Anker PowerWave Pad Review: Still Worth $30 in 2025?

I’ve been using Anker’s charging products daily, and the PowerWave Pad has been my go-to wireless charger while testing phones. The wireless charger usually costs $35, but it is now down to just $29 for Prime Day, which is a decent price. This is one of the most reliable wireless chargers around, and if you need a basic option you can take anywhere, it’s the one I’d suggest — it’s now my secondary choice after Qi2 chargers.

Anker PowerWave Pad: was US$39 now US$29 at Amazon

✅Recommended if: You need a basic wireless charger that works with everything. The PowerWave Pad is surprisingly versatile, thanks to its wide compatibility with both Android and iPhone devices.

❌Skip this deal if: You need faster charging for your iPhone. In that case, I’d suggest getting Apple’s MagSafe charger, which delivers 15W. That model is now available for $39 on Amazon.

Coming in at just 67g, the PowerWave Pad has the distinction of being one of the lighter wireless chargers around. And at 0.4 inches thick, you won’t notice much bulk on your desk. The design is a clear point of differentiation, and the build quality is fantastic — I’ve used this charger for the better part of 18 months now, and it has been rock-solid.

It also boasts decent charging efficiency, and I had no issues charging a variety of Android phones, as well as my iPhone 16 Pro Max, with the charger. The broad compatibility makes it convenient to charge any device.

Testing with Multiple Devices

During my testing period, I used the PowerWave Pad with the Vivo X200 Pro, X200 Ultra, Pixel 9 Pro XL, iPhone 16 Pro Max, OnePlus 12, and Honor Magic V3—the Android devices charged at 15W, reaching 50% in around 45 minutes. The iPhone charged at 7.5W, taking 68 minutes to hit 50%.

The PowerWave Pad successfully charges through cases up to 5mm thick. I tested with Spigen Tough Armor, Otterbox Commuter, and Apple’s Silicone Case — all of which maintained consistent charging speeds. Metal cases prevent charging entirely.

PowerWave Pad vs Competition

vs UGREEN Nexode Wireless ($35): The UGREEN offers identical charging speeds with USB-C input. Its lower profile and included USB-C cable justify the slight premium, though charging performance remains equivalent.

Vs Baseus PicoGo Wireless ($32): Baseus’ offering features a more compact design, making it beneficial for travel. However, it generates more heat during extended charging. The PowerWave’s better thermal management is preferable for overnight use.

Vs Belkin BoostCharge ($49): The Belkin adds nothing except premium materials. You’re paying $20 extra for the same 15W/7.5W speeds. Unless you specifically need the aesthetic upgrade, save your money.

Real-World Performance

Temperature monitoring indicates that the PowerWave Pad maintains a temperature of 8-40°C during standard operation, with a peak of 42°C during 15W charging. Foreign object detection works reliably — the charger immediately stops when it detects foreign objects, such as keys or coins.

One issue: The included power adapter is bulky, measuring 45 mm × 45 mm × 28 mm. UGREEN and Baseus include more compact adapters with their chargers. The LED indicator is also too bright for bedroom use — I covered mine with tape.

The PowerWave Pad has everything you need if you’re looking for a reliable wireless charger that works with any phone. The 10W Qi2 magnetic chargers are better suited for iPhone users, with that variant now available for $39. I prefer the simplicity of the PowerWave Pad in daily use, and given that it’s selling for just $29, this is a Prime Day deal worth considering.

The Verdict: At $29, the PowerWave Pad delivers appropriate value. It’s not the fastest or most advanced charger in 2025, but it’s reliable and works with everything. For Android users, it’s still a solid choice. iPhone users should spend the extra $10 for MagSafe.