# Grasping iPhone Charging: Quick vs. Standard Chargers
If you possess an iPhone operating on iOS 26, you might have observed a new toggle on your lock screen that shows the projected time to charge to 80%. Conversely, if your device shows ‘Slow Charger,’ it indicates that you are utilizing a charger that lacks sufficient power.
## Recognizing Slow Chargers
The ‘Slow Charger’ notification generally appears when utilizing an older power brick or cable that cannot accommodate fast charging. To enable fast charging via a wired connection, it is advisable to employ a charging brick rated at 30 watts or higher, paired with an appropriate USB-C cable.
## The Significance of Contemporary Accessories
Current iPhones, like the iPhone 17, are equipped with larger batteries in comparison to previous models. If you have recently transitioned from an older iPhone and have moved from Lightning to USB-C, you may lack the essential fast charging accessories. For example, outdated USB-A chargers can only deliver a maximum of 7.5 watts, often just 5 watts, resulting in charging durations of three hours or more for an iPhone 17.
With the proper accessories, fast charging capabilities can range between 20 watts and 30 watts, enabling you to charge your device from zero to 50% in less than 30 minutes.
## Selecting the Appropriate Charger
The brand of the power adapter does not matter significantly, as any USB-C charger compatible with Power Delivery should work. Apple endorses its new Dynamic Charger for the iPhone 17, which is optimized for speed and energy efficiency. Nonetheless, budget-friendly alternatives from brands like Anker or Belkin will also perform well.
### Wireless Quick Charging
If you are utilizing Qi wireless charging, you might also encounter the Slow Charger alert. This could stem from employing a first-generation Qi charger that outputs less than 10 watts. To realize fast wireless charging, seek official MagSafe accessories or those that comply with the Qi2 standard. The most recent iPhones support wireless charging speeds of up to 25 watts.
For instance, the Belkin MagSafe charger can deliver up to 25 watts of power, while a basic wireless charging pad might provide speeds of 15 watts.
## No Immediate Need for Upgrade
Whether your iPhone shows the Slow Charger status or not, there is no safety concern or risk of damage when using a slower charger. The primary consideration is convenience; if you usually charge your phone overnight, a slower charger might be adequate. However, for those aiming for the quickest charging speeds, the options detailed above can assist you in achieving that, both through wired and wireless methods.
