What is MagSafe?
MagSafe is Apple’s magnetic technology built into the back of every iPhone since the iPhone 12. Under the surface, it’s a precisely aligned ring of magnets that snaps perfectly to MagSafe accessories — cases, wallets, and chargers — ensuring a secure fit every time.
This magnetic alignment isn’t just about convenience. It guarantees that wireless chargers connect with the iPhone’s internal charging coils exactly right, optimizing charging speed and stability. No more nudging your phone around on a pad to find the “sweet spot.”
In short: MagSafe makes wireless charging faster, easier, and smarter.
MagSafe vs Qi vs Qi2: What’s the Difference?
You’ve probably seen Qi mentioned alongside MagSafe. Here’s how they all relate:
Qi
Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the global standard for wireless charging. It’s what most wireless chargers use. Qi works by transferring power through electromagnetic induction between the charger and your phone.
However, standard Qi chargers don’t have magnets for alignment. That means your phone can slip slightly off-center, leading to slower or interrupted charging.
MagSafe
MagSafe builds on Qi by adding precise magnetic alignment and allowing up to 15W fast charging for compatible iPhones. It’s proprietary to Apple, which means only MagSafe-certified chargers can deliver that full-speed charge.
Qi2
Qi2 (pronounced “chee two”) is the next generation of wireless charging — and it’s a big deal. Inspired by Apple’s MagSafe system, Qi2 adds the same magnetic alignment ring as MagSafe but makes it an open standard for all manufacturers.
That means faster, more efficient charging for everyone — not just Apple users. It also means more accessories, more compatibility, and less frustration.
Qi2.2
Qi2.2 is the latest update to the Qi wireless charging standard, designed to support higher power levels and more consistent performance.
Building on Qi2’s magnetic alignment, Qi2.2 improves charging efficiency and thermal control, helping devices charge faster and more reliably. It also lays the groundwork for future wireless chargers that narrow the gap between wired and wireless charging speeds.
In other words, Qi2 and Qi2.2 are MagSafe for everyone.
Why MagSafe Matters
MagSafe isn’t just a feature — it’s a platform. It connects your phone to a whole ecosystem of accessories: chargers, stands, wallets, car mounts, and more.
With a MagSafe case, you don’t lose any of that power. The magnets in the case align perfectly with your phone’s built-in MagSafe ring, so you can keep your case on while charging or connecting to accessories.
No fumbling. No removing the case. Just snap and go.
The Best MagSafe Cases for iPhone 17
1. Twelve South iPhone 17 Cases
Twelve South’s collection of iPhone 17 cases blends protection, craftsmanship, and MagSafe functionality. From slim, minimalist shells to rich leather finishes, each case is designed to complement your iPhone — not hide it.
Every Twelve South case for iPhone 17 includes MagSafe compatibility, meaning you can charge, mount, or connect accessories without removing it. It’s perfect for those who expect their tech gear to look as refined as it performs.
2. BookBook for iPhone 17
The iconic BookBook is more than a case — it’s a statement. Wrapped in premium leather, BookBook combines your wallet and iPhone into one beautifully bound piece.
Inside, you’ll find card slots, an ID window, and a removable MagSafe-compatible iPhone shell. That means you can dock it on a charger or mount without ever leaving your case behind.
It’s classic Twelve South: vintage style meets modern innovation.
The Best Chargers for MagSafe Cases
MagSafe only shines when paired with the right chargers. Whether you’re outfitting a desk, nightstand, or travel kit, Twelve South has you covered — literally.
3. HiRise 3 Deluxe
A masterpiece in desktop charging. The HiRise 3 Deluxe can power your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods — all at once — in a compact, vertical design.
With official MagSafe certification, it delivers full 15W fast charging while holding your iPhone perfectly in view for FaceTime or StandBy Mode.
4. ButterFly
Sleek, portable, and powerful — ButterFly is a travel-ready 2-in-1 MagSafe charger that folds into a pocket-sized disk. One side charges your iPhone with full-speed MagSafe power; the other charges your Apple Watch.
It’s crafted from precision aluminum and includes international plug adapters — the ideal companion for work trips or vacations.
5. ButterFly SE
The ButterFly SE brings the same minimalist design but with Qi2 technology. It’s future-ready, open-standard charging that’s compatible with both iPhones and Androids.
Qi2 delivers the same magnetic snap and speed as MagSafe — proof that wireless charging has finally gone universal.
6. PowerBug
Every charger needs a great power source, and PowerBug is that — a compact, high-speed GaN wall adapter that can power your MagSafe chargers, laptops, or tablets.
Small enough for your travel bag but powerful enough for your desk setup.
7. HiRise 2 Deluxe
The HiRise 2 Deluxe is a dual-device charger designed for simplicity. It wirelessly powers your iPhone and AirPods simultaneously with a low-profile base that blends into any setup.
It’s elegant, efficient, and built to complement your Twelve South ecosystem.
8. Valet
Valet is a Qi2-powered catchall that magnetically attaches to the back of your iPhone or Qi2-compatible case, giving you a secure place to hold everyday essentials like keys or AirPods while your phone charges.
Qi2’s magnetic alignment delivers the same snap and stability as MagSafe, with broader compatibility and improved efficiency. Valet attaches and detaches instantly with no adhesive or residue, making it an easy way to keep your nightstand or desk organized.
Why Twelve South?
Twelve South has always designed products that feel as intentional as the devices they complement. Every case and charger isn’t just functional — it’s thoughtfully built to enhance your daily experience.
From the handcrafted leather of BookBook to the sleek aluminum of ButterFly, Twelve South’s MagSafe accessories elevate Apple’s ecosystem with materials, design, and craftsmanship you can feel.
Final Thoughts
A MagSafe case isn’t just another phone accessory — it’s the key to unlocking a smarter, faster, and more seamless Apple experience.
With the rise of Qi2, we’re entering a world where that same magnetic convenience will soon extend beyond iPhones to every major smartphone brand.
But for now, if you’re an iPhone user, the best MagSafe experience comes from pairing your device with the right gear — and no one does that better than Twelve South.
Explore the full lineup of MagSafe-compatible cases and chargers at Twelve South.
