WIRED just dropped their comprehensive 2025 roundup of the best MagSafe power banks, putting 13 wireless chargers through rigorous testing. The tech publication's deep dive comes as magnetic wireless charging becomes standard across more devices, with both iPhone users and Qi2-compatible Android phones now having solid options for on-the-go power that doesn't require cables.
WIRED just delivered the definitive 2025 MagSafe power bank buying guide, and the results might surprise you. After extensive hands-on testing with everything from budget £25 options to premium $100 designer models, their findings reveal a market that's both matured and fragmented.
The standout performer? Apple's MagSafe Battery for the iPhone Air at $99. Despite packing just 3,149mAh, it's specifically engineered for the ultra-thin iPhone Air and delivers 68% charge at 12 watts. But here's the catch - it only works properly with the iPhone Air due to its unique horizontal orientation requirement.
For those wanting versatility without sacrificing portability, Anker's Nano Power Bank emerged as the slim champion at just 0.34 inches thick. At $46, it delivers Qi2 certification with 15-watt charging and managed to push most compatible phones past the 50% mark during testing.
The testing methodology was particularly thorough, with WIRED's Simon Hill putting each power bank through real-world scenarios using an iPhone 14 Pro as the baseline. The results exposed dramatic performance variations that don't always correlate with price or capacity claims.
Take the Moft Snap Stand Power Set at $50 - despite its premium faux leather finish and magnetic wallet combo, the 3,400mAh capacity could only manage 41% charge on the test iPhone. Compare that to the budget-friendly Groov-e Power Bank at £25, which delivered a full iPhone charge with 30% battery remaining thanks to its beefy 10,000mAh capacity.
Wireless charging speeds varied wildly across the lineup. While newer models with Qi2 certification hit the 15-watt sweet spot, several supposedly premium options maxed out at just 7.5 watts for iPhones. The Benks ArmorGo with its striking aramid fiber finish looked the part but disappointed with slow 7.5-watt wireless charging, though its USB-C port could push 15 watts when plugged in.
Several models earned the dreaded "avoid" label. The Alogic Matrix Universal Magnetic Power Bank suffered a complete failure during testing - one unit refused to charge entirely. The UAG Lucent Power Kickstand packed just 4,000mAh into a bulky frame while commanding premium pricing.
The standout value proposition came from Vonmählen's Evergreen Mag at £60, currently limited to UK and European markets. This German manufacturer impressed with 27% recycled cobalt, 90% recycled aluminum, and 100% recycled plastics without compromising performance. The 5,000mAh pack delivers Qi2-certified 15-watt wireless charging in an 8.6mm profile.