The MagSafe Duo Charger is designed to power up your iPhone and Apple Watch devices simultaneously. It is a nifty charger that does not incorporate any wires making it possible for you to quickly attach the device and have it recharged.
One of the best things about this charger is that it intelligently adapts to existing conditions to ensure that it delivers optimal charging results. It transfers wattage based on the adapter it is connected to and that is why sometimes it charges fast while other times it may seem to be charging slowly.
Before you start charging your Apple Watch with this charger, it is important for you to plug it into the power source. This allows it to verify that it is safe to transmit power from the source to the device.
Once the verification is complete, you can safely attach your watch to the specified area to begin charging.
While the MagSafe Duo Charger is excellent, you may not always have it on hand and that can present you with a challenge especially if you need to keep your Apple Watch powered up.
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Importance of Alternative Charging Methods
The Apple Watch is one of the devices that can be used to monitor the health and fitness of any individual and that is why it must always be powered up.
In case you lose the original charger, it is important to consider alternatives just so you do not compromise the health and fitness benefits you derive from the watch.
Another important thing is that the Apple Watch can detect when someone is involved in an accident or some other unfortunate incident. The watch can then send an emergency alert to relevant authorities who can offer help.
The device makes it easy for you to stay connected to your loved ones so that you can keep tabs on them and they can also keep tabs on you. Additionally, Apple Watch can be an excellent source of entertainment wherever you may be.
These are some of the reasons why you must consider using alternative methods of charging in case the original charger is either damaged or misplaced.
Luckily, I have created a list of alternative methods you can use to charge your Apple Watch without incident.
Let’s find out more.
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How to Charge Apple Watch Without a Charger?
Use a USB Port on a Computer or Laptop
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In case you do not have a charger for your Apple Watch, one of the best alternatives you can opt for is to charge through a laptop or PC. This is a pretty straightforward technique especially if you have your USB-C charging cable.
All you have to do is connect the cable to the USB port on your computer and then connect the watch to the magnetic end of the line. If done correctly, you’ll get audible feedback from the watch indicating that it is charging.
In case you had set the watch to silent mode, you should be able to observe the flash sign at the top of the watch’s screen. Once you have ascertained that the watch is charging, keep checking from time to time to ensure it charges to full battery strength.
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Use a Power Bank or Portable Charger
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Power banks are portable chargers that come in a wide array of designs. You can find some slim enough to fit in your pocket and others slightly larger.
The larger portable power banks are often more powerful and store more energy. Their slimmer counterparts can also be quite convenient but may not pack as much power.
Regardless of the type of power bank you choose, you can be sure to get quite some juice from them for your Apple Watch. Most power banks have a USB port where you can connect the charging cable and have it power up your device.
In case your power bank runs out of power you’ll need to plug it into the mains and recharge it. Here are a few examples of the best power banks to opt for.
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1. OtterBox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch Charger
The OtterBox 2-in-1 power bank is a sleek option that packs a punch when it comes to holding power. It boasts a 3,000mAh battery which allows you to get up to four full charges on your Apple Watch.
It is quite lightweight and compact in design making it one of the best power banks for travelling. It supports the Apple Watch Nightstand mode which makes it easy for you to view even when you are not holding the watch.
The power bank incorporates magnets that allow you to attach the watch effortlessly. It features a robust design for durability and a premium make which keeps it scratch and fingerprint-resistant.
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2. Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE™ PRO Portable Fast Charger for Apple Watch
The Belkin BOOST CHARGE PRO is another excellent power bank you should consider getting. It allows the Apple Watch to charge while flat or in a nightstand mode so that you can keep an eye on the screen without picking up the device.
It has a tough build that ensures it remains durable and the finish is such that it does not incur scratches or fingerprint marks. The charger is also lightweight and compact in design making it easy to slip into your backpack while traveling.
It comes with a 2.1M USB-C cable that allows you to plug it into any USB-C wall charger for recharge. This power bank has a precision dial allowing you to adjust the height to match the Apple Watch model you are using.
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3. Mophie Powerstation
Next up is the Mophie Powerstation which also boasts a lightweight and compact build allowing you to take it everywhere you go. It features dual USB-C PD ports making it possible for you to recharge two devices simultaneously.
It has enough power to provide an extra 43 hours of playback time. If you translate that to the power your Apple Watch needs you can clearly appreciate why it is a good fit.
It is designed to charge your devices fast which is why you can expect to have your Apple Watch up and running within a few minutes of connecting. This power bank incorporates LED lights to let you know if the device is charging or not.
It also features a tough aluminum design that helps ensure durability regardless of frequency of use.
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Use a Qi Wireless Charging Pad
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Qi wireless is a charging method that ensures devices are powered up without the use of any wires. Qi wireless chargers or charging pads come in a variety of designs and sizes but can achieve excellent results when it comes to powering up compatible devices.
One of the things that make Qi wireless charging pads popular is that they do not have any cords. You can therefore enjoy powering up your devices without the hassle of having to connect many wires.
Another important benefit is that QI is a universal standard of charging. That means any device that is Qi-enabled can charge as long as you place it correctly on the charging pad.
Most traditional chargers tend to overheat your device especially once the device has reached its power limit. Qi chargers incorporate smart sensors that ensure your device does not overcharge or overheat and this ultimately promotes your device’s longevity.
Qi charging technology offers a safer method to get your Apple Watch powered up. That is because all the current is flowing inside an enclosed environment.
That means there is no corrosion that takes place because the system is guarded against oxygen, water, or other foreign particles. With that in mind, it is easy to understand why there is a minimal chance of electrical faults.
Because you do not have to constantly plug in and remove your watch from a cable, this technology ensures that there is little wear and tear over time. Ultimately, you won’t have to buy replacement cables all the time.
Here are a few examples of Qi charging pads you can use to charge your Apple Watch.
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1. Belkin BOOST↑CHARGE™ PRO 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad with MagSafe
First up on this list of the best Qi wireless pads is the Belkin BOOST CHARGE PRO which allows you to recharge three devices simultaneously.
It can accommodate an iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch all at the same time making it easy for you to get all devices powered up in a short time.
It incorporates a precision dial that allows you to adjust the height to accommodate your Apple Watch whether it is in a case or has a bumper. The Qi wireless pad also allows you to charge your watch in a flat position or put it up in the nightstand position for convenience.
Its magnetic fast-charging module allows you to power up your watch within a fraction of the time it would take ordinary chargers. It has a minimalist design that lays flat on the surface and takes up little space on your desk or table.
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2. Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe
This is another charging pad that can do an excellent job. It has dedicated slots for your Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods. That means you get to charge up to three devices at the same time.
It features a unique design that lets you fold it up like a carrying case for convenient portability. You also get to keep the cable and adapter within the spacious compartment it creates once you fold it up.
It has a lightweight design so you won’t have to worry about it weighing you down. The charger and case feature a premium fabric finish that gives it an elegant look.
3. Scosche BaseLynx Modular Charging System Pro Kit
The Scosche BaseLynx Modular Charging System Pro Kit is another alternative you can rely on when you want to charge your Apple Watch. Like its counterparts on this list, it features three different slots for your Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods.
Unlike others on this list, it comes with both USB-A and USB-C cables so you can enjoy convenient charging with compatible devices. Its magnetic design allows you to situate your Apple Watch in a nightstand mode.
Of course, you can also charge the watch in a flat position depending on your preference. The kit is quite compact and lightweight so you can carry it along on your travels.
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Use a Third-Party Charging Dock
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Another neat trick you can use in case you do not have a charger is getting your watch powered up through a third-party charging dock. A charging dock often has a variety of ports or edges so you can connect several devices at the same time.
If you have such a dock in your house, go ahead and check for things like the amount of output it gives in terms of wattage. Also, consider if it is compatible with your Apple Watch’s charging cable or Qi design.
If everything fits fine then you can charge your Apple Watch through this method. Here are some examples of third-party docks.
1. Journey Rapid TRIO 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station
The Journey Rapid TRIO 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station features slots to hold three different devices including the Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods. It has magnetic locks that hold your devices firmly in place to ensure safe and secure charging sessions.
There is a USB-C charging port you can connect to in case you do not fancy charging through the QI wireless method. It is a lightweight and compact charging dock so you can carry it conveniently when traveling.
2. WAITITIEE Wireless 3-in-1 Charging Station
This is another impressive charging station you can opt for in case you do not have the original Apple Watch charger. It has a USB-C port so you’ll have an easy time hooking up your watch.
It incorporates overcurrent protection so you do not have to worry about your watch getting damaged. It is quite compact and lightweight so you can move it from one place to another easily.
It also features an anti-slip silicone base design so it won’t fall over even when you knock it accidentally. This charging station also includes LED lights to let you know the status of the charging process.
Precautions and Considerations
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Compatibility is Crucial
Just because a USB cable or a third-party docking station has ports that can connect to your watch’s charging cable does not mean you should do it blindly.
You must first ensure that the third-party docking station is compatible with your watch otherwise you risk destroying the device.
Keep in mind that some third-party docks may have a higher current output than what your device can take and that can cause damage or potential explosion. Another thing to note is that the charging method you use must be the one recommended for your watch’s model.
Remember, there are different Apple Watch models with some being compatible with third-party or Qi charging pads while others are not.
Avoid Non-Apple Certified Charging Accessories
When you cannot find your Apple Watch’s charger or maybe it is damaged, you may end up getting desperate because you need to keep it working. That is when you may start trying to charge it with non-Apple-certified accessories.
For instance, trying to charge your watch with a cable that is non-certified may be taking a risk. Of course, this may work for some time but in the long run, you’ll realize that it is damaging your device.
Non-certified accessories may also not strike the right balance when it comes to the amount of current they transmit and that can either damage the watch’s battery or the entire system.
To be safe, it is important for you to always consider using Apple-certified accessories since they offer the right fit.
Monitor Charging Progress
When using the alternative charging methods mentioned above, it is prudent for you to keep monitoring the charging progress. This will ensure that your watch does not get overcharged.
It is also a good idea to keep your eyes on the charging process to avoid overheating the device. Additionally, it will ensure the device is charged to completion since in certain instances the device may stop charging midway through the process.
Wrapping Up
As noted above, there are good alternatives to charge your Apple Watch in case you do not have the original charger.
However, you must always be cautious when using alternative methods to ensure general safety for yourself and your device.
Adhering to the precautions is key to enjoying the benefits of your Apple Watch for a long time to come.
