Many guides exist dedicated to keeping a smartphone in top condition and extending its lifespan. However, these guides typically focus on factors like protecting the touchscreen, storage management for performance, and protecting the body from any wear and tear.
An often overlooked factor in these guides is the smartphone’s battery and the importance of proper charging. There are very few guides dedicated to the best way to charge a smartphone, and how bad charging habits can have a severe impact on how a phone functions.
There is more to charging a phone than simply keeping an eye on your battery level and plugging your phone into the wall. While most phones use Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which are designed to eventually age and degrade, there are ways to prolong this process.
All phone batteries have a ‘battery health’ status that describes the overall maximum capacity of the battery measured in percentages. While the battery health of a device will slowly decay over time (initially starting at 100%), improper charging habits can cause it to degrade faster.
The lower a phone’s battery health is, the maximum capacity decreases, and so does its ability to hold a charge. This can result in:
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A reduced battery life, so it’ll run out of battery faster (and require more charges).
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Worsening battery health can also cause slower phone performance. E.g., slower app loading and lag during games.
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Lower battery health can also negatively impact charging time, so it takes longer to reach a full charge.
Beyond battery health degradation, not following the best charging method for smartphones can also result in overheating and potential battery damage. The battery overheating can also impact other components, e.g., warping the phone’s body.
Our guide will be covering the best way to charge a smartphone so you can keep your battery in top condition and avoid problems like overheating. It’ll also cover the pros and cons of the different smartphone charging methods, like wired vs wireless charging.
Pros & Cons Of Different Smartphone Charging Methods
Before delving into the best charging method for smartphones, we’ll have to explore the different types that exist. First, it’s important to understand that there is no ‘universal’ charging method; it will depend on the model and manufacturer.
Generally, there are two different charging methods, which can then be split into two categories: wired and wireless. How charging works in these two categories can greatly vary depending on the type of charger and technology supporting it.
Below, we’ve outlined the categories, different types of charging, and the pros/cons.
Wired
This is the main method of charging a smartphone, involving plugging in a cable through a USB connection to recharge the battery. While the general concept is utilised on all smartphones, the exact cable, technology, and power source can greatly vary between models and manufacturers.
The most common types of wired charging cables used for mobile devices include:
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USB Micro B: This type of charging cable was common for older Android handsets. However, since the widespread adoption of USB-C, it has been phased out except for a few budget models.
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USB-C: Is the most recent development in USB technology and is now the gold standard for smartphones. USB-C is what allows for the fast-charging technology we see in mid-to-high-end smartphones.
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Lightning: Is used exclusively for Apple smartphones; however, it is being phased out and replaced with USB-C in newer iPhone models.
The type of cable used plays a role in how fast a phone can charge. Trying to use the wrong cable to power a phone can damage the battery. Similarly, you want to make sure that the cable is designed for use with your phone and is paired with a compatible power source (e.g., power adapter). Otherwise, it may limit charging capabilities and/or damage the battery.
Below is a list of pros for using a wired charger.
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Speed: Wired charging is usually much quicker than wireless charging methods, especially for phones that support fast charging.
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Efficiency: Less power is lost during the wired charging process, making it more energy efficient.
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Budget-friendly: Buying and replacing wired smartphone chargers is cheaper than buying wireless alternatives. Wired charging solutions are also more widely available.
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Versatility: A massive benefit of wired charging methods is the versatility. You can plug them into your car or use a power bank if you’re on the go.
Here are all the potential cons:
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Wear and tear: It’s easy for charging ports and especially cables to wear out over time. Using a damaged cable can also impact charging reliability and even lead to battery damage.
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Inconvenience: Unlike wireless charging methods, wired cables will have you dealing with tangles and knots. On top of this, cables don’t charge phones unless they’re 100% connected, which can be annoying in the dark or on the move (e.g., in a car).
Wireless
Wireless charging refers to a method of charging a phone’s battery by transferring power through the air without the need for a physical connection/cable. Currently, this feature is offered by most flagship and high-end models.
Wireless charging works by connecting a charging pad with a cord to a power source/outlet. Users can then place their phone on the pad, which will recharge their battery. The most common wireless charging methods (e.g., MagSafe and Qi) are based on magnetic charging technology.
The benefits of wireless charging include:
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Ease of use: Wireless charging is designed to be easy and convenient. You don’t need to fumble around for a cable. Instead, you just simply need to place your device on the charging pad.
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Aesthetic: Charging cables are messy, can get easily tangled, and are just as easy to lose. Wireless charging pads offer a clean and tidy aesthetic, and you get rid of the clutter cables leave.
Because wireless charging avoids the constant plugging/unplugging of cables, it potentially reduces the wear and tear the process has on a phone’s ports. This can potentially increase the phone’s lifespan and reduce the risk of battery damage due to improper use.
The cons of wireless charging include:
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Not widely supported: Although wireless charging is becoming more widespread and a common feature for flagship models, it typically isn’t available for budget-level and mid-range devices.
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Slower speeds: Currently, every phone that features wireless charging supports better wired charging speeds. The speed difference is especially noticeable compared to fast-charging wired technology.
Which is better?
When it comes to the best charging method for smartphones, it will ultimately come down to preference. There is no clear winner between wired and wireless charging options. The best method will be the one that you’re most comfortable with and that suits your lifestyle.
What’s important is that you follow the best charging habits for the method that you choose. The different methods require different charging practices if you want to prolong your device’s battery health and avoid any adverse events like overheating.
Best Charging Habits for Smartphones
The best charging method for smartphones isn’t about whether you go wireless or use cables—it’s about your habits. Below is a list of different factors and tips you should consider when charging your phone to avoid abnormal strain on your battery health. These include:
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Always aim to keep your phone between 30%-80%, and avoid complete charge cycles. This will wear out your phone faster.
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Limiting your phone’s maximum charge to 80-90% is better for the phone’s battery health.
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Heat has the potential to accelerate battery health degradation. Never cover your phone while charging and keep it out of cool places.
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Avoid any intensive activities, like 3D gaming and streaming videos, whilst charging, otherwise it can stress out the battery.
For wired charging specifically:
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Always keep an eye on the state of the charging cable. If it appears worn or exposed wires, properly dispose of and replace the cable.
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Don’t place any excessive weight or pressure on the charger or cable, especially when it’s plugged into the phone.
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Only ever use charging cables and power adapters that are compatible with your phone and supported output. Batteries can be damaged by overcharging and using chargers that aren’t suitable (watt level).
Tips for wireless charging:
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Wireless charging isn’t as energy efficient as wired charging, so it causes more heat. Due to the heat generation, you’ll always want to charge your device in a cool room with ventilation.
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Regularly clean the charging pad/surface to ensure proper contact between the charger and your device.
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You want to make sure your case is compatible and designed specifically with wireless charging in mind. Not all phone cases are wireless charging friendly, and a case that’s too thick and/or poorly designed can block the charge.
If you’re concerned about your phone’s battery and notice any abnormal behaviour, like struggling to keep charged, you can check the battery’s condition yourself. Some manufacturers include the option to check battery health within the Settings app, or you might need to download third-party software.
It’s also become industry standard to include battery optimisation options on smartphones. Modern iOS and Android devices have features like adaptive charging and charging restrictions to extend a phone’s battery lifespan. If you haven’t already, activate them on your device to ensure longevity and top performance.
Guaranteed Battery Life With All OzMobiles Refurbished Phones
For the best deals on refurbished phones, you can trust OzMobiles. We pride ourselves on our prices, so if you find a better deal elsewhere, we’ll beat it by $10* (terms and conditions apply). Our phones also come with a battery life guarantee.
We understand how battery health is often a massive concern for people when it comes to second-hand devices, which is why we offer the ‘OzMobiles Battery Health Guarantee’. We have a qualified technician check over the phone during the refurbishment process to ensure it features 80% to 100% of its original battery performance.
If the battery health drops below 80% during our free 12-month warranty period, we’ll happily arrange for a repair or replacement. When you choose OzMobiles, you can shop with confidence with our warranty and guarantees. If there are any issues, you can always contact us for assistance.
OzMobiles is also your one-stop shop for phone accessories. Along with selling refurbished devices, we also stock cases, screen protectors, and smartphone chargers. When you buy a charger through us, you also get the guarantee that it is designed for use with your specific device and won’t damage your battery.
If you have any questions about our refurbished phones or battery health guarantee, the OzMobiles team would love to hear from you.
