Wireless charging is usually compatible with a phone case. This guide covers two common systems, Qi and MagSafe. Last checked: ****
A thin case made from silicone, TPU, plastic or leather will usually let the phone charge without removing the case.
Charging can become unreliable when the case is thick, contains metal, has magnetic accessories or prevents the phone from lining up with the charger. The Wireless Power Consortium says housing materials, coil position and magnetic shielding can affect wireless power transfer.
Which Phone Cases Work With Wireless Charging?
Thin, non-metal cases usually work with wireless chargers. The result depends on the case's thickness, materials and accessories.
| Case Type | Wireless Charging Result | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Thin silicone or TPU case | Usually works | These materials generally do not block the charging signal |
| Standard plastic case | Usually works | Plastic normally does not interfere with Qi charging |
| Thin leather case | Usually works | Wireless charging can pass through non-metallic leather |
| Thick rugged case | May be unreliable | Extra distance can weaken alignment and power transfer |
| Wallet case with cards | Remove the cards first | Cards and metal items can interfere with charging or become warm |
| Case with a metal plate | Often does not work | Metal can block the charging field and create heat |
| Case with a pop socket or large grip | May not work | The accessory can stop the phone from sitting close enough to the charger |
| MagSafe-compatible case | Best for MagSafe chargers | The magnetic ring helps align the phone and charger |
Why Does a Case Sometimes Stop Wireless Charging?
A case can weaken or stop charging when it adds too much distance, contains metal or shifts the phone away from the charger's coil.
Wireless charging uses magnetic induction between a coil in the charger and a coil inside the phone. The coils need to be close and properly aligned. A case can cause problems when it:
- Adds too much distance between the phone and charger
- Contains metal or a magnetic plate
- Moves the phone's charging coil away from the charger's coil
- Stops a MagSafe charger from attaching securely
- Traps extra heat around the phone
The Wireless Power Consortium says housing materials, coil locations and shielding can affect wireless power transfer. Qi-certified systems also use foreign-object detection and thermal safety measures.
Can You Use a Case With a MagSafe Charger?
Yes, but the case should be MagSafe-compatible.
Apple says supported iPhones can charge through an Apple MagSafe case or sleeve. The case's magnetic ring helps the charger attach in the correct position, which improves alignment during charging.
A regular non-MagSafe case may still allow wireless charging, but the magnetic connection may be weak or unavailable. A thick case can also make charging less reliable.
Do You Need to Remove a Wallet Case Before Charging?
Yes. Remove cards and metal items from a wallet case before placing the phone on a wireless charger.
Credit cards, hotel key cards, identification cards and other items with magnetic strips or chips can be damaged by magnetic charging equipment. Metal objects can interfere with charging and increase heat.
For the most reliable result, place the phone directly on the charging pad with no cards, coins, metal plates or loose accessories between the phone and charger.
What Should You Do If Wireless Charging Does Not Work Through the Case?
Start by centering the phone on the charging pad, then remove anything that sits between the phone and charger.
- Centre the phone on the charging pad. Qi charging depends on alignment between the transmitter and receiver coils.
- Remove magnetic grips, wallets and metal plates.
- Remove the case temporarily. If charging works without it, the case is causing the problem.
- Check the charger and power adapter. A weak or incompatible adapter may prevent normal charging.
- Use a Qi-certified charger. The Wireless Power Consortium says Qi-certified products are tested for safety, interoperability and energy efficiency.
- Let the phone cool down. Excess heat can interrupt charging and may reduce battery longevity.
- Use a MagSafe-compatible case with a MagSafe charger on supported iPhones. The magnetic connection helps keep the phone aligned.
What About Wireless Earbud Charging Cases?
Some wireless earbud charging cases can charge through a protective cover, but compatibility varies more than it does with phone cases.
Samsung warns that covers on Galaxy Buds charging cases may interfere with wireless charging. It recommends removing the cover if the case does not charge properly.
Bottom Line
Leave a thin, non-metal case on the phone when charging. Remove wallet contents, metal plates and bulky grips if charging is slow, stops or creates unusual heat. For MagSafe charging, use a case with a built-in MagSafe ring.