Anker's PowerWave 7.5 Stand offers fast wireless charging with support for 10W Samsung and 7.5W iPhones. PCWorld noted it includes a Quick Charge 3.0 power adapter in the box. Its rubber-coated base keeps it in place, though the built-in cooling fan can be noisy in quiet settings. PCWorld measured it charging a Samsung Galaxy S9 from empty to full in 146 minutes, faster than any other wireless charger it had tested.
Full review
Charging speed and compatibility
The Anker PowerWave 7.5 Stand delivers fast charging capabilities with specific wattage outputs for different device types. According to the Anker website specifications, the pad supports 10W charging for Samsung Galaxy devices and 7.5W for iPhones, with a 5W output for older smartphones. The device is designed to work with Quick Charge 2.0 or 3.0 wall chargers to achieve these speeds, and users who rely on standard chargers will experience slower charging times. The pad's compatibility extends to cases up to 5mm thick, which is a key feature for users who prefer to keep their phones protected with cases. Users have noted that the charging speed is sufficient for daily use, particularly for Samsung Galaxy users who can benefit from the 10W output. However, the charging speed is dependent on the wall adapter used, and users who do not invest in a compatible charger will not achieve the advertised fast-charging performance.
Design and physical build quality
The Anker PowerWave 7.5 Stand is designed as a stand with a soft finish. Its ledge props up your phone so notifications are easy to see at a glance, an indicator light shows when it is charging, and rubber coats the bottom of the stand to keep it in place. A cooling fan in the base handles the heat that wireless charging creates.
User experience and practical functionality
Users report that the PowerWave 7.5 Stand functions as expected with no major issues during typical use. The pad is designed to be easy to use, with a simple process of placing the device on the pad and removing it when charging is complete. The stand design allows users to see their phone's screen while charging, which is a significant improvement over flat charging pads that require the phone to lie flat. The pad supports charging through cases up to 5mm thick, which is beneficial for users who prefer to keep their phones protected. The pad is also case-friendly, meaning that magnetic or metal attachments or cards will prevent charging, which is a common limitation with wireless charging pads.
Charging performance in real-world scenarios
In real-world testing, the PowerWave 7.5 Stand delivers consistent charging performance, particularly for Samsung Galaxy users who can achieve the 10W charging speed. Users have reported that the pad works well for everyday charging needs, whether at a desk or on a bedside table. However, the charging performance is dependent on the wall adapter used, and users who rely on standard chargers will experience slower charging times. The pad's ability to charge through cases up to 5mm thick is a significant advantage, particularly for users with thick or protective cases. The pad's design also includes heat dissipation features, which help maintain optimal charging temperatures during use.
Limitations and user concerns
The main drawback PCWorld found with the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Stand is the cooling fan in its base, which is a little loud and can be distracting in a bedroom at night or a quiet office. Additionally, users have noted that the pad does not support all types of cases, particularly those with metal attachments or magnetic components, which can interfere with the charging process.
Strengths
- +Supports fast charging at 10W for Samsung Galaxy and 7.5W for iPhones
- +Props the phone up so notifications are visible at a glance
- +Rubber-coated base keeps the stand in place
Watch-outs
- −The built-in fan for heat dissipation can be somewhat loud in quiet environments
How it compares
While the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Stand offers fast 10W Samsung and 7.5W iPhone charging and includes a Quick Charge 3.0 adapter, it has a noisy built-in fan, unlike the Belkin UltraCharge which is quieter. Compared to the INIU Wireless Charger, it's less portable and doesn't offer sleep-friendly lighting or a three-year warranty.
Rating sources
Our 4.5 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
