Wireless charging isn’t exactly new, although it isn’t quite as pervasive as we’d like it to be. An unwired future isn’t far fetched and we’re seeing more and more devices, especially smartphones and audio gear supporting wireless charging out-of-the-box. Led by flagship smartphones going as far back as the Samsung Galaxy S6 series and Apple iPhone 8, we’ve also seen wireless charging technology improving, now able to fast-charge, some close to wired charging speeds.
There are now plenty of options out there if you’re looking for a wireless charger. But first, a word of advice. Not every charger is built the same nor support the same standards, but you’d want one that offers at least 10W fast charging and supports the Qi standard.
One product you may want to consider is the CHOETECH 3 Coils 10W Fast Charge Wireless Charger (T513-S). Thanks to CHOETECH Malaysia, I got to test out its latest charger with my collection of Qi-enabled devices: the Samsung Galaxy S10+. Galaxy Note9, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone XR, Xiaomi Mi 9, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and Apple AirPods 2.
CHOETECH, by the way, is a Chinese brand specialising in wireless chargers, car chargers, cables and hubs, and other nifty accessories.
Design and build
Not to burst CHOETECH’s bubble or anything, but aesthetically, the charger is a plain Jane, looking pretty generic. It won’t win a beauty contest against a Samsung Fast Wireless Charger or even the Baseus Wireless Charger, but nonetheless, it’s slim, compact and well put together. On the top left is an LED indicator that lights up green when it is in fast charging mode, or blue in standard charging mode.
There’s a micro-USB port on the top for you to plug into a QC2.0/QC3.0 fast charger (not included).
What’s great are rubber feet underneath that keeps it in place on your table top.
What’s in the box
- T513-S Wireless Charging Pad
- micro-USB to USB-A cable
- User Manual
- Bookmark with invite to join CHOETECH Facebook group (???)
Key features
The T513-S wireless charger integrates a 3-coil design for high-efficiency charging. The advantage of the 3-coil is a wider charging area, so in theory, you wouldn’t need to hunt for the “sweet spot.”
An integrated smart chip provides temperature control, surge protection, short-circuit protection, overheating and over-voltage protection. In short, safe and efficient charging.
The charger supports up to 10W fast wireless charging and supports the universal Qi standard. You will need a Qi-enabled device like the iPhone flagships (iPhone 8 and later), Samsung Galaxy S6, Note 5 and later, as well as other Qi-enabled smartphones.
In terms of input, the T513-S supports 5V/2A and 9V/1.7A.
Performance
Setting up is as easy as connecting the USB cable from the charging pad to a power brick. For best charging performance, it’s recommended that you use at least a 5V/1.5-2.4A power brick. For me, I used a Nokia 8.1 Plus 5V/3A, 9V/2A unit. Also, a fast charge capable USB cable is advisable for best possible results.
Once that’s sorted, everything else is pretty intuitive. Just place your phone on the mat, and off you go. Like I mentioned earlier, I got to test the T513-S with my Samsung Galaxy S10+, Galaxy Note9, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone XR, Xiaomi Mi 9, Samsung Galaxy Buds and Apple AirPods 2.
You’ll find newer Samsung devices charge the fastest compared to iPhones, since they support up to 10W while Apple devices max out at 7.5W.
In general, devices will juice up within 2-2.5 hours, which is pretty snappy for untethered charging.
What’s important is that thanks to the 3-coil design, I didn’t have to hunt for the most optimal positioning or orientation. Just plonk it on the pad, watch the green LED light up, and you’re all set.
For kicks I tried to charge two phones simultaneously, but it didn’t work. Drats, I was going to say, “Eat your heart out AirPower” but OK, that’s not going to happen. Also, the pad and phone remains cool throughout the process.
Overall, it works as promised!
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Slim and compact
- Excellent fast charging performance
- Qi-enabled
- Safety features
- Stays cool while charging
- Flexible charging “sweet spot”
- 18-month warranty
Cons
- None notable
Pricing and availability
The CHOETECH 3 Coils 10W Fast Charge Wireless Charger (T513-S) retails for MYR89.90 (USD28.59) and it can be purchased via the CHOETECH Malaysia store on Lazada Malaysia or via www.ichoetech.com.
You can use promo code “CHOE80EY” to save 20% on your order at www.ichoetech.com.
Verdict
The CHOETECH 3 Coils 10W Fast Charge Wireless Charger (T513-S) is a recommended buy for those looking for an inexpensive, no-frills wireless charging solution. Thumbs up!
