The iPhone 16 series is set to release this September, and anticipation is at an all-time high. One of the most talked-about aspects is its charging capabilities. What charger does iPhone 16 use and how fast can it charge?

This guide delves into everything worth noting about iPhone 16's charging, from its battery life and charger requirements to improvements in charging speeds. We'll also share tips and highlight the best options available in 2024 to keep the new device powered up efficiently.

Understanding the iPhone 16's Charging Capabilities

The iPhone 16 series is expected to receive notable upgrades in battery capacity across most models. The standard iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max is said to see substantial increases, with the iPhone 16's battery growing by 6% and the iPhone 16 Pro Max by 5.58%. The iPhone 16 Pro will also benefit from a 2.47% increase in battery capacity, while the iPhone 16 Plus is rumored to experience a decrease in battery size by 8.6% compared to the iPhone 15 Plus.

Here's a quick look at the anticipated battery capacities for the iPhone 16 series, measured in mAh:

iPhone 16 Series	Expected Battery Size	Change	iPhone 15 Series	Battery Size
iPhone 16	3,561mAh	+ 6%	iPhone 15	3,349 mAh
iPhone 16 Plus	4,006mAh	- 8.6%	iPhone 15 Plus	4,383 mAh
iPhone 16 Pro	3,355mAh	+ 2.47%	iPhone 15 Pro	3,274 mAh
iPhone 16 Pro Max	4676mAh	+ 5.58%	iPhone 15 Pro Max	4,422 mAh

To address these increases in battery capacity and offer a more efficient charging experience, Apple is set to introduce improvements in charging technology for the iPhone 16 series, including both wired and wireless methods:

Wired Charging

With the iPhone 15 series making the switch to USB-C, the upcoming iPhone 16 series will keep the USB-C ports and continue supporting USB Power Delivery (PD) for fast wired charging.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are expected to maintain the same wired charging speeds as the previous models. By using a USB-C power adapter with at least a 20W output, you can charge an iPhone 16 to 50% in about 30 minutes, with maximum charging speeds reaching up to 27W.

The iPhone 16 Pro models, however, are anticipated to take a significant leap forward with support for up to 40W wired charging. This means you can charge an iPhone 16 Pro to from 0% to 50% in just over 15 minutes, offering a more efficient charging experience.

Wireless Charging

Since the introduction of MagSafe with the iPhone 12 series, MagSafe wireless charging has become a staple in all later iPhone series. The iPhone 16 series is no exception, supporting both Qi and MagSafe wireless charging technologies.

MagSafe technology uses an array of magnets around the Qi wireless charging coil to ensure perfect alignment between the iPhone and the MagSafe charger. This magnetic alignment not only secures the attachment but also maximizes charging efficiency.

With the iPhone 16 series, the MagSafe wireless charging speeds are anticipated to improve to 20W, an increase from the previous 15W. This allows for faster and more convenient wireless charging, catering to users who prefer a cable-free experience.

What Charger Does iPhone 16 Use?

Now that you understand the improvements in the iPhone 16's charging capabilities, let's look at the different chargers you can use for new series, including both wired and wireless options:

USB-C Wired Charger

Like its predecessor, the iPhone 16 series adopts the USB-C port for fast and efficient wired charging. To take advantage of this, Apple recommends using a quality USB-C power adapter with a 20W output or higher. This allows you to charge an iPhone 16 up to 50% in about 30 minutes, with the peak charging speed capped at 27W for standard models.

For the iPhone 16 Pro models, a significant enhancement is introduced with support for up to 40W wired charging. To achieve these faster 40W charging speeds, you will need a quality USB-C power adapter with a minimum output of 40W. As Apple won't ship such a power adapter in the box, investing in a suitable charger is essential if you don't already have one. If you already own a MacBook, you can use its charger to enjoy fast charging for the new iPhone 16 Pro as well.

Wireless Charger

In addition to wired charging, the iPhone 16 series supports both Qi and MagSafe wireless charging. MagSafe wireless charging speeds are expected to increase to 20W with the iPhone 16 series. To take advantage of this fast wireless charging, you'll need a MagSafe-compatible charger. Simply snap the back of your iPhone 16 onto the charger, and it will align precisely and start charging efficiently.

For those who already own traditional Qi wireless chargers, they can still be used with the iPhone 16 series, though at a slower speed of up to 7.5W. This makes MagSafe the preferable option if you want to enjoy quicker wireless charging.

How to Optimize Your iPhone 16's Charging

Optimizing the charging experience of the iPhone 16 requires a combination of using the right chargers and following best practices. Here are some practical tips to help:

• Use the Right Chargers: Always use a high-quality, Apple-certified iPhone chargerfor safe and efficient charging. For wired charging, using a certified USB-C power adapter with a minimum output of 20W for standard models or 40W for Pro models will provide the best results. For wireless charging, consider investing in a MagSafe-compatible charger to achieve the maximum 20W wireless charging speed.
• Enable 'Optimized Battery Charging': Apple's 'Optimized Battery Charging' feature helps reduce battery aging by learning your daily charging routine and waiting to finish charging past 80% until you need to use your phone. Make sure this feature is enabled in your iPhone 16’s settings:Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging and turn on 'Optimized Battery Charging'.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures:Extreme temperatures can adversely affect your iPhone's battery health. Try to keep your device in environments with temperatures between 32° to 95° F (0° to 35° C). Avoid exposing your iPhone to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, especially while charging.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Apple periodically releases updates that can improve battery performance and charging efficiency. Ensure your iPhone 16 is always running the latest version of iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Download and install any available updates

Best iPhone 16 Chargers in 2024

With the iPhone 16's advanced charging capabilities, it's essential to pair it with the best chargers available. Here are some top picks in 2024 to ensure your new device charges quickly and safely.

Anker 737 Charger (GaNPrime 120W)

The Anker 737 Charger (GaNPrime 120W) is a powerhouse for those who need to charge multiple devices simultaneously. This compact charger is equipped with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, allowing you to charge your iPhone 16, tablet, and notebook all at once.

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When charging a single device, it delivers up to 100W of power, ensuring you can achieve the fastest charging speed for your iPhone 16 Pro. Despite its powerful output, the Anker 737 Charger is compact and sleek, being 39% smaller than the standard MacBook charger, making it a great addition to your tech arsenal.

Additionally, the ActiveShield 2.0 technology monitors the charger's temperature over three million times per day, providing enhanced protection by automatically adjusting power output to safeguard your devices.

Anker 3-In-1 Cube with Magsafe

The Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe is the ultimate all-in-one wireless charging solution for Apple users. This compact and foldable charger is designed exclusively for Apple devices, providing fast and efficient power to your iPhone 16, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously.

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Officially certified for both MagSafe and Apple Watch, it ensures your iPhone 16 charges at optimal speeds and can fully charge your watch to 100% in just 1 hour and 10 minutes. The adjustable viewing angle, up to 60°, allows you to switch between landscape and portrait modes, making it convenient to view your phone while it charges.

The foldable, ultra-compact design makes it perfect for travel, easily fitting in your palm or pocket, ensuring you have access to a powerful charge wherever you go. Combining speed, convenience, and portability, the Anker 3-in-1 Cube is a must-have for Apple enthusiasts looking to streamline their charging setup.

Conclusion

As we've learned, the iPhone 16 series is set to bring significant advancements in battery capacity and charging technology. When asked about "What charger does iPhone 16 use?", opting for a quality USB-C power adapter rated 40W or higher ensures you can enjoy the fastest wired charging speed. If you prefer the convenience of cable-free charging, MagSafe-compatible chargers offer an enhanced 20W wireless charging speed. By exploring our picks of the best iPhone 16 accessories and following the best practices, you can maximize your iPhone 16's battery life and charging efficiency and make the most out of the new device.

FAQs

Is iPhone 16 USB-C?

Yes, the iPhone 16 series features a USB-C port for wired charging and data transfer. This continues the trend started with the iPhone 15 series, providing fast and efficient charging options and compatibility with a wide range of USB-C accessories.

How long does it take to fully charge the iPhone 16?

It takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to fully charge the iPhone 16 using a 20W USB-C power adapter or higher. Charging times may vary slightly depending on the charger and usage during charging.

Are there alternative chargers compatible with the iPhone 16?

Yes, there are alternative chargers compatible with the iPhone 16. Ensure they are USB-C and provide the appropriate wattage for safe and efficient charging. Using Apple-certified or high-quality third-party chargers is recommended for best results.