Does the Apple MagSafe charging puck do anything unique that third-party models don’t do?

[Farrgazer]

I ask this question based on how the Apple MagSafe battery pack has some unique features that third-party MagSafe compatible battery packs don’t.

I did a quick search and found that there are charging pucks made by Belkin and Anker among others, and I like the alternatives because of the form factors or longer cables. The only compromise I’ve noticed so far is that some models provide 7.5W instead of 15W. Are there other differences or limitations I should be aware of?

Edit: come to think of it, Apple’s charging pucks can get their firmware updated if need be. But other than that, I can’t think of anything else.

 

[saltxd]

I think the fast charge only works with apple brand ones but I could be wrong

 

[skriefal]

The faster 15-watt speed is the only reason I can think of to purchase Apple's MagSafe charger puck.

Belkin also has some 'certified' MagSafe chargers that can charge iPhones at 10 - 15 watts - but pricing is comparable to Apple's charger iirc. Other 3rd-party wireless chargers are limited to 7.5 watts.

 

[crsh1976]

The faster 15-watt speed is the only reason I can think of to purchase Apple's MagSafe charger puck.

Belkin also has some 'certified' MagSafe chargers that can charge iPhones at 10 - 15 watts - but pricing is comparable to Apple's charger iirc. Other 3rd-party wireless chargers are limited to 7.5 watts.

If the product carries the Magsafe name, it's certified to work at 15w (the manufacturer pays a license to Apple for it) - never used Belkin's, but I got a 3-in-1 Magsafe charger pad from mophie (Zagg) and it died after 3 months despite costing $190 (and I can't get any support or a replacement for it).

Lesson learned, don't bother with 3rd-party brands unless reputed to offer good quality and service.

 

[skriefal]

If the product carries the Magsafe name, it's certified to work at 15w (the manufacturer pays a license to Apple for it) - never used Belkin's, but I got a 3-in-1 Magsafe charger pad from mophie (Zagg) and it died after 3 months despite costing $190 (and I can't get any support or a replacement for it).

Lesson learned, don't bother with 3rd-party brands unless reputed to offer good quality and service.

This is the 10-watt "MagSafe" charger that I was thinking of:

Magnetic Wireless Car Charger for iPhone | Belkin US

Belkin magnetic wireless car charger for iPhone delivers fast and safe charging on the go. MagSafe compatible for perfect & easy magnetic alignment every time.

www.belkin.com

It claims to charge iPhones at 10 watts. Which seems like it would require Apple certification or licensing to exceed the 7.5-watt Qi-charging limit. But I haven't verified the 10-watt charging claim.