Satechi’s new US$59.99 Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand, combines the power of dual wireless charging with a hands-free, magnetic attachment to charge iPhones and AirPods simultaneously. It also supports Apple’s MagSafe technology that was introduced with the iPhone 12 line-up.
Apple says that MagSafe “improves wireless charging for a better, more efficient experience and introduces an ecosystem of easy-to-attach accessories that beautifully complement iPhone 12 Pro models.” It features an array of magnets around the wireless charging coil that connect to the iPhone and provide up to 15W of power while still accommodating existing Qi-enabled devices.
Satechi’s charger is MagSafe compatible, but as Jason Cross notes in a Macworld article — that’s not the same as “Made for MagSafe.” The Satechi stand charger has a maximum charging rate of 7.5 watts, just like all other non-MagSafe wireless chargers. Real MagSafe chargers can go up to 15 watts.
Keep that limitation in mind if you’re considering Satechi’s Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand (which, FYI, measures 5.47 x 3.54 x 0.51 inches and weighs .64 pounds). It also comes equipped with a designated wireless charging pad for compatible AirPods (up to 5W) and you can charge the earbuds and a smartphone simultaneously.
Although full “Made for MagSafe” would be nice, Satechi’s charger/stand does have some nice features. Its magnetic and hands-free design of the charger elevates and charges an iPhone 12 model. An adjustable ball mount lets you move and tilt a smartphone to a variety of angles, which comes in handy depending on if you’re making a phone call, watching a video, playing a game, etc.
The Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand is built with an aluminum base and features a stainless steel stand so is a nice aesthetic match with Apple’s products. To use plug it in through the USB-C port and place devices in their respective charging areas.
LED lights tell you when devices are charging. The non-slip padding on the bottom of the charger and indentation grooves help keep the charging stand in place on a desk or other surface, saving your iPhone and AirPods from a fall.
Satechi’s Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand is compatible with iPhones with magnets, including the latest iPhone 12, 12 Pro Max and 12 Pro. Compatible AirPods include the AirPods Pro and all other AirPods with a wireless charger.
Review overview
The Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Does a decent job of charging two devices
- Stable on a desktop or other surface
The Cons
- Not "Made for MagSafe"
- Doesn't work with earlier iPhone models
summary
8.1For the price, the Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Charger is a good buy. If you want the full "Made for MagSafe” experience, consider the Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger ($149.99) or Apple’s MagSafe Duo Charger ($130). As you can see that experience will cost you more than Satechi’s accessory.
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