Hey Lifehacker, Can I use any Qi wireless charger with my Nexus 5 and Nexus 7, or are there specific specifications (such as voltage and amperage) I need to match? Thanks, Wireless Wannabe
Dear WW,
The Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 use the Qi interface standard which allows them to be charged via electromagnetic induction. They should be compatible with any QI/wireless charging pad designed for phones or tablets. For added peace of mind, most manufacturers will list the specific models that are compatible with their charger, so just take a gander at the specifications list if you’re uncertain.
You can snap up Qi charging pads for under $20, although as with any hardware accessory it usually isn’t advisable to buy the cheapest no-name brand you can find. Another thing to keep in mind is that not all chargers are physically suited to all phones — it could be too small or oddly shaped, which could affect charging performance if your phone isn’t flush against the transmitter.
If you can justify spending $50 on a phone charger, you may want to pick up Google’s official Nexus Wireless Charger. In addition to charging your Qi-compatible devices, the pad also comes with inbuilt magnets that helps to keep the Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 secure and thus ensure a faster charge.
Otherwise, plump for a device with a flat, rectangular footprint and you should be fine.
See also: What The Hell Is A Disco Charger? | Integrate A Wireless Charger Into Your Nightstand | How Often Do You Need To Charge Your Smartphone?
Cheers
Lifehacker
Got your own question you want to put to Lifehacker? Send it using our [contact text=”contact form”].
Comments
3 responses to “Ask LH: What Kind Of Wireless Charger Does My Nexus Need?”
“you may want to pick up Google’s official Nexus Wireless Charger” — when it’s available in Australia, that is? I just clicked on the link, hoping to order one, and it said “Coming soon”
I just use one of these for my Nexus 7 (2013 model)
http://www.kogan.com/au/buy/qi-wireless-slim-inductive-charging-mat/
Good to hear. I ordered one just a few days back.
you might want to pick Nexus Wireless Charger for Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 which is now available in amazon for $49.99 + Free Shipping http://amzn.to/1eppNHL
I have this RAVPower wireless charger which can effectively charge my Nexus 5 and other qi compatible devices. More importantly, it is also an external battery charger which can charge other devices because it has built-in battery.
Link please.
I bought it on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/RAVPower®-Wireless-Charging-Qi-Compliant-Including/dp/B00DN0AVN0/
Cool, I have their Orbit round one. It’s got an embedded micro-usb cable, a smart design. http://www.amazon.com/RAVPower%C2%AE-Qi-Enabled-Wireless-Micro-USB-Single-Position/dp/B00GN5U5N8
Thanks!