The OnePlus 13 has quickly become a favorite among Android enthusiasts, boasting impressive battery life, blazing-fast charging, and a stellar camera. However, one feature stands out: the 50W AirVOOC Wireless Charging. This technology addresses a common wireless charging issue: overheating. By incorporating a built-in fan, the AirVOOC charging puck keeps the phone remarkably cool, even after extended charging sessions. But how effective is it, and why should other manufacturers take note? We put it to the test with both the OnePlus 13 and the iPhone 16 Pro.
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger lying flat on a desk
AirVOOC: A Closer Look
The OnePlus 13 requires a magnetic case (starting at $25) to utilize magnetic wireless charging. The AirVOOC charger itself, identical to the one used by OPPO for the Find X8 Pro series, costs $80. A compatible charging brick and cable add another $50, bringing the total investment to $155.
OnePlus AirVooc 50W wireless charger.
Unlike the stand-up wireless charger introduced with the OnePlus 8 Pro, the AirVOOC adopts a puck design. While the integrated fan effectively dissipates heat, it prevents the phone from being propped up easily during charging. However, the magnetic case, working in tandem with the charger’s magnets, allows comfortable phone use while charging and ensures compatibility with other magnetically charging devices, like the iPhone 16 series.
OnePlus 13 Charging Performance
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger attached to a OnePlus 13 in the hand
To assess the AirVOOC’s performance, we compared its charging time to the included 80W wired charger (US version). The OnePlus 13 charged fully in an average of 39 minutes using the wired charger, slightly exceeding its advertised 35-minute charging time. The 50W AirVOOC, advertised at 75 minutes, performed slightly better in our tests.
Restricting the fan’s airflow significantly impacts charging speed. In one test, placing the phone flat on its back resulted in a mere 32% charge in an hour. Propping the phone improved charging speed considerably, reaching full charge in 45 minutes after the initial hour. Despite this caveat, the fan’s cooling efficiency is remarkable, keeping the phone noticeably cool throughout the charging process.
iPhone 16 Pro Compatibility
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger attached to an iPhone 16 Pro propped up on a desk
The AirVOOC charger’s compatibility extends beyond OnePlus and OPPO devices. It works with any Qi-compatible smartphone. While magnetic charging is not widespread, the emerging Qi2 standard, based on Apple’s MagSafe, promises broader adoption of magnetic charging. Currently, Apple iPhones are the primary devices natively supporting this technology.
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger attached to an iPhone 16 Pro on its side on a desk
While the AirVOOC charger does work with the iPhone 16 Pro, the charging speed is considerably slower. Tests showed charging times ranging from three to four hours, depending on the fan’s orientation. However, the iPhone remained remarkably cool throughout, a significant advantage considering the iPhone’s tendency to overheat during wireless charging.
The Case for Wider Adoption
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger attached to a OnePlus 13 lying flat on a desk
The Qi2 standard, though fragmented, promises wider compatibility with the AirVOOC charger. However, charging speeds will likely vary, and currently, only a handful of devices natively support Qi2. Furthermore, Qi2 supports a maximum of 25W charging, half the AirVOOC’s capacity. Wider adoption of AirVOOC’s technology could revolutionize wireless charging speeds across the industry.
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus 50W AirVOOC charger attached to a OnePlus 13 propped up on a desk
The OnePlus AirVOOC charger delivers impressive wireless charging speeds and superior heat management. While the design could be improved to prevent slow charging when the fan is obstructed, its performance is a significant step forward. It offers wireless charging speeds comparable to many wired chargers. Although the price tag might be a barrier for some, it’s a worthwhile investment for OnePlus 13 owners seeking a cool and efficient wireless charging solution.
