Comparison of Wireless Charging: Qi and New Standards

Updated: October 22, 2026

Qi technology remains the most widespread wireless charging standard, offering convenience and compatibility with most devices. However, new standards provide improved speed, transmission range, and energy efficiency, gradually reshaping the wireless charging landscape in 2026.

In recent years, wireless charging development has moved beyond Qi’s basic capabilities, spawning innovations that promise more comfortable and flexible gadget use. Comparing Qi technology with new wireless charging standards helps understand the advantages and limitations of each approach and how they impact everyday interaction with electronics.

In this article, we will review the key features of the traditional Qi standard, its technical specifications, and introduce promising new technologies that are beginning to be integrated into devices and charging stations, changing perceptions of how and where modern gadgets can be charged.

What is the Qi standard and why does it dominate the wireless charging market?

History of the Qi standard

The Qi standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium in 2008 and has since become the leading wireless charging standard for devices. Since its inception, Qi has been supported by more than 600 companies worldwide, ensuring its wide distribution and compatibility with numerous electronics manufacturers.

Thanks to its long development history and continuous improvements, Qi has established itself as a reliable and universal standard. By the mid-2020s, most smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung and Apple, incorporated Qi support into their flagship models, further reinforcing the standard’s dominance.

Main characteristics of Qi

Qi provides charging power up to 15 W for smartphones, allowing efficient and safe device charging.

• Charging power: up to 15 W for smartphones
• Universal compatibility: supported by Samsung Galaxy S23 and iPhone 15 devices
• Supported by over 600 member companies of the Wireless Power Consortium

This combination of high power, broad manufacturer coverage, and affordable price makes Qi the dominant wireless charging standard in 2026.

What new wireless charging standards have emerged and how do they differ from Qi?

AirFuel and WattUp

New wireless charging standards such as the AirFuel Alliance, introduced in 2026, and WattUp chargers from Energous significantly expand capabilities compared to Qi. AirFuel enables charging devices at distances up to 50 cm with power up to 25 W, greatly exceeding Qi’s close-contact limitation.

The main differences of these standards from Qi lie in range and multi-device charging capabilities:

• AirFuel: up to 50 cm range, power up to 25 W;
• Qi: requires direct contact, power usually up to 15 W.

MagSafe as a specialized standard

Apple introduced its own MagSafe standard, which provides up to 15 W power using magnetic attachment, improving usability compared to traditional Qi.

MagSafe differs from Qi with the following features:

• Magnetic attachment for a reliable connection;
• Power up to 15 W;

What are the limitations and downsides of Qi and new wireless charging technologies?

Qi limitations

The Qi standard requires close contact between the charger and the gadget, with the distance not exceeding 4 mm for efficient energy transfer. This limits convenience because even thin cases can weaken or completely block charging. Additionally, Qi traditionally does not support charging at a distance, limiting device placement freedom.

Trade-offs between convenience and compatibility

New technologies like AirFuel and WattUp offer more flexible options, including charging at distances up to 30 cm, but their costs are significantly higher. Meanwhile, device support is limited: most smartphones and gadgets work only with Qi, whereas AirFuel and WattUp are supported by fewer manufacturers and models.

• MagSafe: works only with Apple devices, efficiency drops when using cases thicker than 3 mm.

What criteria should be considered when buying a wireless charger in 2026?

When choosing a wireless charger in 2026, the main criteria remain compatibility with most gadgets, charging power, and device price. Qi-certified devices offer wide coverage of compatible phones and accessories starting from 1200 ₽, while specialized technologies provide unique features at higher costs.

Compatibility and power

Qi remains dominant due to compatibility with most smartphones and accessories, including Samsung, Xiaomi, and others. Qi charger power typically ranges from 5 W to 15 W, suitable for everyday use. For Apple users, MagSafe is optimal with up to 15 W power, supporting precise positioning and fast charging. Alternative standards AirFuel and WattUp provide distance charging but have limited support and power often below 10 W.

Price and brand

• Qi-certified chargers available from 1200 ₽, e.g., Samsung Wireless Charger Duo models;

How do charging power and type affect the speed of gadget recharge?

Power impact

Charging power directly affects how fast gadgets recharge: the higher the power, the quicker the charging, provided device and charger compatibility.

Practical performance

Apple MagSafe also offers 15 W charging, providing roughly the same charging time for iPhone 15 but requires precise coil alignment for efficient energy transfer.

• MagSafe 15 W: similar charging time for iPhone 15, requires precise positioning

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

• The Qi standard is the most widespread and affordable wireless charging option.
• AirFuel and WattUp offer innovations but at higher prices and with limited device support.
• MagSafe is optimal for Apple users, providing up to 15 W power.
• Choosing a charger should consider power, compatibility, and cost.
• Precise gadget positioning on the charger is critical for efficiency.