Suppose you have not yet perused my review of the Nexode RG 30W chargers. In that case, I invite you to learn more about the smaller Nexode device to gain some additional appreciation for the larger Ugreen Nexode 65W RG GaN charger.  With wall outlet space at a premium, my main complaint about the 30W RG chargers was with the single USB-C output port.  I liked the fun design, the removable feet (except the inability to attach them to the charger), the compact nature of the charger, and the GaN technology. Like the black robotic RG 30W charger, the 65W RG GaN charger arrived in an attractive black package. 

The 4 3/4 inches square by 2 inches thick black-colored retail package listed the white Ugreen name at the top left and the Nexode RG name and descriptor (Ugreen’s 1st Robot GaN Fast Charger 2x USB C 1x USB-A) along the bottom of the panel.  The panel’s left side provided three robot facial expression icons that depicted the charging status of the device (recharging, recharge completed, standby), while the lower right corner displayed a gold-foil 65W icon. The main showcase of the panel was the large black/grey RG robot charger with large ^ ^ eyes and the large subdued purple-colored NEXODE name atop the image.

Unboxing:

Many of the features of the Ugreen Nexode 35W packaging were recreated on the 65W box.  You will find a golden foil “Nexode” on the top panel, an SKU product barcode on the bottom, and three icons on the right-side panel (Higher Efficiency & Less Heat, Thermal Guard  Safe Charging, For Laptops Tablets & Phones).  The left side panel listed the product specifications: 65W 3-port PG GaN Fast Charger, 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.8A Max input, USB-C1 Output 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/3.25A 3.3-21V/3A 65W Max. USB-C2 Output 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/2.5A 15V/2A 20V/1.55A 3.21-21V/2.7A 30W Max. USB-A output 5V/3A 9V/2A 12V/1.5A 10V/2.25A 22.5W max, Total output 65W Max, and a note to use appropriate strength cables.  The rear panel provided a generic image of a GaN circuit, product manufacturing labels, company address, and four product features: 1. 65W Fast Charging. 2. GaN Technology. 3. Wide compatibility (Supports PD 3.0, QC 3.0), Smart Power Distribution. 

I lifted the top half of the box away from the lower half and found a 5-ounce robot-shaped charger within a form-fit cardboard/plastic tray.  Beneath the tray, you will find a small user instruction manual with FCC/IC statements and a larger 9-panel multilingual instruction manual (EN, FR, ES, JP, CN).  The manual provided a package content panel, a how it works panel, several charging status panels, a specifications table, and a few pages of notes.  Each panel provided a pictorial and verbal representation of the information, and was quite well done.  I liked the tabular charging status and the facial/anthropomorphized representations of the robot: 1. ^ < ^ flashing = Connected to a power supply. 2. – < – solid = No device connected or charging.  3. ^ < ^ solid = charging.  4. ^ ^ solid=Fully charged.  The specifications table listed the product name, plus input/output information.  I liked the tabular layout but felt the information was a bit redundant/repetitive as it was already presented on the left side panel of the packaging. Either way, the information was easy to access and well-presented for a quick refresher. 

Testing:

I removed the 2 5/8 inches tall by 1 13/16 inches wide by 1 5/8 inches thick black charger from the box and then removed the 0.1-ounce feet from the robot figurine.  I slid the film away from the front of the charger and then plugged it into a standard type A wall outlet.  The charger had a 1 5/8 inches wide by 15/16 inches tall face, an upper dark grey top, a black bottom, and a grey UGREEN belt region.  Each side panel had an attractive, glossy-black earphone accent, while the top port had dual USB-C ports and a single USB-A port.  Once removed, the magnetic black plastic feet did not attach to the charger’s surface, but could attach to metallic surfaces.  Similarly, with the feet attached, the entire device could stick to a metallic surface.  To use the device, you must first remove the feet to uncover the type A wall plug and the masked product specifications/manufacturing labels.

I plugged Klein Tools Multimeters into each USB-C port and a DROK USB-A multimeter into the USB-A port.  I plugged a variety of USB-C to USB-C (UGREEN/OEM/ANKER) cables between the multimeter and my devices to test their output.  I tried each output port individually and found the multimeter display (iPhone 15 Pro Max/iPad Pro/MacBook Pro) matched similarly to the specifications table.  I then moved to a trial involving all three ports.  I plugged my iPad Pro 12.9” into USB-C port 1, iPhone 15 Pro Max into USB-C port 2, and my son’s iPhone 14 into USB-A port 1.  Starting at 55% at 8:16 PM (15.13/2.38A), my iPad increased to 61% by 8:21 PM (15.12V/1.80A), to 74% by 8:39 PM (15.11V/2.16A), to 87% by 8:58 PM (15.11V/2.06A), 91% by 9:05 PM (15.11V/1.79A), to 97% by 9:24 PM (15.12V/1.03A), and to 100% by 9:40 PM (5.10V/1.85A). 

While charging the iPad Pro above, my iPhone 15 Pro Max increased from 61% at 8:16 PM (6.10V/1.90A) to 63% by 8:21 PM (5.08V/1.48A), to 70% by 8:39 PM (5.07V/1.48A), to 80% by  8:58 PM (5.07V/1.50A), 83% by 9:05 PM (5.07V/1.41A), to 91% by 9:24 PM (5.07V/1.20A), to 97% by 9:50 PM, and to 100% by 10:00 PM ((5.11V/0.31A).  The USB-A port allowed my son’s IPhone 14 to increase from 60% (5.07V/1.79A), to 72% at 8:39 PM (5.08V/1.59A), to 84% by 8:58 PM (5.09V/1.31A), 88% by 9:05 PM (5.11V/1.01A), to 94% at 9:24 PM (5.12V/0.64A), to 97% by 9:50 PM (5.11V/0.18A), and to 100% by 10:10 PM (5.11V/0.27A).  I ran a few other power tests with my Nintendo Switch and MacBook Pro 15”.  The Switch increased from 43% at 10:00 PM (15.10V/0.75A) USB-C 1 to 66% at 10:28 PM (15.14V/0.67), 82 % by 10:52 PM, (12.11V/0.60A), to 86% by 11:00 PM (12.12V/0.61A), and to 93% by 11:23 PM (12.15V/0.37A).  My MacBook Pro 15” 2018 increased from 73% at 10:32 PM (20.14V/2.15A), to 84% by 10:52 PM (20.11V/2.15A), 88% by 11:01 PM(20.11V/2.12A), and to 99% by 11:24 PM (20.11V/1.40A).  

I was pleased with the output and the robotic charger’s size, shape, and design.  I liked that the robotic feet hid the busy product features underneath the charger, and the device could be used as a fun little knick-knack.  The pixelated faces provided a unique charging experience, unlike other chargers I have tested.  Beyond adding more power, the 65W device expanded upon the single port design and provided a good 1 USB-A to 2 USB-C ports ratio. I enjoy the newer GaN technology and the improvements in power output and size reduction beyond silicone tech. The design was robust enough to provide power to all three devices, yet small enough to avoid overcrowding my wall outlet.  The 65W charger improved upon the single port limitation but fell flat on my second concern of losing the feet once removed.  A metallic back plate is likely not a good idea for risks of metal/contact with a power outlet.  However, I still suspect some may misplace the feet like the accessories of our action figures. 

Cons:
1. As an Apple household, I had no Android devices to test the Samsung quick charging capabilities.
2. The device may be a bit heavy for backpacking at 5-ounces, when compared to the 4.5 ounce Ugreen 65W non robot-shaped GaN charger.
3. Non retractable wall outlet.

Learn more about the Ugreen 65W Nexode charger and follow Ugreen on Facebook and Twitter.

Recharge, Regenerate, and Rejuvenate your electronics.

According to a Deloitte’s 2022 Connectivity and Mobile Trends Survey, each US household has approximately 22 connected devices.  With so many devices requiring power, finding an open outlet or USB port can sometimes be challenging.  From dorm rooms to offices living spaces and theater rooms, many outlets, power strips, and hubs become overwhelmed, while others remain dormant or neglected. 

Thus, it is important for home utility to find power adapters capable of providing as much power to as many devices as possible.  My general rule is that a device must provide at least two USB ports (USB-A or USB-C) per outlet at a minimum.  These chargers often assume larger sizes and become too unwieldy for portable use.  Thankfully, more efficient GaN chargers can provide quite a punch for home use, and their smaller frame often allows for improved portability.  When considering portability, I prefer lightweight to port quantity.   

Packaging:

The UGREEN 30W Nexode RG GaN Fast Charger arrived in a 4 3/4 inches square by 2 inches tall retail package.  The cover panel displayed the company name along the top left, two robotic face icons along the left panel, the product name/description along the bottom left, and a silver-glistening 30W logo along the bottom right.  I liked the creative charge indicators with a robotic kiss face indicating recharging and the lack of lips suggesting the device was fully charged. 

The top panel listed the NEXODE logo in metallic silver font, while the bottom panel provided a product SKU barcode sticker, detailed the product color, and CD359 model number.  The right side panel provided three product detail feature icons (Higher Efficiency & Less Heat, Thermal Guard Safe Charging, and For Laptops Tablets & Phones).  The left panel listed the product specifications: 1. Product name 30W USB-C PD GaN Fast Charger. 2. 100-240V input. 50/60Hz 800mA Max. 3. USB-C output 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/2.5A 15V/2A 20V/1.5A 3.3-11V/2.7A with total power 30W Max.  Lastly, the panel listed a product note to utilize appropriate charging cables.  

The rear panel listed the UGREEN name along the top left, provided an attractive image of GaN chip circuit board, listed four product features (30W Fast Charging, GaN Technology, Wide Compatibility [PD3.0, QC 3.0, other fast charging protocol], and smart Power Distribution), as well as manufacturer address, website address (www.UGREEN.com), company contact information, and manufacturing labels.  I liked the design of the packaging, the metallic font accents, and the overall layout of the information. 

If a tacticool, matte black/metallic silver, robotic Nexode 30W charger is not your particular flavor of geek, then perhaps the soft-toned, pastel purple option may pique your fancy.  Both sets of packaging (black-colored Outlook Charger and the pastel-colored Robot Colorful New device) provided a fun educational experience.  I liked the contrasting light-dark theme, the metallic accents, and the emotive, cartoonish facial features of the 30W charger. 

When I removed the top of the box, I was greeted by a friendly, earphone-wearing, robot-shaped device staring back at me.  The inner surface of the lid provided a fun description of the RG charger (RobotGaN), an ink outline of the device, and images portraying the facial changes of a charging block and one that finished the charging process.  The 2.0-ounce 30W RG charger was shipped cradled within a cardboard/plastic cutout tray. 

The flat surface introduced the RG Nexode, detailed the 30W output, and encouraged the user to “charge more.”  Beneath the the tray, I found a short B1 User manual with FCC/ICC statements, and a nine-panel multi-lingual instruction manual (EN, FR, ES, JP, CN).  The manual detailed the package contents, how it works, charging status, specifications (100-240V ~50/60Hz 800mAh input, 5.0V/3A 9V/3A 12V/2.5A 15V/2.0A 20V/1.5A 3.3-11V/2.7A USB-C output, for a total of 30W max output), and a few brief notes. 

Testing:

I removed the 2 1/4 inches tall by 1 5/8 inches wide by 2 1/4 inches thick black charger from the box. I admired the 1 15/16 inches wide by 3/4 inches tall face, the attractive UGREEN belt buckle name, the glossy black earphone accents on both side panels, the USB-C port on the top of the headphones, and the black plastic feet.  To use the device, you must first remove the feet to access the type A wall plug. 

The feet strategically hid the base plate’s product specifications and manufacturing labels.  I liked that the feet clicked securely into the base and that the setup created a fun little knick-knack figurine.  Once the feet were removed, I inserted the charger into a Type B outlet on my multiport hub.  The pixelated ^^ shaped eyes and < shaped mouth briefly activated and then turned off.  I plugged a Klein Tools Multimeter into the USB-C port atop the charger and then an ANKER USB-C to USB-C cable between the multimeter and my iPad Pro 12.9”.  

Starting at 64% at 8:10 PM, my iPad Pro increased to 68% by 8:17 PM (multimeter display 14.82V/1.93A).  The iPad Pro increased to 79% by 8:31 PM (14.79V/1.63A), to 89% by 8:46 PM (14.8V/1.59A), and to 98% by 9:15 PM (14.90V/0.54A).  By 9:28, my iPad Pro registered 100% (14.92V/0.41A multimeter), but the charger’s mouth icon did not extinguish.  When I returned to the instruction manual, I found an asterisk on page 4 stating the detection mechanism may vary by brand. I removed the multimeter and plugged my iPad Pro Directly into the device, and the ^^ remained while the < icon turned off. I suspect the multimeter current caused the device to remain in charge mode.   For the second test, I plugged the multimeter into the charger and then a USB-C to Lighting cable into my iPhone 14 Pro Max. 

Starting at 9:46 PM at 46% (8.93V/2.20A), my iPhone Pro increased to 79% by 10:14 PM (8.95V/0.88A), and by 10:38 PM the iPhone entered Optimized Battery Charging mode and dropped to trickle charge mode (5.15V/0.11A).  The phone message noted that it would charge to full by 3:00 AM.  I checked my iPhone at 3:20 AM and found it was fully charged.  For my final tests, I evaluated the charge rate for several devices.  The RG charged my Nintendo Switch at 14.91V/0.72A, my MacBook Pro 2018 15” at 19.87V/1.41A, my Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (11th Generation) at 5.15V/0.35A, and my Air Pods Pro Gen 2 at 5.15V/0.36A.  Each device charged at a reasonable rate, and once each device was fully charged, the “<“ icon disappeared. 

Summary:

For a single-port USB-C charger, 30W may be a bit on the narrow end for larger laptops and MacBooks.  However, the device should work well for most portable electronics, phones, and tablets.  With charger port real estate at a premium, I would have loved for the device to provide at least two ports (See 65W Nexode review coming soon).  Using the screen/face to demonstrate the charging status was a fun, creative, and distinctive method when compared to the use of a generic LED. 

I enjoyed the figurine mode, with the attached feet, and could stand/enjoy the RG robot on my desk.  My biggest complaint about the device was the inability to attach the feet to the back of the device once removed even though the magnetic foot base was strong enough to affix the entire RG charger to my metal door and refrigertor. If you grew up playing with action figures, then you know the ire when you cannot find their accessory.  I fear the prong covers will be misplaced or left behind if used in public.  The device needs a method to affix the feet to its side/back while charging.  

I was pleased with the charge rates for my iPhone 14 Pro Max (several tests showed the promise of ~50% in 30 minutes), iPad Pro, Nintendo Switch, and even my MacBook Pro, although it was below the rate of 65-80W chargers. The outer fire-resistant shell never felt hot, and the single-port charger succeeded in the lightweight and cuteness categories.  I applaud the switch from silicone to Gallium Nitride and UGREENS commitment to the environment.  Their website reports a savings of 5503 tons of CO2 annually, which equates to planting ~220,775 trees per year. 

When you factor in the ~$25 price tag and compare it to market-similar devices/features (~$19-30), the single port charger is a reasonable deal.  Considering the lightweight nature and that the feet add prong protection similar to retractable devices, the pocketable device increases in opportunity: cost ratio.  I have added the RG Nexode 30W device to my Nintendo Switch bag, which has now become my device’s travel charger.  The purple 30W device, with the cute posterior bow, was quickly snagged by my 9-year-old daughter to keep her Nintendo Switch ready for action.

Learn more about the Nexode 30W RG charger. 
Follow UGREEN on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter).

As my kids have grown older, our family has become more involved with sporting activities BSA Scouts, and school.  From weekend-spanning campouts, week-long scout camps, to all day baseball tournaments, basketball games, band concerts, presentations, water park/theme park outings, etc., I have found difficulty with keeping my iPhone 14 Pro Max, Apple Watch Ultra, Air Pods Pro, and other devices charged when separated from a power outlet/source.  As a potential solution, I utilize portable batteries with a minimum of 10,000 mAh charge.  When weight:power ratios are considered, one must decide about the optimal number and size of their batteries.  Assuming ~80% efficiency, a 10,000 mAh battery should provide just under two full charges for the 4323 mAh battery of my iPhone 14 Pro Max.  

When backpacking or carrying gear for a day outing, I must consider the weight and volume of my devices.  My son (Life Scout) and I recently returned from a two-week Philmont trek (~90 total miles) and carried ~60-70 pounds over two weeks. This included our shelter, sleeping gear, clothing, water, food, group gear, and miscellaneous items like batteries for my iPhone (camera/communications).  I purchased/packed a 10,000 mAh Anker USB-A/C battery (8.8 ounces) and an Anker 20,000 mAh PowerCore (12.16 ounces) for the trip.  Even though the batteries served me well, the dual items took up precious space within my Osprey Aether 70L Plus pack.  After some additional research/testing, I may have found my optimal weekend and backpacking power bank for my upcoming campout/trip. Weighing in at 18.1 ounces, the UGREEN 145W 25,000 mAh Power bank will provide me with weight and volume savings, but at a possible cost of ~500mAh and some redundancy.  

UNBOXING:  

The UGREEN 25000 Fast Charging Power Bank arrived in a 3 7/8 inches wide by 6 5/8 inches tall by 1 3/4 inches thick retail package.  The main cover provided a sexy hunter-green UGREEN logo at the top of the cover, followed by three product icons. 1. High Energy Density Cell. 2. Trickle Charging Supported. 3. Flight Approved.  The cover’s lower edge listed the generic “Fast Charging Power Bank” product name, the 25000 mAh power capacity, bold “145W” output, small text detailing “Fast charge Laptop, Phones & Tablets at Once,” and an attractive hunter green border.  The right side panel listed several product manufacturing labels, while the opposite side was left blank. The rear panel provided three icons along the top of the panel (PD100W Single Port Fast Charging, Max 65W Input High-Seed Charging, Smart LED Display for Remaining Battery), and a helpful Specifications table (1. USB-C1 Input: 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/3.25A.  2. USB-C2 Input:  5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/2.25A.  3. USB-C1 output: 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/5A. 4. USB-C2 output: 5V/3A 9v3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/2.25A.  USB-A Output 5V/3A 9V/2A 12V/1.5A.  Total Output 5v/6A 9V/6A12V 6A 20V/7.25A. The bottom hunter-green panel listed the address and contact information.  

To access the charger, I removed the tape closure along the top panel, lifted the top panel, slid the inner white tray out from the case, and examined the package contents.  I removed the 1 pound 2.1 ounce, 6 3/8 inches long by 3 3/16 inches wide by 1 inch thick black power bank, followed by the 20-inches long USB-C to USB-C cable resting in the lower compartment.  Before disposing of the inner tray, remove the inner cardboard shelf to find the 4 inches-wide by 7 3/4 inches tall grey drawstring carry bag, instruction manual, and FCC/IC statement manual.  The carry bag had a small UGREEN tag at the bottom corner, well-stitched hemlines, and a convenient drawstring nylon cord.  Even though the bag was large enough to accommodate the power bank and cable, the cable printed on the bag’s surface and attracted dust/debris.  I found the more optimal solution was to coil the all-in-one data cable and to place it at the bottom of the bag and not beside the battery.  It is important to note that the accessory bag will not have room to accommodate a wall charger.  However, the bag’s benefit was protecting the battery’s surface and charging ports from scratches/scuffs, and USB port contact.  I was thankful for the included carry bag, but would love the option to purchase an accessory hardshell/clamshell style case with added space for a UGREEN 65W GaN wall charger combo.  With that as an option, The UGREEN 145W 25000 mAh battery may be the perfect weekend or summer camp battery.

USB-C Cable:

I was impressed with the design of the 20-inches long USB-C to USB-C cable.  Instead of providing a cheaply made, throw-away cable, UGREEN put some thought into their accessory.  Each of the 5/16 inches wide by 1/8 inches thick by 1/4 inch tall USB-C metallic prongs connected to a black-rubberized 7/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 5/8 inches tall oval neck segment.  The neck segment then tapered to 1 1/4 inch diameter collar segment over 3/8 inches.  I gripped/bent the metallic prong, then tugged against the prong/neck, the neck/collar, and the collar/cable, and found a robust, well-designed setup.  When I paired a 65W USB-C wall charger with the included USB-C to USB-C cable and plugged the USB-C cable into the power bank, I found a secure fit with each of the USB-C prongs.

Manual:

I liked how the manual portrayed the information with a picture/diagram followed by a multilingual list of instructions (EN, DE, FR, ES, IT, JP, CN, NL, SE, PL, TR. The manual detailed the need to fully charge the battery before first use, the ability for dual input, and the preferred method to charge the device with a power input of 65W or above.  It then detailed the wired fast charging mode (single press power-on, double press power off), and the Trickle charging mode (Press-hold for 3 seconds on, 3.5 seconds off [3.5 hour timeout]). The fourth segment detailed the power distribution: 1. 100W USB-C 1, 18W USB-A, 45W USB-C2 single port options. 2. 100W USB-C 1 + 45W USB-C 2, 100W USB-C 1 + 18W USB-A, and 15W USB-A + 15W USB-C 2 dual power output. 3. 100W USB-C 1 + 15 W USB-C 2 and 15W USB-A triple charging. The fifth segment provided the same list of product specifications that were presented on the rear panel of the outer packaging.  Lastly, the rear panels provided some general product notes regarding the battery/cable, and product warnings.  The manual did a great job overall.

Power Output/Testing:

I used the power bank to overnight charge my iPhone 14 Pro Max as the primary test for the battery.  At 10:34 PM, my iPhone was at 31% power.  I plugged a Klein Tools Multimeter into the USB-C1 port of the UGREEN battery and a USB-C to Lightning cable between the multimeter and my iPhone 14 Pro Max.  I plugged a second multimeter into USB-C port 2 and then a USB-C to Apple Watch charger into the multimeter.  The multimeter displayed 8.95V/1.78A for my iPhone and 4.97V/.019A for my Apple Watch Ultra.  By 10:52 my iPhone was at 62% power and the 145W 25000 battery reached 92% (8.92V/2.35A).  By 11:18 PM my phone was at 82% power and the power bank was at 87% power.  On day 2, I started testing the battery with my phone at 47% power at 10:20 PM (8.90V/2.54A).  The battery dropped to 80%, but my phone was at 68% at 10:34 PM.  By 10:44 PM,  my iPhone was at 78%.  By 11:02 PM, the phone was at 86%. By 11:39 PM, the iPhone was at 96%, and by 12:03 am, the iPhone was at 100% power.  On Day 3, I started at 11:47 PM at 28% power.  My iPhone increased to 52% by 12:02 PM (65% battery power remaining, 8.96V/1.62A multimeter display). By 12:13 AM, my iPhone reached 68%. By 12:28 AM the phone was at 80% and entered into “Optimized Battery Charging Mode.”

As a second test, I depleted the battery to 5% power and tested the time to recharge the battery.  Starting at 7:03 AM with 5% battery power, I plugged the USB-C to USB-C cable between the battery and an 87W USB-C Apple Charger.  I was impressed to find the battery was fully charged by 8:50 AM and that the charging rate matched the levels referenced in the instruction manual.   As a second charging test, starting at 40% power (4:06 PM), the battery increased to 54% by 4:17 PM (20.17V/3.14A).  By 4:24 PM, the battery was at 64% (20.16V/3.14A).  By 4:30 PM, the battery was at 72% (20.18V/3.13A).  By 4:47 PM the battery was at 88% (20.17V/3.12A)The multimeter displayed ~20.19V/3.16A through USB-C1 and ~20.19V/2.16A through USB-C2 port. By 4:54 PM the battery was fully charged.  Throughout charging/depletion, the battery never felt too hot to touch or uncomfortable to handle (103-110 degrees using an infrared thermometer).  

With a fully charged battery, I used the device to charge my iPad Pro at a recent conference.  While using the iPad Pro 12.9” Gen 5 with Magic Keyboard to take notes, I noted that the power dropped to 40% at 9:33 am.  I plugged the USB-C to USB-C cable between my UGREEN battery (100%) and iPad Pro and found the device charged to 51% by 9:45 AM (89% battery power remaining), and to 67% by 10:06 AM (74% battery power remaining).   By 10:47 AM, the iPad increased to 90% (50% battery remaining).  By 11:03 AM the iPad was at 96% (44% remaining battery power).  I liked that the battery was robust enough to power my iPad while simultaneously charging the battery.   

I plugged my Klein Tools multimeter into the USB-C1 port of the battery and then the USB-C to USB-C cable between my MacBook Pro 15” 2018.  For an initial test, I started at 5% power at 11:09PM.  After 10 minutes, the multimeter displayed 19.48/4.10A and the MacBook increased to 25%.  I was impressed with the 20% power increase in the 10 minute timeframe.  On a subsequent day, I plugged the Klein Tools Multimeter into the battery USB-C1 port and the 100W UGREEN cable between the multimeter and my MacBook Pro.  Starting at 49% power at 5:06 PM (19.66V/4.15A) and a full battery pack, the MacBook increased to 57% by 5:16 (19.83V/3.30A) and the battery dropped to 88% power.  The MacBook Pro increased to 71% by 5:30 PM (19.75V/4.14A) while the battery dropped to 67% battery power.  By 5:35 PM the MacBook was at 75% (19.87V/2.68A) and the battery was at 61%.  By 6:02 PM the iPad was at 95% power (20.05V/1.80A) and the battery was at 34% power.  

Even though I have done countless hours of research, a single long-trek backpacking trip, and dozens of weekend/week-long campouts, I would not consider myself an expert on packing, arranging, batteries, or optimization.  Thus, each person must determine their optimal loadout and gear requirements.  A single fast-charging battery would have helped me on my recent Philmont trek and on several scouting activities, where there can be lengthy lines for access to charging ports before going into the backcountry (Advisor Cabin).  I felt the weight was reasonable for the size of the battery, and the included carry bag was a rather nice addition.  I used the trickle charge overnight for my Apple Watch Ultra (542 mAh battery)paired with a USB-C Pitaka Power Dongle and found minimal change in the battery power.  In fact, the battery dropped by 4% from 98% to 94%.  By morning it had fully charged the watch and returned to standard charge mode for future charges. Additionally, the USB-A output port provided standard/expected outputs of ~5V/2A for my iPhone.  

Despite my appreciation for the included carry bag, I believe the kit needs a clamshell case with room for an appropriately sized GaN charger and USB-C cables (USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to Lightning).  The base price may seem a bit high, but the sub $100 sale price ($94.99 at the time of writing)provides a good deal of tech for the price.  The dual USB-C output, single USB-A output provided a good amount of power, and the efficiency seemed above average.  I tested the device with three outputs and found that my MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, iPhone 14 Pro max did not maximize the 115W max output.  When I charged an iPad Pro and iPad Mini on both USB-C ports, I still did not hit the maximum output.  The battery has lasted approximately 70 charge/deplete/recharge cycles and has not shown any signs of slowing down.  The clear LCD screen provided a clear representation of the battery level. However, I would have loved for the screen to display a trickle mode indicator.  Overall, I was more than pleased with the battery/setup. 

Learn more about the UGREEN 145W 25000 mAh Power Bank and follow UGREEN on Facebook and X (Twitter).

Streamline your charging routine with the Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station.

One of the things that I lament when it comes to traveling is the amount of chargers I end up taking with me. My iPad needs one type while my iPhone needs another. It’s exhausting trying to keep up with all of it and that’s why I’m glad Anker thinks ahead and has released the Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station. It’s the perfect travel companion for people who need to keep multiple devices charged and ready to go.

About Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station

The Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station is a compact powerhouse that promises to revolutionize the way we power up our gadgets. With its sleek design and an impressive array of features, this charging station is set to become a game-changer in the realm of portable charging. Whether you’re a tech-savvy traveler or someone who needs to keep their workspace clutter-free, the Nano 6-in-1 offers an all-in-one solution that will undoubtedly leave you impressed. So sit back, relax, and prepare to discover the future of charging convenience with Anker’s latest innovation.

Main Features

• Model: A9129
• Ultra-thin, ultra-small: A spring system allows the AC outlet module to pop up or retract. About 60% thinner than traditional power strips and exactly the same size as the leather wallet.
• Full Power for Multiple Devices: Features maximum 67W USB Power Delivery (3.0) for high-speed charging. Charge multiple devices including phones, tablets, and laptops at the same time.
• Soft Extension Cord and Flat Plug: Ultra slim design for the flat AC plug and the very soft flat extension cord. No waste for every inch space for your home.
• Eco-Friendly: Uses materials that consist of 75% post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR) in the charging station case and plastic-free packaging.
• Over-temperature Protection: The temperature control system(ActiveShield) helps to reduce heat production to protect your safety and the life of the power strip.

Pricing & Availability

The Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station has a list price of $65.99 on anker.com and Amazon. It comes in three color options — shell white, black stone, and ice lake blue.

User Experience

Just like other Anker products, the 6-in-1 67W Charging Station comes in a simple, blue and white Anker product box. Aside from the small amount of information on the back of the box, there isn’t anything that indicates what is stored inside. The charging station is well-packaged and comes with a small user guide.

As far as set up goes, the charging station only needs to be plugged into a wall. Then, whatever devices need to be charged can be plugged into their corresponding ports. It’s pretty cut and dry. There is no complicated startup or software to download for compatibility sake. I love that the charging station is so flat and easy to pack. The wall plug is also a big plus in my mind.

When I test out chargers, I run a standard 30-minute charging session. During that time, I note the progress of devices that are charging and calculate their charging rate at the end of the test. In this particular case, I used my Apple Watch Series 8 and the Nano 30W Power Bank as test subjects. The watch started with a 33% charge and the power bank started with a 29% charge. After 30 minutes, the watch gained 51% and the power bank gained 34% power. The charging rate for each device was 1.7% and 1.13% per minute respectively. I thought these were very strong charging rates and I’m excited about the results.

The only downside I found with this device was how warm it got after charging those two devices. When I unplugged the two charging devices, I noticed the heat and got out my thermal camera to take a reading. I found the charging station had a range of 75.9º to 111.9º F. The hottest part of the charger was near the ports. While this temperature reading isn’t high enough to be concerning, it does seem rather hot to the touch and it’s worth noting.

Pros

1. Easy to use
2. Several types of ports for different devices
3. Ability to charge multiple devices at once
4. Supports fast charging

Cons

1. Port area get hot after charging devices

Conclusion

The Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station is a powerful and versatile solution for all your charging needs. With its compact design and multiple ports, it allows you to charge up to six devices simultaneously, saving you time and space. The advanced technology ensures fast and efficient charging, while the built-in safety features protect your devices from overcharging or overheating. Whether you’re at home or on the go, this charging station is a convenient and reliable choice. Upgrade your charging experience with the Anker Nano 6-in-1 67W Charging Station today and never worry about running out of battery again.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Power up your devices quickly and conveniently with the Anker Nano 30W Power Bank.

There is nothing more frustrating than being on-the-go and discovering that your beloved mobile phone is in ‘the red’ with its battery power. With our ever-increasing pace of our world, millennials and Gen Xers everywhere are triggered by that 10-20% warning our devices give us when we need to recharge. What do you do if you are nowhere near an outlet? For me, I pull out the brand new Anker Nano 30W Power Bank and plug in a Lightning cable to recharge my iPhone 14 Pro or AirPods Pro as those are both necessities for me when I’m out and about. This tiny power bank has quickly become a necessity for me as well.

About Anker Nano 30W Power Bank

As part of the larger press announcement about the new Nano Series product lineup, Anker has released the Nano 30W Power Bank with Built-in USB-C Cable. It’s designed to be a fast, convenient way to charge your mobile devices on the go. With it, an iPhone 14 can be charged 50% within 30 minutes. The compact power bank measures 4.09 × 2.06 × 1.02 inches and can provide uninterrupted power thanks to its reliable, built-in USB-C cable.

Main Features

• Model: A1259
• 30W Fast Charging and Recharging: 60% more power than PD 18W for an efficient charge.
• 30W Fast Recharging: Supports 30W fast charging via the built-in USB-C cable or USB-C port, allowing you to recharge the power bank in just 90 minutes.
• Built-In USB-C Cable: Directly charge your phones and other smart devices without carrying any extra cables for a hassle-free experience.
• 10,000mAh Capacity: This 10,000mAh battery packs enough power to charge a phone at least 2 to 3 times- ideal for a short getaway.
• Intelligent Display: Features a smart TFT color screen and a user-friendly interface that provides a clear and detailed display of your charging information.
• Small and Portable: Measuring just 4.09 × 2.06 × 1.02 inches, this 30W power bank is compact enough to fit in your bag–perfect for travel.
• Smart Temperature Monitoring: Keeps your devices safe and cool by ensuring the temperature stays 10% below international quidelines, with over half a million temperature checks conducted every night.

Pricing & Availability

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank is available starting today (8/31) with a list price of $49.99. It can be found on Amazon.com and Anker.com.

User Experience

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank arrived in a plain, Anker-branded blue and white product box. This is fairly standard for Anker products although some of their more recent charging product packaging has had more of a retail flare to them. The back of the box does identify the product inside, but other than that, it’s fairly ambiguous.

Out of the box, the power bank was ready to start charging. It did only have a partial charge of 29% to its internal battery, but with a 10,000 mAh capacity, it could have provided a little more than 2,500 mAh to a device in need. Prior to completing my product testing, I charged the Nano 30W to 100%. I actually used one of the Nano Charging Station’s USB-C ports to provide power to the power bank.

After 30 minutes, the battery gained 34%, which gave it a charging rate of 1.13% per minute. This also put it on track to meet the expectation that the power bank could gain up to 50% of its battery capacity within 45 minutes of charging.

I love the design of this power — especially the hidden display. It’s easy to read and it gives you all the pertinent information you need while charging a device. I did notice that the power bank was warm to the touch after it completed its recharge. My thermal camera detected a high temperature of 105.1º F and a low of 92º F across the top of the power bank. This isn’t a temperature range that raises concern since it’s much lower than 140º F.

For my main charging test, I plugged a Google Pixel 7 Pro into the power bank using the built-in USB-C cable. The phone began charging automatically and identified that it was getting a rapid charge. I charged the phone for 30 minutes — noting its progress every 10 minutes. After the charging session was completed, the phone gained 34% and the charging rate was 1.13% per minute. In my experience, that is a very strong charging rate. The power bank remained cool and didn’t register a temperature over 76º after charging the phone.

Pros

1. Compact
2. Built-in cable designed as a handle.
3. Easy-to-read display.
4. Creative color options.
5. Additional USB-C and USB-A ports for compatibility.
6. Bi-directional built-in cable.
7. Powerful enough to charge 12-inch M1 iPad Pro.

Cons

1. Gets warm after recharging.

Conclusion

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank is a compact and efficient solution for mobile charging needs. With its fast-charging capabilities, built-in USB-C cable, and intelligent power delivery technology, it provides a convenient and reliable way to keep devices powered up on the go. Its small size makes it perfect for travel or everyday use, while its robust design ensures durability and longevity. Whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other USB-C devices, this power bank has got you covered. Invest in the Anker Nano Power Bank today and never worry about running out of battery again.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

As a Xennial, I have had the luxury of an analog childhood and a tech-filled digital adolescent and adult life.  I knew a time before cords, cables, and USB powered everything, and I watched as tech quickly outpaced the charging capabilities of my home and dorm.  From the 80s-90s stereo systems to entertainment centers, gaming consoles/setup, computer systems, etc., many dorms and homes relied on power strips to expand beyond the standard two-port outlet, sometimes encroaching on fire-hazard territory. 

Before USB cables/chargers were commonplace, each device shipped with a type A/B wall plug.  Unfortunately, many companies shipped an unwieldy, humongous, oddly-shaped AC adapter plug.  Each upgrade or acquisition required another rousing game of cable Tetris, where the contestant needed to attempt to fit the various AC adapters onto a power strip.  Thankfully, some power strips arranged the outlets perpendicularly, allowing more devices to charge simultaneously.  

I don’t exactly know how or when we became such a tech-heavy home, but it is now hard to miss viewing some digital or smart device in any room of my home.  We have slowly amassed several iPad Minis, iPad Pros, MacBook Pros, Echo Dots, iPhones, headphones/earbuds, and other USB-powered electronics.  Each of the devices requires USB power, and some provide their own large wall charging block. 

As an example, my MackBook Pro 15” had a single 87W USB-C charging adapter, while my iPad Pro 12.9” had 30W single USB-C power adapter.  The 87W charger alone weighed 10.2 ounces and measured 3 1/8 inches square by 1 1/8 inches thick.  With so many devices requiring power, it is wasteful and inefficient to use single-port chargers.  Thankfully, many companies have moved from silicone to Gallium Nitride technology, which allowed for smaller, more heat-efficiency multi-port chargers. 

Packaging

The UGREEN Nexode 300W 5-Port GaN Fast Charger arrived in a 6 1/2 inches long by 4 7/8 inches wide by 4 1/4 inches thick retail package.  Instead of using a generic white colored background, UGREEN stepped up the cool factor with a glossy black base color.  The color/texture served as the perfect backdrop for the white-colored UGREEN company name along the top left, four grey product feature icons along the left (PD 3.1 140W max Single Port Charging, GaN Higher Efficiency & Less Heat, Fast Charge 5 devices at once, 1.5m/4.9ft USB-C Fast Charging cable), the “300W 5-Port PD GaN Fast Charger” name along the lower left, and the golden-colored NEXODE name along the bottom right of the cover panel. 

Each of the above features provided a convenient border for the sleek image of the UGREEN 300W hub, the main showcase of the panel.  I liked that the user could see the five USB outputs (four USB-C and one USB-A), and I felt that the USB-C centric ratio better represented modern tech trends.  I respect the font choices, the layout, the quality of the imagery, the use of contrasting shades, dead space, and the slightly subdued grey icon fonts.  

The rear panel listed the white-colored UGREEN name along the top, followed by an attractive, although generic image of GaN circuitry.  Beneath the image, you will find a re-listing of the four icons on the front cover, followed by a helpful tech-spec table.  Despite the visual appeal of the contrasting colors and imagery, the table provided the most useful information.  The device promises 100-240V 50/60Hz 4.2A max input, 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/5A 28V/5A USB-C1 output [140W Max], 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/5A USB-C2/3 output [100W Max], 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/2.25A USB-C4 output [45W Max], 5V/3A 9V/2A 12V/1.5A 10V/2.25A USB-A output [22.5W Max], for a total of 300.0W Max output.  Like the cover panel, the top panel successfully utilized the contrast between the metallic-golden Nexode name and the black backdrop.

I enjoyed the visual appeal and the “pop” of the Nexode name against the dark void.  The bottom panel listed the company contact information, registration information, product manufacturing labels, and SKU barcode.  As mentioned above, UGREEN did a great job showcasing its product and drawing in the consumer.  

UNBOXING

I slid the outer slipcover away from the black-colored inner box and then removed the top half of the inner box.  I removed the plastic-wrapped, 13.6 ounce, 4 3/8 inches long by 3 3/4 inches tall by 2 1/16 inches thick charging brick from the lower box.  Beneath the charging hub, you will find a thin black cardboard separator that covered a lower cubby. The cubby contained a 6.6 foot/2.2-meter charging cable, ~5-foot long USB-C to USB-C cable, user manual, and FCC/IC statement card.  The multilingual (EN, ES, JP, CN) 13-panel manual laid out the package contents, how it works, specifications table for the charger/power cable/fast charging cable (rear panel of packaging), and then a very useful segment on power distribution for 1/2/3/4/5 port use.  

You can expect 140W, 100W, 100W, 45W, 22.5W output for the individual ports and single port use.  For dual-port utility, when USB-C1 is paired with either USB-C2 or 3, you can expect 140W/100W output.  When USB-C1 is paired with USB-C4, you could expect 140W and 45W output.  When paired with USB-A1, you can expect 140W/22.5W.  If you pair USB-C2 and USB-C3, you will have up to 100W/100W output.  If you pair either USB-C2 or USB-C3 port with USB-C4, you will have 100W and 45W output.  If you pair either port with USB-A1, you will have 100W/22.5W output.  Lastly, if you pair USB-C4 with USB-A1, you can expect 45W and 22.5W output. 

The manual further delineates the outputs based on three, four, and five port occupancy.  When using ports USB-C1 through USB-C3, the device will output up to 140W/100W/60W.  If you use USB-C1, USB-C2 (or USB-C3), and USB-C4, you will have 140W/100W/45W.  If you use USB-C1, USB-C2 (or USB-C3), and USB-A1, you will find 140W, 100W, 22.5W power output.  If you use USB-C1, USB-C4, and USB-A1, you can expect 140W, 45W/22.5W.  If using USB-C2 through USB-C4, you will have up to 100W/100W/45W.  Pairing USB USB-C2, USB-C3, and USB-C5 you can have 100W/100W/22.5W.  Pairing USB-C2, USB-C4, and USB-C5, you could enjoy up to 100W/45W/22.5W output. 

Finally, if you pair USB-C3 through USB-C5, you will enjoy 100W/45W/22.5W power.  The four-port charging options included five configurations: 1. USB-C1 through USB-C4 (140W/60W/60W/30W). 2. USB-C1 through USB-C3 plus USB-A1 (140W/60W/60W/22.5W) 3. USB-C1 plus USB-C2 plus USB C4 and USB-A1 (140W/100W/30W/22.5W). 4. USB-C1, USB-C3, USB-C4, USB-A1 (140W100W/30W/22.5W). 5. USB-C2 through USB-A1 (100W/100W/45W/22.5W).  Lastly, the five port configuration allowed up to 140W/60W/45W/20W/22.5W respectively.  I am aware that this may be difficult to follow. Please see the image from the manual for additional clarification as the setup was laid out very well.

240W Fast Charging USB-C to USB-C Cable

I was both surprised and impressed that UGREEN included an accessory fast-charging cable with this kit.  Furthermore, the cable’s quality made it difficult to relegate it to a sidekick role rather than a hero.  The black-braided USB-C to USB-C charging cable measured 60 3/8 inches long.  Each end of the cable had a 5/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches tall by 3/32 inches thick metallic prong attached to a 7/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 5/8 inches tall oval neck segment.  The neck segment had a metallic grey outer cover with the UGREEN name etched onto the surface. 

The black font of the UGREEN name contrasted nicely against the metallic background and provided a visually appealing experience. The neck segment attached to the 8/16 inches tall by 7/16 wide collar segment, which tapered down to the 3/16 inches diameter cable. I plugged each USB-C prong in/out of the UGREEN Nexode device and in/out of an Apple 87W charging block.  I gripped each prong and neck segment and attempted to bend the prongs.  I gripped the collar/neck segment and tried to remove the cover.  I also gripped and bent the cable at the collar/cable junction.  I was pleased with the robust nature and overall design of the 240W/5A max cable, and with the convenient hook-loop cable management strap.  

Testing

Even though the Nexode 300W charger could be used for on-the-go portable power, comfortable travel may be a bit difficult with the weight approaching a pound.  The four USB-C and single USB-A outputs provided the equivalent power of 5 single charging blocks in a smaller space, reduced clutter on my desk or end table.  The vertically spaced USB ports along the front of the NEXODE GaN fast charger were well-spaced, easy to access, and well-portioned toward USB-C. 

I loved the dark grey face with lighter metallic side panel accents, the dark/bold 300W logo on the side panel, and the dual 1 5/8 inches wide by 11/16 inches thick rubberized anti-slip feet at the base.  The build felt solid, secure, and safe.  The dark-grey rear panel listed the product specifications and provided the input point for the three-prong power adapter port.  I plugged the female end of the power cord into the Nexode hub and then plugged the male Type A wall outlet prong into one of my wall outlets. 

I liked the design of the type A prong, which matched the shape of the old Magnetic MacBook charger.  The Nexode had no lights, no LED, no fanfare, had no bells, no whistles, no fan, and just provided simple ready-to-access power.  The devices weight, vertical mounting status, and rubberized feet prevented the device’s slippage upon my desk once the USB plugs were installed. My only complaint was with the lack of cable management once the USB cables were installed.

I plugged a Klein Tools Multimeter into the USB-C1 port, and then the included USB-C to USB-C cable between the multimeter and my iPad Pro Gen 5 12.9”.  The multimeter displayed 15.07V/2.35A.  I removed the multimeter and plugged the device into USB-C2 (15.16V/2.34A), USB-C3 (15.12V/2.33A), and USB-C4 (15.16V/2.33A).  For the second test, I plugged my MacBook Pro 15” 2018 into USB-C 1 (20.05V/4.09A), USB-C2 (20.21V/2.55A), USB-C3 ( 20.15V/2.20A), and USB-C4 (19.98V/1.86A).  I then ran a test with three devices charging simultaneously.  I plugged my MacBook Pro into USB-C 1, my iPad Pro into USB-C2, and my iPhone 14 Pro Max into USB-A 1.  I used two Klein tools multimeters for the USB-C ports and a DROK USB-A Multimeter for the USB-A port.  Starting at 8:45 PM, my MacBook Pro was at 48% (20.06V/3.81A), IPad Pro at 8% (15.16V/2.36A), and iPhone 14 Pro Max at 35% (5.14V/2.04A).  By 9:03, the MacBook Pro was at 67% power (20.04V/3.29A), IPad Pro increased to 22% power (15.16V/2.40A), and the iPhone 14 Pro Max increased to 46% (5.14V/2.05A). 

By 9:16 PM, the MacBook Pro was at 77% (20.08V/2.10A), iPad Pro at 35% (15.15V/2.43A), and iPhone 14 Pro Max at 57% (5.13V/1.88A). By 9:34 PM, the MacBook Pro was at 89% (20.05V/2.33A), iPad Pro at 54% (15.15V/2.49A), and the iPhone 14 Pro Max at 71% (5.13V/1.72A).  By 9:50 PM, the MacBook Pro was at 100% Power (20.11V/1.68A), the iPad Pro was at 68% Power (15.15V/2.29A), and the iPhone was at 80% power (5.11V/0.17A).   By 10:16 PM, my iPad Pro was at 85% (15.16V/2.08A), while the iPhone 14 Pro Max at 80% (5.11V/0.2A), but the phone entered into optimized charging mode.   By 10:49 PM, my iPad was at 95% (15.14V/0.93A), and fully charged by 11:08 PM.  

At one point, I had four USB-C and one USB-A powered device (Apple Watch ULTRA) charging through the Nexode 300W GaN Fast Charger.  I charged my devices several times over the past week, utilizing several configurations, and found the size dissipated the heat quite well. The surface of the unit did get hot to the touch, but the rubberized feet prevented any of the surface from touching my desktop. UGREEN advertises thermal monitoring, and I was pleased with the ability of the GaN tech to regular the heat despite charging four devices. Had this setup used silicone instead of gallium tech, I believe the device would have required its own powered cooling system. Thankfully, the device was hot but not uncomfortably or dangerously hot.

Even though I never required 140W output for a single device, the USB-C1 was still optimized for the more power-hungry tech.  I loved that I could charge two laptops, and two iPads plus a phone, or use a USB-C to lightning for my phone and plug in a cable for my Apple Watch Ultra.  The robust nature/design of the Nexode 300W GaN fast charger allowed me to remove other charging bricks from my nightstand for a single convenient solution.  I would have loved a single power outlet from the top or back of the device and believe it may be the only true negative for the price point. 

When compared to a few other mixed-type hubs (USB and power outlet) like the one from BESTEK, and UGREENS 65W GaN multi-hub, the Nexode GaN 300W output could not be matched and did not provide PD3.1/QC 3.0 or 140W/100W power options.  Many Hubs limit the user to 45-65W power from a USB outlet, and do not allow for 300W total power.    However, the inability to add Type A/B plug-ins to the Nexode 300W GaN charger could limit the device for some.  Historically, I have always found a benefit to having at least a single extra power outlet.  

Summary

Despite the lack of a wall outlet, the sleek surface matched the tacticool appearance of the packaging.  The dark and light metallic accents paired nicely with my computer ensemble and looked great on my nightstand.  The heft, rubberized feet, and vertical/stacked design ensured that the device remained upright and did not slip/slide.  The surface was quite fingerprint and dust resistant, whereas the rubberized feet appeared to be dust magnets. 

The manual did an exceptional job laying out the power outputs; my tests with the three multimeter devices showed that my devices charged optimally (although I never got above ~80W from the MacBook Pro).  If you are looking to expand your charging capabilities, to reduce the clutter on your nightstand/computer desk, and to decrease the number of charging bricks in your drawer, look to UGREEN to keep your devices ever-ready.  

AT ~$250-270, the device may exceed many users’ price expectations. Why not simply buy two smaller GaN chargers and drive down the ~0.85-90 cents/W cost that the 300W Nexode demands? For those more interested in portability, the lighter chargers may also provide a better packable option. However, the benefit of the 300W charger is the 140W output of USB-C1 and the ability to provide power to modern devices rapidly.

If you had space in your carryon or luggage for a single charger for your camera, MacBook, Switch, Apple watch, iPhone, iPad, etc, the 300W Nexode will charge 5 devices simultaneously without effort. This may be a perfect cruise ship charger thanks to the five outlets and relatively compact design.

I love that the 140W output provided future-proofing as tech improves power transmission through USB-C. Hopefully, as the price of tech decreases with time, the price per Watt will come down closer to 50 cents or even below. At nearly 90 cents/Watt, the premium appears to be rather steep.

For more information, visit UGREEN, Facebook, or Twitter.

Experience unlimited power in your hands with Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W). Stay connected wherever you go.

In a world where we are constantly on the move, our reliance on technology has become increasingly apparent. From smartphones to laptops and everything in between, our devices have become essential tools for work, communication, and entertainment. This is especially true of someone like me who works from home and from remote locations. The one thing that ends up holding me back is battery life.

The frustration of running out of power at the most inconvenient moments can be overwhelming and even embarrassing. Fortunately, Anker’s newest charging companions — the Anker Prime Series — provide best-in-class charging solutions for every need. The newest product line was just released today and I was fortunate enough to be able to try out the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank and 100W Charging Base early!

Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank

This incredible charging device features an astonishing 27,650 mAh capacity power bank. The power output is a combined 250 watts for up to three devices at once. With such a large battery capacity, the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank is capable of charging and iPhone 14 nearly five times on a single charge. It can be recharged using one of the two built-in USB-C charging ports or the Anker 100W Charging Base.

Main Features

• Model: A1340
• 250W Multi-Device Fast Charging: Powered by the latest PD 3.1 technology, the power bank comes with 2 USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port to deliver up to 250W of power. Boost your MacBook Pro 16″ (M2 Pro) to 50% in just 28 minutes.
• Intuitive Smart App: Use the Anker app to quickly locate your power bank with sound alerts, access real-time stats, and optimize device battery life with smart charging.
• Small Size, Huge Power: The power bank is the size of a soda can with a capacity of 27,650mAh and can charge a 13-inch MacBook Air (M2) 1.28 times or an iPhone 14 approximately 4.67 times.
• 170W Fast USB-C Recharge: Recharge your power bank at lightning speed with the convenience of dual USB-C ports, allowing you to fully replenish it in just 37 minutes.
• What You Get: Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W), 2 ft (0.6 m) 140W USB-C to USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, quick start guide, our worry-free 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
• Compatibility: iPhone SE / 12 / 13 / 14 Series and Later, iPad mini / Pro / Air Series, Samsung S23 Series / S22 Series / Note20 / 20 Ultra, Google Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 7 / 7 Pro / Sony Xperia 1 IV, MacBook Air / Pro Series, HP Chromebook 14, Steam Deck / DJI Mini 2, Nintendo Switch / Lite / OLED, AirPods

Anker 100W Charging Base

The Anker 100W Charging Base is a wireless charging companion for the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank. This base offers an elegant solution for keeping the power bank fully charged at all times, a true lifesaver for last-minute packers. Beyond charging the power bank, this base doubles as a convenient 3-port, 100-watt charger to keep on the desk or tossed in a bag for use as a portable standalone charger. The base is available sold separately or as a bundle with the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank.

Main Features

• Model: A1902
• Go Wireless, Go Convenient: Experience hassle-free recharging with the charging base—simply place your power bank on the base for an instant boost, up to 100W.
• 4-in-1 Fast Charging: With a total output of 100W shared among 3 USB ports and 1 Pogo pin, the charging base is ideal for powering your essentials.
• Smaller with GaN: With GaN technology, get reliable, high-powered charging in a compact design—comparable in size to an original 96W single-port charger.
• Smart LED Indicator: Easily monitor the status of your Anker Prime Power Bank with the intuitive LED indicator, which flashes while wirelessly recharging and stays steady when fully charged.
• What You Get: Anker 100W Charging Base for Anker Prime Power Bank, power cord for charging base, welcome guide, our worry-free 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Pricing & Availability

The power bank has a list price of $179.99 and the charging base is $69.99. Both products can be purchased from anker.com or amazon.com. The charging base is sold separately or can be purchased as a bundle with the Anker Prime 250W power bank (details TBA).

Based on information available at launch, orders placed for the charging base on or after August 1 will be shipped between August 11-18, 2023 and orders placed for the power bank on or after August 1 will be shipped between October 23-November 9, 2023.

User Experience

Before I start my official analysis, I want to point out that with an early release product, there are usually some testing limitations that a reviewer will have to take into consideration. In this case, the caveats were small but still worth noting.

Early Sample Caveats

• The words “Anker Prime” on the top of the power bank will not appear in the production release of the product.
• The back will include the words “Designed by Anker Innovations.” (my version did)
• The sample product only has functionality with the beta version of the app.
  • Firmware could not be updated.

All of these caveats were things I found I could live with and are essentially minor to the main function of the power bank.

Unboxing

The pre-production version of the power bank was sent in a blank box. It did, however, come with a user manual and USB-C to USB-C charging cable. The charging base did have its standard retail package, which I would assume matches the retail version of the power bank as well as the other devices in the product line.

It’s a stylish black box with a full color photo of the product on the front. There are main details called out and the model number can be clearly found on the bottom of the box. The device is well packaged and I wouldn’t imagine that any damage would happen to it while it’s stored in its box.

Getting Started

Getting started with both devices is very easy and self-explanatory. The power bank had a 21% charge out of the box so I set it on the charging base to fill it up to 100% before using it. The charging base had to be plugged into a power outlet, but it came with its own dedicated power cord so that was as easy as routing the cable through my desk and plugging it into a power strip.

I noticed that when I placed the power bank onto the base that an LED ring illuminated on the front, indicating that it was in use. This only seems to happen when the power bank is charging and not when any device is connected via USB cable. This would be one improvement I would like to see made — an indicator showing any device charging. It could be a simple icon on the side or a different color LED ring. I just think it would be a nice addition.

After approximately 34 minutes, the power bank had gained 66.6% and I calculated the charging rate around 1.96% per minute.

Charging with the Power Bank

When it came to testing the charging feature of the power bank, I used my iPhone 14 Pro as the test subject. It has a 3,200 mAh capacity battery and the power bank could recharge the iPhone nearly 9 times on a full charge. When I started the testing process, the phone had a 43% charge. I plugged it into the power bank using a standard Apple-issued USB-C to Lightning cable and let it charge for approximately 36 minutes. During that time, the iPhone’s battery gained 42%. I do want to callout that after 80%, the iPhone enters Apple Trickle Charging mode and this does affect the charging rate. That said, I based the charging rate off the first 10 minutes the phone was charging. The iPhone 14 Pro had a charging rate of 2.1% per minute.

I also wanted to see how well the power bank would work with an older MacBook Pro. I used my 16-inch 2019 MacBook Pro to test this out. It requires a 96W power adapter, but will charge using USB-C. So, I used my Apple-issued USB-C to USB-C cable and plugged it into the power bank. The laptop immediately ‘dinged’ when I plugged it in and showed that it was plugged into a power adapter. The power bank indicated that the laptop was charging that it was receiving approximately 57W of output power. Since the battery on the laptop was above 80%, I didn’t track the charging like I did with the iPhone, but I was happy with knowing the power bank would provide a charge to this laptop.

Charging with the Charging Base

Just like with the power bank, I used my iPhone 14 Pro as a charging guinea pig for the Charging Base. I used the same testing method and this time, the phone registered a charging rate of 1.25% per minute. The big difference between this test and the Power Bank charging test was that I was using the phone at a moderate level while it was plugged into the charging base. This did, of course, require some power, and I assume that decreased the charging rate. I did also check to see if the charging base could provide power to the 2019 MacBook Pro and yes, it did.

The Connected App

As I mentioned, my app experience is a bit different than what most people will experience. The pre-production sample I received from Anker had a few minor limitations with the app functionality, but I don’t feel that those hindered my overall usability at the end of the day. I really enjoyed being able to view the stats of the devices while they were charging and being able to find the battery across the room. When you ask the app to ‘find a device’ the device will emit a high pitched beep and you should be able to track it down easily — assuming it’s within hearing range. I never really would have thought about an power bank being connected to an app, but I do enjoy the added features it brings.

Pros

1. Easy to recharge with the wireless dock.
2. Great for travel because it replaces other power strip/dock needs
3. Status is easily visible with its LED display.

Cons

1. Some limitations on testing (particularly with the app) with early release product.
2. The power bank is bulky and heavy so it’s not easy to carry on your person.
3. Gets warm when it recharges.
4. No indicator on the charging base when any item is connected; only the power bank.

Conclusion

It can be very hard to find reliable charging devices outside of the original equipment provided by the manufacturer. Anker has become a trusted charging partner for me over the years and I absolutely adore the new products releases they have had over the past couple of years. This Power Bank and Charging Base combo are a match made in heaven for me.

I love the flexibility of being able to take these two devices with me when I travel and know that I have enough power to support my main devices. I also really love the extra features that are provided (the bright display and information from the app. I’m looking forward to seeing other products that Anker releases and can’t wait to use these on my next trip.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Experience fast charging like never before with Anker’s 733 Power Bank. Boost your devices anytime, anywhere!

My phone is my lifeline. Even though I work from home, there are times that I step out into the world and need to remain connected. Staying connected on the go is an essential necessity for me and I find that watching my battery level decrease brings unwanted anxiety into my life. Therefore, I always try to keep a portable battery with me. While there is no shortage of types and styles, I always turn to the hybrid power banks that double as wall chargers. They are so much easier to deal with and you can always ensure you have a charged battery since you can just plug it into a wall outlet whenever you are stationary. One of my favorite dual-purpose power banks is the Anker 733 Power Bank (GaNPrime PowerCore 65W).

About Anker 733 Power Bank

The Anker 733 Power Bank is a wall charger and portable battery rolled into one product. With it, users can simultaneously charge up to three devices at the same time. As a wall charger, the power bank provides 65W fast-charging for devices and as a power bank, it has a high-capacity (10,000 mAh) battery that can keep devices powered longer (iPhone 14 Pro = 3.125 charges). The charger monitors temperature with ActiveShield 2.0 and devices can take advantage of short-circuit, overload, over-temperature, and over-voltage protection while their devices are charging.

The Anker 733 Power Bank is part of the Series 7 charging series which provides users with the GaNPrime (Gallium Nitride) charging features such as faster-charging speeds, and smaller, more portable chargers than previous models. Like other Anker charging device models, the name indicates how the product is designed to function. The first number — 7 — indicates the series of the product, the second number — 3 — indicates how many products can be charged at one time — and the third number — 3 — provides the tech performance or the output wattage capacity.

Main Features

• 2-in-1 Charger: Enjoy the best of both worlds with a hybrid 65W wall charger and 10,000 mAh portable charger in one.
• Power for 3: With 2 USB-C ports and USB-A port, you can easily charge up to 3 devices at once. Can get an iPad mini 6th Gen 1.3 charges when the power bank is fully charged.
• Powered by GaNPrime™: The portable charger is equipped with Anker’s most advanced GaN-powered charging system, an innovative stacked design, PowerIQ™ 3.0 for higher efficiency, and ActiveShield™ 2.0 for intelligent temperature monitoring.
• Wide Compatibility: Works flawlessly with a wide range of devices including phones, tablets, laptops, and more.
• What You Get: Anker 733 Power Bank (GaNPrime PowerCore 65W), welcome guide, 24-month stress-free warranty, and friendly customer service.
• Dimensions: 4.36 × 2.48 × 1.22 in / 110.8 × 63 × 31 mm
• Weight: 11.29 oz / 320 g

Pricing & Availability

The Anker 733 Power Bank is available for $99.99 through anker.com or for $69.99 through Amazon (Deal price as of publishing this review). There are color options available — black, golden, or the Transformers special edition design.

User Experience

The quality of Anker’s products (especially the newer ones) never ceases to amaze me. The experience starts with the top-notch packaging they provide and continues all the way to the actual use of the product. The power bank comes in a premium retail box that is mainly black in color. There is a full color image of the product on the front of the box and a detailed features diagram on the back side. The “Series 7” emblem is included on the front and side of the box so the user knows what to expect.

Upon opening the box, I found the power bank sitting on top of the other box contents and was immediately struck but the amazing color of the golden charger. Normally I go with more subtle options for color but I really like the option to have this background device stand out. I haven’t seen the Special Edition – Transformer design in person, but it looks as though it would certainly turn heads.

Below the carton that held the power bank, I found a packet of information that included the safety guide (multilingual) and the quick start guide, which is mainly illustrated. In addition to the paperwork, the power bank also comes with a cloth travel pouch and a USB-C to USB-C charging cable.

The quick start guide is quite useful as it informed me of a special feature of the power bank — accessory trickle charging. If you double press the power button, the it activates “active trickle charging” for items such as earbuds. Anker provides this charging option for lower-powered devices. I grabbed this description from their website.

Trickle-Charging Mode

Provides safe and optimized charging to low-power devices such as Bluetooth earphones and speakers. Other portable chargers may fail to detect and deliver the tiny power requirements of small devices and wearables. Trickle-Charging Mode ensures a fast and safe charge for every device, no matter the size.

On the power button, there are LED indicator lights. When Trickle Charging is active, the first LED will glow green instead of the standard white. When all four LEDs are illuminated, it indicates that the power bank is fully charged. As the battery loses its charge, the LEDs will extinguish. Three LEDs indicates 75%, two is 50%, and one is 25% charged. Out of the box, the power bank had approximately 50% charge. I plugged it into a wall outlet to let it charge to 100%. While I didn’t monitor its recharge closely, I know it was plugged in for three hours and that brought it to 100%.

The power bank does have a bit of weight to it. I’m not sure if I would carry it in my pocket as it might weigh me down, but I would easily transport this in a travel bag. I like to frequent pop culture conventions as a volunteer and find that having a charger like this — one that can just be plugged into a wall outlet — is preferred over a standard power bank.

When it came to charging, I ran the 733 Power Bank through my usual 30-minute stress test. What I do is plug my iPhone 14 Pro into one of the charging ports and track its charging progress over the course of 30 minutes. Then I calculate its charging rate (% gained divided by total charging time) to estimate the charger’s performance against other similar devices.

When I started charging my iPhone, it only had a 50% charge. I used a standard Apple-issued Lightning to USB-C charging cable to connect the phone to the USB-C 2 charging port. After the first 10 minutes, the phone gained 13% battery power. After the next 10 minutes, it gained another 11% and then 7% in its final 10 minutes. The total amount of battery power gained during this charging session was 31%, which put the charging rate at approximately 1.03% per minute. In my experience, that is an exceptional charging rate for a device like this. I am usually only able to track a 0.8% charging rate with tests like this. In reality, the charging rate was probably a bit higher than this since the iPhone hit 80% and entered the Apple Trickle Charging mode.

In addition to this test, I did try out the trickle charging option for my AirPods Pro 2. And while I didn’t track the progress the same way, it did seem to work really well. I didn’t notice any discernible heat on the phone or the charger after completing the charging session and the battery still showed a full charge. The iPhone 14 Pro has a battery capacity of approximately 3,200 mAh. With a 50% charge, I would assume charging my phone drained around 480 mAh from the power bank, which would leave it with 9,520 mAh. The LEDs wouldn’t drop until the power bank only had 7,500 mAh available.

While this might seem like a trivial thing to mention, I really like that the power bank can be propped up so that the ports are easy to access. The side of the power bank where the wall charging prongs are located will sit flat on a surface. This provides the user the option to plug cables into the charging ports and manage cables much easier than if the charger had to lay on its side.

Pros

1. Automatically starts charging when you plug your device into it.
2. Integrated wall charger – means you don’t have to have a cable to recharge the battery.
3. Can double as a wall charger for my MacBook Air — making it possible for me to carry one less thing when I travel.
4. Charger can be propped up so that charging ports are easy to access.

Cons

1. Not compatible with wireless charging.
2. A bit too heavy to carry in a pocket.
3. Priced a bit higher than similar products.

Conclusion

The Anker 733 Power Bank (GaNPrime PowerCore 65W) is a game-changer in the world of portable chargers. Its innovative GaN technology allows for faster charging speeds and a more compact design than ever before. With its impressive 10,000 mAh capacity, it can easily keep your devices powered up for days on end. The inclusion of multiple ports also ensures that you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just someone who needs a reliable power source on the go, the Anker 733 Power Bank is an excellent investment.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

One of my favorite pasttimes is binge-watching TV shows and movies on my iPad. I have it mounted to the side of my desk where I can always have something playing in the background while I work on my computer. The only downside is that watching media in this manner can drain the battery rather quickly. Just this morning I was watching a movie and after only about an hour, approximately 55% of the battery was gone. Fortunately, there are some really great fast-charging options available like the Revo Series PD chargers and Fast Charge Cables from VOLTME.

PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable

The PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable is designed to work flawlessly with fast chargers to deliver the best charging experience possible for users. The cable features a soft-touch silicone material which gives it a super smooth feel. It has a tangle-free design and will not cause damage to other devices. The cable is 3.3 feet in length (or 1.0M) and can distribute 3A (up to 60W) of power. There are five different colors available (white, black, blue, green, and gray) and the cable supports file transfer in addition to power delivery.

Main Features

• Soft Touch Cable → VOLTME 60W USB C to USB C PD Charging Cable is made of liquid silicone, a more green material with a super soft touch skin-feeling texture. This cord is covered with Graphene Coating, which makes it more flexible, lighter, stronger, and dissipate heat better.
• 60W PD Fast Charging → VOLTME fast PD Charging Cord can provide a maximum of 60W charging power, output power up to 20V 3A, which is ensured by high-speed, safe charging, and the USB 2.0 supports data transfer speed of 480Mps.
• Superior Quality & Tangle Free → VOLTME 60W Type C Cable is made of high-strength silicon to withstand up to 25,000 bends and a maximum weight of 100KG. Remains Tangle-free even when stuffed into a handbag, computer bag, pocket, or wrapped around a portable charger. This is a light and powerful charger for your everyday use.
• Multiple Compatibility → This VOLTME USB-C Cable can charge most Type-C devices, such as MacBook (2016)/13″, iPad Pro 2020/2018, MacBook Air (New); Surface Go/Book 2; Dell XPS 13; HP Spectre/Pavilion; Note8/9; DJI; iPad Pro 12.9″ /11″, Google Pixel XL/2/2XL/3/3XL/3A XL, Samsung Galaxy S21/ S21+/ S21 Ultra/ Note 10/ Note 10 Plus/ A80 /Galaxy S20/S10/S9/S8, Note8/9 , Nexus 6P 5X, etc.

Revo Lite Duo 35W PD Charger

The Revo Lite Duo 35W PD Charger is a USB-C dual port wall charger that is designed to be an ultra-compact fast charger. It’s a GaN wall charger and can charge a MacBook Air at full speed. The charger is not foldable, but it’s size is approximately 60% smaller than standard 35W USB-C chargers. In addition to its size, the charger is considered a 2-in-1 charger because it combines multiple chargers into one device. Users have the option of charging devices in single mode (full 35W charger) or dual mode (18W max for each port). The Revo Lite Duo charger does support fast charging for iPhones, Samsung phones, and MacBooks.

Main Features

• Fast Charging → Charge your iPhone 14 series to 50% in under 30 minutes, which is three times faster than using the original 5W charger.
• Simultaneous Charging → The wall charger block features dual USB C ports, allowing you to charge two devices simultaneously.
• Advanced GaN III Technology → Powered by the latest GaN III Technology, this USB-C charger sets new standards for charging efficiency. With 20X faster switching and 3X smaller and lighter design compared to other 35W chargers, this wall charger maximizes performance while minimizing heat generation.
• Compact Design → This fast charger block is 63% smaller than an original MacBook Air charger, making it perfect for travel, home, and office use. Say goodbye to carrying multiple chargers! This 2-in-1 35W Fast Charger is a high-powered and top-quality solution that saves space and weight.

Pricing & Availability

The PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable can be found on voltme.com or Amazon, while the Revo Lite Duo 35W PD Charger is only available on Amazon. There are other Revo series wall chargers on voltme.com, but not the 35W option. The charger has a list price of $19.99 and the cable is listed for $11.99 (currently on sale for $8.99).

User Experience

VOLTME has a simple retail box that I really appreciate. They are sturdy but as minimal as possible. I feel that the products are well-protected inside the box while they are being transported but they aren’t difficult to get out. The box is nondescript and there isn’t a flashy full-color image of the product on the front, but the back does feature a label with an outline image of the product along with its full name/description.

Since the products had minimal packaging, getting started we easy and standard for a wall charger and matching cable. The cable was wrapped up with a VOLTME-branded cable tie and the wall charger only had a plastic bag to unwrap. I pulled both out and uncoiled the cable. After plugging one end into my test subject (the 4th generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro), I plugged the other end into the top port of the charging brick. Then, I plugged the charger into a power strip. The iPad immediately showed the charging icon over the battery status and I started keeping track of the battery’s charging progress.

When I started the testing on this set, my iPad’s battery was at 42%. I decided to let it charge for approximately 45 minutes checking its progress every 15 minutes. After the testing time expired, I noted that the battery had gained approximately 31% — taking the battery level up to 73%. Since the claim for the wall charger is that a MacBook Air could gain up to 50% of its battery life in a 60-minute time span, I figured the charging rate (% gained divided by total charging time) to be approximately 0.8% per minute.

The active charging rate of my iPad with this charging device combination ended up being around 0.7% per minute. While that charging rate is slightly lower than the advertised rate, I would still consider this a successful test because I was actively using the iPad while it was charging. This could have had an effect on the test outcome.

Overall, I really like this device combination for charging. I think the benefit really comes when using both together as you take advantage of the advanced technologies in both products.

Conclusion

The VOLTME PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable and Revo Lite 35W PD Charger are a winning combination for those seeking fast, efficient charging solutions for their devices. With its durable construction and convenient length options, the PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable proves to be a reliable companion for everyday use. Paired with the Revo Lite 35W PD Charger, users can enjoy rapid charging speeds without sacrificing safety or compatibility. The sleek design of both products adds a touch of elegance to any workspace or travel bag. Say goodbye to slow charging times and invest in the VOLTME PowerLink MOSS Fast Charge Cable and Revo Lite 35W PD Charger for a hassle-free charging experience.

For more information, visit voltme.com, Facebook, or Instagram.

Powerful yet compact MagSafe Compatible Vent Mount Charger

If you toured college dorms in the early 2000s, you might have observed numerous cable-centric, cord-heavy, daisy-chained fire hazards.  The constant game of cord Tetris led to my love for cable management and clean bundled lines within my built PC, work/home offices, and cars.  When MagSafe technology debuted for the iPhone (10/13/2020), I excitedly dreamt of a cord-reduced, clutter-free future. 

The iOttie Velox Magnetic Wireless Charger arrived in a classy 3 3/4 inches wide by 4 3/4 inches tall by 3 3/8 inches thick hanging style retail package.  The lime-green top and rear panels provided a catchy visual contrast against the clean white front/side/bottom panels.  The cover panel displayed the Velox name and generic “Magnetic Wireless Charger Mini Air Vent Mount” descriptor along the top of the panel in both English and French. You will find two product features, MagSafe compatible and 7.5W Wireless Charging, plus the iottie name along the bottom of the panel.  The main focal point of the cover was the clean, angled image of the Velox vent mount.  I liked the splashes of lime green on the lower edge and the crisp, near-life-sized image of the device. The right side panel displayed a vent-mounted Velox sans phone, while the left side panel showed the device with a vertically mounted iPhone.  Each image successfully employed a light/dark pattern that accentuated the contrast with the Velox charger.  

The bottom panel listed the product manufacturing labels, SKU barcode, and typical product legalese/information. The lime-green rear panel listed four main features of the device in a vibrant white font: 1. A Powerful Connection in a Compact Design. 2. Up to 7.5 Wireless Fast Charging. 3. Strong Magnetic Hold. 4. Made for iPhone.  Like the cover panel, each label provided the informational heading and subsequent descriptions in both English and French.  The lower edge of the panel listed information about the 2 year warranty, www.iottie.com address, and company name.  The lime-green top panel provided a green cardboard hanging tab and listed the MagSafe-compatible devices (iPhone 12 series or later). I liked the clean white background, splashes of vibrant color, and the overall layout/design of the packaging.  I appreciated that iottie listed the information without providing redundant imagery or text.  

I removed the top panel, lifted the inner tray out of the shell, and removed both the quick start guide and Velox device.  The Velox charger measured 2 5/16 inches in diameter by 1/2 inches thick and had an attached 59 1/2 inches long by 1/8 inches diameter USB-C cable.  The main panel had an outer 3/16 inches diameter magnetic attachment ring with an inner 1 3/4 inches diameter power ring.  The side panels had several heat vents, while the power cable jutted from the bottom.  The back surface had a 1 1/4 inches diameter concave central segment with a raised ~1/2 inches tall ball joint, while the lower rim provided the product specifications: 5V/2A 9V/1.67A input, 7.5W output, Model:VLXWCG211GY.  The 1 1/2 inches tall by 1 1/8 inches diameter vent mount had a shiny gold rim at the socket attachment point and tapered to a 1/2 inches by 3/4 inches rubberized vent bracket with “+” cutout. 

I aligned the prong slots with my Dodge Ram’s vent blades and pressed firmly to seat the mount properly.  The rectangular “+” cutout was designed to fit within your car’s vent and, more specifically, with the more superficial horizontal and deeper vertical risers/blades. Once the device was seated correctly, I connected the USB-C cable to a Klein tools multimeter and then the multimeter to a standard USB-C Aux adapter port.  When I placed my wife’s iPhone 12 or my iPhone 14 Pro Max against the magnetic mount, I noted the ball/socket joint provided a good friction point and did not sag under the weight of the phone.  Unfortunately, the combined weight of the phone plus stand caused the entire vent and mount to sag. With the vent pointing downward, I could angle the ball/socket joint to a more optimal viewing angle.  The robust USB-C prong (5/16 inches wide by 3/32 inches thick by 1/4 inches tall), rubberized collar segment (7/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 11/16 inches tall), and neck segment (1/4 inch diameter by 3/8 inches tall) stood up to several rounds of bending, flexing, tugging, and insertion/removal.  Additionally, the same attention to detail/design was employed at the neck segment (cable attachment point) at the base of the magnetic charger.  

Once I tapped my iPhone Pro 14 Max to the wireless charger, the Klein tools multimeter displayed 9.19V/1.03A.  I liked that I did not have to press any buttons or activate a “start” feature before enjoying a much-needed charge. Although wireless power pales in comparison to wired charging, the added convenience of magnet/wired charging is often a luxury.  To test the power capabilities, I placed my phone onto the charger at 9:23 am with 51% remaining power.  By 9:58 am, my phone had increased to 70%, and by 10:40 am, my iPhone 14 Pro Max was charged to 89%.  For a second test, I placed my wife’s iPhone 12 upon the charger and noted that the multimeter displayed 8.96V/0.67A.  Starting at 13% power at 8:15 in the am, her phone increased to 22% by 8:33 am, to 34% by 8:53 am, to 46% by 9:12, and 51% by 9:20 before removing the device to run into the store for her outing.  The solid magnetic attachment will hold onto MagSafe phones and allow for charging through thinner cases (those meant for wireless charging) but only minimally.  If the phones were within their protective cases, any bump or dip of my Dodge Ram would cause them to fall from the mount.  When placed upon the mount sans case, the improved magnetic connection between the phone/case prevented drops/falls.

With the push for increased hands-free utility, wireless charging features may upgrade your driving/charging experience for those MagSafe-compatible phones/cases.  Even though the magnetic attachment limited my ability to securely hold my iPhone 14 Pro Max inside of a Catalyst Influence Case, I could still affix the charger to my phone and place it over my cup holder to charge.  Without the added effect of gravity on the phone, the charging system worked nicely to charge my phone without the need to find/plug a lightning cable into the base of my iPhone.  The cable length was adequate to reach from the AUX port to my vent and from my dashboard to the cupholders.  I loved the simplicity of the device, the color, the design of the vent mount prongs, and the overall quality of the iottie Velox device.   

Learn more about the iottie Velox device and follow iottie on Facebook and Twitter.

Stay powered up with this powerful, portable charger.

One of my favorite things to do is volunteer at comic conventions. The days are long but it’s a really fun environment to be a part of. You do, however, have to be prepared for long days on the show floor, which means no easy access to power outlets. I keep a survival kit of sorts with me and a power bank is always a part of it. Since I have an iPhone 14 Pro, I prefer to use a MagSafe-compatible power bank and the VOLTME 5K Portable Charger is an ideal device for this purpose.

About

The VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger is a reliable and convenient way to keep your devices powered. This charger is ideal for people on the go who need to stay connected with their devices. It is lightweight, portable, and easy to use, making it the perfect accessory for anyone’s bag or pocket. The power bank is equipped with super-strong magnets and works with MagSafe-compatible devices.

The VOLTME charger uses Graphene material, which helps with heat dissipation. This material is flexible, highly conductive, and impermeable to most gasses and liquids. In addition to the Graphene material, the VOLTME MagPak 5K uses a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) Sensor to measure and auto-adjust temperatures and it has integrated short-circuit protection included.

One of the most unique features of this battery is its kickstand, which allows the connected device to be viewed in landscape or portrait orientations. The power bank automatically begins charging the device when it is connected and even though the user does not need to be pressed in order to begin the charging process, the MagPak can be manually shut off.

The VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger does support the simultaneous charging of two devices at once — wirelessly and wired — and users can activate low-current charging if needed.

Main Features

• Model: B2002
• Brand: VOLTME
• Technology: V-Dynamic / MagSafe / 7.5W Wireless Qi Compatible
• Charging Ports: 1 x USB-C
• Capacity: 5000mAh
• Size/inches: 105 x 66.8 x 13.5mm
• Weight/ounces: 134g
• Warranty: 18 Months
• Kickstand Mode: Vertical or Horizontal

Pricing & Availability

The VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger has a list price of $54.96 on Amazon. At the time of writing this article, there is a 9% discount, which brings the price down to $49.99. The power bank is available in multiple colors including charcoal, dove grey, forest green, matte blue, and violet.

User Experience

The VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger comes in a simple retail box. The exterior of it does not have an image of the device but the box is clearly labeled with the product name. When you open the box you’ll find the power bank in a plastic insert tray along with its user guide, and a USB-C charging cord. There is a sticker that is attached to the charging surface of the power bank that instructs the user to flip the kickstand out 90º for first-time use. The sticker states that this action helps activate the fixation points for the kickstand.

In general, I was happy with the performance of the MagPak charger. My primary usage of the power bank was as a wireless charger and I completed a 30-minute charging test to verify its charging rate with that function. After 30 minutes, my phone’s battery had gained 18% and the charging rate (% gained divided by total charging time) was 0.6% per minute. This is in line with other wireless/MagSafe power banks that we’ve tested over the past couple of years.

After the 30-minute charging test, the battery was not overheating or hot to the touch at all. I noticed a little bit of warmth at the charging point, but it wasn’t anything concerning. The 5,000 mAh capacity is enough to cover 1.5 charges of my iPhone 14 Pro, which is ideal for one day of convention work. Aside from the capacity and the charging performance, the kickstand feature was the other major part of this device that I tested.

As I mentioned previously, there are instructions on a sticker for the initial use of the kickstand. I followed those instructions, but still found the kickstand to be subpar. It will stay open but if you attempt to adjust the phone in any way while it’s on the kickstand, the stand will fold up. This was disappointing to me because the kickstand was one of the standout features of the VOLTME MagPak to me.

The other thing I noticed about the MagPak is that it is MagSafe compatible, but not Made for MagSafe. The big difference here is that MagSafe-compatible devices use an older Qi charging standard than the wireless MagSafe technology designed by Apple. MagSafe is a proprietary charging technology developed by and patented by Apple, Inc. In order for an accessory to be ‘MagSafe’ compatible that the product designer must be licensed as Made for MagSafe.

There are only a few third-party manufacturers that provide Made for MagSafe products. One of the easiest ways to test this compatibility is to see if the official MagSafe charging emblem appears on the iPhone’s screen when it is connected to a wireless charger. If the circular image does not show up on the full screen of the iPhone, it is not MagSafe licensed. With the VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger, the only charging indication is the standard lightning bolt that appears along with the battery level on the phone.

Even though it’s not Made for MagSafe, the VOLTME power bank does work with MagSafe cases and I did find that the magnets were strong enough to hold the battery tight to the back of the phone so that the charging connection did not get disconnected.

Conclusion

The VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger is a sleek and efficient device that offers reliable power on the go. With its powerful 5000mAh battery and magnetic attachment system, it is a convenient and portable solution for charging your mobile devices. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack, making it perfect for travel or everyday use. Overall, the VOLTME MagPak 5K Portable Charger is a highly recommended option for anyone who needs a reliable and convenient portable charger.

For more information, visit voltme.com, Facebook, or Instagram.

Stay prepared for any emergency with the BLUETTI EB3A Power Station.

I grew up around scouting — first watching my brother and then as a participant in Girl Scouting. The one commonality that both organizations share is to teach kids to be prepared. I’ve always tried to live with that motto in mind and to be prepared for any scenario. Living in the midwestern region of the United States, we experience all types of weather and power outages happen frequently throughout the year.

When power outages occur, it can be a difficult and chaotic situation for everyone involved. It is critical to have a plan in place to provide emergency power for a home. Portable power stations, such as the BLUETTI EB3A Power Station, are a great option to bridge the gap while electrical grids are repaired in emergency situations.

About BLUETTI EB3A Power Station

The BLUETTI EB3A Power Station is a high-capacity portable power station designed to provide reliable and versatile power for your outdoor adventures, emergency backup power needs, and off-grid living.

With a massive lithium iron phosphate battery, the EB3A can power various electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, drones, mini-fridges, CPAP machines, power tools, and more. It features multiple output ports, including two AC outlets, one 12V/10A carport, two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and one wireless charging pad.

The power station can be charged via the included AC charging cable, a solar panel (not included), or 12-28VDC/8.5A carport. It also has a built-in MPPT controller that allows it to charge faster and more efficiently from solar panels.

In terms of safety, the EB3A has multiple protection mechanisms, including overcharge, over-discharge, short circuit, and over-current protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Overall, the BLUETTI EB3A Power Station is a highly versatile and reliable power source that can be used in various situations, from outdoor camping to emergency backup power in case of a power outage.

Main Features

Battery Info

• Capacity: 268.8Wh (12Ah)
• Type: LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
• Life Cycles: 2,500+ Cycles to 80% Original Capacity
• Shelf-life: Recharge to 80% Every 3-6 Months
• Management System: MPPT Controller, BMS, etc.

Output

• AC Outlets: 2 x 120V/5A Outlets 600W In Total
• Inverter Type: Pure Sine Wave
• Surge Power: 1,200W
• USB-C Port: 1 x 100W Max.
• USB-A Port: 2 x 5V/3A USB-A
• DC Outlets: 1 x 12V/10A (Car Outlet) 2 x 12V/10A DC 5521 (5.5mm Outlets) *All Regulated.
• Wireless Charging Pad: 1 x 15W Max.

Input

• AC Charging Cable (Standard Mode): 268W Max.
• AC Charging Cable (Turbo Mode): 350W Max.
• Solar Input: 200W Max, VOC 12-28VDC/ 8.5A
• Car Input: 12/24V from Cigarette Lighter Port
• Maximum Input: 430W, with AC and Solar Input Simultaneously

Recharge Times

• AC Charging Cable (Turbo Mode 350W): ≈1.3-1.8 Hours
• AC Charging Cable (Standard Mode 268W): ≈1.5-2.0 Hours
• Solar (200W): ≈1.8-2.0 Hours (With prime sunshine, ideal orientation and low temperature)
• 12V/24V Car Outlet (100W/200W): ≈3.2-3.7 or 1.9-2.4 Hours
• AC + Solar (430W): ≈1.2~1.7 Hours (With prime sunshine, ideal orientation and low temperature)
• Dual AC (430W): ≈1.2~1.7 Hours (With optional BLUETTTI T200 Adapter)

General

• Pass-through Charging: Yes
• Weight: 10.14lbs/4.6kg
• Dimensions (LxWxD): 10.047.097.20in/255180183mm
• Operating Temperature: 4-104℉ (-20-40℃)
• Storage Temperature: 32-104°F (0-40°C)
• Certifications: UL Standard, CEC, DOE, FCC, CA Prop 65
• Warranty: 24 Months

In The Box

• EB3A Power Station
• AC Charging Cable
• Solar Charging Cable
• User Manual
• QC Card
• Warranty Card

Pricing & Availability

The Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station has a list price of $299 from bluettipower.com and Amazon for $349. Both retail outlets do offer periodic sales.

User Experience

The Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station comes in a fairly nondescript cardboard box. The exterior of the box does contain identifying information about the product including a basic image of the product. There is no assembly required and the power station should arrive with some charge to it. It is recommended that the user charge the device completely before using it.

I love that it comes with the ability to charge with a standard AC power outlet or a DC carport. The only downside is that there is no good place to store the cables on or with the power station. I’ve used other portable power stations like this one that come with a bag for the cables or have a built-in storage compartment for the charger. Something that like would have been a nice addition to this device.

The Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station has a very nice, easy-to-read LCD display. It turns on automatically when you activate the power of any of the output connections or if you just tap on one of the power buttons. I really like this feature because it gives you a quick view of how much power is available and what type of power output you are using.

The ability to connect to the Bluetti using a mobile app is really a game changer in my opinion. It’s a simple app but it does show when something is charging, which power exchange it is connected to, and how much power is being used. This can be exceptionally helpful if you are using the power station remotely. Let’s say you have it charging something on one end of your house while you work on the opposite side. It could be helpful to just pull up the app on your phone and find out the basic information on the devices being charged and where the battery is in its power cycle. You also have the power to turn off the electrical flow from your phone.

The power station gives users the ability to charge up to 9 devices simultaneously. Two of the charging options that I appreciate the most are the wireless charging surface on the top of the power station and the USB-C PD port that provides up to 100W of output power. The wireless charging surface made it possible for me to charge my AirPods Pro Gen 2 and iPhone 14 Pro quickly and easily. While wireless charging doesn’t display an output measurement on the display, it seemed that my devices charged just as quickly as they do on standard wireless charging surfaces.

The power station is very easy to carry thanks to its built-in handle. I never found the unit overheating. It did warm up a little bit, but it was mild. Another great use case we had was using the power station to power one of our portable refrigerators. The JP42 Electric Cooler from ICECO is a 12V refrigerator and can be used as a traditional cooler or as a portable refrigerator. While this model does come with cables to connect to a car port, it’s really great to be able to power it with the EB3A Power Station on outings instead of relying on the car’s battery. We recently went to a park where we were going to be hanging out for a while and the Bluetti kept the refrigerator running the entire time and our snacks and beverages stayed cool.

Conclusion

Our area of the country recently experienced a lot of severe spring storms and even though our neighborhood’s power lines are underground, our family rested easy knowing we had a backup in case we lost power. There are many portable power stations available, but most of them are heavy and bulky. The Bluetti is much more compact and while I wouldn’t take it with me on a backpacking trek, it’s very easy to transport from room to room as needed.

For more information, visit bluettipower.com or Twitter.

Portable 3-Port 65W Travel Charger.

One of the most challenging aspects of modern technology is keeping them charged. It is common for USB-powered devices to either ship with a single port USB charging block of either USB-A or USB-C type, or solely with a cable. As more devices shift to USB-C charging options, you may find a USB-A to USB-C cable, or USB-C to USB-C cable.

Unfortunately, as more devices require USB charging, I typically retire single-port chargers to my charger graveyard. Instead, I opt for multiport chargers and HUBS to optimize wall space. Thanks to the latest Gallium Nitride technology, companies like UGREEN can provide a multi-port charging block nearly the same size as a single MacBook Pro charger.

Unboxing

The UGREEN GanX 65W Fast charger arrived in a sleek 6 1/8 inches long by 3 inches tall by 2 1/4 inches thick retail package.  Instead of relying upon a flat white background, UGREEN stepped up the presentation with a pleasant silver-grey backdrop.  The company name was displayed along the top left of the cover, just above a metallic-shimmering GaN X logo. 

The panel also provided information about the 65W output, and fast charging 3-port capabilities with the generic product name.  The lower left panel provided three product-feature icons (world use, interchangeable power outlets, three ports), while the right edge displayed three slide-in power outlet types (UK/EU/US).  The foremost showcase of the panel was the glossy, slightly raised, oblique image of the square GaN X 65W device.  I loved the photo quality image, the lustrous sheen, and the overall display.  The silver background proved to be a brilliant color scheme. 

The top panel displayed an image of the three wall port plugs, while the bottom panel displayed four product feature icons: Compact and Portable (airplane/globe), Smart Power Distribution (computer chip), US/UK/EU Plugs (image on the top panel), Superior Safety (shield/lightning).  Each labeled icon was given a short descriptive sentence; they were well done without feeling overly busy. 

The rear panel listed the product name, product specifications (100-240V input 50/60HZ 1.8A Max, USB C1 and C2 output 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/3.25A 3.3-21V/3A 65W max (total), USB A output 4.5V/5A 5V/4.5A 5V/3A 9V/2A 12V/1.5A 22.5W max, Total output 65W), manufacturer contact information, manufacturer product labels, and a large white SKU/UPC barcode sticker.  I appreciated that UGREEN left both side panels blank, instead of repeating similar information; when considering packaging design, there is truth in the adage “sometimes less means more.”

I opened the side panel and removed the internal white cardboard drawer and the cardboard envelope containing the User Instruction pamphlet (FCC/IC statement WEEE information, EU/GB Declaration, Warranty information) plus instruction manual.  The multilingual manual did a good job of showing the “Product Overview” and “How it Works.”  Each panel provided a multilingual title plus a visual representation of how to use the US/EU/UK plug, the three USB ports (upper USB-A and lower USB C1+2), and options for each port. 

The subsequent panels provided two bulleted instructional points detailing the above information (EN, DE, FR, ES, IT, JP, CN, NL, SE, PL, TR languages).  Like the specifications on the back panel, the manual laid out the output information in a proper tabular format.  However, the next panel labeled “Power Distribution” did a better job of showing how the power would be distributed amongst all of the ports.  Lastly, the manual detailed several safety notes regarding the GaN X 65W, and a list of packaging contents.  I think the manual was well done and represented the product well.  Additionally, the inclusion of eleven languages was rather impressive.

I removed the 6.7-ounce, 2 9/16 inches square by 1 3/16 inches wide charger from the cardboard drawer and then the 3 inches wide by 2 1/2 inches tall by 1 15/16 inches thick US/UK/EU plug accessory box.  The matte black front/top/back/bottom segments of the GaN charger contrasted nicely against the dark grey/metallic side panels.  I liked the black UGREEN name on the silver-gray panel and the “6 5 W” icon on the other. 

The top panel had an 11/16 inches wide by 7/16 inches tall black-colored prong release button.  The back panel listed the manufacturing labels and housed the prongs/port for the three plug options.  The lower panel listed the product specifications and QR code. I liked that UGREEN recorded this information along the underside as it improved the aesthetic of the design. The front panel provided the top USB-A port with a purple accent and dual USB-C ports.

Installation/Setup

I opened the accessory box and removed the three plugs (US 0.3-ounce, UK 0.7-ounce, and EU 0.6-ounce).  Each plug had a posterior slide-in segment that directly matched the dual prongs on the GaN X 65W charger.  To install the plug, orient the plug’s female port with the male prongs on the charger and slide downward until you hear a click. The secure locking mechanism successfully retained each prong type, without any slip or failure.  When I pressed the black button atop the charger, I found that I could easily lift the plug away from the main body of the device. 

The button did not eject the plug but did release the locking system.  I liked the design and the inclusion of the three plug options.  Additionally, I appreciated that the US type A plug had a retractable prong system.  Unfortunately, the UK/EU plugs did not have a retractable system.  Thus, for storage/portability, the device would pack down a bit better with the plugs removed. Lastly, the UK/EU prongs extended the setup length to 3 7/8 inches (UK) and 4 5/16 (EU) respectively, which was longer than the base 2 9/16 inches long charger.  Living in the US, I did not have access to EU/UK wall outlets to test the stability/quality of the ports.  The remainder of the tests were completed with the US plug.  

Lastly, before disposing of the internal cardboard drawer, make sure to remove the false internal cardboard floor to access the 3 7/8 inches wide by 7 inches tall felt drawstring bag.  The bag is tall enough to accommodate the charger plus each outlet type.  I loved the accessory and the ability to keep all the items together.  The thin nature of the charger paired nicely with the bag and the additional international plugs.  

Testing

I plugged the GaNX with Type A plug into a BESTEK hub and then a Klein Tools Multimeter into each USB-C port.  When I plugged my MacBook Pro 15” into either USB-C port alone, I found that the multimeter displayed similar results (20.15V/2.21A).  I then repeated the test with an iPad Pro 12.9” (11.98V/1.60A), and an iPhone 14 Pro Max (5.08V/2.04A).  Pleased with the output of each port, I turned to test port combinations. When I plugged the MacBook Pro into C1 and my iPad Pro into C2, the multimeters displayed 11.98V/1.60A and 20.16V/2.05A respectively. 

I then switched the ports and found the lower C2 was more optimized to charge larger devices at a higher output (45W vs. 20W for C1). For the next test, I plugged a DROK USB-A multimeter plus iPhone 14 Pro Max into the USB-A port and then a Klein Tools USB-C multimeter plus MBP into USB-C1.  Each multimeter flashed and reset before displaying 5.08V/2.04A for the USB-A port and 5.10V/1.40A for USB-C1.  The output was suboptimal to charge my MBP, so I removed the multimeter from USB-C1 and moved it to USB-C2. 

The DROK USB-A multimeter displayed 4.93V/2.04A, while the Klein Tools multimeter in USB-C2 displayed a more respectable 19.94/2.01A.  These tests demonstrated the individual port output and the options for combining USB-A and USB-C power.  If you want to charge multiple items simultaneously, utilize the lower USB-C2 port for devices with more significant power needs.   

Next, I decided to add the USB-A port to the dual USB-C ports. I plugged the DROK USB-A multimeter into the USB-A port and a USB-A to Lightning cable between the multimeter and my iPhone 14 Pro Max.  I left the USB-C to USB-C cables attached between the iPad Pro 12.9” and multimeter (USB-C1), and MBP and multimeter (USB-C2).  When I plugged the lightning cable into my iPhone, the multimeters flashed and displayed 4.93V/2.05A.

The iPad Pro multimeter showed a dropped rate of 4.95V/1.40A, while the MBP multimeter showed 14.96V/2.09A.  When I removed the USB-A multimeter from the setup, the Klein Tools multimeter showed an increase in output to 20.06V/1.16A for the MacBook Pro and 11.98V/1.6A for the iPad Pro.  I tried the above tests several times and found similar results to those detailed in the instruction manual.  When three ports were utilized, the USB-C1 port throttled down to ~8.5W, while the USB-C2 port maintained ~45W output. When either of the USB-C ports was utilized, the output reached up to the listed ~65W.  

For the final test, I tested the charge rate over time using dual combo ports.  I plugged my 52% power MBP into the USB-C2 port/multimeter at 7:40 PM (20.15V/2.21A) and my iPhone 14 Pro Max into the USB-A/multimeter at 8% (5.08V/2.04A).  By 7:54 PM the iPhone increased to 15% power (4.98V/2.10A), while the MBP increased to 56% (20.01V/2.08A).  By 8:01 PM the iPhone increased to 20% power (4.92V/2.05A), while the MBP reached 61% charge (19.95V/2.12A).  I switched from DROK USB-A to another Klein Tools Multimeter via USB-C. 

I plugged a USB-C to Lightning cable between the multimeter and iPhone 14 Pro max and found 9.09V/2.18A for USB-C1 and 19.95V/2.12A output for the MBP attached to USB-C2.  By 8:10 PM the iPhone 14 Pro Max reached 32% power, while the MBP reached 67%.  The iPhone was at 50% by 8:21 PM (9.08V/2.19A), while the MBP attained 75% charge (19.96V/2.12A).  By 8:37 PM the iPhone reached 71% (9.09V/1.49A), while the MBP reached 86% power (19.95V/2.12A).  By 9:02 PM my iPhone was at 86% power (5.07V/1.20A) and my MBP was at 98% Power (19.98V/1.82A).  I removed both from power and noted the charger’ surface temperature reached an uncomfortable 150.8 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees C) with my Nubee infrared thermometer.  

I was pleased with the power output and the ability to charge three devices simultaneously. The dual USB-C rate is perfect for phone/tablet, tablet/laptop, or some combination therein. The USB-A port provides some backward compatibility and some availability for the few devices made to use USB-A. The three port design, coupled with travel adapter feature escalates the setup from a maybe purchase to a must-have travel companion. I appreciated the packaging, the layout, the device, the output, the extra charging plugs, drawstring bag, and the cost.

For more information, visit UGREEN, Facebook, or Twitter.

Since Apple stopped including chargers with the latest iPhones, some may need a USB-C charger for their new USB-C to Lightning cable.  If you want a reliable charging system for most modern electronics, look to the Anker Series 5 brand. Thanks to the quality of ANKER gear, you can safely charge an iPhone and AirPods/Pro with a USB-C to Lightning cable (MFI) and depending on the iPad model, perhaps a USB-C to USB-C cable.  As the European Union requires a USB-C standard, I expect future Apple devices to move away from lightning ports completely.  Until then, why not save a few bucks over Apple-branded chargers/cables. 

Anker 541 USB-C to Lightning Cable:
The ANKER 541 3-foot USB-C to Lightning Cable arrived in an ~2 1/2 inches square by 11/16 inches thick retail box.  The cover provided the blue ANKER name/logo at the top left, a fun “Worlds No. 1 Mobile Charging brand” statement at the top right, a large Series 5 logo at the bottom right, and an Anker Eco logo at the bottom left.  The left side panel provided an MFI (Made for iPhone, iPad, iPod) logo, while the right side panel provided three product icons: 80 million happy users, Fast charging, 24-month warranty.  The bottom panel provided some support information and recycled packaging details, while the top panel provided a legalese statement.  Lastly, the busy surface of the back panel provided the blue ANKER name/logo, a “Live Charged” motto, the product name, A80A1 model number, a long compatibility list, an SKU barcode sticker, and product manufacturing labels. 

When I opened the box, I was impressed that the 0.8-ounce, 37 inches long USB-C to Lightning cable had a subtle blue hue and was not sterile white.  The USB-C prong measured 1/4 inches long by 3/32 thick by 5/16 inches wide and connected to a rounded 7/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 1 1/8 inches tall neck collar segment.  I gripped the metallic prong and neck segment and pulled outward, bent the prong forward/backward 25 times, and then side to side 25 times.  I was pleased with the design, the durability, and the rounded edges.  The neck/collar segment tapered toward the cable and assumed a 1/4 inch diameter at the junction with the cable.  I gripped the neck segment, pulled it outward, and repeated the flexibility/bending tests as above.  Again, I was pleased with the robust design and durability of the cable/neck segment.  The lightning prong measured 1/4 inches tall by 1/4 inches wide by 1/16 inches thick and connected to a 3/8 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 1 1/8 inches tall neck collar segment. I repeated the prong/collar tests above and found the same quality/durability. 

The coiled cable suffered a bit from spring-like memory but improved after a few counter rotations and daily use.  Both prongs fit securely into their respective ports and gave a Goldilocks, just-right fit.  The fit/connection proved to work with several bumper-style cases and never felt too tight or provided any concern for fit due to the rounded edges.  To test the power output, I plugged a Klein Tools multimeter into a UGREEN GaN X200 hub and the USB-C to Lightning cable between the multimeter and my iPhone 14 Pro Max.  Starting with 77% power at 10:42 am, the multimeter displayed 5.09V/1.85A (fluctuating).  By 10:50 am my iPhone was at 80% power (5.11V/1.54A), at 85% power by 11:00 am (5.10V/1.47A), and reached 91% power by 11:15 am (5.10V/1.18A), when I removed it from the charger. 

The cable came with a helpful Anker silicone cable strap for improved storage and portability.  The accessory added to the overall design and escalated the cable above basic OEM-style cables.  I loved the little button, the flexible design, the etched Anker name, and the ability to add/remove the cable strap.  Honestly, I would purchase the belt as an add-on to other cables that I already utilize.  I was a fan of the weight, the color, the cable length, portability/packability, the MFI certification, and the ~$17 price point, especially when an Apple 2m cable costs ~$19.  

Anker 543 6 foot USB-C to USB-C Cable:
Like the USB-C to Lightning cable above, the Anker 543 cover provided the blue name/logo at the top left, Series 5 along the bottom right, “No. 1 charging” statement at the top right, and Eco logo along the bottom left. Both side panels displayed the blue name/logo at one end of the panel and a series 5 icon along the other, while the top and bottom panels were left unadorned. The rear panel provided the company name/logo at the top, “Live Charged” motto at the top right and then the same three icons (80M happy, fast charging, 24-month hassle-free warranty) as the USB-C to lightning cable.  Beneath the segment, you will find the product name, A80E2 model number, address/legal/contact information, product manufacturing labels, recycling information, product SKU barcode stickers, and contact information. 

I opened the top panel and removed the coiled, muted sea-foam green, 1.9-ounce, 74-inch long USB-C to USB-C cable from the box.  Like the cable review above, the USB-C prongs measured 1/4 inches tall by 5/16 inches wide by 3/32 inches thick and attached to a rounded 7/16 inches wide by 1/4 inches thick by 1 1/8 inches tall neck/collar segment.  I gripped the metallic prongs, tugged against the neck segments, and bent the cables forward/backward, and side to side.   I then repeated the test with each neck segment and found the same durability/design perks as above.  I plugged a second Klein Tools Multimeter into another USB-C port on the UGREEN X200 GaN hub and then the Anker USB-C to USB-C between the multimeter and my iPad 12.9” Pro.  Starting at 29% power at 11:01 am (15.04V/2.34A), my iPad Pro increased to 44% by 11:16 am (15.06V/2.45A), 50% power by 11:22 am (15.06V/2.38A), 66% power by 11:39 am (15.06V/2.09A), 80% power by 11:56 am (15.04V/2.21A), and 90% power by 12:15 pm.  I removed the iPad from charge to keep the battery between ~20-90% for longevity.

Like the USB-C to lightning cable above, the USB-C to USB-C cable suffered a bit from coil memory.  I appreciated the included cable strap, the cable length, the snug USB-C to USB-C connections, and the device’s color scheme.  After a few daily uses, the cable assumed a more rigid/straight status.  I have since added the cables to my EDC BUBM organizer for everyday use/need.

Anker 511 Nano 3 30 W USB-C charger:
To round out my Anker Series 5 review, I had the pleasure of testing both the green and black versions of the 30 W USB-C Nano charger.  Each charger arrived in a 3 inches wide by 3 15/16 inches tall by 1 3/8 inches thick retail package, and followed a similar design to the aforementioned USB-C to USB-C cable.  As an aside, I found it quite interesting that the green version was “Made in China,” while the black version was “Made in Vietnam.”  To access the chargers, I lifted the top lid, removed the internal cardboard tray, and removed the eight-panel instruction manual, multilingual safety/FCC/IC guide, and the 1.3-ounce, 1 3/8 inches long by 1 1/8 inches wide by 1 1/8 inches tall chargers.  The instruction manual provided a classy ink-outline of the charger, method of use, links to FAQs, a specification table (100-240-1A 50-60Hz input, 5V/3A 9V/3A 15V/2A 20V/1.5A PPS 3.3-11V/3A Max (30W), 3.3-16V/2A Max (30W)), and contact links for the company and customer service. 

I removed the chargers from their opaque plastic cocoons and evaluated the features of the devices.  The muted sea-foam-green charger had the same color as the USB-C to USB-C cable, but had an iridescent frontal facade.  The cover panel displayed the ANKER logo, an +IQ3 logo, and the USB-C port with a blue accent.  I preferred the green Nano 3 to the black Nano 3 due to the more subdued ANKER logo on the black device.  Both chargers had smooth top, bottom, and side panels, and a well-designed, rigid, retractable type A prong on the back.  Additionally, I appreciated that each device displayed the product speciations and product labels on the back surface of the device. The smooth color-rich surface of the Nano 3 paired nicely with the front panel.  

I plugged each of the Nano 3 chargers into a standard Type B wall outlet and found that they stacked nicely upon each other, without blocking the outlet above.  Additionally the type A design would allow you to flip the charger over if you needed extra room above/below one of the outlets.  I plugged a Klein Tools multimeter into each charger, the USB-C to Lightning cable between the multimeter and my iPhone 14 Pro Max, and the USB-C to USB-C cable between the multimeter and my iPad Pro 12.9”. Starting at 7:14 PM with 59% power (14.88V/1.92A), my iPad Pro increased to 85% by 7:50 PM (14.88V/1.67A) and 95% by 8:10 PM.  I try to keep my devices between 20-90% most of the time, and thus I removed the iPad from charge at that point.  During the same period, my iPhone 14 Pro Max increased from 22% charge at 7:14 PM (8.90V/2.93A), to 76% power by 7:51 (8.95V/0.95A), and 90% by 8:15 PM (8.88V/1.01A). 

I appreciated the nano nature of the chargers and the portability/packability of the Nano 3 retractable prong design.  I loved that the 30W output could fully power modern iPads, iPhones, AirPods, and could likely provide adequate power to chrome books (not tested).  I would not use these devices for my MacBook Pro 15” but I know they would allow slow power in a pinch.  If I were to make a single criticism, it would be about the single output port.  I try to utilize at least a dual-port charger with so many devices needing power.  However, the diminutive-sized Nano 3 chargers ensure you can pack 2-3 chargers into the same space as a single Apple charger.  At the ~$22.99 price point, you cannot go wrong.

Finally, I commend Anker for their use of bio-plant-based materials, and their attempts at improving the environment. By using fewer petroleum-based products/plastics, our future may be a bit cleaner.

Learn More about Anker Series 5 gear and follow Anker on Facebook and Twitter.

PowerPod provides portable emergency power for MagSafe-compatible iPhones

As a Xennial (Sarah Stankorb, 2014) born within the micro-generation 1977-1983, I  had the luxury of an analog childhood and a digital tech-filled adult life.  I knew a time before pocket computers, received a Palm Pilot as my high school graduation gift, and grew up alongside Blackberrys, Android phones, iPhones, and iPads. 

As a lover of on-the-go tech, I regularly carry a BUBM organizer with wall chargers, cables, and various dongles to charge and inter-connect my iPhone, iPad Pro, AirPods Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra.  Even though wireless tech has not caught up to wired options, I hoped that MagSafe charging could reduce the need for so many cables.  Despite some of the limitations, wireless charging still represents a convenient means for an emergency pick-me-up.

Unboxing:

I know that I am not alone in my love for product display/marketing.  Whenever I get a new piece of tech, I likely spend as much time on the packaging/outer presentation as the device itself.  I enjoy quirks, nuances, clever display methods, and clear window views of the product.  Unfortunately, many companies do not realize the deficits inherent in bland packaging and likely lose market share to the flashier competition.  I think the Casely PowerPod could have used a bit of pizzazz/marketing department magic.  

The Casely PowerPod device arrived in a 3 1/2 inches wide by 5 1/4 inches tall by 1 inches thick retail package. The tan-colored front, side, and rear panels were rimmed with a lower black accent, which continued onto the bottom panel.  The main cover panel displayed an angled, ink-outline drawing of the PowerPod device upon an iPhone, the PowerPod title, and a generic “Magnetic Wireless Power Bank” descriptor.  The images felt a tad flat and lifeless, and needed a bit of color. 

If you look along the bottom of the panel, you will find the Casely company name, written into the negative space of a small black rectangle.  The side panels, like the lower segment of the cover, displayed the product name/descriptor.  I would have liked additional/different information on these panels, and I felt that the redundancy detracted from the overall feel.  

The rear panel repeated the product name/descriptor along the top left, the Casely name along the top right, and provided a small 100% biodegradable notice.  With the drive to make more environmentally friendly products, I would have liked for this segment to be a bit larger.  The lower half of the rear panel provided a large “Get.Casely” QR code, listed the getcasely.com website, and manufacturing information “Designed in Brooklyn/Made in China.” 

The lower edge of the panel provided a helpful list of product specifications (Type-C input: DC5V/3A DC9V/2.25A, Type C output: DC5V/3A DC9V/2.23A 12V/1.5A, Wireless Output: 15WMax), product manufacturing labels and an sku barcode.  Lastly, the bottom black-colored panel provided the getcasely.com website address. I liked the black rim, the contrast with the tan brown, but would have enjoyed some depth to the packaging.

Testing:

I lifted the top flap, slid the internal recycled cardboard tray out from the main box, and then removed the internal components from their trays.  The lower tray (2 15/16 inches wide by 1 1/16 inches tall) contained a white 32 1/2 inches long USB-A to USB-C cable.  I gripped each metallic prong, bent it forward/backward 25 times, then grabbed the neck/collar section and repeated the process.  The USB-A and USB-C prongs were well-designed and fit snugly into their respective ports.   The larger upper tray (2 5/8 inches wide by 3 3.8 inches tall) contained the 3.9 ounce, 2 9/16 inches wide by 3 5/8 inches tall by 1/2 inches thick battery, a 1/4 inches wide by 2 1/4 inches diameter metallic ring with 3M tape, a magnetic adhesive ring instruction card, and PowerPod User Manual. 

When I plugged a Klein Tools Multimeter into a 5V/2A USB-A wall charger and the included USB-A to USB-C cable between the Multimeter and PowerPod, the multimeter displayed 4.95V/2.54A.  Starting with 2 LED worth of charge at 9:12 am (4.95V/2.54A), the battery charged to 3 LED by 10:12 am (multimeter 5.11V/0.47A), and was fully charged to 4 LEDs by 11:01 am (5.11V/0A).  Once the battery was fully charged, I removed the USB-C cable and evaluated the battery.  The smooth egg-white surface had a single 3/8 inches diameter power button, which activated the battery when depressed and powered-off the battery with a double press of the button. 

The front panel had a bank of five LED and the USB-C input port, while the side/top panels remained unadorned.  The rear panel had a 2 5/16 inches diameter slightly raised MagSafe attachment point and a lower 1/2 inches by 11/16 inches tall magnet.  The product specifications were listed along either side of the lower magnet (Model E33A, 19Wh/3.85V Battery Energy, 5000 mAh Capacity, Type C In/Out PD 20W max 9V/2.25A, Wireless charger output 5W/7.5W/10W/15W). 

Several benchmark tests have shown the ability of the iPhone 14 Pro Max to charge in a total of 2 hours 18 minutes through MagSafe connection. As the first test of the Casely PowerPod, I wanted to test the wireless charging capabilities of the Battery.  I placed the battery against my iPhone 14 Pro Max within a Catalyst Influence Case and then depressed the 3/8 inches diameter power button.  Starting with 34% power at 4:54 PM, the iPhone increased to 37% by 5:02 PM, 53% by 5:27 PM, 62% by 5:43 PM, 68% by 6:09 PM, 79% by 6:32 PM, and 88% by 7:07 PM. 

Assuming an efficiency loss with wireless charging (~30-50%), you can expect to gain ~2500-3000 mAh of power from the 5000 mAh PowerPod Casely battery.  Considering the 4323 mAh battery size of an iPhone 14 ProMax, I was not surprised to only gain ~60% charge to my iPhone 14 Pro Max. Once the battery was fully depleted, the LED closest to the charger port illuminated a bright red color.  When I plugged a Klein tools multimeter into an Apple iPad USB-C charger port and a USB-C to USB-C cable between the multimeter and battery, the multimeter displayed 8.92V/2.37A.  Once the battery reached the fourth LED, the multimeter showed a reduced charging speed of 9.05V/0.16A.  In total, it took approximately 2 hours to fully charge the battery via USB-C (8:15 PM to 10:25 PM).  

For the second test, I opted to evaluate the wired power capabilities of the device.  I plugged the Klein Tools multimeter into the USB-C battery port and then a USB-C to USB-Lightning cable between the multimeter and my Son’s iPhone 11.  Starting at 51% charge at 11:08 PM (9.08V/1.17A), the phone reached 61% by 11:17 PM (3 LED on the battery plus 9.13V/0.96A multimeter), and 70% by 11:27 PM.  By 11:49 PM the battery had fully depleted, while the phone had reached 80% charge.

As a final test, I recharged the battery as above, plugged a Klein Tools multimeter into the battery, and a USB-C to Lightning cable between the multimeter and my iPhone 14 Pro Max.  Starting at 33% power at 5:29 PM, my phone increased to 48% by 5:40 PM (3 LED), 65% by 5:54 PM (2 LED), 71% by 5:59 PM, 76% by 6:05 PM (1 LED), 80% by 6:11 PM, and 88% by 6:33 PM.  This represented ~2378 mAh of power from the battery.  

User Experience:

A single press of the multifunction button will activate the bank of LED’s along the front of the battery, with each LED representing 25% power.  Once you activate the battery, the fifth LED will illuminate a red color to signify the ready-to-charge status.  You can then apply the battery to a MagSafe compatible phone to charge; the red LED will change to a green color to alert the user to the charging status.  I appreciated the visual display and the color-coded power status.  During the charging process, the battery may feel a bit hot to the touch. 

I used a Nubee infrared thermometer and found the surface reached ~114.6 degrees, which was mildly uncomfortable but not too hot to handle.  The battery will provide emergency power to a MagSafe-compatible device or through USB-C charging.  I was quite pleased to find pass-through charging features of the Casely battery and that they included a magnetic ring for phones/cases with wireless charging but no magnetic attachment. 

Despite the above tests, I have a few critiques.  First, the outer packaging lacked imagination, creativity, and fun.  I would have preferred a more interactive/informative outer shell.  Second, I think it would have been a neat feature to include a lightning input port with an included USB-C to lightning cable.  One of my favorite features of the Momax 10,000 mAh battery was the ability to charge via USB-C input or Lightning input.  Thus, a single USB-C to Lightning cable could charge the battery and then your iPhone. 

Ultimately, that may be a moot point when Apple devices transition to a USB-C charging standard.  Lastly, I liked the lightweight nature of the battery (3.9 ounces) but felt the device should have been robust enough to provide at least a single charge of an iPhone battery.  If I am going to give the device room in my travel bag, it needs to be able to pull its own weight.  Despite the limitations, the battery has a role for emergency backup and is $30 cheaper than the Apple MagSafe charger.

For more information, visit getcasely.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Make charging a snap with these products from mophie.

It was a little less than two years ago when Mophie announced its Snap+ product line. These products are designed to be compatible with iPhones that have MagSafe charging capabilities and they were launched when the iPhone 12 lineup was the flagship phone for Apple.

“The snap ecosystem from mophie really improves the wireless charging experience. The snap accessories align with the MagSafe feature of the iPhone 12, making charging a snap every time. The snap ecosystem also brings the magnetic mounting function to other Qi-charging smartphones, including older iPhone models, Samsung Galaxy, and more via the snap adapter included with all snap accessories.”

Charlie Quong, Vice President of Product Development at mophie

In the time since the Snap+ products were released, I’ve been able to test out quite a few of them including the Snap+ Vent Mount, the Snap+ Wireless Charging Stand, the Snap+ Wireless Charger, and the Snap+ Powerstation Charging Stand. Now, I can also add the Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad and the Snap+ 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand to that list along with the Speedport 120.

About

Mophie snap+ is a collection of charging devices designed to provide an easy and secure way to charge your mobile devices. With the Snap+ 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand, you can charge up to three devices simultaneously with MagSafe technology. The Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad allows you to charge two devices at the same time, while the Speedport 120 is a 120W 4-port GaN fast charger that can charge four devices simultaneously.

All of these devices come with a safety lock feature to ensure secure charging. The snap+ collection of charging devices also provides a unique user experience with its advanced features, such as over-temperature protection, short circuit protection, and over-voltage protection. With these features, you can be sure that your devices are safe and secure while charging. Mophie snap+ is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a secure and easy way to charge their mobile devices.

Main Features

The Snap+ 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand has several unique features that make it stand out from other charging devices. With MagSafe technology, you can charge up to three devices simultaneously and its safety lock feature ensures secure charging. Additionally, the snap+ 3-in-1 wireless charging stand is designed with a sleek and stylish design, making it the perfect accessory for your home or office.

The Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad allows you to charge two devices at the same time. Additionally, the Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad is designed with a sleek and stylish design, making it an attractive addition to any home or office. With its slim and lightweight design, you can take the Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad with you wherever you go.

Both of these charging stands share the following features:

• MagSafe Compatible
• Charge All Your Devices at Once
• Sustainable Materials, Intelligent Design
• Provides up to 7.5W-15W of Wireless Power
• Portrait and Landscape Mode
• Includes Snap Adapter

The Speedport 120 is a 120W 4-port GaN fast charger that can charge four devices simultaneously (designed for use with Laptops, Smartphones, Tablets, USB-C, and USB-A Devices). With its advanced features, such as over-temperature protection, short circuit protection, and over-voltage protection, you can be sure that your devices are safe and secure while charging. Additionally, the Speedport 120 is designed with a slim and lightweight design, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.

Some of the benefits that users find with using the Speedport 120 include:

• Galium Nitride (GaN) Technology
• 120W of Total Combined Power
• Charge Up to Four Device Simultaneously
• Save Outlet Space

Pricing & Availability

All three devices are available on zagg.com and Amazon.

• Snap+ 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand → $99.95
• Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad → $79.95
• Speedport 120 – 120W 4-port GaN fast charger → https://amzn.to/3DqIOxj

User Experience

The unboxing process for the chargers was fairly standard for Mophie products. They had clean, primarily white boxes with black descriptive text and full-color images. I always appreciate Mophie packaging because they provide details along with protection for the product inside. With each of the charging stands, a power adapter was included, which is also something I really appreciate. I dislike it when a charger has a standard to meet, but a proper power adapter is not included.

I did complete a standard charging test with each of the wireless charging stands. I only tested the charging time for the MagSafe charger meant for the phone. The main reason for this was that it’s difficult to determine a finite average charging rate for the AirPods since the charging is providing power to both the AirPods and its case. I can confirm that all the charging surfaces did provide power to their intended devices.

I used an iPhone 14 Pro as my testing subject for the main charging test. I noted the starting percentage of the battery on the phone and then allowed it to charge for 30 minutes. The Charging Stand & Pad provided a 22% battery increase while the 3-in-1 charger helped the iPhone gain 30%. The big difference between these two charging tests was that I did not remove the phone from the charger once while it was charging on the 3-in-1 MagSafe surface.

Average Charging Rates for Snap+ MagSafe Chargers

• Snap+ Charging Stand & Pad → 0.73% per minute
• Snap+ 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand → 1.0% per minute

The Speedport 120 also performed admirably. Since it is designed for providing a charge to numerous devices at once, I plugged in several items including my iPad Pro, my MacBook Air, and a wireless keyboard. All of the devices received a solid charge and I didn’t notice any issues with overheating while they were charging.

One of the only complaints I have on these charging accessories is that the 3-in-1 charger requires that you use your own Apple Watch Charging Puck. Since it’s not built-in into the device, there is an additional cable to worry about and it’s a little tough to get the puck snapped into the Apple Watch dock on the charger.

Conclusion

The Mophie snap+ collection of charging devices provides an easy and secure way to charge your mobile devices. Additionally, the snap+ collection of charging devices is designed with a sleek and stylish design, making them the perfect accessory for your home or office. With its advanced features and attractive design, the snap+ collection of charging devices is the perfect choice for anyone looking to charge their mobile devices securely and easily.

For more details, visit mophie, Facebook, and Twitter.

Even though I have numerous (almost countless) options for charging my devices, I always struggle with what charger I should take with me when I travel or commute. In the past, I’ve taken power strips and multiple charging docks but I’ve really tried to pack light during recent trips. I really love charging devices that can provide power to multiple devices at once so the Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand from Satechi caught my eye when it was announced in December.

About Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand

The Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand is a charging dock that features a modern foldable design paired with two wireless charging surfaces and a USB-C input/output charging port. While the stand can be used traditionally as a wall-powered charging dock, it is built on a 10,000 mAh power bank. This makes it a very useful charger for remote workers or travelers alike.

The stand has a sleek, space gray aluminum finish and folds up to be incredibly compact. It takes up very little space on a desktop or in a bag and supports wireless charging for most modern smartphone models. The flip-out stand for the phone is meant to provide a comfortable angle for watching videos or participating in video conferences.

The Duo Power Stand is a smart charger and will cut off power to connected devices to ensure they are receiving a safe charge.

Main Features

• Qi Charger for iPhone (max 10W)
• Wireless charging indicator
• Qi Charger for AirPods (max 5W)
• Input/Output USB-C Port (max 18W)
• Power button
• Battery level indicators
• 10,000 mAh battery capacity

Compatible With:

• iPhone 14 & 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14 &13 Pro, iPhone 14 & 13, iPhone 12/ 12 Pro/ SE 2020/ 11 Pro Max/ 11 Pro/ 11/ Xs Max/ Xs/ Xr/ X/8 Plus/ 8
• Airpods 3/Pro/ 2 with wireless charging case(Model number:A1938)
• Samsung Galaxy S22/S22 Ultra/S21/S20/S10/S10+/S9
• Google Nexus7/6/5/4
• Google Pixel 3/3XL/4XL
• Galaxy Buds
• Samsung Galaxy Watch Active
• Gear S3 Frontier
• Galaxy Watch 42/46mm

Model: ST-UCDWPBSM

Power Logic/Speed:

• Qi 1 + USB-C = 5W + 10W
• Qi 2 + USB-C = 5W + 10W
• Qi 1 + Qi 2 + USB-C = 5W + 5W + 10W (5V/2A)

FAQ

For the full list of frequently asked questions on this product, visit satechi.net.

• Wireless charging works while the power bank is closed.
• Stand supports passthrough charging while the power bank is being charged.
• Three devices can be charged simultaneously — 2 wirelessly, 1 using the USB-C port.
• Phones will charge wirelessly with a case installed.
• The Apple Watch is not compatible with the standard Qi surface that is provided on the Duo Power Stand. It can be charged by connecting an Apple Watch charger to the USB-C port.

Pricing & Availability

The Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand has a list price of $99.99 and is available on satechi.net.

User Experience

The Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand comes packaged in a simple Satechi-branded box. There is an image of the product in use on the front of the box with some basic details included. The back of the box features a sequence of images that show the different stages of the charging stand. I found this to be a nice addition to the retail package because it showcases the main features of the product without the user needing to remove it from the box.

Upon opening the box, I found the charging stand, its user manual, and a USB-C charging cable. One of the reasons I like Satechi products so much is because of the little touches and while this might seem like such a little thing, I really like that their cables come wrapped in a velcro Satechi cable wrap. It tidies up the appearance so much and makes it easier to store the cables when they aren’t in use.

A power adapter is not included with this charger. This would normally annoy me because many chargers require a certain power adapter wattage in order to reach their target charging power, but since the Power Stand doesn’t make that claim, it is fine that a wall adapter was not included.

I love the size/shape of the stand. It is only slightly thicker than my iPhone 14 Pro with a case on it and it’s a bit shorter than my phone. This makes it very easy to transport. It only weighs 10.1 ounces (286 grams) which is only about 80 grams more than the iPhone 14 Pro itself.

Out of the box, the stand was charged at approximately 50% capacity. The instructions suggest that it’s best to charge the device to 100% before using it the first time but I opted to run my charging tests on the stand with the power it had out of the box. I opened up the stand and set my phone on it. To my surprise, it automatically started charging.

The instructions state that users should have to press the power button to activate the charging function, but I found that with the iPhone and the AirPods, the stand would automatically start charging both devices — even from a powered-off state. I thought maybe it was just an Apple product thing so I pulled out a Google Pixel 7 Pro and it worked with that phone, too. I can’t explain it but I would advise users that if charging doesn’t start automatically, they should press the power button to ensure charging is active on the device.

I ended up charging my AirPods Pro (Gen 1) and iPhone 14 Pro for approximately 40 minutes. The iPhone had a 50% battery level and the AirPods case was at 0%. This meant that the battery level didn’t even register on the phone. The chart below shows the battery charging progress for both devices. In the end, the iPhone had a charging rate of 0.4% per minute and the AirPods had a collective average charging rate of 0.86% per minute.

The Duo Power Stand did get warm after charging both devices for that amount of time, but it wasn’t hot to the touch. I used an infrared thermometer to measure the heat collection at various places on the stand and got the following readings. In my opinion, this is pretty standard for wireless chargers and not anything to be concerned about.

What Differentiates the Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand from other chargers?

The most unique feature of this charger — and what makes it stand out from its competitors — is its ability to charge multiple devices at once wirelessly while acting as a stand.

I’ve used a lot of wireless power banks, but very few transform into a stand and I don’t believe I’ve used any that act as a stand AND can charge multiple devices. I will say that the name feels a little misleading to me because even though you can only charge two devices wirelessly, users can charge up to three devices simultaneously.

Conclusion

Satechi has crafted a truly remarkable charging device with the Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand. This sleek and functional charger has the ability to be used in a stationary fashion or portably, making it incredibly versatile. I have always been a fan of multi-purpose devices, and this one is no exception. The power stand offers the perfect combination of convenience and functionality, making it an invaluable addition to any home or office. With its slim and sleek design, it fits in perfectly with my lifestyle, and I find myself using it more and more every day.

For more information, visit satechi.net, Facebook, and Twitter.

UPDATE 11/5/22: Thanks to one of our readers, we can confirm that the Anker 3-in-1 Cube works with all three current models of the Apple Watch. We (Mac Sources) tested it with the Apple Watch Series 8 (45mm and 41mm) and one of our readers (Patsy) tested it with the Apple Watch Ultra. They stated that users, “may have to protect Action Button size with a very thin felt sticker (applied to the cube), to prevent minor scratches. Other than that, everything just works. And work perfectly.” While we didn’t have a chance to test it with the Apple Watch SE, the dimensions are smaller than the Series 8 models so it should work fine.

I cannot stress the importance of having a trustworthy mobile device charger on your desk. I’ve shifted back and forth between charging cables and docks for years. Most recently, I’ve made a permanent place on my desk for the Anker MagGo Magnetic Wireless Charger. It’s a charger that provides simultaneous charging for two wireless-charging compatible devices — one of which can be a MagSafe-compatible device.

The MagGo is a compact device that can be easily hidden or pushed out of the way when it’s not in use. This is a big reason why I prefer using it to other more bulky charging options. It has served me well but in addition to the two charging surfaces the MagGo provides, I am also in dire need of a place to charge my Apple Watch. I used to charge it overnight, but since I upgraded to the Series 8 Apple Watch, I track my sleep and wrist temperature when I go to bed now.

And, even though the Series 8 watch has a longer battery life than my previous Series 6 model, I still find myself needing to provide it with power during the day. I have simply been stringing an Apple Watch charging cable across my desk. Fortunately, Anker had the foresight to provide an upgraded charging device for users like me and today they are releasing the 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe Charging Station.

About Anker’s 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe Charging Station

The 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe Charging Station was designed specifically to be used with Apple devices. It’s the first Anker product to receive the ‘official’ Made for MagSafe certification. It’s a “one-stop wireless charging solution for your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods.” The cube is compact and can be taken virtually anywhere. The MagSafe charging surface has an adjustable viewing angle of up to 60º and provides a flexible mounting option for users to be able to switch between portrait and landscape viewing methods.

“We’re very excited about the design of the 3-in-1 Cube,” said Steven Yang, CEO of Anker Innovations. “From a practical standpoint, it is portable and travel-friendly without being in any way limited in features. It’s the perfect charging accessory for both home and hotel.”

Anker. (2022, October 26). Anker unveils the 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe, a compact and cleverly designed charging station [Press release].

Main Features

• 3-in-1 Charging: Features an ergonomic design that allows users to conveniently charge their iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, all at once.
• Fast Charging for iPhone and Apple Watch: Includes fast wireless charging of up to 15W for iPhone with an additional magnetic fast charging module that charges Apple Watch Series 7 from 0-75% in just 45 minutes.
• Palm-sized and portable: Folds up to be compact, making it perfect for both home and travel with a pop-out shelf for charging an Apple Watch.
• Versatile viewing angles: The sleek, foldable design allows for versatile iPhone charging in both portrait and landscape orientation.
• Series 7 Charger: Anker’s Series 7 chargers embrace future technologies that are at the cutting edge of performance and specs. This makes it possible for faster charging speeds in smaller, more portable chargers.

Specs

• Product Dimension: 2.36” L x 2.36 W x 2.49” D
• Product Weight: 14.46 oz
• Total Wattage: 30W
• Input: 12V or 15V, 30W
• Output: MagSafe Charger for iPhone – 15W; AirPods Charger – 5W; Apple Watch Charger – 5W
• What’s in the Box: Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe Charging Station, 1.5m (5ft) USB-C to USB-C charging cable, a 30W PD charger, a quick start guide, and a multilingual spec sheet with safety information included.

Price and availability

The 3-in-1 Cube is available in the US today (October 26, 2022) at Apple retail stores and online on Anker.com and Apple.com, for $149.99.

It will also be available in the UK and DE on November 4 for £139.99 and €159.99, respectively.

User Experience

The 3-in-1 Cube comes in sensible packaging. The box is all white with a profile image of the device on the front. There is a smaller image of the device in use. The bottom of the front of the box has three tags called out for the product’s name — 3-in-1, Adjustable Phone Charging Surface, and Compact — and at the top of the front of the box just under the “Live Charged” tagline for Anker is Apple’s Made for Apple Watch and MagSafe label.

Anker as a company is making efforts to aid the environment by reducing the amount of plastic used in their packaging.

Low-Plastic Packaging

We’ve reduced the amount of plastic used in packaging for the entire lineup by an average of 90%*. The inner material of the packaging has been changed from plastic to pulp, the packaging paper is FSC-certified 100% recyclable, and printing is done with natural soy ink.

*Calculated based on Aug. 2022 internal testing to measure the weight of plastic reduced in the packaging.

“Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe.” Anker, 25 Oct. 2022, www.anker.com/products/y1811?variant=42206465327254&ref=collectionBuy. Accessed 26 Oct. 2022.

This is something I appreciate since some studies have shown that even though plastics can be recycled many people are not participating in community efforts. In addition to the packaging reductions Anker has also taken steps to reduce plastic use in their products, which also has the added benefit to the end-user of the products being more compact.

Compact Design to Reduce Plastic

The devices in this lineup feature a compact design that’s up to 70% smaller than other brands and uses up to 30.9 g less plastic during construction.*

*Data based on Aug. 2022 internal testing comparing Anker Nano 3 to an original 30W charger.

“Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe.” Anker, 25 Oct. 2022, www.anker.com/products/y1811?variant=42206465327254&ref=collectionBuy. Accessed 26 Oct. 2022.

Once you open the box, you’ll find the charger, paperwork package, charging cable, and wall brick. I cannot tell you how refreshing it was to find the power adapter included with this charging station. There are many modern charging devices — even premium ones that are MagSafe-certified — that require a certain wattage to be beneficial for users and power adapters are not included.

I understand that power adapters pile up and create unwanted waste, but as an end-user, if I am spending a premium amount of money on a device, it is frustrating to have to spend additional money to purchase an accessory to make the device work properly.

I was very impressed with the design of the Cube. I was told it was a ‘cute’ accessory and because of that (and my experience with the MagGo), I was anticipating something extraordinary. I was not disappointed.

The Cube is cute. It can fit in the palm of your hand. And, it’s functional as well as practical. I’ve been using it for a few days now and I don’t remember the last time I was so infatuated with a piece of technology that was ancillary to a primary purpose (i.e. not my earbuds, phone, or watch).

Setting it up was as simple as plugging the USB-C cable into the power adapter and into the back of the charging station. Most of the time, the Cube will sit under my iPad stand in its cube state. When I use it, I pull it out to the side of my iPad, unfold the top and snap out the watch charger.

I love that when you are charging all three items the AirPods are hidden behind the phone. It just adds to the visual aesthetic of the device as it sits on your desk. I also adore how the Apple Watch charger is integrated. By making it a pop-out charger, the apparatus is hidden when you don’t need it, but easily accessible when you do. This is ideal for me (and probably a lot of other people) since my watch is almost always on my wrist.

There are two other design features that I fell in love with instantly — the silicone bottom and the weighted base. These two background features are absolutely essential to the overall function and user experience of the Cube. The silicone bottom keeps the charger from sliding around on your desk and the weighted base holds the Cube steady while it’s charging your devices.

when I put my phone and watch on their respective charging surfaces, the magnetic charging ring icon appears on both screens indicating that each device was picking up its charges from the MagSafe surface. The AirPods Pro 2 chimed when I put them on the wireless charging surface behind the phone. All three devices gained battery life as they rested on the Cube.

The iPhone 14 Pro had a charging rate of 0.83% per minute and the Apple Watch Series 8 had a charging rate of 1.5% per minute (after a 30-minute charging test). This is a noticeable improvement over previous charging tests I’ve done using MagSafe charging stations. In a previous test of the iPhone 12 Pro and Apple Watch Series 6, the iPhone received a charging rate of 0.77% per minute and the watch had a charging rate of 1.37% per minute.

Conclusion

The Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe Charging Station is an amazing product that is definitely worth the purchase. It is not only a great charging station for your devices, but it also has a sleek and stylish design that will look great in any home or office. The Cube is a brilliant charging station and one of my new ‘must-have’ devices.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

GearPower Charger provides portable power more efficiently than traditional power adapters.

As more and more devices get added to the average person’s life, the need for a reliable 100W power adapter increases. Many devices that people use every day, such as laptops, phones, and tablets, require a power adapter in order to function. A 100W power adapter is capable of providing the necessary power to charge these devices quickly and efficiently.

The IOGEAR GearPower 100W USB-C GaN Charger is one of the most powerful and versatile USB-C chargers on the market. It is capable of charging any USB-C compatible device at up to 100 watts, making it one of the most powerful chargers on the market. It also uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, which makes it more efficient than traditional chargers.

About IOGEAR GearPower 100W USB-C GaN Charger

This charger provides up to 100W of power output to USB-C devices. It features a smart sensor that quickly charges the most power-demanding mobile devices, too. Since it’s made with GaN (gallium nitride) technology, the charger is more efficient and up to 3 times faster than traditional chargers. It also features a smaller form factor. The charger is optimized for iOS devices and is specially configured to provide fast charging with current Apple products.

Main Features

• Charge USB-C devices up to 100W of power
• Compact charger powers any USB-C laptops, tablets, docks, and smartphones
• Ideal for travel or as a replacement for OEM chargers
• GaN technology offers up to 40% energy savings & 20% lower system costs
• USB-IF certified
• One-year warranty
• Free US-based technical service
• Cables not included
• USB-C connector: PD 3.0 (Up to 100W)
• Output Rating: 5V3A/9V3A/15V3A/20V5A
• H x L x W: 2.5” x 2.6” x 1.1”
• Weight: 0.45 lbs

Pricing & Availability

The GearPower 100W USB-C GaN Charger has a list price of $45.95 and is available from iogear.com and Amazon.com.

User Experience

The 100W USB-C GaN Charger is the latest edition to IOGEAR’s GearPower product line. This includes eight other charging products including compact power adapters and power banks. This GaN Charger mimics the shape of the Apple power brick that is shipped with MacBook Pros. It is, however, approximately 5-10% smaller (in comparison to the 96W USB-C power adapter).

The charger comes in an IOGEAR branded box. There is a vibrant picture of the device on the front and details about the product on the back of the box. It’s easy to spot IOGEAR packaging because it’s adorned in black and green. Inside the box, there is a plastic insert where the charger resides and a slip of paper. The paper includes warranty information and directions to register the product. There are no cables or other accessories included.

One of the things that I really like about this charger’s form factor is the fact that its prongs fold up. This makes it much easier to pack for travel. There are still a surprising amount of chargers that do not have this design feature and it becomes a hassle when you are trying to make the most of your packing space.

In order to complete the testing of this product, I did a timed test with my Apple Watch Series 6. According to the specs of the Series 6 Apple Watch, it can gain approximately 80% in 60 minutes. That equates to a charging rate of 1.33% power gained per minute. When charging the Apple Watch with the GearPower 100W USB-C GaN Charger, it exceeded that average and had a charging rate of 1.37% power gained per minute. I found this to be quite impressive.

In addition to the timed charging test, I was able to use the GearPower charger to power my 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro, 2020 13-inch MacBook Air, and my 12-inch iPad Pro. The MacBook Air and iPad Pro did not need the 100W charger to gain a full charge, but they did gain power faster than with their respective chargers.

Conclusion

The IOGEAR GearPower 100W USB-C GaN Charger is a great option for anyone in need of a powerful and portable charger. The only thing I would love to see improved is the number of ports included for charging devices. Other than that, it is one of the most affordable options on the market and it comes with a variety of safety features. This charger is also one of the lightest and most compact chargers available, making it perfect for traveling.

For more information, visit iogear.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Power strip provides a solid charging option for users that travel.

One of the things you may not think about packing when you take a trip is a power strip. But, if you are like me, you probably should have that on your checklist. You want to protect your devices and ensuring they have the right type of power source is essential to this. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stayed in hotels and used the plugs that are built into the side table lamps.

I’ve been chastised by my fiancé for doing so because “you don’t know how those plugs are made.” It’s true. I don’t know how those outlets were made and chances are, they probably weren’t made with smartphones and tablets in mind.

This is why it’s a good idea to pack your own power strip and plug it directly into the wall. Fortunately, in this day and age, it’s easy to find compact power strip options like the DigiNest Pro 100W USB-C Power Strip by UGREEN.

About the DigiNest Pro

The DigiNest Pro is a 7-port power strip that provides up to 100W of power using GaN (Gallium nitride) technology. The power strip is equipped with high-speed charging technology which allows users to charge their devices quicker and more efficiently. This power strip also provides overload, overcurrent, grounded protection, and many other security features.

The DigiNest Pro is compatible with virtually every modern device currently available. There are 3 USB-C ports, 1 USB-A port, and 3 AC outlets (2 are grounded). So, in addition to tablets, computers, and smartphones, users can also use this power strip to provide power to home appliances and personal care items like shavers or curling irons.

One of the big benefits of the DigiNest Pro is its effect on the environment. Because it is built with GaN technology, the power strip helps to reduce carbon emissions and waste.

“Ugreen GaN series have helped reduce carbon emissions by 2,264 tons since 2020 and are anticipateed to save 5,503 tons of carbon from going into the atmosphere per year in the future. (Producing one GaN chip can save 8.8 pounds of CO2 compared to silicon chips).”

Finally, the design of the power strip is meant to mimic a classic radio. It is meant to be seen and not hidden away. UGREEN took special care to make sure the DigiNest Pro was as pleasing to the eye as it is powerful.

Specs

Charging Output

AC Output: 1875W Max 15A Max 125V~ 50/60Hz

USB C Output: 100W Max

• USB-C1/C2: 5V/3A 9V/3A 12V/3A 15V/3A 20V/5A 100W Max PPS：3.3-21V/3A
• USB-C3: 5V/3A 9V/2.5A 12V/1.88A 22.5W PPS: 3.3~5.9V/3A 3.3~11V/2A
• USB-A: 4.5V/5A 5V/4.5A 5V/3A 9V/2A 12V/1.5A 22.5W Max

Pricing & Availability

The DigiNest Pro 100W USB-C Power Strip by UGREEN has a list price of $129.99. It can be purchased directly from UGREEN.com or through one of UGREEN’s online authorized sellers such as Amazon.

User Experience

The DigiNest Pro comes in a simple retail-style box. There is an image of the product on the front with some basic details included around the package. One of the things I noticed right off the bat was how heavy the package seemed to be. What I found was that the power strip itself isn’t super heavy, but the attached power cord is. It’s a thick, robust power cable that weighs the power strip down.

While I appreciate the high-quality build of the power cable, it did hinder my experience with the power strip a bit. The power strip has silicone feet on it and it’s designed to be used on a flat, desktop surface. Unfortunately, the weight of the cable made the power strip tilt on its side. At the time, I only had two devices plugged in — USB-A and USB-C ports — so it’s possible that with additional items plugged into the AC outlets the power strip might be more balanced.

I also think the tension in the cable from being packaged might have played a factor in this imbalance issue. The power cord is tight and even after it was unbound for several hours, it retained its folded shape. With this in mind, if you were to travel with this power strip, you could run into a similar issue based on having the power cord wrapped up.

I do love the compact nature of the power strip box. It doesn’t take up much space on a desktop, which is a huge benefit in my opinion. The layout of the ports and outlets makes it very easy to use the device, too. There are many standard power strips that make it difficult to utilize the outlets due to their spacing, but the DigiNest Pro was designed for users who have USB-C-powered devices and for those who might have larger power bricks to plug in.

As far as the price point goes, I do feel that it’s a little higher than some other 100W GaN Power Strips in the market. I did a quick search to see what other options might be listed and the UGREEN DigiNest Pro. I did not find an exact product with the same number of ports, but one option which was a 5-port charger was listed at $95. I am hoping that the price of these types of charging devices will come down in the future to be more affordable for consumers.

I did do a charging test with my Apple Watch plugged into the USB-A port and my iPhone 14 Pro plugged into one of the USB-C ports. The Apple Watch gained 48% in 30 minutes (charging rate = 1.6% per minute) and the iPhone 14 Pro gained 14% in 30 minutes (charging rate = 0.46% per minute). Both of those were respectable charging rates — especially since the iPhone 14 Pro was above 80% when I started charging it.

Conclusion

Having a single power strip that can serve multiple needs is a great option. The DigiNest Pro has the potential to provide that type of utility to users. I hope that over time the power cord loosens up and the power strip can steady itself better on a desktop, but it works really well as a power source regardless.

For more information, visit UGREEN, Facebook, or Twitter.