In a comprehensive lab test evaluating 33 smartphones, Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro has emerged as the overall fastest-charging device. The study, conducted by CNET, compared both wired and wireless charging speeds, focusing on real-world scenarios where phones are charged from a low battery level.
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone 17 Pro ranked first overall in charging speed.
- It also secured the top spot for wireless charging performance.
- Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra led in wired charging speed.
- Apple demonstrated consistent fast-charging performance across its iPhone 17 lineup.
Overall Charging Champion
CNET’s rigorous testing involved charging each of the 33 smartphones for 30 minutes, starting with a battery level of 10% or less. The iPhone 17 Pro’s victory in the overall category is attributed to a combination of its efficient hardware, software optimization, and a relatively smaller battery capacity compared to many competitors. This allows it to reach a higher percentage charge in the same amount of time.
Wired vs. Wireless Performance
While the iPhone 17 Pro took the overall crown, Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra claimed the top position for wired charging, achieving a 76% charge in 30 minutes. The iPhone 17 Pro followed closely in second place with a 74% charge, tied with the Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025).
However, Apple dominated the wireless charging category. The iPhone 17 Pro achieved an impressive 55% charge in 30 minutes, with four of the top five spots in wireless charging occupied by Apple’s devices, including the iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17, and iPhone Air. CNET suggests that Apple’s MagSafe technology plays a significant role in this lead, ensuring optimal alignment between the phone and the charging coil for maximum efficiency.
Apple’s Consistent Charging Prowess
Across all tested models, Apple’s iPhone lineup showed remarkable consistency in fast-charging performance. The average charge gained across four iPhone 17 models and the iPhone Air was 54.6%, significantly higher than Samsung’s average of 38.5% across its nine tested devices. This indicates a strong focus on balanced and reliable charging across Apple’s product range, even without adopting the ultra-high charging speeds seen in some competing Android devices.
Sources
- iPhone 17 Pro Named Fastest-Charging Smartphone, MacRumors.
- iPhone 17 Pro has the fastest charging speed of 33 phones tested, 9to5Mac.
- iPhone 17 Pro wins charging speed test, Cult of Mac.
- iPhone 17 Pro Ranked No. 1 in Charging Test Across 33 Smartphones, The Mac Observer.
