What Is Wireless Charging?
Wireless charging is a technology that uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from a charger to a device without physical connectors or cables. It relies on the Qi (pronounced "chee") standard, developed by the Wireless Power Consortium, which has become the global benchmark for wireless charging.
Wireless chargers work by generating a magnetic field through a coil inside the charger. A matching coil inside your device picks up that magnetic field and converts it into power.
This system works well — but has a few drawbacks:
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Your device must be placed precisely on the charging coil.
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If misaligned, charging slows down or stops.
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It often charges slower than wired charging.
What Is MagSafe?
Apple’s MagSafe builds on Qi wireless charging, but with a very specific twist: magnets. Introduced by Apple with iPhone 12 and newer, MagSafe adds a ring of magnets that aligns your phone perfectly with the charger’s coil — automatically optimizing power transfer and preventing misalignment.
MagSafe chargers typically deliver up to 15W of power, whereas many standard Qi chargers are limited to 7.5W or less for iPhones.
To be clear:
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All MagSafe chargers are wireless chargers.
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But not all wireless chargers are MagSafe-compatible.
This is where most of the confusion happens. So let’s clarify what to look for.
Key Differences Between MagSafe and Wireless Charging
|
Feature |
MagSafe Charger |
Standard Wireless Charger |
|
Magnetic Alignment |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
|
Optimized for iPhone |
✅ Yes (12 and newer) |
✅/❌ (depends on model) |
|
Max Power Output |
Up to 15W |
Usually 5W–7.5W for iPhone |
|
Secure Attachment |
✅ Yes |
❌ Slippery |
|
Travel-Friendly |
✅ Often foldable/compact |
✅ Generally bulkier options |
|
Qi2 Compatible? |
✅ If certified |
❌ No |
Let’s dive deeper into Qi2 below, since that’s going to matter a lot going forward.
What Is Qi2 and Why Should You Care?
Qi2 (pronounced “chee-two”) is the next generation of wireless charging and is based on Apple’s MagSafe magnetic alignment system. That means Qi2 chargers will use magnetic rings for perfect alignment, just like MagSafe, but will work across brands and devices, not just Apple.
Think of Qi2 as the universal version of MagSafe. It brings:
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Magnetic attachment
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Improved efficiency
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Faster charging speeds (up to 15W)
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Cross-device compatibility
ButterFly SE from Twelve South is one of the first chargers in the world to support Qi2. It brings the benefits of MagSafe — without requiring an Apple-exclusive ecosystem.
Twelve South MagSafe Chargers
Here’s where Twelve South chargers fit in:
PowerBug
Meet PowerBug, our latest compact MagSafe charging puck with a USB-C cable. It’s incredibly travel-friendly, and with official Made for MagSafe certification, it provides fast 15W charging for iPhone. No alignment issues, no slipping — just drop your phone on and let the magnets do the work.
HiRise 3 Deluxe
This is the ultimate 3-in-1 MagSafe charging stand. MagSafe-certified for iPhone, with spots for Apple Watch and AirPods, HiRise 3 Deluxe gives your nightstand or desk a stunning minimalist glow. It supports true 15W charging and looks gorgeous while doing it.
→ HiRise 3 Deluxe Product Page
ButterFly and ButterFly SE
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ButterFly: This 2-in-1 compact MagSafe charger folds up into an aluminum travel case and delivers fast wireless charging to both iPhone and Apple Watch. Works beautifully with USB-C and includes international plug adapters. Think of it as the MacBook charger that secretly charges your phone and watch too.
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ButterFly SE: This is our Qi2 version — same foldable form factor, but with Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, meaning it supports iPhones and Android phones with magnetic rings.
→ ButterFly Product Page
→ ButterFly SE Product Page
HiRise Pro for MacBook
HiRise Pro for MacBook is a height-adjustable laptop stand that hides a MagSafe charger in its base — no, seriously. Snap in your MagSafe charger, route the cable cleanly, and keep your phone within reach while you work.
HiRise 2 Deluxe
While technically not MagSafe-certified, HiRise 2 Deluxe is a stylish, weighted stand that holds a MagSafe puck securely. Think of it as a throne for your MagSafe charger.
→ HiRise 2 Deluxe Product Page
Twelve South Wireless Chargers
Forté for Apple Watch
Forté for Apple Watch is a stunning stand that turns your charging puck into a floating bedside display. While it doesn’t include MagSafe or Qi wireless charging for iPhone, it supports magnetically charging your Apple Watch, which uses a proprietary wireless protocol.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you have an iPhone 12 or newer and want the fastest, most reliable wireless charging, go with MagSafe — and ideally Made for MagSafe certified products like PowerBug or HiRise 3 Deluxe.
If you want a bit more flexibility, or are prepping for the Qi2 era (especially if you use both iPhone and Android), ButterFly SE is a future-proof winner.
For secondary chargers or Apple Watch-only charging, a standard wireless charger like Forté for Apple Watch works perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Wireless charging is no longer just about ditching cables — it’s about convenience, efficiency, and ecosystem fit. MagSafe supercharges the experience by making alignment automatic, charging faster, and letting you use your phone while it charges.
At Twelve South, we’re committed to designing accessories that make technology more elegant and more enjoyable to use — and understanding how these chargers work is part of that experience.
Have questions about MagSafe vs wireless charging or which Twelve South charger is right for you? Contact our Customer Success Team — we are always happy to help.
