I finally found a MagSafe car charger that handles bumpy roads (and it's on sale)
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET – Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro Review
Key Takeaways
- Price: $39 (Amazon) – also available at Best Buy ($59.99) and Walmart ($39.99).
- Features:
- Qi 2‑compatible wireless charging up to 15 W.
- Magnetic mount that stays secure on even the bumpiest roads.
- Two mounting options – a rubber vent clip (temporary) and an adhesive dash mount (permanent).
- Included: 2‑ft USB‑C cable, 12 V 20 W USB‑C car charger, spare adhesive pad.
Why I Tested It
While driving a Mazda 3 rental, I ran into two frustrating problems:
- Unreliable built‑in wireless charger – slow and finicky, especially with my iPhone case.
- Spotty Apple CarPlay – random drop‑outs that wouldn’t recover even after a reboot.
I needed a reliable, fast‑charging, and visible solution for my iPhone, so I tried the Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro (sent for review).
First Impressions
- Charging performance: The MagicMount delivered a steady 15 W to my iPhone 17 Pro Max, even inside an OtterBox case.
- Magnet strength: The neodymium magnets hit the “Goldilocks zone” – strong enough for rough roads but easy to detach when needed.
- Installation:
- Vent‑clip version – snaps onto most car vents; I used it in the rental and it stayed put.
- Adhesive version – automotive‑grade pad (with a spare) sticks to the dash; the included alcohol wipe makes surface prep simple.
Both options include a 360° ball‑mount for optimal viewing angles.
What’s in the Box?
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| MagicMount Charge Pro | Qi 2 magnetic charger (15 W) |
| 2‑ft USB‑C cable | Connects the charger to power |
| 12 V 20 W USB‑C car charger | Plugs into the cigarette‑lighter socket |
| Adhesive pad (spare) | For extra grip or re‑mounting |
| Alcohol wipe | Cleans the surface before adhesive mounting |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast, consistent 15 W wireless charging | Slightly higher price than some basic mounts |
| Strong yet releasable magnetic hold | Adhesive mount requires clean surface for best grip |
| Two mounting options (temporary & permanent) | None reported in my testing |
| Includes everything you need (cable, charger, spare pad) |
Bottom Line
The Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro is a well‑rounded solution for anyone who needs reliable wireless charging and a secure, adjustable mount in the car. It works great in rentals, work vehicles, or any car where you don’t want a permanent installation.
Where to Buy
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ZDNET’s Buying Advice
Having used the Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro for well over a thousand miles across several trips, I can say it’s one of the best in‑car magnetic wireless chargers I’ve ever used.
- Easy installation – fits quickly with two mounting options.
- Secure hold – stays firmly in place even on bumpy roads.
- Powerful charging – delivers the full 15 W maximum output it promises.
- Great value – at about $40, it lives up to every claim.
Overall, this magnetic car charger earns two thumbs‑up from me.
Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro – Amazon (affiliate link)