are becoming more mainstream. Popularized by Samsung phones, the chargers themselves have become more popular, like Apple with the iPhone 8 and X models.

However, it can be a bit confusing trying to choose a wireless charger. There's almost too many to choose from, and it's hard to tell how they differ. Plus, you might not know if there's a way to go wireless.

Here's how to tell if you have a wireless

How wireless charging works:

The majority of phones capable of wireless charging uses what is called the Qi format – a standardized method of transferring power that uses a charging base. It's not important to know how to do this, but you'll want to remember the Qi designation.

Wireless charging technology links on sets of electromagnetic coils. There is a transmitter coil located in the charger itself, which creates an electromagnetic field with the coil located inside a phone. This method, called inductive charging, allows a battery to be charged without being directly connected to the power source.

However, the size of the coils is important. Larger coils are capable of more powerful outputs, which means that they can be charged to the electromagnetic field. With smaller coils, such as the ones found in a mobile phone, the two coils need to be close to each other to power the battery.

There are some upsides to adopting a wireless charger.

First, the obvious draw: They are easier to use. While plugging in your phone is not a difficult maneuver, a wireless charger lets you simply place your phone on a stand or a matte and immediately begin charging. It's also easy to check notifications or send a text message and then place your phone right back down on the load, without having to fiddle with any cords.

Additionally, a wireless charger frees up your phone's cable port. With the death of the headphone jack, many phone users have to choose between charging or using a dongle for their headphones. With a wireless charger, you can keep your dongle or headphones plugged in while still recharging the battery.

Some wireless chargers also have a phone stand, meaning you can take a hands-free approach to watching videos, just chatting with friends, or just keeping track of your notifications.

However, there are a few downsides as well.

One of the more obvious differences between wired and wireless charging is the total charge time. While this is the case for your outlet adapter, wireless charging is just going to be slower than wired charging – the wireless technology is not quite as efficient yet. Some wireless chargers are capable of "fast" charging with a higher-wattage adapter, but it will not be faster than a fast-charging system.

You will also have some mobility with a wireless system, as you are limited to the location of the charging pad itself, rather than being limited by the charging wire. Most people end up putting their laptop on their bed, their work desk, or a table.

Most wireless chargers, and phones, will be Qi certified.

This is an industry standard for wireless charging, and all of the major manufacturers use this designation. If you see "Qi certified" it is a wireless charger, and your phone supports wireless charging, it is pretty likely that the two are compatible. But be sure to check any wireless you are interested in to ensure it's intended for use with your phone model, however.

So now that you're ready to pick a wireless charger, how do you choose?

This is where it can get difficult – there are tones of wireless chargers on the market right now. Most of them look exactly the same, and it's hard to tell what the differences are.

The first thing you want to consider is the type of phone you have. Some manufacturers have optimized their phones for different amounts of power – so you could use a wireless charging and power adapter that is more powerful than what you need.

iPhones are capable of wireless charging up to 7.5 watts, and Androids, depending on the manufacturer, are capable of receiving up to 15 watts. It's best to check your phone's capabilities and costs, and keep in mind that it's easy to charge with a fast-charging power adapter, so you might need to buy one separately.

If you're not worried about super-fast charging speeds, a 5W load will get the job done.

These are the cheapest models, and they are likely to work with most phones. Since you're only outputting 5W, you will need a special power adapter.

This CHOETECH 5W wireless charger is one of the most-reviewed models on Amazon in its price range, and only costs $ US12.99.

With an iPhone, you can use up to 7.5W of charging power

For iPhone owners looking for the fastest wireless charging option, go with a 7.5W model (and first make sure your iPhone is capable of wireless charging in the first place). The Belkin Boost Up Qi Wireless Charging Pad is designed for iPhone, and puts out 7.5W of charging power, but there are plenty of other options.

Some Android phones are capable of up to 15W wireless charging – but you'll need a compatible power adapter for wattage that high. Most chargers advertise the highest power at 10W.

The RAVPower Fast Wireless Charger ($ 39.99) is capable of charging at 10W with the included power adapter.

The Belkin Boost Up wireless charger ($ US44.95) is capable of charging at 15W.

If you want to share your phone with your wireless charger, there are plenty of options for that as well.

This Anker wireless charger ($ US19.99) serves as a phone, so you can orient your phone horizontally or vertically while charging. It's good for keeping your phone in mind while it's on your desk, or for those who use their phone as a bedside clock or alarm.

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