Are MagSafe and Qi2 the Same Thing?

Wireless charging is the future, and two of the front runners of the race are Apple’s MagSafe and the Wireless Power Consortium’s (WPC) Qi2. However, while the two share similarities in that they both charge wirelessly, they use slightly different technology. In short, and to borrow a popular Thai phrase, “same, same, but different,” Qi2 expands on the original Qi model. It incorporates a Magnetic Power Profile similar to MagSafe, but there are differences in compatibility, certification, and ecosystem support.

Is Qi2 the Same as MagSafe?

Not exactly. Apple's MagSafe arrived with much fanfare back in 2020 with the launch of the iPhone 12. It integrated magnets into the device to improve wireless charging efficiency and accessory attachment, proving to be a huge hit for those on Team Apple. And that's where one of the significant differences lies. Qi2, on the other hand, is a newly developed wireless charging standard that includes similar magnetic alignment features but is not exclusive to Apple devices.

What is Qi2 for iPhone?

The Qi was good, but the Qi2 is a big step up and is designed to offer better alignment and efficiency. Now equipped with the Magnetic Power Profile, these chargers snap into place just like Apple’s proprietary system. The result? Faster, more reliable charging for iPhones and other Qi2-certified devices.

Older iPhone models—and by old, we mean the archaic age of iPhone 13 and 14—support Qi2 charging but may have some limitations in speed and performance. However, if you're using an iPhone 15 or up, you can take advantage of the full Qi2 compatibility, meaning you can charge your phone at 15W with a Qi2-certified charger—without needing an official MagSafe-certified accessory. 

Is the Qi Charger MagSafe?

No, not all Qi chargers are MagSafe. Traditional Qi chargers lack the magnetic alignment feature found in MagSafe and Qi2. However, Qi2 chargers function similarly to MagSafe because they incorporate magnetic rings that ensure proper alignment for optimized charging. The difference between a Qi2-certified and a standard Qi charger is also important. Anything that’s fully certified comes with the same 15W charging speeds available through MagSafe without paying for Apple’s official certification. 

Qi2 vs. MagSafe: Key Differences

As we've said, there are plenty of similarities here, but also several key differences:

1. Compatibility

One of the most significant differences is compatibility. MagSafe is an Apple-exclusive piece of technology, while Qi2 is designed to be universal. It allows Android and iPhone users to enjoy the benefits of magnetic alignment without being locked into Apple’s ecosystem. If you switch between Apple and Android devices or use multiple brands, Qi2 chargers provide a more flexible option.

2. Certification and Cost

Apple is strict about who is included in its Made for iPhone (MFi) certification program. It's a little like an exclusive club, which guarantees high quality but also high prices, thanks to higher production costs. Qi2, developed by the Wireless Power Consortium, allows manufacturers to produce chargers that function similarly but at a lower cost since certification isn’t limited to Apple’s ecosystem. 

3. Charging Speed

While Qi lagged behind Apple’s technology, Qi2 has now caught up. Both support up to 15W of charging power, but Apple has recently improved with the introduction of the MagSafe 2.0 with the iPhone 16 series, increasing charging speeds up to 25W. If you have an iPhone 15 or older, Qi2 and MagSafe will perform the same, but for the next generation of iPhones, it's generally thought MagSafe will offer faster speeds.

4. Accessory Support

Since MagSafe is Apple’s own technology, it seamlessly integrates with accessories like MagSafe-compatible cases, wallets, and battery packs. Qi2, while offering similar magnetic functionality, lacks the broader ecosystem of add-ons. If you use multiple MagSafe accessories, you may want to stick with Apple’s technology.

5. Ecosystem and Future Updates

MagSafe is deeply integrated into Apple’s ecosystem, meaning future iPhones will continue to refine and improve the technology. Qi2, as an industry-wide standard, will likely see broader adoption across different manufacturers, potentially making it the new go-to wireless charging format. If you prefer sticking with Apple’s ecosystem, MagSafe is the safer bet. If you want a more future-proof, cross-platform solution, Qi2 is the way to go.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Looking for the best option? Let's take a look at a few points:

• Choose MagSafe if you’re an Apple die-hard and use accessories like MagSafe wallets or battery packs. It ensures seamless integration and future compatibility with new iPhone features. Also, if you're one of those people who wait on tenterhooks for the release of the latest iPhone, sticking with MagSafe makes more sense.  

• Choose Qi2 if you want something more affordable with a wider compatible wireless charging option. Think Apple quality without the Apple tax. This will be your best option if you own multiple devices from different brands. If you’re buying a new wireless charger for an iPhone 15 or later, Qi2-certified chargers offer the best balance of price, performance, and compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Qi Charging Better Than MagSafe?

Traditional Qi charging lacks the magnetic alignment found in MagSafe and Qi2, meaning your device can shift, leading to inefficient charging. Neither MagSafe nor Qi2 have this problem. Both secure the device in place, optimizing power transfer. 

Is the iPhone 14 Qi2 Compatible?

Yes. With iOS 17.2, Apple enabled Qi2 charging for the iPhone 13 and 14 series. While these models don’t have full MagSafe functionality, Qi2 allows them to charge at 15W with compatible chargers.

Final Thoughts

While the two technologies are similar, they aren’t identical. MagSafe is Apple's flagship wireless charging technology, but it can't be used with other models. It's also more costly—but it does have that shiny Apple logo if that's what you're looking for. 

Qi2, as an open standard, brings MagSafe-like functionality to a wider range of devices at a lower cost. If you own an iPhone 15 or later and want the best value, Qi2 chargers provide the same 15W charging speeds as MagSafe at a lower cost. If you use multiple Apple accessories, MagSafe may be the better long-term choice.

Explore Casely’s collection of MagSafe cases and chargers that enhance your experience. We've got everything needed to ensure that your phone, which starts off looking just like everybody else’s, comes away with a heart and soul of its own.