Pixel 9 Pro XL in slim aramid fiber magsafe case with wireless charger

All Ways to Charge the Google Pixel 9 Pro Series

Written by: Taylor

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Time to read 8 min

What if we told you there are multiple practical ways to charge your Google Pixel 9 Pro? Whether it’s the standard Pro, XL, or the Fold, you have a variety of charging options. From traditional wired methods to wireless setups, your Pixel 9 Pro can power up wherever you are, with or without cables. Here’s a comprehensive guide on every way to keep your Pixel juiced up.

Practical Methods to Charge Your Pixel 9 Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold

There’s nothing quite like getting frustrated over a dead phone. Thankfully, Google is known for its user-friendly and versatile ecosystem, especially when it comes to charging and power management. It also offers features like Adaptive Charging and Battery Share to help users optimize battery health, manage power across devices, and charge efficiently. This integration allows Pixel phones and other Google products to support each other seamlessly.


The following list outlines all possible options to charge the Pixel 9 Pro series.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Multiple Charging Options: Charge your Pixel 9 Pro using USB-C, Qi wireless, MagSafe adapters, Battery Share, power banks, laptop USB-C ports, or in your car.

Adaptive and Reverse Charging: Adaptive Charging optimizes battery health, while Battery Share lets you use the Pixel 9 Pro to charge other devices.

Choose the Right Accessories: For optimal charging speed and safety, use quality USB PD chargers, and consider a MagSafe-compatible case for wireless convenience.

Portable Charging Solutions: Power banks (both wired and wireless) offer versatile on-the-go charging, while car chargers are ideal for road trips.

1. USB-C Wired Charging

The most straightforward way to charge your Pixel 9 Pro is by plugging it in with a USB-C cable. This charging method is often the fastest and most efficient. With a compatible USB-C Power Delivery (PD) charger, the Pixel 9 Pro can charge at up to 30W, allowing it to reach significant battery levels quickly.


The Pixel 9 series finally supports fast charging up to 27W wired. Google advertised the device can charge 55% in 30 minutes.


Why Choose USB-C Wired Charging for the Pixel 9 Pro?


Wired charging is ideal when you need a quick, reliable boost. Pixel 9 Pro’s USB-C PD technology is optimized for faster charging, especially when you’re using Google’s official 30W charger or any reputable third-party USB PD charger.


Pros and Cons of USB-C Wired Charging

Pros:


  • Fast charging with a compatible USB PD charger

  • Reliable and consistent power transfer

  • Widely available cables and adapters

Cons:


  • Requires carrying a cable and charger

  • Tethered to an outlet, limiting mobility during charging

2. Qi Wireless Charging

The Pixel 9 Pro models support Qi wireless charging at up to 23W when paired with the Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) or other compatible high-power Qi wireless chargers. Yes, you heard it. The Pixel 9 series remained loyal to the Qi wireless charging and skipped the Qi2. Either way, Google claims there shouldn’t be a significant difference.


Why Use Qi Wireless Charging?


Qi wireless charging is perfect for topping up your device throughout the day. You can simply have a wireless charging pad at your desk or bedside. Place your Pixel on the pad, and it starts charging instantly.


Pros and Cons of Qi Wireless Charging 

Pros:


  • Convenient and cable-free
  • Easily integrates into desks, nightstands, and car mounts

Cons:


  • Requires carrying a cable and charger

  • Tethered to an outlet, limiting mobility during charging

3. MagSafe Wireless Charging

While MagSafe is typically an Apple-exclusive magnetic wireless charging standard, you can make it work with your Pixel 9 Pro using a third-party Magsafe case.


We recommend our slim Pixel 9 Pro magnetic case that adds MagSafe functionality to Pixel devices, allowing you to use MagSafe accessories like charging pads. Made of 600D aramid fiber, you can maintain the slimness and original feel of the Pixel 9 Pro. This case is perfect for modern minimalists.


How MagSafe Works for the Pixel 9 Pro


The Pixel 9 Pro can be used with most MagSafe accessories with a MagSafe adapter or compatible case. It operates similarly to Qi wireless charging, though the magnetic alignment feature can improve charger stability.


Pros and Cons of MagSafe Wireless Charging 

Pros:


  • Opens access to MagSafe-compatible accessories
  • Magnetic alignment makes charging more secure on compatible pads

Cons:


  • Not natively supported on Pixel devices

  • Charging speed may be slower than traditional Qi pads

Check out  how the MagSafe works with the Pixel 9 Pro XL in this video:

4. Reverse Wireless Charging

The Pixel 9 Pro also includes a feature called Battery Share, which allows it to act as a wireless power source for other devices. With Battery Share, you can use your Pixel to charge other Qi-compatible gadgets like earbuds, a smartwatch, or even another phone.


How to Use Reverse Wireless Charging


Step 1: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Share to enable it.

Step 2: Place a compatible device (like your wireless earbuds) on the back of your Pixel.

Step 3: Your Pixel 9 Pro will detect the device and start charging it.


Use Cases for Battery Share


Battery Share is convenient for emergency power boosts to small devices, such as when your earbuds are running low or if a friend’s phone is nearly dead. However, note that this method is best for smaller devices, as it can drain your Pixel battery quickly.

Pixel 9 Pro Reverse wireless charging
Image credit: HowToDevices on YouTube

Pros and Cons of Reverse Wireless Charging 

Pros:


  • Useful for powering smaller accessories in a pinch

  • Adds versatility to your Pixel

Cons:


  • Can deplete your Pixel battery quickly
  • Slower than direct wireless charging methods

5. Power Banks

Power banks are a go-to for charging on the go, and the Pixel 9 Pro is compatible with both wired and wireless power banks.


  • Wired Power Bank: Connect your Pixel to a USB-C power bank for reliable, fast charging anywhere.

  • Wireless Power Bank: Some power banks feature built-in Qi wireless charging, meaning you can place your Pixel on them without needing a cable.


Use Cases for Power Banks


Power banks are perfect for travel, outdoor events, or long commutes. A good power bank can fully recharge your Pixel several times, keeping it powered even without an outlet nearby.


Pros and Cons of Power Banks 

Pros:


  • Extremely portable
  • Wired power banks offer charging speeds similar to USB-C PD
  • Some models support both wired and wireless charging

Cons:


  • Needs recharging after use.

  • Wireless power banks can be slower than wired alternatives

6. USB-C to USB-C Laptop Charging

If you’re working on a laptop with USB-C ports, you can charge your Pixel 9 Pro directly from your computer. Although this may not be as fast as a dedicated power adapter, it’s a useful option when you don’t have an outlet nearby.


Why Use USB-C Laptop Charging?


Laptop charging can provide a slow trickle charge, helping you extend battery life until you can get to a proper charger. This method is handy for light top-ups when you’re working remotely.


Pros and Cons of USB-C Laptop Charging 

Pros:


  • Convenient when a wall outlet isn’t available

  • Great for maintaining battery life during work

Cons:


  • Slower than other charging methods
  • Dependent on your laptop’s power output

7. Car Charging

For those on the road, car chargers offer a practical way to keep your Pixel 9 Pro powered. You can either use a USB-C car charger for wired charging or a wireless charging mount that supports Qi wireless charging.


Why Car Charging Works


Car charging is ideal for commutes or road trips, ensuring you reach your destination with a fully charged phone. Wired car chargers with USB PD support can provide faster charging, while wireless mounts offer convenience if you’re regularly in and out of your car.


photo of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL mounted on a car near the steering wheel


Pros and Cons of Car Charging 

Pros:


  • Convenient for long drives and commutes
  • Wired car chargers with USB PD can offer fast charging

Cons:


  • Requires additional accessories (car charger or wireless mount)

  • Wireless mounts may charge slower than wired car chargers

Tips for Safe and Efficient Charging

The following tips can help extend the life of your Pixel’s battery while ensuring safe and efficient charging:


1. Use Quality Chargers.


Stick with the official Pixel charger or reputable third-party options with USB PD support.


2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures.


Charging in very hot or cold environments can harm battery health. Try to keep your device in a moderate temperature range while charging.


3. Use a MagSafe Case for Wireless Charging.


Thick cases can interfere with wireless charging. If you don’t want to remove your case while charging, opt for a MagSafe case for magnetic charging without obstruction.


4. Enable Adaptive Charging.


In your Pixel settings, turn on Adaptive Charging to optimize battery life by slowing down the charge overnight or when you don’t need a quick top-up.


5. Limit Battery Share Usage.


Reverse wireless charging is convenient, but it can drain your Pixel quickly. Use it sparingly to preserve your own battery life.


6. Charge in Airplane Mode for Speed.


If you’re in a hurry, switch to Airplane Mode while charging to reduce background activity, helping your Pixel charge faster.

Conclusion

If someone had told us decades ago that charging a phone could be as effortless as it is today, it would have been unbelievable. Yet here we are, with multiple convenient ways to keep our devices powered.


Modern devices meet today’s demands and are built for the future. To keep up with their longevity, remember to protect your Pixel device with a premium case like Thinborne. The added MagSafe is especially useful for Android fans who fancy Apple’s MagSafe technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Pixel 9 Pro charge while turned off?

Yes, the Pixel 9 Pro can charge while powered off. Simply connect it to a USB-C charger, and it will begin charging without needing to turn on the device.

Does the Pixel 9 Pro support wireless charging in a case?

Yes, the Pixel 9 Pro can charge wirelessly in most cases. However, thick or metal cases may interfere. Using a MagSafe-compatible case, like Thinborne, helps improve alignment and ensures efficient charging.

Is there a way to check the battery health of the Pixel 9 Pro?

Currently, the Pixel 9 Pro doesn’t offer a built-in battery health monitor. However, third-party apps, such as AccuBattery, can provide insights on battery health and usage.

Can I overcharge my Pixel 9 Pro if I leave it plugged in overnight?

No, the Pixel 9 Pro has built-in charging management to prevent overcharging. The Adaptive Charging feature also helps maintain battery health by slowing charging rates overnight.

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