What comes in the iPhone 13 box and what you need to buy

The iPhone 13 does not include a power adapter or charging cable in the box. Apple removed both starting with the iPhone 12 in 2020. You get the phone itself, a USB-C to Lightning cable, and documentation — that is all.

The iPhone 13 supports wireless charging, but you have to buy a wireless charger separately. The phone itself has the hardware built in; you just need the external pad or stand to use it. This is different from the charging cable situation, where the cable is included but the power adapter is not.

If you already own a wireless charger from an older iPhone or another device, check whether it uses the Qi standard. Most modern wireless chargers do. If your old charger is Qi-compatible, it will work with the iPhone 13 without any changes.

Key Takeaways

  • The iPhone 13 has wireless charging hardware built in, but Apple does not include a wireless charger in the box.
  • You need to buy a separate Qi-compatible wireless charger if you want to use wireless charging.
  • The included USB-C to Lightning cable works with any USB-C power adapter, including ones you may already own.
  • Wireless chargers range from basic pads under $20 to stands with extra features, and compatibility is wide across brands that use the Qi standard.

How wireless charging works on the iPhone 13

Wireless charging on the iPhone 13 uses the Qi standard, which is an open format supported by thousands of chargers from different manufacturers. You place the phone on or near the charging pad, and power transfers through electromagnetic induction — no cable or connector needed.

The iPhone 13 charges at up to 15 watts over Qi wireless charging. This is slower than wired charging with a USB-C power adapter (which can reach 20 watts or higher), but it is convenient if you charge overnight or keep a pad on your desk. The phone will charge whether the screen is on or off.

Wireless charging works through most phone cases, though very thick cases or cases with metal components can interfere. If charging seems slow or stops, try removing the case and placing the phone directly on the pad.

Wireless chargers that work with iPhone 13

Any charger labeled as Qi-compatible will work with the iPhone 13. You do not need an Apple-branded charger. Common options include Anker, Belkin, Mophie, and Samsung wireless chargers, which are widely available at electronics retailers and online marketplaces.

Wireless chargers come in three main types. Flat pads are the cheapest and most compact — you set the phone on top and it charges. Stands hold the phone upright so you can see the screen while charging, which is useful for bedside tables or desks. Multi-device chargers can charge a phone, watch, and earbuds at the same time, though they cost more.

Price varies widely. Basic pads start around $15 to $25. Stands typically run $25 to $50. Multi-device chargers range from $50 to $100 or more. The difference is usually in build quality, charging speed, and whether the charger includes a power adapter in the box.

What power adapter you need for wireless charging

Most wireless chargers sold separately do not include a power adapter. You need to plug the charger into a USB-A or USB-C power adapter, then plug that adapter into a wall outlet. If you have a USB-C power adapter from another device — a laptop, tablet, or older iPhone — you can use that instead of buying a new one.

Check what connector your wireless charger has before you buy. Some use USB-C, others use micro-USB. The charger's product page or packaging will say which one. If you do not have a compatible power adapter at home, you will need to buy one separately, which adds $10 to $30 to the total cost.

Wired charging versus wireless charging for the iPhone 13

Wired charging is faster. With a 20-watt or higher USB-C power adapter and the included USB-C to Lightning cable, the iPhone 13 charges noticeably quicker than wireless charging. If you need the phone ready in 30 minutes, wired is the better choice.

Wireless charging is more convenient for daily use if you have a charger on your desk or nightstand. You do not have to plug in a cable — just set the phone down. Over time, repeatedly plugging and unplugging a cable can wear out the Lightning port, so wireless charging may extend the life of that connector.

Many people use both. They charge with a cable when they are in a hurry and use wireless charging when the phone can sit undisturbed for several hours. Neither damages the battery if the phone is not left plugged in after it reaches 100 percent.

MagSafe charging and the iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 also supports MagSafe, which is Apple's magnetic wireless charging system. MagSafe chargers attach magnetically to the back of the phone and align automatically, which can be more reliable than placing the phone on a regular Qi pad.

MagSafe chargers are more expensive than standard Qi chargers — typically $25 to $40 for a basic charger — but they offer the same 15-watt charging speed. The main advantage is the magnetic alignment, which prevents the phone from slipping off the pad if you bump it. MagSafe chargers are also Qi-compatible, so they work as regular wireless chargers if the magnets are not engaged.

You do not have to use MagSafe. Standard Qi wireless chargers work just as well and cost less. MagSafe is a choice, not a requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a wireless charger from an iPhone 12 or earlier on the iPhone 13?

Yes, if it is Qi-compatible. The wireless charging standard has not changed between iPhone models, so any Qi charger that worked with an iPhone 12, 11, or earlier will work with the iPhone 13. Check the charger's documentation or product page if you are unsure whether it uses Qi.

Does the iPhone 13 charge faster with a cable or wireless?

Wired charging is faster. A 20-watt USB-C power adapter with the included cable reaches full charge in roughly 30 minutes. Wireless charging at 15 watts takes longer, usually 60 to 90 minutes depending on the charger and power adapter used.

What happens if I use a non-Qi wireless charger with the iPhone 13?

Non-Qi chargers will not work with the iPhone 13. The phone only recognizes the Qi standard. Before buying a wireless charger, confirm it is labeled as Qi-compatible. Nearly all modern wireless chargers are, but some older or specialized chargers may not be.

Do I need to remove my phone case to use wireless charging?

Usually not. Most phone cases are thin enough that wireless charging works through them. Very thick cases, leather cases, or cases with metal components can block the signal. If charging is slow or does not work, try removing the case and placing the phone directly on the pad.

Is wireless charging bad for the iPhone 13 battery?

No. Wireless charging does not damage the battery any more than wired charging does. The iPhone manages heat and charging speed automatically. Leaving the phone on a wireless charger after it reaches 100 percent does not harm the battery, though the phone will generate some heat while maintaining that charge level.