Your iPhone might support wireless charging, but that doesn’t mean every case will. Finding the perfect case that suits your personality and lifestyle can be overwhelming with all the options out there.
Whether you’re keeping it classic and looking for the best iPhone 11 cases for wireless charging or searching for a modern MagSafe-compatible case for a newer model, this guide will help you hunt down that one case you’ve been waiting for.
How Does It Work?
Wireless charging utilizes electromagnetic fields to transfer power to your phone. A charging pad generates this field through a coil of wire, and when your phone (equipped with its own receiver coil) is placed on the pad, a current passes between the two coils to charge your phone’s battery.
The best iPhone cases for wireless charging won’t disrupt this process, but thickness and material do matter, which is why it’s so important to invest in a high-quality MagSafe-compatible case.
Is MagSafe The Same As Wireless Charging?
MagSafe is a form of wireless charging, but it isn’t exactly the same thing. Both rely on electromagnetic fields to transfer power to your phone. However, MagSafe adds another convenient aspect to that–magnets. Beginning with the iPhone 12 series, Apple put MagSafe magnets in the back of their phones that will snap into place on MagSafe-compatible wireless chargers with magnets. That magnetic feature ensures that the phone and charger are properly aligned for an efficient flow of power. So, even the best iPhone 11 cases for wireless charging lack this feature since the iPhone 11 series is not MagSafe-compatible.
The best iPhone cases for wireless charging are MagSafe compatible, meaning they have a magnetic surface that will snap into place on a magnetic wireless charger and won’t interfere with the flow of power between the phone and the charger. The ZAGG Crystal Palace Snap case is MagSafe-compatible, ensuring seamless wireless charging.
The Benefits of Using Wireless Charging Compatible Cases
Be warned, once you enter the world of MagSafe-compatible chargers and cases, you’ll love it so much there’s no turning back. Here’s why a wireless charging-compatible case is worth it.
Wireless Charging vs. MagSafe: What’s the Difference?
A standard wireless charging-compatible case is thin enough to allow power to pass through, so you can place your phone on a Qi-enabled charging pad without plugging in cables. This is especially helpful in low-light situations or when your hands are full. Even if you have an older device like the iPhone 11, a wireless charging-compatible case can help you avoid excessive wear on your charging port.
However, if you have an iPhone 12 or later, MagSafe takes wireless charging to the next level. Unlike standard wireless charging, MagSafe uses built-in magnets in the phone and case to create a secure connection with a MagSafe charger, ensuring a consistent charge without misalignment. A MagSafe-compatible case contains magnets that align perfectly with your phone’s MagSafe system, allowing for a stronger attachment to chargers and accessories.
- It’s Easier: The biggest perk is the ease of use. A wireless charging-compatible case lets you drop your phone on a wireless charging pad without fiddling with cables. The best iPhone cases for wireless charging are especially helpful in low-light situations or when your hands are full.
- Less Wear and Tear: Plugging and unplugging repeatedly can wear down your charging port. A wireless charging case eliminates this wear and tear, potentially extending the lifespan of your phone's charging port.
Even if you’re running an older device like an iPhone 11, we recommend getting the best iPhone 11 case for wireless charging to avoid this wear and tear. - MagSafe Benefits: Qi wireless charging is already an incredibly convenient way to charge your phone, but MagSafe takes it to a whole new level. A MagSafe-compatible case gives you access to a world of useful magnetic accessories.
In addition to MagSafe compatible cases, there are magnetic accessories, like the mophie snap+ juice pack mini wallet, that let you add functionality to your magnetic case.
The Best iPhone Cases for Wireless Charging: Features to Look For
The sky’s the limit when it comes to wireless charging compatible cases. Whether you need the best iPhone 11 cases for wireless charging or a MagSafe-compatible case for an iPhone 15, there are tons of great features to pick from. Here are some features you should look for:
Durability
Fast wireless charging is great to have, but a great case needs to be reliable when push comes to shove (sometimes literally). You can’t plan for a nasty drop, so it’s always worth investing in durability. Look for features like silicone bumpers and grips.
Some ZAGG phone cases like the Milan Snap, for example, are strengthened with graphene and offer drop resistance for up to 13 ft.
Design
The best iPhone cases for wireless charging combine durability and design. Pick the right manufacturer, and you’ll never have to compromise. Wireless charging-compatible cases can come with lavish fabric exteriors, nature-inspired transparent designs, and so much more.
Material
This can be considered a part of the design, but we’ll talk about it separately since there are so many options to choose from. Here are some of the more common choices.
- Silicone: Provides a good balance of grip, protection, and wireless charging efficiency. You can choose a colorful phone case and have a matte or textured finish for a more premium look.
- Plastic: The best affordable iPhone cases for wireless charging often use plastic. This is a cost-effective option that includes a range of color and transparency options. However, some clear plastics can yellow over time, so you’ll want to learn how to clean a clear phone case to mitigate this.
- Leather: Offers a luxurious feel and can be quite durable. However, thicker leather cases might slightly reduce charging efficiency. This is more of a concern for older models. Even the best iPhone 11 cases for wireless charging will offer limited charging speeds.
Note that this is just a simple classification. Many cases will mix and match materials to deliver optimal results.
Compatibility
Your iPhone might be compatible with wireless charging, but that doesn’t mean it’ll work perfectly with a MagSafe case. You’ll need an iPhone 8 or later model to enjoy wireless charging, and only iPhone 12 and later models support MagSafe charging at 15W.
Even the best iPhone cases for wireless charging won’t be much use if your phone doesn’t support it. Take the time to verify before you place an order.
The Top Wireless Charging Compatible Cases
Crystal Palace Snap
This thin, clear case prioritizes maintaining your iPhone's sleek design while allowing full-speed MagSafe charging. The rounded edge design and graphene fortification merge comfort and durability–it’s the graphene case that leaves nothing on the table.
There’s also an incredibly handy kickstand here for those who like to watch videos on the go. Kickstands have been a part of the best iPhone 11 cases for wireless charging, and they’re just as useful today.
Manhattan Snap
This is one of the best iPhone cases for wireless charging if you need a minimalist look due to its silky silicone exterior. Thanks to its graphene fortification, the Manhattan Snap protects your phone from drops up to 13 ft, and the slim design means you’ll hardly notice it in your pocket.
Milan Snap
There’s more than meets the eye with ZAGG’s Milan Snap case. Shoppers can choose from multiple nature-inspired designs featuring vibrant colors. Beneath that colorful exterior is a fortified body that boasts antimicrobial treatment and drop protection. The best part? 74% of this case is made with recycled content.
Santa Cruz
A popular pick for the best iPhone case for wireless charging, this one’s for the power users and frequent flyers. Settle in for a long journey with the in-built kickstand, and forget about falls with the Santa Cruz case’s textured grip. The color accents go a long way in injecting some style into this case’s grippy exterior and perfectly complement the slim design.
Find Your Perfect Case
Finding the right wireless charging-compatible case is easy once you know what you’re looking for. Drop-prone power users should look for something with a textured grip and a rugged design, while the style-conscious can kick back with a slim silicone case instead.
Or, you can get the best of both worlds with ZAGG. ZAGG is well-known for crafting the best iPhone cases for wireless charging that merge style and utility. Browse our massive collection of vibrant cases today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zeroing in on the best iPhone 11 and MagSafe cases for wireless charging is confusing; we get it! Find the right answers to your FAQs right here.