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Oct 15, 2024

The best MagSafe battery packs of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed | ZDNET

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean? ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.

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Functionality

With so many mobile accessory options on the market, it’s crucial to consider how you need mobile accompaniments to function and benefit your life. Do you need a compact charger to travel with? Or a standalone wireless charger for at home? We recommend considering these factors before diving into mobile accessory shopping because it’s easy to get lost and waste your cash if you aren’t sure what you want.

Use case

Often, you know what type of mobile accessory you’re shopping for. You know you need a MagSafe wallet, a portable charger, or a phone grip. But it’s also important to consider the most frequent use cases of whichever accessory you want. Do you need a slim MagSafe wallet? Or one that has a larger card capacity? Will you use this MagSafe wallet to commute to work, or is it for special occasions? Getting an idea of your best use case for a mobile accessory before you buy it makes it easier to consider how it must function in your routine to be worth your investment.

Compatibility

Perhaps the most crucial factor to consider when shopping for mobile accessories is compatibility. Be sure to identify the make and model of your mobile device and read up on the compatibility offerings on specific products. Remember that certain features like MagSafe connection and wireless charging aren’t available for every phone model, and you’ll need to consider that while scoping out the mobile accessory market.

Price

Mobile accessories can range extensively in cost, from under $20 to over $100, depending on what type of accessory you’re looking for and from what brand. Flagship accessories from brands like Apple or Samsung will often cost more than other options on the market, but accessories from more bespoke places like Casetify, Nomad, and more can get pretty pricey, too. That’s why it’s important to always consider your budget.

Since we often rely on our mobile devices to shop, communicate, travel, and more, it's paramount to keep your phone's battery boosted. But most of us can't stay tethered to a wall outlet.

Also: Anker recalls three power banks due to fire risk - stop using them now

Thankfully, you don't have to. The battery market is packed with options that can boost your phone's battery life no matter where you are. From power banks to wireless charging stations, there's something for everyone's lifestyle and charging needs. Battery packs that use MagSafe technology to magnetically attach to your phone offer a more compact solution than traditional portable power banks, so you can ditch the charging wires altogether.

Also: The best MagSafe accessories you can buy

I and other ZDNET experts went hands-on with several of the top MagSafe battery packs (including every pick on this list), spending time testing for charge speed, function, and other features during our everyday activities. Our tested pick for the best overall MagSafe battery pack is currently the newly refreshed Belkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 battery thanks to its upgraded design and refined functionality. Read on to learn more about the Belkin BoostCharge and which other top-tested MagSafe battery packs may be worth considering for your wants and needs.

Also: We've tested every iPhone accessory on this list. Here are the best

Let me start by saying that I really liked the first iteration of this battery pack (enough to have it included on this list over the last several months) and I like the newly upgraded Qi2 version even more (so much so that the BoostCharge has just boosted its way to the top of this list).

This new model has the USB-C connector on the side instead of the bottom of the pack, making it easier to use your phone standing upright while the pack is charging. Instead of the charging indicator lights being on the side, they're now more visible, located on the back of the pack. This model is also a tad slimmer and lengthier than its predecessor, making it easier to transport.

Also: My new favorite MagSafe battery pack supports Qi2 charging, has a kickstand, and isn't made by Anker or Baseus

And while this Belkin pack is a true embodiment of a classic brick-style battery booster, there is still a place in my heart for it because it just works so well. Similarly to many picks on this list, it provides 5,000mAh of extra juice to your phone, which is a standard capacity for many MagSafe packs. Its design, though simple, fits snugly against my phone (no bumping onto the lip of my camera lens) and remains secure. Often, you'll see some gapping between the battery and the phone due to a disturbed magnetic connection, but not with this Belkin battery pack.

Its secure grip and competitive battery speak for themselves. I took this pack to a Yankees game, to several late-night outings, to work, and even on errands, and I am impressed with the charging. You can expect between a 25-30% battery boost in about an hour to your phone.

What's more is that it comes with a built-in stand that easily swings in and out -- no folding required -- and while I originally thought this would be useless, I rather enjoyed being able to prop my phone up whenever. Perhaps the best thing about this Belkin pack is that it comes in a few fun colors, a nice feature many competitors still haven't matched.

Like the previous iteration, this pack is still not the slimmest design I've ever seen. But the newly upgraded design offers a more comfortable and sleek user experience that feels great in the hand and doesn't feel as boxy as the pack really is. Overall, I'm impressed with the new shape and think it was a much-needed facelift.

Apple is the only retailer that sells the blue, green, pink, and sand color options right now (as well as black), which is a bit of a downside. On the flip side, Belkin only carries the black and white iterations as well as the 8k and 10k models. Regardless, Redditors who own this battery pack really like the intentional upgrades. Some Redditors said that this is a great pack to replace Apple's discontinued battery pack, too.

Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5K specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes

Not all wireless battery power packs are created equally. Take this Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic power bank, for example. Most battery power packs can only supplement a little battery boost, but not this one. With this power bank, you can get up to two recharges on an iPhone and charge two different devices simultaneously.

This power bank is for iPhones with MagSafe, but Android users can also reap the benefits of this bank with a couple of added accessories. When ZDNET contributor Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tried out the battery pack, he said the magnetic connection was "one of the best I've seen" and said the power bank is "more than enough" to get you through a day of hard work.

Review: Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable charger

How much juice you can get from the power bank depends on your iPhone. If you have an iPhone 13, you can recharge it about 1.8 times with Baseus's charging capacity and 2.1 times with an iPhone 12. For around $46, it's also a pretty affordable bank for the battery it replenishes.

Amazon reviewers also noted that they liked the quality, appearance, and charging performance of the Baseus power bank. Many said they appreciated the dual charging feature and the strong magnetic attachment to their iPhone.

Author's Note: At the time of publication, customers can save 20% at Baseus with promo code MAG20 at checkout.

Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable charger specs: Capacity: 10,000mAh/18.5Wh | Charging Port: Wireless Charging (7.5W and 15W) + USB-C (20W PD) | Power button: Yes

If you're someone who does a lot of work with your phone, having a battery pack that you can use both on the go and at your desk is incredibly important. When former ZDNET associate editor Christina Darby tested out this Anker 622 magnetic battery pack, it provided her and her iPhone-dependent workflow with everything she needed in a single package.

Review: This Anker MagSafe charger offers something Apple's doesn't

With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet to create a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source. Darby noted that the battery pack is lightweight and well-priced at under $60 compared to Apple's offerings.

Verified Amazon customers noted that they liked the performance, size, and quality of Anker's 622 power bank, highlighting the kickstand's functionality and the pack's easy portability. However, some also noted that it warms up quickly and overheats.

Author's Note: At the time of publication, Anker is offering their 622 MagSafe battery pack for 15% off with an on-site promo code of WSCPV2KSFPP4.

Anker 622 Magnetic Battery specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes

If you're looking for the ultimate combo of style and function -- the Casely Power Pod battery pack is for you. This battery pack uses MagSafe technology to snap onto the back of your iPhone or other device. It will also attach to and charge through any case that is MagSafe compatible or any case that is wireless charging compatible, and Casely even includes an adhesive magnetic ring that attaches to any non-MagSafe case or device, which will turn it into a MagSafe-compatible accessory.

It offers 5,000 mAh of battery capacity and a max wireless output of 15W that can be used three ways: as a MagSafe battery pack, as a Qi charging pad for things like wireless earbuds, or as a traditional battery pack with a USB-C cord. When I tested the Power Pod last month, I couldn't get enough of it. After starting with a fully charged Power Pod, my iPhone 14 Pro went from 47% to 83% after an hour of MagSafe charging, and I still had 50% charge left in the Power Pod. The magnetic grip is plenty strong, too, and the on/off button on the front of the pack makes it super easy to find and use.

Review: Casely Power Pod

But the Power Pod's crown jewel isn't any of the above features. Instead, unlike its brick-esque competitors, the Power Pod features a clean, curved, ergonomic design available in 50 different colors, patterns, and prints. It also has a smaller overall footprint compared to other MagSafe battery packs I've tested, making it easy to toss into a going-out purse or small bag. After all, why should your battery pack have to look boring?

Current Power Pod reviewers on Casely's website like the endless designs and seamless compatibility (both physically and aesthetically) with their phone cases and the easy, reliable power boost the pack offers. This battery pack certainly isn't going to give your phone the biggest power boost out of the options on this list, but you'll definitely get the most compliments and the best aesthetic appeal.

Author's Note: At the time of publication, Casely is offering a BOGO on their power pods with the code BOGO-WEEKEND at checkout

Casely Power Pod MagSafe battery specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes

If you're in the market for a compact, wireless, and travel-friendly charging setup (or just something to curb those cords at home) -- this is it. Revealed at CES 2024, this charging station has a compact form factor, one comparable to a deck of cards, while still being able to charge multiple devices simultaneously with impressive speed.

Also: I found a Qi2 charging station that can do it all (and Apple users will love it)

The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station leverages Qi2 technology to snap onto the back of your iPhone and delivers 15W fast charging. In addition, it has a a retractable arm to set your Apple Watch and a pad for your AirPods or any earbuds compatible with wireless charging.

When ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it earlier this year, it boosted her iPhone 14 from 40% to 60% in just 30 minutes -- while she remained using it. Ortiz also found that the charger steadily charged her multiple devices relatively evenly when 3-1 charging was used.

Verified customers like the foldability and charging capabilities of the Anker MagGo 3-1. They mention that it's portable, and performs well. However, some users experienced a weak magnetic connection or thought it was too expensive for what it provided. And if you don't need a multi-charger, or don't own an Apple Watch, though, you can probably skip out on this one.

Author's Note: Anker is discounting this foldable charger to $88 (save $22) with on-page coupon code WSPEV2ZAHF0S through Sept. 1

Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station features: 3-1 charging | 15W fast charging | Compact (folds to the size of a baseball) | USB-C connectivity

Hyper's Magnetic Wireless Battery Pack packs a punch. With a total capacity of 5,000mAh, it's also the chunkiest pack out of the group, despite most of the packs I reviewed having a similar capacity. On the front of the pack are indicator lights and a power button, which I find to be the perfect placement for easy charging.

A USB-C cable charges the pack up, which supports pass-through charging and can double as an external battery pack to charge via a wired connection. When I tested the Hyper pack last month, it charged my iPhone 14 Pro from 48% to 76% in an hour, and I still had 25% of juice remaining in the pack as backup. If bulkiness isn't a factor for you, the Hyper pack is a solid option to get the job done.

My only complaint with this pack is that it does not sit flush against my phone due to a bumper design around my camera lens on several of my phone cases. This makes the Hyper battery move around more than I would like, weakens its magnetic grip, and makes it more susceptible to falling off or being knocked off. Overall, I'd still recommend the HyperJuice battery pack because of its practical design and fast charging.

Customers said they enjoyed the Hyper battery's practical charging rate and reliable power boost. Still, they noted it's a snug fit on some iPhone models, depending on your phone case, and that it's just a tad bulky. Still, one reviewer called this pack "nearly perfect" on Hyper's website reviews.

Hyper Magnetic Wireless Battery Pack specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh/18.5Wh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes

My pick for the best MagSafe battery pack is the Belkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 battery pack for its upgraded design, great charging abilities, and added stand feature. Here's how our tested picks stack up.

*MSRP price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

There are a few factors worth considering when you look at this group of MagSafe-compatible batteries. The first, and arguably most important, is how much you want to spend. From there, you need to take into account the various brand options, the physical size of the battery pack, how you plan to use it, and how often.

If you're looking to purchase a MagSafe battery pack, there a few things to keep in mind.

ZDNET went hands-on with all of the MagSafe battery packs on this list. We spend time affixing these packs to our own iPhones during our daily activities and lives to test out recharge rate, magnetic strength, pass-through capabilities, comfort, and more -- not just for a day or two, but over the course of a few weeks to really get a feel for a product's add-in value. That is, can you "add-in" this product into your life and benefit from its presence, or is it just another fad product that's too good to be true or collects dust after the buzz wears off?

If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write up a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for.

Plus, we are routinely scouring the web for new products that are worthy of testing, and following news on product rollouts and upgrades, and sourcing the best deals. We know buying anything in the current economy is not just for your whims, and that's why this list, as well as our other advice, is tailored to your needs, wants, and your budget and why our picks are expert-tested and expert-vetted.

The MagSafe Battery Pack allows for on-the-go, wireless charging that is easy and reliable since it attaches to the back of your iPhone.

MagSafe charging is great for when you need your phone to charge while you are out and about, making it a better option for some. Just be careful to pay attention to your phone's temperature, as the MagSafe pack can make your phone warm, which is not good for your device.

A removable battery pack makes it easy to charge when you need it and ditch the battery when you don't. If you find yourself constantly looking for an outlet while carrying a wall adapter and cable, then a battery pack would be a good fit.

Apple's own MagSafe battery pack was discontinued following the release of the latest iPhone 15 lineup in 2023. Though Apple frequently updates its products, the discontinuation doesn't come as a surprise considering the iPhone 15 models all feature USB-C connectivity while the original MagSafe battery pack was equipped with Apple's lightning capabilities.

MagSafe capabilities can enhance your user experience and your iPhone's functionality. Besides creating simpler, more efficient wireless charging, MagSafe technology opens the door for various accessories such as wallets, car vent clips and mounts, fitness mounts, power banks, grips and key ring accessories, and more to widen the iPhone experience and make your life as efficient as possible.

The answer to this question ultimately depends on your needs. Let's walk through it. A power bank can technically have MagSafe capabilities, and some MagSafe battery packs offer dual-charging, but not all offerings are the same.

Traditionally, a power bank refers to products without MagSafe capabilities, ones that rely on a lightning or USB-C cord to charge your iPhone, and that cannot be affixed to your phone with magnetic grip. These are great options for road trips, emergency charging situations such as power outages, or to store as a "just-in-case" item in your car, work bag, or home.

On the other hand, MagSafe battery packs offer charging via magnetic grip. Most of these battery packs can be attached to your phone, making them perfect for air travel, commuting, and everyday activities. They also do not require a cord for charging, though some MagSafe battery packs can be used like a battery pack with a cord.

What's a better buy for you will depend on where and when you want to juice up your iPhone, so I recommend taking a look at our "Factors to consider" FAQ and really thinking about how your backup battery needs to function in your day-to-day life to be worth your money.

If you've recently bought a MagSafe battery pack for your iPhone, you shouldn't have any issues with fit or compatibility when you decide to upgrade to the new iPhone 15. However, if you have a first-generation MagSafe accessory, it may not fit perfectly due to design changes since the technology was first introduced.

Although we've gone hands-on with the products on our list, there are tons of other options available on the market. Here are a few alternatives that we've tested which offer compact size, extra features, and strong magnetic grips.

The Torras Slim MiniMag charger is certainly the slimmest I have tested and is the slimmest pack on this list. It provides 5000mAh of power and has a secure magnetic grip. It's size makes it perfect for carrying in purses or small bags, and it's a great option for travel. I'll be updating this entry soon with my full thoughts, but I think this is a great MagSafe battery that's fairly priced at $40.

If you love a pop of fun on your tech gear, Burga's MagSafe power bank certainly packs a punch. Similar to Casely's Power Pod, Burga's battery pack is available in a multitude of prints and designs, and it performs similarly, too. It is on the chunkier side, and I didn't like that it wasn't as portable as other options on this list, but it's certainly a great pack for at-home use or if you just don't care too much about the added bulk.

This mophie MagSafe battery boasts a Snap+ magnetic hold for greater stability and features a card slot that can hold up to 3 cards. I liked its multi-functions and stable charging, which brought my iPhone 14 Pro from 53% to 82% in an hour.

Anker's extra-portable Nano power bank features a foldable USB-C connector for easy, on-the-go boosting of your battery, without the MagSafe hassle.

Belkin's 10k magnetic wireless charger can boost your phone with 10,000mAh of extra battery power. It would be perfect for extended travel or emergency situations like power outages.

The Moft MagSafe battery pack is elevated, sleek, and offers a 3,400mAh power boost. I was really impressed with the affordable-luxury feel of all the accessories, although it offers less juice than other packs on this list.

Relaunched at CES 2024, the mophie juice pack for iPhone is back. This pack ensures an added 50% of battery life to your iPhone, is activated by an easy push button and is already affixed to your phone in a case fashion. This battery pack is perfect if you'd prefer a streamlined system for your phone, or just for special events or occasions where you might need a boost.

Revealed at CES 2024, Anker's MagGo Qi2 battery pack provides 6,600mAh of battery power in a convenient, foldable design which doubles as a phone stand.

The Anker MagGo 10,000mAh pack can give a big boost to your iPhone battery life on the go, and it features Qi2 technology for faster charging.

ESR's kickstand and battery pack combo keeps your iPhone upright as your charge with this 10,000mAh power bank with a kickstand.