Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (2024)

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (1)

Whether finding a charger in your house is a constant challenge, you want to make a central hub for your family’s devices, or just want to tame a rat’s nest of wires and cables, follow along for a look at some of the best multi-device chargers for families when it comes to iPhone, iPad, MacBooks, and more.

No matter if you’re looking for the best multi-device charger that works well on a counter/desktop, hidden away, or is flexible to be used around the house, there are some great options out there. We’ve gone hands-on with lots of choices to help you pick the best multi-device charger for you.

Table of contents

  • Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone/iPad
    • Mophie 4-in-1 wireless charging mat
    • Scosche BaseLynx modular charger
    • Satechi Dock5
      • Best multi-device charger on a budget
    • Satechi 108W 4-port charger
      • Best multi-device charger – compact
    • ElevationLab FamilyCharger
    • Best multi-device chargers for families wrap-up

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone/iPad

Mophie 4-in-1 wireless charging mat

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (2)

This first option is a great choice for charging up multiple iPhones, AirPods, and more. The Mophie 4-in-1 wireless charging mat is flexible in that it can simultaneously charge three smartphones, or two smartphones and two sets of AirPods.

There’s also a USB-A port on the back that works with the included Apple Watch adapter.

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (3)

Overall you’re getting a clean and compact design that offers convenient wireless charging for up to five devices. The Mophie 4-in-1 wireless charging mat sells for $150. Check out our full review for more details.

Scosche BaseLynx modular charger

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This is a really convenient multi-device charger that offers both wireless and wired charging while also being modular to fit your exact needs. One of the options here is the Vert Charging module which provides some really nice organization for multiple iPads, tablets, and other devices.

In the photo above, I’m using the BaseLynx Kit bundle that includes the Vert Station, Wireless Charging Pad, and Apple Watch Charger. But you can create an even bigger modular charger setup to juice over 10 devices depending on your needs.

Here’s a look at the main modules with this system:

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (5)
Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (6)

The main downside to the BaseLynx system is the price. The main kit shown above runs $170. Additional modules run between $40 and $70. So all in all, you’re looking at what’s probably the most expensive multi-device charging solution.

Learn more in our full review here.

Satechi Dock5

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If you like the style of the Vert Dock module above, this is a very similar product at a much more affordable price. The Satechi Dock5 isn’t modular like the BaseLynx but offers a compelling overall value with solid organization and charging options.

You’re getting 1 Qi wireless charger on the front with slots for four devices behind it that charge via 2 USB and 2 USB-C PD ports. Those output 20W for each USB-C PD port, and 12W output for the USB-A ports. The Qi wireless pad offers 10W output.

Satechi is able to keep the price down here as cables aren’t included. But that also give you flexibility if you already have what you need or want to customize cables for your own needs.

The Dock5 sells for $60 direct from Satechi as well as its Amazon storefront.

Satechi also sells a 7-device dock-style charger without the wireless charging pad on the front. That goes for the same $59.99 with cables sold separately.

Best multi-device charger on a budget

A great budget option in this same vein – but without the wireless charger – is the Hercules charging station for 6 devices. You’re getting all USB-A here, but a lot of value as it even includes cables at a very affordable price. The Hercules charging station is Amazon’s Choice and has an average 4.5/5 star rating from almost 9,000 Amazon shoppers.

Satechi 108W 4-port charger

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If you’re looking for the best multi-device charger that can be used in a cabinet or drawer to power up devices out of sight or maybe something to power notebooks, tablets, and more for school and work at home on a desktop, the Satechi 108W 4-port charger is a solid option.

You’re getting 2 USB-C PD ports – one that offers 90W output, with the other doing 18W plus two USB-A ports that give another 12W.

This charger is great as it can power up everything from the largest notebooks like Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pro –at full speed – all the way down to older devices that just need a fraction of that wattage.

Better yet, this Satechi 4-port charger comes with a four-foot power cable for extra flexibility and is just a touch bigger than Apple’s own MacBook Pro charger.

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (9)

And if you don’t need all the power the 108W model pushes, Satechi makes a 75W Travel Charger that also features the same 4-port (2 x USB-C, 2x USB-A) design.

The Satechi 108W 4-port charger typically runs $80 with the 75W model at an MSRP of $70.

Best multi-device charger – compact

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If you prefer something more compact, RAVPower offers a sharp 4-port charger with a really slim design. It’s about half the size of Apple’s charger and you’re getting the 2 x USB-C and 2 x USB-A like the Satechi chargers above, but with a total 65W total output.

It also features the same four-foot power cable and works well for anything from MacBooks to iPhones and everything in between. Just keep in mind you’ll power the 15 and 16-inch MacBook Pro notebooks a bit slower with this charger.

The RAVPower 65W 4-port charger normally sells for $60.

ElevationLab FamilyCharger

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This is a cool wired multi-device charger that can power everything from Lightning, USB-C, to microUSB devices.

The 3 Lightning cables included are Made for iPhone/iPad (MFi, you’ve also got 1 USB-C cable, and 1 microUSB cable. It offers 52W of overall power.

I won’t go into too much detail for now since unfortunately, it’s out of stock. But I’m hopeful ElevationLab makes more of these as they’re a nice, clean charging solution that includes the cables and power supply.

Read more in our full review here.

Best cables

If you need to pick up some USB cables, the 6-12-inch sizes are nice for the dock style chargers. Anker, Aukey, Satechi, all offer official Made for iPhone/iPad (MFi) options.

All three companies also make a wide range of solid cables in longer sizes as well.

You can find cheaper ones out there, but it usually pays to make sure you’re getting MFi cables that have good reviews.

Best multi-device chargers for families wrap-up

With the options above, hopefully, you’ve found the best multi-device charging solution for your budget and family’s needs along with some ideas on how to bring some organization to your device management.

If you’re looking for some stand-style multi-device chargers, the New Belkin Boost Up Charge Pro with MagSafe is a sharp but pricier new option. Belkin and others like Nomad, Mophie, and more make some other great products. However, these aren’t always the most convenient for family use.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac (2024)

FAQs

Best multi-device chargers for families with iPhone, iPad, more - 9to5Mac? ›

You can use Apple USB power adapters for iPad and Mac laptops to charge iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other Apple products. You can use the Apple 12W USB Power Adapter to charge your iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and other Apple accessories, like AirPods and Siri Remote.

Is it OK to use the same charger for iPhone and iPad? ›

You can use Apple USB power adapters for iPad and Mac laptops to charge iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other Apple products. You can use the Apple 12W USB Power Adapter to charge your iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and other Apple accessories, like AirPods and Siri Remote.

Are iPad chargers more powerful than iPhone chargers? ›

If you use an iPhone charger it will show the iPad is charging; now look above at the numbers and you see that it is about 1/2 of what the iPad charger is so it will take twice as long to charge up your iPad using an iPhone charger.

How many watts can an iPad 9th gen take? ›

These devices come with a 20W power adapter in the box: iPad mini (6th generation) iPad (9th generation)

Is the Apple MagSafe charger worth it? ›

Yes, a MagSafe charger is worth the investment for numerous reasons. Ultimately, wireless charging and Magsafe charging both offer convenient, mess-free charging methods. However, when it comes down to which one is better in terms of convenience and charging speed, it's always going to be MagSafe.

Can I charge my iPad with a MacBook charger? ›

If you have a higher-wattage USB-C power adapter—such as the one that came with your Mac laptop—you can use it with your iPad for faster charging. You can also charge your iPad by connecting it to the USB-C port on your computer.

Is it OK to use phone charger for iPad? ›

Yes, you can use your iPhone charger with the iPad. This should not damage the iPad or the charger. However, since the iPad is provided with a lower current the charging takes longer.

How do I know which charger to buy for my iPad? ›

The most important thing is that the cable has the same connector as your iPad. In addition, you should check if you have a fast charger. Fast chargers have an oval USB-C port, regular chargers have a rectangular USB-A port. Without a fast charger, charging takes a long time.

How to tell the difference between an iPhone charger and an iPad charger? ›

That's because the difference between the iPhone and iPad adapters is the rated amperage. An iPad charge brick is rated to handle 2.1 amps, while the smaller iPhone charger is rated for just 1 amp.

What watt charger should I use for my iPad? ›

Make sure you're charging your iPad with at least a 10 or 12-watt charger. One of the few accessories included with the iPad is a USB power adapter, which will charge the device from a wall outlet. It's worth taking a close look at the adapter and noting the specs to understand what they mean.

Is a 20W or 30W charger better for iPad? ›

Based on the comprehensive test report, the Tough On 30W Wall Charger USB C PD 3.0 Fast Chargeemerged as the fastest and most efficient option, while the 20W version maintained the most consistent temperature and charging efficiency.

Does iPad 9 stop charging when full? ›

iPad automatically stops charging when the battery is fully charged, so it's safe to keep your iPad connected to a charger overnight. Charging resumes automatically if your battery level drops below 95 percent.

Can I use a 30W charger for an iPad 9th generation? ›

You should note that while your iPad can be charged with a 30W (or other) Power Adapter, it will not charge any faster than when using the USB-C 20W Power Adapter that was likely supplied with your iPad.

What are the downsides of MagSafe charging? ›

Wear and Tear: Repeated use can lead to wear on both the cable and the device's charging port, necessitating repairs or replacements. Inconvenience: Unlike wireless charging, using your device while it's charging can be cumbersome due to the physical tether.

Can I leave my MagSafe charger plugged in all the time? ›

Yes, leaving your iPhone on MagSafe overnight is safe. Apple has implemented charging algorithms that regulate the battery's charging state to avoid overcharging and minimize potential impact on battery health.

Which is better, MagSafe or wired charging? ›

Compared to wired lightning charging, MagSafe's charging speed is competitive. While wired charging methods may hold a slight edge in raw charging speed, MagSafe charging is not far behind. The convenience of wireless charging, coupled with MagSafe's efficiency, ensures that charging speeds are commendable.

Are iPhone and iPad chargers compatible? ›

You can also use Apple USB power adapters for iPad and Mac notebooks to charge iPhone, and you can use third-party power adapters that are compliant with applicable country regulations and international and regional safety standards.

Do iPads need a different charger? ›

You don't need an iPad charger from Apple, a different brand works as well. The most important thing is that the cable has the same connector as your iPad. In addition, you should check if you have a fast charger. Fast chargers have an oval USB-C port, regular chargers have a rectangular USB-A port.

Can I plug my iPhone into my iPad? ›

It's possible to directly connect an iPhone to an iPad via a Lightning cable. To create a dual-sided Lightning cable, just take a regular Lightning cable and connect the USB end to a Lightning to USB Camera adapter.

Are all Apple chargers the same? ›

They're not all the same, but they're effectively interchangeable. Apple would consider them fully forwards and backwards compatible. I think the exception would be for a certain runs that were recalled, like the bladed ones that shipped with the iPhone 3G (about a decade ago) or the European recall.

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