The short answer is yes, you can use a Samsung wireless charger to charge your phone in the car, but there are some important factors to consider.
Considerations for In-Car Wireless Charging
While wireless charging works well at home or in an office setting, using it in a car introduces some additional factors to think about:
Phone Placement
The phone needs to be properly aligned with the charger coil for efficient power transfer. This can be challenging in a moving vehicle. Wireless car mounts that hold the phone in place are recommended.
Heat Management
Wireless charging generates some heat. In hot outdoor temperatures, the heat buildup can potentially exceed phone manufacturer limits. Look for car chargers with good ventilation or cooling.
Foreign Object Detection
Wireless chargers use foreign object detection to stop charging if something metal, like loose change or keys, is detected between the phone and charging pad. This safety feature is important, but can also lead to intermittent charging if objects shift position while driving.
Charging Speed
Wireless charging is generally slower than wired fast charging. This may not fully charge your phone battery during a short commute. Faster wireless car chargers are available at higher price points.
Case Compatibility
Very thick or metallic phone cases can interfere with wireless charging. Make sure your phone case is compatible before installation.
Choosing a Samsung Wireless Car Charger
When selecting a Samsung wireless car charger, here are some key factors to look for:
Qi Certified
Qi is the standard protocol used by Samsung devices for wireless charging. Make sure any third-party charger is Qi certified for compatibility.
Input Voltage Range
The input voltage range needs to match the voltage of your car’s DC power outlet, typically 12-24V. A wider input range will work in more vehicle makes and models.
Clamping Mount
A sturdy clamp mount holds the phone securely during driving vibrations and bumps. Look for non-slip padding to protect your phone and prevent scratches.
Cooling System
Vented charging pads or built-in fans will help dissipate heat from wireless charging coils and your phone.
Foreign Object Detection
Choose a charger with foreign object detection for safety and to prevent interrupted charging sessions.
Charging Power
Higher power ratings up to 15W can provide faster charging speeds, but may require special adapters for high power USB ports.
Top Wireless Car Chargers for Samsung Phones
Here are some top-rated wireless car charger options specifically designed for Samsung devices:
Samsung Wireless Charger Vent Mount
- Qi certified fast charging up to 9W
- Built-in cooling fan
- Dashboard vent clip mount
- LED charging status indicator
Anker PowerWave Charge Pad
- Qi certified fast charging up to 10W
- Anti-slip rubber pad
- LED indicator light
- Case friendly up to 5mm thickness
Belkin Boost Up Charge Car Mount
- Qi certified fast charging up to 7.5W
- Dash and windshield mounting options
- Overheat protection
- Automatic grip closure
iOttie iTap 2 Wireless Charging Car Mount
- Qi certified fast charging up to 10W
- One touch mounting system
- Telescopic arm extends up to 8 inches
- Case friendly up to 3mm thickness
Installing a Wireless Car Charger
Installing a wireless car charger is relatively straightforward but there are some best practices to follow:
- Locate a DC power outlet – USB ports often don’t provide enough power for wireless charging while driving.
- Check outlet voltage – Make sure it is within the supported range of your charger, typically 12-24V.
- Use a fuse – Connect an inline fuse rated for your charger between the outlet and charger.
- Mount securely – Follow the mount instructions and make sure it is fixed firmly.
- Insert phone – Double check coil alignment and that any case is Qi compatible.
- Route cables cleanly – Use cable clips and avoid wire pinch points.
- Check charging function – LED indicators should light up showing charging is active.
Using Your Samsung Wireless Car Charger
Once installed, there are some tips for getting the best performance from your Samsung wireless car charger:
- Remove thick or metallic phone cases which can interfere with charging.
- Keep the charging area clear of other objects that could trigger foreign object detection.
- Adjust vent mounts towards the cold air to help cool the charger.
- Ensure the charger is securely mounted in a location that is stable while driving.
- Check the charger alignment periodically on long drives.
- Close the auto-grip on spring-loaded mounts before taking off.
- Keep the phone centered on the charging pad for optimal power transfer.
Advantages of Wireless Car Chargers
Beyond basic functionality, wireless car chargers offer some specific benefits over wired charging options:
- Convenience – No fumbling with cables while driving. Just set your phone on the mount.
- Flexibility – Can be mounted in various locations like dash, vent, or windshield.
- Portability – Many chargers don’t require permanent installation, allowing you to move them between vehicles.
- Clutter-free – Eliminates loose charging cables which can get tangled and damaged.
- Quick charging – Advanced chargers provide faster wireless charging up to 15W.
- Future-proof – Wireless charging is becoming more prevalent. Your car will be ready as more phones adopt it.
Maximizing Charging Speed
If you want the fastest charging speeds possible from your wireless car charger, there are a few key steps:
- Use a high-power charger (10W or 15W) if supported by your phone.
- Connect the charger to a fast charge capable power outlet in your car, not just a basic USB port.
- Remove any thick or metallic phone cases that could impede power transfer.
- Align the phone and charger coils properly to optimize the inductive charging connection.
- Ensure the charger and phone have unobstructed airflow to prevent overheating shutdowns.
- Keep your phone’s software and wireless charging firmware updated to the latest versions.
- Use Samsung’s recommended OEM charging cables and power adapters designed for fast charging.
Cordless Car Charging Pads
Cordless charging pads are a recent innovation that provide wireless charging without the need to plug into your car’s DC outlet. Here’s an overview of how they work:
- Thin profile – Built into very slim pad that can mount on dash with adhesive.
- Inductive power transfer – Uses magnetic field to transmit power from pad to phone.
- Magnetic resonance coupling – Special circuitry enables non-contact power transmission up to several inches.
- Rechargeable battery – Built-in battery provides power. Recharges when car is running.
- Automatic on/off – Turns on when paired device is detected and off when removed.
- LED indicators – Provide charging status and battery level information.
Cordless charging pads provide an extremely clean, uncluttered installation since no wires are involved. However, charging power and speed is lower than wired options. Choose carefully based on your specific needs.
Should You Get a Wireless Car Charger?
Trying to decide if adding wireless charging in your car is worthwhile? Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- More convenient than plugging in cables
- Allows phone use while charging
- Reduces clutter from charging cables
- Safer than handling wires while driving
- Phone remains charged for navigation and music
- Flexibility to mount charger in optimal location
Cons
- Relatively high upfront cost
- Extra step of installation required
- Wireless charging can be slower than wired
- May need to remove protective phone case
- Requires compatible QI enabled smartphone
Overall, wireless car charging is a very nice feature to have, especially for frequent drivers. It may not be essential, but can add great convenience and improve the driving experience.
Tips for Choosing a Wireless Charging Mount
The mounting system that holds your phone is a key factor when selecting a wireless charging solution. Here are some tips for choosing the right mount:
- Stable design – Should securely grip phone and not shake/vibrate excessively on bumpy roads.
- Placement flexibility – Offer a variety of mounting options like dash, vent or windshield.
- Adjustment capabilities – Ability to angle and pivot the phone for optimal viewing.
- Quick release – Easy to insert and remove your phone with one hand.
- Clutter avoidance – Allows access to vehicle controls without blocking buttons or vents.
- Vehicle type – Certain mounts conform better to curved windshields in trucks or SUVs.
- Hands-free operation – Auto-grip clamps and release buttons to enable use without taking eyes off road.
Testing different mounts with your specific phone and vehicle offers the best insight into which option provides the most secure and adjustable fit.
Industry Standards for In-Car Wireless Charging
Several industry groups and consortiums are working to establish standards to improve wireless charging compatibility across devices and vehicles. Here are some of the key players:
Wireless Power Consortium (WPC)
- Global standardization body for wireless charging.
- Developed the widely used Qi inductive charging standard.
- Qi is integrated into many consumer electronics including all Samsung Galaxy smartphones.
SAE International
- U.S.-based group that develops standards for engineering industries.
- Has published recommended practices for vehicle-based inductive charging.
- Covers factors like coil alignment, magnetic fields, safety, interoperability, testing procedures.
The Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC)
- Organization dedicated to developing global standards for car connectivity and smart devices.
- Members include many major auto manufacturers and technology companies.
- Their Digital Key specification helps enable mobile devices to unlock and start cars.
These standards help ensure chargers and mobile devices from different brands work seamlessly together as wireless charging becomes more prevalent in vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wireless car charging actually safe?
Yes, wireless car chargers operate at low voltages and power levels that are completely safe. They incorporate monitoring circuits to immediately stop charging if any irregularities are detected.
Will wireless charging drain my car battery?
Properly designed wireless car chargers will not over-drain your battery. Your vehicle’s voltage levels are monitored and charging current is kept within safe limits.
Do I need a special QI enabled phone?
Yes, your smartphone will need integrated QI wireless charging capability for compatibility. Most modern Android and iPhones support this.
Can fast charging mode be used in the car?
Yes, wireless car chargers that support Samsung Fast Charge or Quick Charge protocols can deliver faster wireless charging, provided your phone is also compatible.
What thickness of phone case will work?
Thinner cases under 3mm are ideal. Charging can work through thicker cases up to 5-6mm but speeds may be reduced. Metal plates or cases will block wireless charging.
How do I know if charging is working?
Most wireless chargers have an LED indicator that lights up specific colors to show charging status. Orange or red means charging is in progress. Green usually means fully charged.
Can I mount a wireless charger any way I want?
No. Wireless charging requires proper coil alignment between charger and phone, so mounting has to accommodate that orientation for efficient power transfer.
Is vibration or bumps damaging for wireless charging?
No. Driving vibrations and shocks within normal limits will not harm wireless charging performance or safety.
Lastly
Wireless charging capabilities are now readily available for in-car use thanks to new charger designs tailored specifically for automotive applications.
With some planning for optimal phone placement, power needs, and ease of use, Samsung smartphone owners can enjoy the convenience and safety of cable-free charging on the road.
As the technology continues advancing rapidly, wireless charging will soon become standard equipment in all vehicles, ushering in a new era of connected electric mobility.
