This wireless iPhone charger is the ‘coolest’ I’ve tested

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Torras PolarCircle has an active cooler that’s more effective than a standard fan. The best part is that it’s almost silent when operating. Naturally, the accessory consumes more power than most. $49.99 at Amazon

On Amazon, the Torras PolarCircle Qi2 has received a 17% discount and currently retails for$50.

I’ve become a fan of wireless charging because it’s quick, easy, and far more convenient to place my iPhone on a charging pad than to search for a cable, especially in the dark. However, wireless charging has drawbacks, including the heat generated during the process. This waste heat can lead to erratic charging and battery life degradation.

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Some manufacturers attempt to mitigate this issue by adding a fan to the wireless charging pad. While this approach helps to dissipate heat, its effectiveness can diminish in warmer weather due to higher ambient temperatures. Additionally, using a case can cause problems because it reduces charging efficiency and traps heat.

Torras has developed a wireless charger that addresses heat concerns using science. 

The charger attaches magnetically to the back of the iPhone with 11 Newtons of clamping force, and as soon as it’s plugged in, the charger springs to life. Not only does it start powering the connected device — whether it’s an iPhone, Android device, or AirPods — but the fan also activates to provide cooling.

Active cooling in action. The back of the unit does a good job of dissipating heat.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETThe experience feels very cool, both figuratively and literally. If you remove the charger from a phone while it’s working, you can feel the cold on the face of the pad. I measured mine at about 6°C (42.8°F), which is surprisingly chilly to touch. The fan, essential for TEC cooling, is almost imperceptible. I can hear the fan if I put the charger close to my ear but I can’t hear anything when it’s running next to my bed at night.

The front of the charging puck gets nice and cold.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETThe PolarCircle Qi2 MagSafe Charger has a button on the side to turn off the cooling when it’s not needed. The charger operates from a USB-C port that requires a minimum of 30W power input from either a wall charger or a power bank. In the box, you also get a decent-quality five-foot-long USB-C-to-USB-C cable.

The charger doubles as a stand, with a freewheeling ring that hinges out to hold the phone at a convenient viewing angle — another nice touch from Torras.

The charger does a good job as a stand.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETOne thing to consider is that this charger requires more power than a regular 15W wireless charger. Running the charger from a power bank will be less efficient than using a regular wireless charger. (Note that the most efficient way to charge anything from a power bank is to use a cable.) 

Also: This MagSafe charger powers up my iPhone while cooling it down (and it’s on sale)

However, I think this device is a great all-purpose wireless charger that eliminates the headaches of overheating, and it will also appeal to gamers. From experience, I know how hot a smartphone can get while gaming, and having this charger attached will supply power while keeping the device cool. 

ZDNET’s buying adviceNormally priced at $60, the Torras PolarCircle Qi2 MagSafe Charger has become a favorite device of mine. Even without the cooling feature, it’s a great portable charger, but the cooling capability elevates it to another level. I’ve tested several wireless chargers with built-in cooling fans, and while they were better than those without, the cooling effect was minimal. The TEC adds active cooling, making a tremendous difference. 

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