I replaced my old car charger with this Qi2 device – for less than $20

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The ESR Qi2 15W MagSafe wireless car charger normally retails for $25 on Amazon
• It’s a reliable, high-speed wireless charger with a clamp or an adhesive mount
• You do have to supply your own 12V-to-USB-C car adapter.

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Do you love your current in-car wireless iPhone charger but are frustrated by its slower speed compared to a cable? You need an upgrade to a next-gen Qi2 charger. The ESR Qi2 15W MagSafe car mount charger represents one of the best options on the market. I highly recommend buying the charger now, as it’s on sale for $19.

Also: I finally found a MagSafe car charger that handles bumpy roads (and it’s on sale)

ESR Qi2 15W MagSafe car charger tech specs

• Provides Qi2-certified, 15W MagSafe iPhone charging
• The powerful ring of magnets has 1,600 grams of holding force to keep your phone securely in place
• Mountable on your car’s air vent or dashboard
• Easily switches between portrait and landscape modes
• What’s Included: MagSafe Car Mount Charger, air vent mount, dashboard anchor, 3.3-ft/1m USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A adapter (car charging adapter not included)

Note that you will need a car charger capable of outputting at least 9V/2.25A to get the full 15W output from this Qi2 wireless charger. A cheap but good option is this 2-pack for only $10, or of you want a high-power car charger that could charge your MacBook Pro, go for this more expensive option.

Also: I finally found Bluetooth trackers for Android that beat AirTags – for just $21

The Qi2 wireless charging standard enables full 15W charging speeds from non-Apple MagSafe chargers, allowing you the convenience of magnetic charging without the frustration of slow speeds. The ESR Qi2 15W MagSafe car charger features a Qi2-certified charging head and a strong magnetic ring that securely holds your iPhone in place, regardless of road conditions.

Also: This MagSafe pack is equal parts stylish and efficient – but I have one issue

This charger offers two mounting options: a highly effective vent clamp and an adhesive mount that uses high-quality 3M adhesive for a secure dashboard attachment. I’ve tested both methods and found them reliable.

There are three key aspects I consider when evaluating a car wireless charger:

• Ease of installation: The two mounting options included with this charger make installation straightforward, earning it a thumbs-up in this category.
• Performance as advertised: It is crucial that the charger meets its promised output, and this one does precisely that.
• Reliability: Many wireless chargers fall short here, overheating during prolonged use and failing. However, after logging several hundred miles using this charger, I’ve encountered no issues with this unit, which is a testament to its reliability. 

This wireless charger has impressed me so much that it has now replaced my older one — an earlier ESR charger, which served me well for over a year.

ZDNET’s buying advice

The ESR Qi2 15W MagSafe car charger is as close to perfect as wireless car chargers get. The charger itself is sturdy and well-made, the magnets hold the iPhone in place securely, and the two options for mounting — vent or adhesive — give this a great deal of flexibility. And for just $19, it’s an absolute steal.