More and more smartphones and other technical devices offer the option of wireless charging. This is particularly pleasing to self-confessed haters of annoying tangled cables. In the Canyon WS-303/WS-304 test, we took a closer look at two inexpensive QI charging stations designed for simultaneous wireless charging of up to three devices.
Scope of delivery
- Canyon WS 303/WS 304 charging station
- Charging cable USB-A to USB-C (1.2 m)
- QC adapter (18 W)
Canyon WS 303/WS 304 Test: Design
Charging stations such as the Canyon WS 303 (€ 34.46 *) and Canyon WS 304 (€ 40.49 *) were developed to combat ugly cable clutter. The aim is to keep desks, bedside cabinets and sideboards tidy. Of course, the look of the base is all the more important. And this is certainly something to be proud of. Both charging stations have a matt surface and a soft-touch coating. This not only looks attractive, but also effectively prevents fingerprints.
On top of that, the coating offers good protection against scratches that can quickly occur on chargers in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Both charging stations offer space for three devices. According to Canyon, the stations are predestined for the Apple family. For example, a trio consisting of iPhone 16 (€ 952.20 *), AirPods 4 (€ 138.00 *) and Apple Watch Series 10 (€ 444.00 *).
However, even though both appliances each offer three loading areas, they are based on two different concepts in their design. At the center of the WS 303 is the QI charging surface for the smartphone. A practical rubber base underneath the charging surface ensures a rock-solid hold for the smartphone. The manufacturer has extended the charging surface to include an arm on which the smartwatch can be placed. The base of the charging station, which is surrounded by an LED ring, has space for the headphones.
The LED bar shows the user the status of the station. If it lights up green, it signals to the user that the station is supplied with power. If it lights up blue, on the other hand, it indicates that at least one device is currently charging. There is also a touch button on the base that can be used to switch off the LED lighting if required.
While the WS-303 is suitable for stationary use, the WS-304 is also ideal for mobile use. After all, the charging station can be folded up thanks to the existing hinges and thus transformed into a practical handbag format. There are rubber feet on the underside of both stations to prevent slipping on smooth surfaces.
Canyon WS 303/WS 304 test: Technical features
The modern look of the two chargers raises high hopes for contemporary technical features. And both models deliver solid performance here. They offer an output power of up to 15 watts. This should be perfectly adequate for iPhone owners. Apple fans who want more will have to reach for a MagSafe charger (€ 38.99 *). Up to 25 watts are possible here.
However, if you have a smartphone like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra (Review | € 1,212.09 *), which enables wireless charging up to 80 watts, the Canyon charging stations only offer snail’s pace. However, you should always keep the price in mind. After all, the two chargers from Canyon are significantly cheaper than comparable models that enable the simultaneous wireless charging of multiple devices. When we talk about the features, the topic of safety should not be neglected.
Both charging stations offer the most common safety standards. So you don’t have to worry about overheating, overvoltage or the damaging ingress of foreign bodies. There are hardly any differences between the WS-303 and WS-304 when it comes to charging. However, the induction coil in the WS-303 is a little weaker. The charging distance here is 7 mm. Owners of overly thick smartphone cases should keep this in mind. In contrast, the WS-304 reaches up to 8 mm and therefore a little further.
Canyon WS 303/WS 304 test: Compatibility
If you take a look at the official product images of the two charging stations, you quickly get the impression that they are Apple-exclusive products. But this is not the case. In fact, you can use both the Canyon WS-303 and WS-304 for Android smartphones without hesitation.
Compatibility with the QI wireless charging standard is a prerequisite. The same also applies to wireless headphones and their charging cases. The inductive charging port for the smartwatch is excluded from the broad compatibility. This is reserved exclusively for use with an Apple Watch.
Conclusion
The wireless chargers WS-303 and WS-304 from Canyon were particularly impressive in the test due to their versatility. Up to three devices can be charged at the same time. Not only can you charge several Apple devices, but also all other devices that support Qi technology. The only exceptions are smartwatches. Only charging an Apple Watch is possible here. On top of this, both models score points with their good build quality and stylish appearance. I particularly like the soft-touch surface and the LED strip. I also find the different approaches exciting.
While the WS-303 was designed more for stationary use, the WS-304 also feels at home in a rucksack thanks to its foldable design. However, there is also one point that you should consider before making a hasty purchase. Both charging stations offer a maximum output power of 15 watts. While iPhone owners without a MagSafe charger are no longer used to wireless charging, the whole thing may well be too slow for Android fans. If you ignore this criticism, however, the two charging stations from Canyon are two attractive and reliable wireless chargers for everyday use in the office, bedroom or living room, or even when traveling.
PRO
CONTRA
The charging stations from Canyon impress first and foremost with their great price-performance ratio.
Canyon WS-303/WS-304
Design and processing
Hardware
Performance
Price-performance ratio
90/100
