iPhone 7/Plus 5W vs 12W charger: Which is better for iPhone battery life (especially for older models like XR & 7)

[bigsmile01]

Which is the better charger for iPhone battery life, especially for older models like XR & 7?

I need to get my mum a new official Apple charger for her iPhone 7. Both the 5W and 12W are on offer at the same price, so I am not sure which one to get. She will probably use the iPhone 7 for a few more years (even though it won't be getting any new iOS updates), so keeping the battery life good is important.

She's not that bothered about faster charging.

Another family member might borrow it for their XR.

I've read some sites say the 5W is better because it produces less heat and so the battery will last longer.
But I've read other sites say iOS has the technology to stop the 12W from pushing too much charger to the phone.
So I am slightly confused!

 

[maerz001]

1st u can use any USB charger as the iphone controls the power it needs. U don’t have to pay the apple tax.

2nd if u really want to save a few % battery health over the years and save the $50 for a new battery use a 5W charger. But time is money

3rd for an iphone 7 in 2022 i guess a new battery is appropriate

 

[Jackbequickly]

Either will do fine. The 5 watt cube is cheaper and if she does not need fast charging, it might be the best choice. If the little extra money is not a problem, get the 12 watt unit.

 

[JPack]

It’s all about heat. 5W generates the least amount of heat for the battery, which is a factor in battery aging. If you use 12W the phone will charge at 12W with more heat.

 

[I7guy]

In my opinion, the amount of time and effort that goes into squeezing the last drop of juice from these batteries isn't worth the effort. When the time comes and a new battery is needed, one can get a new battery.

That said, buy the charger that has the most capacity. You never know when one might want to charge their iphone as quickly as possible.