The iPhone 17 Pro is the fastest-charging smartphone overall according to a recent laboratory test conducted by CNET [1].
This result marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of mobile hardware. For years, Apple has trailed competitors in charging speeds, but these findings suggest the company has closed the gap with high-end Android devices.
CNET evaluated 33 current smartphones to determine which device could replenish its battery most efficiently [1]. The testing process involved using the device's included cable paired with a wall charger rated at or above the maximum speed supported by the phone [1], [2].
In the 30-minute wired-charging test, the iPhone 17 Pro outperformed all other devices in the group to secure the top overall spot [1], [2]. This performance indicates a leap in Apple's power management and thermal handling during rapid energy intake.
However, the results were not uniform across all charging categories. While the iPhone took the overall title, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra topped the specific category for fastest wired charger [1]. This distinction suggests that while the iPhone may be more efficient in a timed sprint, the Samsung hardware may support a higher peak wattage.
The study focused on real-world utility by testing the devices with the accessories provided in the box or recommended by the manufacturers [1]. By controlling the charger wattage to match the device's maximum capabilities, the lab ensured that the results reflected the hardware's actual limits rather than the limitations of a third-party brick.
Industry analysts have long watched the charging race between Apple and Samsung. The emergence of the iPhone 17 Pro as a speed leader suggests a new priority for Apple in its hardware engineering for this generation [2].
“The iPhone 17 Pro was named the fastest-charging phone overall in a CNET laboratory test.”
This shift indicates that Apple is prioritizing charging velocity to match consumer demands for reduced downtime. While Samsung maintains an edge in raw wired-charging hardware, Apple's overall victory suggests a more optimized integration between the battery, software, and charging protocols.
