photo of Pixel 9 pro XL in a leather wallet case on a charging station

How to Properly Charge Your Pixel 9 Pro XL with a Wallet Case On

Charging with a phone case shouldn’t present serious challenges, especially with premium devices like the Pixel 9 Pro XL. However, some phone cases can sometimes introduce charging issues due to their design, materials, and thickness. If you’re one of us who prefers to keep a case on at all times without compromising on style, keep reading to learn the proper ways to do it.

Understanding Wallet Cases and Their Impact on Charging

Wallet cases offer dual functionality by protecting your phone and acting as a convenient storage solution for cards and cash. While these cases enhance practicality, their design can sometimes interfere with charging processes, particularly wireless charging.


You can usually charge your phone with a wallet case if the case is thin and made from non-metallic materials. For instance, a full-grain leather Google Pixel 9 Pro XL wallet case can be compatible with wired and wireless charging. However, there are still a few things to consider.

What to Consider for Compatibility

  • Most wireless charging pads work with cases up to 3mm thick. If the wallet case’s back is 5mm thick or beyond, it would most likely not work with wireless charging.

  • Cases made of thin, non-metallic materials generally allow wireless charging.

  • Cases with metallic parts can interfere with the charging process.

  • Metal cards or cards with a metallic layer can block the charging signal. Phone hardware manufacturers recommend keeping magnetic stripe cards away from wireless chargers.

How a Wallet Case Can Affect Charging

Charging with a wallet case can sometimes introduce wireless charging limitations, potential overheating, and reduced charging speed. Understanding these issues can help you take proactive steps to ensure smooth and efficient charging. Here’s why these challenges occur.


1. Wireless Charging Limitations


Thicker or metal-based wallet cases can block the electromagnetic fields required for wireless charging, making the process ineffective. The material and thickness of the case determine whether the charging signal can pass through.


2. Overheating Risks


Wallet cases can trap heat during the charging process, causing the device to overheat. Over time, consistent overheating can degrade the battery, shorten its lifespan, or even lead to malfunctions in the charging pad or cable. Devices like the Pixel 9 Pro XL are designed with thermal management systems, but a bulky wallet case can undermine these protections by preventing proper heat dissipation.


If you notice slow charging or excessive heat, try removing the wallet case to confirm whether it’s causing the issue. We’ll discuss more on this issue.


3. Reduced Charging Speed


Phone cases can slow down wireless charging if the case contains cards or materials that interfere with the charging process. Credit cards or metal-layered cards stored in the back of the wallet case can disrupt the electromagnetic connection, slowing down the transfer of power. In some cases, the interference may halt charging altogether. However, folio cases with the cardholder on the cover rather than the back of the case should be fine.


4. Metal Object Absorption


Any metal objects near the charging coil can absorb the energy intended for charging the phone. This not only reduces charging efficiency but can also create localized heating in the metal object, posing potential safety concerns.

Choosing the Right Charger and Pixel 9 Pro XL Wallet Case

For wallet cases, the odds of charging interference are greater. But with the proper practices and the right wallet case, you can enjoy seamless charging without sacrificing the functionality or style of your case.


First off, invest in a good, reputable charging pad, stand, or magnetic charger, whichever you prefer for wireless charging. Google made the Pixel 9 Pro XL charger faster with a boosted 37W of power. With a quality charger (ideally, it should have a 21V PPS profile to charge at its rated maximum), you can seamlessly charge with a case on without problems.


For wired charging options, use a USB-C fast charger for a reliable and faster charging experience. Ensure the wallet case has precise cutouts that allow the cable to connect securely without removing the case.


If you choose a leather wallet phone case that resembles a premium, luxurious designer, it shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. The Pixel 9 Pro XL isn’t basic and certainly isn’t cheap, so it shouldn’t deprive you of your favorite accessories. But does wireless charging still work with such materials? The answer is usually yes—provided the case isn’t too thick and clearly indicates Qi charging compatibility.


Leatherborne wallet cases for the Pixel 9 Pro XL support Qi wireless charging. The case features a magnetic clasp to securely close the case without interfering with the wireless charging process. It also has a durable inner frame for reliable phone protection. Additionally, it features a slimline design with full access to power and volume buttons, the charging port, and the camera, handcrafted with precision from full-grain leather.

Guide to Properly Charge Your Pixel 9 Pro XL with a Wallet Case On

Maintain an efficient and hassle-free charging routine with the following tips.


Wireless Charging Tips


  1. Ensure your phone is precisely aligned with the charging pad to establish a stable connection.

  2. Remove unnecessary cards or bulky items from the wallet case if they disrupt the charging signal.

  3. Use a Qi-compatible charging pad with sufficient power output to work through the case material.


Wired Charging Tips


  1. Confirm the USB-C port is clear of obstructions and easily accessible with the wallet case on.

  2. Use Pixel-approved or certified fast chargers to achieve optimal charging speed without compromising battery health.

Maintaining Your Battery’s Health While Using a Leather Wallet Case

To extend your Pixel 9 Pro XL’s battery lifespan, incorporate these smart charging habits:

  • Avoid Overcharging: Unplug your phone once fully charged to minimize unnecessary wear on the battery.

  • Use Quality Accessories: Stick to Pixel-certified or high-quality chargers and cables to prevent damage from unreliable accessories.

  • Optimize Charging Habits: Enable features like Optimized Battery Charging in your Android settings. This feature slows down charging after reaching 80%, reducing strain on the battery over time.

Adopting these practices ensures your phone’s battery remains efficient and reliable, even with consistent use of a wallet case.

What If the Case Thickness or Material Is Not the Issue in the Charging Problem?

If your wireless charging still isn’t working despite using a compatible case, the problem might lie elsewhere:


  1. Check the alignment between your Pixel 9 Pro XL and the charging pad, as misalignment can prevent the phone from connecting properly.

  2. Ensure that your charger and cable are functioning correctly, and try a different power adapter or charging pad if needed.

  3. Additionally, remove any external objects, like nearby metal items or cards, that could interfere with the charging process.

Wrap Up

Charging your Pixel 9 Pro XL with a wallet case doesn’t have to be complicated. With these tips, you’ll have no trouble keeping your device powered up while preserving its sleek style and functionality. We recommend the Leatherborne wallet case for your Pixel 9 Pro XL for a stylish and functional case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Pixel 9 Pro XL support reverse wireless charging with a wallet case?

Reverse wireless charging can work with thin, non-metallic wallet cases, but it may struggle with thicker or metal-backed cases. Removing the case is recommended for optimal performance.

Are there chargers specifically designed for wallet cases?

You can choose wireless chargers that are designed with stronger coils to accommodate thicker cases. Look for chargers that explicitly state compatibility with wallet cases.

Will a wallet case affect battery health during charging?

A wallet case itself doesn’t harm the battery, but issues like overheating caused by heat-trapping designs can. Choosing a well-ventilated case and following proper charging habits will prevent such problems.

What’s the best material for a wallet case to ensure charging compatibility?

Non-metallic materials like aramid fiber, TPU, or polycarbonate are ideal, as they allow wireless charging signals to pass through while offering protection and style. Leather can also be compatible as long as it isn't too thick.

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Written by: Leatherborne Team

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