# Comprehending iPhone Charging Rates: Rapid vs. Gradual Chargers
If you possess an iPhone operating on iOS 26, you might have noticed a novel feature that shows the estimated duration to achieve 80% battery on your lock screen. However, if your device signals ‘Slow Charger,’ it indicates that you are utilizing a charger with insufficient power.
## Recognizing Slow Chargers
The ‘Slow Charger’ alert generally occurs when using an outdated power adapter or cable that fails to support rapid charging. To attain peak charging speeds, it is advisable to employ a charging brick rated at 30 watts or higher, in conjunction with a suitable USB-C cable.
Current iPhones, including the most recent models, come with larger batteries compared to those from five years prior. If you’ve recently transitioned from an older iPhone and switched from the Lightning connector to USB-C, it is probable that your former charging accessories cannot facilitate fast charging.
For example, older USB-A chargers, characterized by a rectangular port, can provide a maximum of 7.5 watts, and frequently only 5 watts. At this capacity, charging an iPhone 17 could require three hours or longer to achieve full charge.
## Obtaining Fast Charging
With appropriate accessories, iPhone fast charging can maintain speeds between 20 watts and 30 watts. At this rate, you can power your device from zero to 50% in under thirty minutes. The brand of the power adapter is not monumental; any USB-C charger compatible with Power Delivery will likely be adequate.
Apple endorses its new Dynamic Charger for the iPhone 17, tailored for efficiency in speed and power usage. Nevertheless, more economical alternatives from brands like Anker or Belkin also offer effective fast charging capabilities.
## Wireless Rapid Charging
The ‘Slow Charger’ notification can also arise when employing Qi wireless charging, especially if using a first-generation Qi charger delivering less than 10 watts. For swift wireless charging, seeking out official MagSafe accessories or those marked with Qi2 standards is advisable. The latest iPhones can accommodate wireless charging velocities up to 25 watts.
For instance, the Belkin MagSafe charger can power your iPhone at speeds reaching 25 watts and features a spot for AirPods. Alternatively, a more budget-conscious choice is a basic wireless charging pad that can charge an iPhone at 15 watts.
## No Immediate Need for Upgrades
Regardless of whether your iPhone shows a Slow Charger status, using a slower charger does not present safety hazards or risks to your device. The main concern is convenience. If you usually charge your phone overnight, a charger that requires three hours for a complete charge may not be problematic.
However, if you seek the quickest charging speeds for your workspace or kitchen, the previously mentioned options will assist you in achieving that, whether through wired or wireless means.
