You need this wireless charger with a built-in fan for your iPhone – here's why and how it works

I’ve become a fan of wireless charging because it’s quick, easy, and far more convenient to place my iPhone on a charging pad than to search for a cable, especially in the dark. However, wireless charging has drawbacks, including the heat generated during the process. This waste heat can lead to erratic charging and battery life degradation.

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Some manufacturers attempt to mitigate this issue by adding a fan to the wireless charging pad. While this approach helps to dissipate heat, its effectiveness can diminish in warmer weather due to higher ambient temperatures. Additionally, using a case can cause problems because it reduces charging efficiency and traps heat.

Torras has developed a wireless charger that addresses heat concerns using science. 

The charger attaches magnetically to the back of the iPhone with 11 Newtons of clamping force, and as soon as it’s plugged in, the charger springs to life. Not only does it start powering the connected device — whether it’s an iPhone, Android device, or AirPods — but the fan also activates to provide cooling.

The experience feels very cool, both figuratively and literally. If you remove the charger from a phone while it’s working, you can feel the cold on the face of the pad. I measured mine at about 6°C (42.8°F), which is surprisingly chilly to touch. The fan, essential for TEC cooling, is almost imperceptible. I can hear the fan if I put the charger close to my ear but I can’t hear anything when it’s running next to my bed at night.

There’s a button on the side of the PolarCircle Qi2 MagSafe Charger to turn off the cooling when it’s not needed. The charger operates from a USB-C port that requires a minimum of 30W power input from either a wall charger or a power bank. In the box, you also get a decent quality five-foot-long USB-C-to-USB-C cable.

The charger doubles as a stand, with a freewheeling ring that hinges out to hold the phone at a convenient viewing angle — another nice touch from Torras.

One thing to consider is that this charger requires more power than a regular 15W wireless charger. Running the charger from a power bank will be less efficient than using a regular wireless charger. (Note that the most efficient way to charge anything from a power bank is to use a cable.) 

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However, I think this device is a great all-purpose wireless charger that eliminates the headaches of overheating, and it will also appeal to gamers. From experience, I know how hot a smartphone can get while gaming, and having this charger attached will supply power while keeping the device cool. 

ZDNET’s buying advice

Priced at $50, the Torras PolarCircle Qi2 MagSafe Charger has become a favorite device of mine. Even without the cooling feature, it’s a great portable charger, but the cooling capability elevates it to another level. I’ve tested several wireless chargers with built-in cooling fans, and while they were better than those without, the cooling effect was minimal. The TEC adds active cooling, making a tremendous difference.