Which Pixel phones have wireless charging and how magnets affect it

Part of our guide on magnetic mounts and overheating

Which Pixel models support wireless charging

Pixel phones from the Pixel 3 series onward have wireless charging. The Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 5, Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8, 9, and 10 all support Qi wireless charging. Earlier models like Pixel 1 and 2 lack this feature.

The wireless charging feature depends on the device having the necessary coil and components built-in. Some Pixel models support both wireless charging and reverse wireless charging to power accessories.

Pixel 5 and later use an improved wireless charging coil design for better efficiency and faster charging speeds, but wireless charging power depends on the charger and environment. Expect 5-15 watts typically.

Wireless charging performance on Pixel phones can vary with the charger used. Low-power chargers deliver around 5 watts, while fast wireless chargers may provide up to 15 watts on newer models like Pixel 6 and above. Environment also matters: metal surfaces or thick cases reduce power transfer efficiency. Using a Pixel-compatible charger ensures better alignment and charging speeds. For the detail, see our notes on how magnets affect wireless charging.

Some Pixel models support reverse wireless charging, also called Battery Share. This feature lets you wirelessly charge compatible accessories such as earbuds, smartwatches, or other phones by placing them on the Pixel’s back. The power output for reverse charging is lower, typically around 5 watts, so charging accessories takes longer than using their dedicated chargers.

Does Pixel 9/10 support wireless charging

Both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 support wireless charging following the Qi standard. Their wireless charging coils align with most Qi-certified chargers for reliable charging.

Charging speed varies with the charger used but typically ranges from about 12 to 15 watts under optimal conditions. The phones include thermal management to reduce overheating when charging wirelessly. We cover wireless charging compatible pixel 9 pro cases in its own article.

They also support reverse wireless charging, allowing users to power compatible accessories like earbuds or smartwatches by placing them on the phone's back.

The Pixel 9 and 10 feature enhanced thermal management to maintain charging speeds without overheating. If the phone gets too warm, it will reduce the wireless charging power temporarily to protect the battery. This helps extend battery life but means charging times vary based on ambient temperature and phone usage.

Both models use Qi wireless charging that supports standard charger pads. Using a charger with at least 12 watts output lets you maximize the Pixel 9/10’s wireless charging speed. Chargers with lower output still work but slow charging times. There is more on restoring compass accuracy in a separate guide.

Interaction between Pixel wireless charging and magnetic mounts or cases

Magnetic mounts or cases with metal can interfere with wireless charging on Pixel phones. Strong magnets or metal plates placed between the phone and charger block the inductive current needed for wireless charging.

The presence of magnets can cause slower charging speeds or cause the phone to stop charging altogether. Some magnetic mounts also cause heat buildup which could throttle charging or damage battery health over time.

Pixel devices lack Apple’s MagSafe technology, which is designed to integrate magnets without disrupting charging. Thus, magnets not designed for Pixel phones risk interference and should be tested before regular use.

Magnetic wallets often contain metal that blocks wireless power transfer. Using a magnetic mount behind or near the wireless charging coil can prevent charging. Removing the case or accessory usually restores normal charging.

If you want to use a magnetic mount, ensure it uses a Qi-compatible magnetic ring or is specifically labeled compatible with Pixel wireless charging. Otherwise, keep magnets at least 3-5 mm away from the charging coil area.

• Magnet interference - blocks or slows wireless charging
• Heat generation - strong magnets cause thermal throttling
• Pixel lacks MagSafe - no official magnetic charging alignment
• Metal plates in wallet - reduce or stop charging

Get clear facts on which Pixel phones wirelessly charge and how magnets affect charging and safety before buying mounts.

How to test if a magnetic mount or wallet affects Pixel wireless charging

You can test a magnetic mount or wallet’s impact by placing your Pixel phone on a Qi charger with the accessory attached. Check if the charging indicator lights up or if charging speed drops significantly.

Use a wireless charging power meter to measure real-time power transfer in watts. A healthy charging session shows consistent wattage. Sudden drops or no charging indicate interference.

If possible, remove the accessory and test charging again to compare results. Also, feel the phone back during charging. Excessive heat indicates magnetic or metal interference causing power loss.

The best test tool is a Qi-certified wireless charger and a power meter that shows charging watts. Testing multiple mounts or wallets this way helps find safe options for your Pixel.

Testing wireless charging with a magnetic mount or wallet can also reveal intermittent charging issues. The phone might start charging but pause or stop after a few seconds due to magnet interference. Observing the charging indicator for flickering or delays helps identify this problem.

If you have access to a thermal camera or thermometer, check the phone’s back temperature during charging. A rise above 40°C indicates heat buildup from magnetic interference. This heating can shorten battery life or cause the phone to throttle charging speeds.

Some magnetic mounts advertise compatibility with wireless charging by placing magnets outside the charging coil area or using weaker magnets. Testing multiple positions on the mount can find a sweet spot where charging works without interference.

1. Place Pixel phone on wireless charger without accessory; note charging behavior.
2. Attach magnetic mount or wallet; place phone back on charger.
3. Observe charging light and wattage on power meter.
4. Remove accessory to confirm normal charging returns.
5. Avoid use if charging fails or heat rises significantly.

Are magnetic phone mounts safe for Pixel phones

Magnetic phone mounts are generally safe for Pixel phones if used properly. They do not damage the phone’s internal components but can disrupt wireless charging.

Mounts with weak magnets or those positioned away from charging coils usually cause no issues. Strong magnets directly on the coil can cause heat or charging failures.

Pixel phones have no magnetic sensors that interfere with normal operation, unlike some credit cards or passports which magnets can damage. Your main risk is charging interference if using wireless charging.

You can safely use magnetic mounts for hands-free setups by choosing models designed for Qi wireless charging or by disabling wireless charging while mounted.

• Safe if magnets do not block coil area
• No damage to phone hardware from magnets
• Interference mainly affects wireless charging
• Choose mounts designed for Pixel compatibility

Which Pixel models support wireless charging

Only Pixel models from Pixel 3 forward support Qi wireless charging. This includes Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 series. Earlier models lack wireless charging coils.

Wireless charging speed depends on the charger and can range from about 5 watts to 15 watts, higher with Pixel 9 and 10. Wireless charging is affected by cases and accessories especially those with magnets or metal.

Pixels do not have the magnetic ring system seen on iPhones with MagSafe. This means magnetic accessories can easily misalign charging or block it altogether.

Check the Pixel model number on the box or in settings to confirm support before buying wireless chargers or accessories.

FAQ

I've tested wireless charging with several Pixel models and magnetic mounts to confirm interference patterns.