$20 at Walmart Fast-charge USB-C charger Anker 323 2-Port Charger View details
$15 at Walmart Affordable yet high-quality USB-C cables Anker 333 USB-C Cables View details
$9 at Amazon Plug USB-C cords into older USB-A ports Syntech USB-C Adapters (3-pack) View details
$40 at Amazon MagSafe-compatible power bank Baseus Magnetic Power Bank (10,000maH) View details
$100 at Amazon USB-C gaming grip Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller View details
$27 at Amazon Bonus pick: Enhance iPhone grip with PopSockets MagSafe Round View details
CNET’s experienced team regularly reviews and rates numerous new products and services each month, drawing on over a quarter century of expertise. The iPhone 15 series introduces several upgrades, with one significant change being the switch to Type-C from the Lightning port. USB-C has been a common standard on various mobile devices and computers, including many Apple products, for several years. However, many people still have a collection of Lightning cables in their drawers, bags, and cars. If you’re in this situation, it’s time to update your cable setup.
In addition to upgrading to USB-C chargers and other essentials for a new iPhone, such as a new case, there are also several “nice to haves” available, including wireless speakers or headphones. It’s important to note that the listed products are compatible with Apple’s new iPhones.
The iPhone 15 line features USB-C charger ports on the phone itself, but Apple has been including USB-C cables with the power source end for the past couple of years. If you have an older wall adapter with a USB-A port, you can still use it with inexpensive dongles, although charging speeds may be slower. For optimal performance, invest in a wall adapter with native USB-C ports with at least 20 watts of power. The Anker 323 is a good choice under $20, providing up to 33 watts of power and featuring both USB-C and USB-A ports for versatility.
For additional cables, the Anker 333 USB-C cables are durable and rated for up to 100 watts of charging power. Anker offers a two-pack of 6-foot cables for $16, providing better value than Apple’s options. If you require higher-wattage charging and faster data speeds, consider upgrading to the Anker 515 USB 4 cable.
Adapters like the Syntech USB-C Adapters allow you to connect USB-C cables to USB-A ports. While these adapters may not support high bandwidth, they are suitable for charging or data transfer in a pinch.
The Baseus Magnetic Power Bank is a cost-effective option for MagSafe charging on the iPhone 15 series. It offers a larger capacity than Apple’s battery pack at a lower price, with additional features like a built-in kickstand and various color options.
The Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller is a convenient accessory for mobile gaming, providing a comfortable grip and the ability to charge your phone while playing. It offers a compact alternative to traditional console controllers.
Lastly, the Feelworld FW568 V3 field monitor is a budget-friendly option for connecting professional equipment to your iPhone for photography and videography purposes. It provides a waveform readout for precise adjustments and is a great tool for exploring new possibilities in iPhone photography.
Overall, these accessories cater to a wide range of needs and preferences for iPhone users looking to enhance their device’s functionality and performance.