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Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank review: a versatile power bank that’s easy to carry
12:00 pm | November 4, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank

The Iniu B61 is a compact power bank with multiple USB ports and 22W of power, allowing you to charge three devices at once. Thanks to its lean design, it’s also easy to carry, fitting in your pocket comfortably without weighing you down.

For a 10,000mAh power bank, the Iniu B61 is very small and light. It’s only a few grams heavier than the Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux, and that bank only has two USB ports.

Overall, the Iniu B61 cuts a smart and inconspicuous figure. The harshness of the black colorway is softened somewhat by its rounded contours. It may be a little on the thick side, but it’s justified given its capacity, as not even the best power banks can beat it in this regard.

The matte rubberized finish is smooth to the touch. It also seems quite resistant to scratches, which is an auspicious indicator for its long-term prospects. However, the joins aren’t the most solid, as I did notice some play between the front and back parts of the chassis, but this is a minor gripe rather than a serious concern.

The plastic display appears hard-wearing, although it’s unnecessarily large, given it only ever displays the battery percentage. The Anker MagGo 10K for instance, has a much smaller screen, but displays additional information, including estimated charging times.

The Iniu B61 comes with a phone stand that slides out from underneath, allowing you to easily view your device while charging. However, I didn’t find the mechanism is a little on the flimsy side, and I’m not sure it would withstand the rigours of constant travel.

The USB-C port supports the PD 3.0 standard, so fast charging is possible. It managed to charge my Google Pixel 7a from 50-100% in just over two hours. The USB-A ports, on the other hand, support QC 4+. Charging this way is also fast, but inevitably not as quick, topping up the Pixel 7a from half to full in about an hour and a half.

In both cases, the battery of the Iniu B61 drained by about 30%, which means you should be able to get at least a couple of charges out of it. Charging the bank itself takes about two hours from half to full.

This puts it roughly on a par with other 10,000mAh power banks. It pretty much equals the USB-C charging performance of the Anker MagGo 10k, which is considerably more expensive than the Iniu B61.

As the world moves closer to wholesale USB-C adoption, I would’ve preferred to have seen two USB-C ports instead of two USB-A ports, and the lack of wireless charging is also a shame given the Iniu B61 is the ideal size to slot behind your phone.

However, it’s hard to complain at this price point, since power banks from Anker are usually more expensive, and while they tend to provide more features, they don’t offer greater charging speeds. Ultimately, the Iniu B61 is good value for those in the market for a versatile and travel-friendly power bank.

A close-up of Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) display

(Image credit: Future)

Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank review: price & specs

iPhone 13 Pro on Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K)

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank?

Buy it if…

You want to charge multiple devices at once
Three ports means three-way simultaneous charging, although as expected, charging speeds will suffer.

You want something portable
Given its capacity, the Iniu B61 is surprisingly light and slender, making it a great travel companion.

Don't buy it if…

You want wireless charging
There’s no wireless charging capability on the Iniu B61, which is a shame given its form factor.

You mainly have USB-C devices
You might be put off if most of your devices are USB-C, which is the way the world is going.

Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank review: Also consider

Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux
Adopting a pill-shape as opposed to the typical flat rectangle design of most power banks, the PowerCore 10000 Redux has a keen focus on portability. It also comes with a carrying handle and a USB-C-to-A adapter attached to the included charging cable. It’s marginally lighter than the Iniu B61, yet offers the same 10,000mAh capacity. However, it has two USB ports rather than three, despite being about the same price as the Iniu B61. View Deal

Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: capacious and light, but not built like the best
7:00 pm | November 3, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review

Anyone on the hunt for a power bank will have likely come across Ugreen, a relatively new Chinese brand looking to wrest Anker’s grip on the sector, with its plentiful offerings at budget-friendly prices.

Just like Anker’s wireless power banks, the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank is simple and to the point. Two colorways are available: black and white. Every side of the unit is smooth and flat, free from any protrusions or indentations. And the only interface comes in the form of a series of LED lights, indicating battery levels and charging status.

For a wireless power bank with a large capacity, the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank is pleasingly light and lean like the best power banks, making it relatively easy to carry around. However, with an iPhone attached, I found it was still too bulky to pocket with ease – although I’ve yet to encounter a 10,000mAh wireless power bank that isn’t.

The Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank can wirelessly charge the best iPhones thanks to its MagSafe compatibility, offering 15W of power. During my tests, it was able to charge an iPhone 13 Pro from 50% to 100% in under two hours, draining the bank’s battery by somewhere between 25-50%, as indicated by the loss of one of the four LED dots.

Wired charging via the single USB-C port is more powerful at 20W. I managed to charge a Google Pixel 7a from 50% to 100% in just over an hour, with the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank again losing one dot in the process. Charging the bank itself from empty to full took about two and a half hours, which is reasonable, roughly equal to the charging time of the Anker MagGo (10K).

The durability of the charging pad material is questionable. During my tests of the 5,000mAh variant, the pad began to show signs of wear. Since this is the same material, I have my concerns about this model's durability as well. It’s also fond of picking up fluff and other debris, which I haven't found with the materials on other MagSafe power banks, such as those offered by Anker.

The Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank costs $49 / £49 (about AU$72), which undercuts the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) by a considerable margin. However, that bank does appear to have greater durability, owing to its hard charging pad material. Some variants also get a useful digital display, with precise battery levels and charging time estimations, making them an all-round better pick than the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank.

Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank with iPhone 13 Pro attached

(Image credit: Future)

Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: Price & specs

Close-up of USB-C port on Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank?

Buy it if…

You need a large yet practical power bank
For a 10,000mAh power bank, the Ugreen is surprisingly light and slender. But like all wireless banks this size, you’ll still struggle to fit it in your pocket with an iPhone attached.

You’re on a budget
Ugreen seems to be on a mission to undercut Anker at every turn, so if you’re on a tight budget, the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank could be tempting.

Don't buy it if…

You want something durable
The silicone pad doesn’t seem to be the most durable, so you may want a harder-wearing alternative.

You have an Android
While there are MagSafe-compatible cases for Android phones, they still don’t officially support Apple’s standard, so don’t be surprised if the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank won’t charge your device.

Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: Also consider

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10k)
A more feature-rich alternative, the Anker MagGo has 15W wireless and 27W wired charging power, as well as a digital display showing the bank’s battery percentage and estimated charging times. It also comes with a folding stand, allowing you to view your iPhone in landscape or portrait easily while charging. It is slightly heavier than the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, though, and it’s considerably more expensive.View Deal

Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe review: sturdy and secure, but the charging speeds may leave some wanting more
5:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe review

The Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe may leave some reeling at its expensive $129.99 / £129.95 / AU$299.95 price tag. However, this brand is a reliable name that’s known for its quality products, so even a penny pincher like myself has come around to this chonky charging companion.

First of all, I loved how secure my phone felt when attached to this stand. The adjustable viewing angle came in very handy, the hinge felt strong and just stiff enough to hold my phone at the angle I wanted. It was really easy to change my phone from portrait to landscape too, making it a delightful desk companion whether I was scrolling through emails or watching YouTube.

This MagSafe charger offers 15W charging power. When tested with an iPhone 13 Pro, the Anker 3-in-1 Cube took two hours and fifteen minutes to charge it from 0%-100%, which is a fairly average charging time compared to the multitude of wireless charging stands I’ve tested.

There’s a satisfying little press-and-pull pop-out platform on the right-hand side of the cube that holds the Apple Watch charger. When in the popped-out position, the platform felt easily movable so I was concerned that the internal attachment may be a little flimsy, although it didn’t pose any problems during testing.

It took the Anker 3-in-1 Cube just an hour and fifteen minutes to charge my Apple Watch Series 9, which was only eleven minutes slower than the fastest Apple Watch charger I’ve tested to date, achieved by the impressive – albeit much larger-sized – Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand. I was really pleased to discover that the rear wireless AirPod charging pad also worked great for juicing up a pair of wireless earbuds that supported the tech.

As fond as I am of this charger, I must disagree with Anker that it’s in any way “travel-ready”. Far from pocket-sized at about 2.4 x 2.4 x 2.5 inches / 60 x 60 x 63mm and weighing in at 14oz / 405g, its weight and sturdy design teamed with the non-slip base make it perfect for leaving on your desk or nightstand. But I wouldn’t say that it’s convenient for travel at all.

Overall, if you’re looking for a sturdy 3-in-1 MagSafe charger and you're happy to part with the cash, the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe wouldn't be a bad choice. However, there are plenty of options out there if you'd rather have a more travel-friendly alternative that will charge your devices a little faster, then the ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Travel Wireless Charging Set is worth a look. Or, if these Anker or ESR chargers cost more than you'd like to spend, then the Mous MagSafe Compatible 3 In 1 Portable Charger would make a truly transportable alternative.

If you haven't yet made a decision on which charger would suit you best I recommend taking a look at our helpful guides of the best iPhone chargers and best wireless chargers for more ideas.

The image shows the back of the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe, the charging pad holds an iPhone 13 Pro and is raised at an angle, revealing the reflective surface on its reverse. The AirPods charging area had been revealed on the top of the cube.

(Image credit: Future)

Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe review: price & specs

The Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe sits closed on a light-colored wooden surface with a light pink background.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe?

Buy it if…

You want something secure
I had no concerns when leaving my phone attached to the Anker 3-in-1 Cube. While other wireless chargers may have just as strong magnets, their general design often leaves them open to catastrophe should they get knocked. Thanks to the 3-in-1 Cube's heft and low center of gravity, I didn’t experience any problems.

You don’t want to be limited to one viewing angle
Many MagSafe wireless chargers enable you to switch between portrait and landscape configurations, but the Anker 3-in-1 Cube gives additional flexibility thanks to its hinged charging plate. It has just the right amount of resistance to hold a phone at basically any angle between the base up to 60 degrees, making it ideal for scrolling or viewing.

Don't buy it if…

You want something travel-ready
Anker may claim that the 3-in-1 Cube is travel-ready, but I simply don’t agree. While the AirPods charger hides beneath the phone charging plate, and the Apple Watch charger can be hidden away inside the cube, its chonky build and heavy weight were very noticeable whenever I tried to transport it between my home and the office.

You’re on a budget
There’s no denying it: this is one pricey phone charger and it’s perfectly understandable if the cost puts you off. But other than my niggles over the stability of the Apple Watch charging platform, it feels very robust and well-made as a whole. I’ve never used a phone charger this sturdy, and I’ve found the variable viewing angle to be a gift that keeps on giving, so it’s worth it if you’ve got the pennies for it. Otherwise, we’ve got other options that are more cost-friendly.

Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe review: also consider

ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Travel Wireless Charging Set
I'm a big fan of this ESR charging set. It delivers satisfying charging speeds and is sturdy enough to be used as an everyday charger. Granted, it isn't the most compact portable charger out there and has separate components, but it can be purchased with a travel case to make life easier.

Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 review: a fabulous travel companion that won’t leave your phone exhausted
11:00 am | November 2, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 review

The Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 is an understated but efficient in-car MagSafe wireless charger. It made a pleasant change from the dashboard-mounted phone cradle I was using, and I soon found myself wondering how I ever managed without a wireless charger in the car.

It costs $59.99 / £59.99 to buy the Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 on the official Pikaka website and Amazon. It’s currently available to buy in the US and the UK but not in Australia. I road-tested it against another MagSafe car charger, to see if either had what it took to win the crown, so the stakes were high.

The MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 doesn't stand out when in situ. It's not overly large or shiny like some other car-mounted best iPhone chargers are because it has a slim, ovular-shaped profile. The charger, including the aramid fiber charging plate, measures 3.7 x 1.4 x 1.8 inches / 94 x 36.5 x 45mm. It comes with a USB-C cable, which I don't have a port for in my car, but this was easily resolved by purchasing a multi-port cigarette lighter adapter from Amazon.

The metal hook attachment was something I hadn't encountered before, and I was a little dubious about whether it would fit on my car vents; however, this feeling was fleeting in the end, as the hooks extended out a long way. Once I had used the screw collars at the back to pull the hooks back in and to fix the ball joint in place when I was happy with the position, I placed my phone on, which attached easily. I liked that the mount felt secure, but I was still able to reposition the charging pad easily if required.

My only niggle would be the cable position, as it comes out of the bottom of the charging plate, so I recommend purchasing some little stick-on cable tidy clips to stop it from interfering with access to the controls or shift stick.

I encounter plenty of pot-hole-infested British roads plus some gnarly speed bumps on my commute, so it was somewhat trial by fire for the MagSafe attachment. It did a superb job holding onto my phone, and I recall only one occasion of needing to retighten the collars, which isn't bad going considering the amount of jostling it had put up with.

The charging speed proved to be adequate, charging an iPhone 13 Pro from 0% to 30% in half an hour. This does put it slightly behind the ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger in terms of charging time, as the ESR charged the same phone from 0% to 40% in thirty minutes. That's not to say that the Pitaka did badly, however.

I really enjoyed testing the Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 and would gladly purchase one for myself. If you happen to be on the hunt for other iterations of MagSafe chargers, then I recommend checking out our selection of the best wireless chargers for some inspiration.

The Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 sits on a stone-effect surface with a pink background. The view is of the side profile, revealing the collar fasteners and the metal attachment hooks.

(Image credit: Future)

Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 review: Price & specs

The Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 sits on a stone-effect surface with a pink background. The view is of the base of the charging panel, revealing the USB-C port. The collar fasteners and the metal attachment hooks are also visible.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2?

Buy it if…

You want peace of mind on bumpy roads
After a couple of months of testing on my daily commute, I didn't encounter any issues with the phone dismounting or the charger becoming unstable, which has been particularly impressive considering the road conditions here. So, if you're looking for a secure MagSafe charger, you won't be disappointed.

You want something inconspicuous
With an oval-shaped charging pad, a soft sheen finish, and no distracting lights, this car charger doesn't draw attention or cause distractions from reflections or bright lights whether your phone is in situ or not.

Don't buy it if…

You think your car vents won't be compatible
There's no true one-size-fits-all guarantee, so if you're concerned that the hooked attachment style might not suit your car, it may be safer to opt for a clip-on or stick-on MagSafe car charger instead.

You get irritated by untidy cables
It could be that it's more of an obstruction in my car, but the position of the cable makes it tricky to get to the dashboard controls and proves to be an occasional irritation when I switch gears. Some cable-tidy clips would likely resolve most of these issues, however.

Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 review: Also consider

ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger
If you have concerns about whether your car vents will accept the Pro2 Qi2's hooked attachment design, then this charger from ESR would make a good alternative. It has a clip-on design with a stabilizer attached and helpfully comes with a stick-on dashboard mount too, so there's plenty of flexibility with placement.View Deal

Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: slim, moderately priced – but not all that sturdy
11:00 pm | November 1, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review

Ugreen is a relative newcomer in the charging scene, offering similar products and designs to those of Anker. Anyone who’s familiar with that brand’s magnetic power banks will notice the similarities here, with the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank being one example.

It sports a minimal and sleek design, with smooth edges and a smart-looking off-white color (it’s also available in black). As for the interface, there’s a single button and no display – the only readout you get comes in the form of five LEDs that indicate battery level and charging status.

Similar to many of the best power banks for portability, the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank has a slim profile, which it’s able to achieve thanks to its 5,000mAh capacity. This also means it’s light, tipping the scales at just 5.11oz (145g) – although its chief rival, the Anker 621, is slightly leaner at 4.56oz (129g).

The MagSafe charging area is designed to wirelessly charge the best iPhones. It uses the Qi standard and has an output of 7.5W. During my tests, it managed to charge an iPhone 13 Pro from 50% to 100% in about an hour and forty-five minutes, losing about half of its own battery charge in the process. This puts it on a par with the aforementioned Anker 621.

However, what fails to impress is the silicone pad, as it already began showing signs of wear during my time with it. This occurred in just over a week, so this rate of deterioration doesn’t bode well. It could be argued that any rubberized pad will be susceptible to damage like this, but all I can say is that I didn’t experience the same with the PU leather material on the Anker 621. It also picks up dust and debris very easily – again, not something I witnessed with the 621.

There’s only one USB-C port on the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, which delivers 15W of power. This managed to charge a half-full Google Pixel 7a in just over an hour, depleting about half of its battery once more. Charging the bank itself from empty to full took just over two hours, which is reasonable.

The Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank costs $29 / £29 / $AU49, making it cheaper than the Anker 621, which costs $39 / £44 (about $AU57). However, the 621 comes in multiple colorways, whereas the Ugreen only comes in black or white, and the overall build quality does seem to be better, which is why we prefer the Anker model over Ugreen’s.

Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank with iPhone 13 Pro attached

(Image credit: Future)

Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: price & specs

Close-up of USB-C port on Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank?

Buy it if…

You want something simple
Simply place your MagSafe iPhone on the pad, or plug in any other device via the USB-C port, and you’re away.

You want something cheap
Ugreen undercuts its nearest rival, Anker, by a decent amount, making it a more tempting purchase.

Don't buy it if…

You want something durable
Even during my limited time with the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, it began to show signs of wear, which isn’t promising for its long-term prospects.

You have an Android
While MagSafe-compatible Android cases may allow you to use the wireless charging function, it’s not guaranteed to work.

Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank review: Also consider

Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo)
The Anker 621 is very similar to the Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, with a near-identical design and feature set. Even though it’s slightly more expensive, we do think the extra cost is worth it, as it proved more durable during our tests, with the PU leather pad maintaining its pristine condition throughout. View Deal

Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) review: a high-speed, high-quality, yet not too highly priced charging station
12:00 am | October 15, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) review

The Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) is a premium charging station that can get a swathe of exhausted devices fighting fit in no time.

This station has six charging ports: four of which are USB-C; with the other two being USB-A. It’s worth noting that power output is, unsurprisingly, asymmetrical here. The four USB-C ports each have a maximum power output of 100W, meaning you could use two of these at full capacity simultaneously. The two USB-A ports, meanwhile, only have a maximum power output of 22.5W each, though it’s totally normal for these to be weaker than their more modern, Type-C sibling.

A total power output of 200W is available here, which isn’t bad at all. In fact, I tried charging six devices at once and found the station coped perfectly well with each. While doing this, my Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 was able to get up to 100% from 0% in approximately one hour and 30 minutes – the expected timeframe.

But even if this station offers the exact speeds you’d want from one of the best Android phone chargers or best iPhone chargers, some may be hung up on one factor – the price. And sure, I’m not going to act like spending $84.99 / £79.99 / AU$149.95 on a charger isn’t a significant investment. However, if we’re talking pure value, this is actually a very fair asking price. A lot of similar competitors will set you back significantly more. For instance, the UGreen Nexode 200W GaN Desktop Charger 6-Ports has a list price of $129.99 / £129.99 (about AU$190).

It’s not only good value, though. This charging station is very much a high quality product – something you’d expect from Anker’s Prime range. The striped, textured silver outer casing looks and feels premium and the inclusion of a detachable power cord is also very welcome. On a more practical level, this station is well designed too. Safety is at the core here – there’s temperature control, current regulation and even high-voltage protection.

And now you might be wondering, reader, what’s the catch? Well, in truth there isn’t really much for me to criticize whatsoever. However, some may prefer to have some sort of display in order to track power output and you get no such thing from this station. For example, the Anker Prime Charger 6-Port Desktop Charging Station 250W has a built-in screen, allowing you to view real-time data on output, switch between power modes and more (I’ll follow-up on this in the ‘Also Consider’ section). The 250W variant also has companion app compatibility, but that's missing too.

Given the price of the Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN), though, I think the omission of a display is well worth it. And that’s the real draw here – you’re getting a no nonsense, speedy, high-quality charging station at a price that’s very reasonable. As a result, I’d totally recommend it to anyone looking to take their charging game to the next level.

Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) on stone surface against pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) review: Price & specs

Reverse side of the Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN) showing power port

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN)?

Buy it if…

You want lots of charging ports at a sensible price
This charging station isn’t exactly cheap, but value-wise it’s fantastic. You get six speedy charging ports as well as strong build quality and design. A lot of similar chargers cost far more – for instance, the UGreen Nexode 200W GaN Desktop Charger 6-Ports is $129.99 / £129.99 (about AU$190).

You need high wattage charging capabilities
Each individual USB-C charging port here has a peak power output of 100W. That’s amazing if you have more power-hungry devices or a modern handset with top charging speeds (like the OnePlus 10 Pro, for instance). And with a total maximum power output of 200W, you’ll likely have more than enough to go around six devices, if necessary.

Don't buy it if…

You only need to charge one or two devices simultaneously
If you only really need to charge your phone and say a tablet, I don’t think it’s worth shelling out all this money on a charging station. There are lots of excellent single and dual-port chargers out there that can do the job for closer to the $25 / £20 mark, so weigh up whether six ports is excessive for you or not before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

You’re looking for customizability
Unfortunately, there’s no display or companion app available here. That really limits what you can do with this charging station, which is very much a ‘what you see is what you get’ offering from Anker. See the ‘Also Consider’ section for a suitable alternative if customizability matters a lot to you.

Anker Prime Charger (200W, 6 ports, GaN): Also consider

Anker Prime Charger 6-Port Desktop Charging Station 250W
At its core, the Anker Prime Charger 6-Port Desktop Charging Station 250W pretty much does everything the 200W variant does, but with a ton of tasty additional features. The key difference is that this station has a screen, which enables you to activate port prioritization, switch between charging modes, view real-time charging data, or even mess around with secret features. Of course, you get 250W – a significant step up in power output – but maybe the best addition is companion app compatibility, which lets you control the charging station remotely over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The kicker? This thing is pretty expensive, with a list price of $169.99 / £169.99 (about AU$250). Are the extras worth around $100 / £100 more? That’s up to you... Read our full Anker Prime Charger 6-Port Desktop Charging Station 250W review. View Deal

Anker 323 Charger (33W) review: a versatile dual-port phone charger that’s a little lacking in speed
10:00 pm | October 14, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker 323 Charger (33W) review

The Anker 323 Charger (33W) is a compact and competent wall charger that can get two devices back to full battery fitness simultaneously.

Unlike some of Anker’s similar chargers, this one has two different port types: one for USB-C; another for USB-A. That gives you some versatility, especially if, like me, you don’t have all too many USB-C to USB-C cables around the house, but plenty USB-A to USB-C ones. That’s also pretty neat given the plug only comes in at $18.79 / £15.99 / AU$49.99 – which is decent value.

Charging two devices works well, too. I tried juicing up my Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 via the USB-C port alongside a DualSense Wireless Controller in the USB-A one and was satisfied with the result. My phone went from 0% to 100% in the expected timeframe (around one hour and 30 minutes) even with the USB-A port in use.

The main issue this charger may pose for you is that it’s not the most powerful. The USB-C port has a maximum power output of 20W – that’s pretty good, but it may not be enough to get super-fast charging on some of the best Samsung phones, for instance. Also, the USB-A port can only offer 12W of power, which isn’t all too strong – especially compared to some of the best Android phone chargers and best iPhone chargers. It’s common for type A ports to be weaker, sure, but 12W will likely feel quite underwhelming if you want to charge your phone in a pinch.

So, it may not be the most powerful, but how does the Anker 323 Charger (33W) fare design-wise? Well, it’s a mixed bag. Firstly, I don’t think this is the most attractive plug on the market. It follows a formula that a few of Anker’s chargers use in housing the charging element in a cube-like block and almost shoehorning the adapter and prongs on the end. As I mentioned in my Anker PowerPort III (20W) review, this isn’t my favorite look.

However, in terms of practicality, the design here is strong. Prongs are foldable, which is great if you want to take this thing for an in-pocket walk. Generally, it’s quite a small plug too making it a nice choice if you’re working with a tight space. On top of that, it uses Anker’s ActiveShield safety standard for preventing overheating.

Overall, then, this may not be the most powerful or pretty plug, but it gets a lot right in terms of practicality, versatility and value. So, if you need a combination of USB-A and USB-C but don’t have the cash to splash on, say, the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports), this is an option worth considering.

Anker 323 Charger (33W) sat on stone surface with prongs folded outwards

(Image credit: Future)

Anker 323 Charger (33W) review: Price & specs

Anker 323 Charger (33W) balanced on its side against a pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker 323 Charger (33W)?

Buy it if…

You still want to use your USB-A to USB-C/Lightning cable
A lot of handsets in the last few years have come with USB-A to USB-C charging cables, for instance. If you still want to use yours rather than shelling out for another USB-C to USB-C alternative, this is a good option.

You want to charge multiple devices at once
This wall charger is solid value-wise, particularly given that you get two charging ports. The versatility of having both USB-A and USB-C options is pleasing too, but be warned: the USB-A port has a pretty weak maximum power output of 12W.

Don't buy it if…

You want to charge at top speeds
For anyone looking for peak-charging speeds for a new handset, this charger likely won’t cut it. The USB-C port here is the faster of the two, but only has a maximum output of 20W. Phones such as the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max can charge closer to 30W, so if you want to get juiced up in a flash, look elsewhere.

You want one of the best-looking plugs
This isn’t the most chic wall charger on the market, in my view. The cube-like design, paired with latched-on prongs looks a little unusual compared to a neat cube, like the Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W), for instance. The 323 Charger (33W) only comes in Black or White too, so if you want a touch of flair design-wise, you’ll likely be unimpressed.

Anker 323 Charger (33W): Also consider

UGreen USB-C 40W
This is another dual-port charger, but it offers a touch more power at a still-solid price-point. OK, both ports are USB-C, so the higher maximum wattage is perhaps unsurprising, but nonetheless, if you’re hoping to revive multiple devices a little faster, this will be better for you. It also has a neater design in my opinion, with a more fluid look than the Anker alternative. You still get foldable prongs and a small build here, so you don’t have to sacrifice on practicality. Read our full UGreen USB-C 40W review. View Deal

Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) review: get your desk in order with this highly integrated dock
8:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) review

The Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) is a highly integrated dock that provides a neat, more efficient way to manage all your devices.

First of all, this is much more than just a charger. This station includes two HDMI ports, enabling dual 4K displays, but that’s not all. There are multiple USB-C and USB-A ports that enable quick data transfer. Two of the USB-C ports support 10Gbps data transfer, although it’s worth noting that only one USB-A port can match this, with the other three restricted to 480Mbps. On top of this, you get a 3.5mm audio, ethernet, and upstream port – the latter can be used to connect the station to your laptop or PC.

This is a pretty comprehensive set of options – with the only obvious exception being an SD or MicroSD card reader. This is a pretty minor issue though, especially given you can buy an external reader to insert into one of the USB-C ports.

One of the highlights here is the trio of dedicated charging ports – ideal for juicing up all sorts of devices, including some of the best power banks or the best phones. Two of these are USB-C and have a maximum power output of 100W each, with an additional USB-A port offering a maximum output of 12W. When I tried plugging in my Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, fast charging activated, enabling the device to go from 0% to 100% in under 1 hour and 30 minutes – the expected timeframe. By pressing the button on top of the station you can switch between an overview of output across all ports, or just view data concerning one port.

How does this 14-in-1 station fare design-wise, though? Well, I was a fan of its slim, tower-like look and textured metal outer-casing. However, there are some minor disappointments: the screen is quite small and has fewer built-in options than Anker’s 6-Port Desktop Charging Station and the power cable is attached, meaning it’s not perfectly compact when packing into a bag. The front of the station is made from plastic and admittedly looks a little cheap, but it’s not particularly grating to the eye. The configuration of the ports does make the design very practical though and I found my desk was neater with the station in use, a key benefit of the product.

Finally, it’s worth acknowledging that this station – although by no means inexpensive at $249.99 / £199.99 (about AU$360) – is pretty good value. Competitors like UGreen’s 13-in-1 Docking Station or Lenovo’s ThinkPad Thunderbolt 4 Workstation Dock are considerably more expensive. Overall, this is a competent, well-equipped, practical dock that will meet the needs of most professionals seeking out a more efficient and tidy way to manage their devices.

Screen on the front of the Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W)

(Image credit: Future)

Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) review: Price & specs

Reverse side of the Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W)

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W)?

Buy it if…

You need a highly integrated dock
Anker’s 14-in-1 docking station is much more than just a desktop charger. Of course, you do get both USB-A and USB-C ports dedicated to charging, but there are a ton of options to take advantage of. You can get 4K, 60Hz displays thanks to two HDMI ports, transfer data quickly with 10Gbps USB-C ports and much more.

You want to charge lots of devices at once
If you have laptops, phones, tablets or other devices you’d like to charge simultaneously, this dock is a very decent option for you. It has two USB-C ports with maximum power output potential of 100W as well as a 12W USB-A port. The data transfer ports also charge your devices while in use, though they won’t get to work as quickly as the 100W USB-C ones.

Don't buy it if…

You only care about charging
If your only aim is to charge lots of devices at once, this is the wrong product for you. Sure, you can charge lots of devices simultaneously, but Anker has a couple of 6-in-1 charging stations that are better-suited to this task.

You’re on a budget
This 14-in-1 dock won’t exactly come cheap, carrying a list price of $249.99 / £199.99. And again, if you’re only really interested in charging, there are plenty of other cheaper solutions available. With that said, a lot of similar products, such as UGreen’s 13-in-1 docking station, are even more expensive than this – so you’re still getting decent value here.

Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W): Also consider

UGREEN Revodok Max 313 4K@60Hz 13-IN-1 Docking Station
If you want a super-practical, well-rounded dock this is another great option. UGreen’s 13-in-1 dock has multiple charging ports, triple 4K@60Hz displays, but crucially, supports 40Gbps data transfer thanks to a Thunderbolt 4 port. The only issue is that this alternative is considerably more expensive, with a list price of $349.99 / £349.99 (about AU$510).View Deal

Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review: a pricey but high-quality tri-port plug
6:00 pm | October 13, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review

The Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) is a premium multi-port charger that will get your devices juiced up in no time. With three ports – two of which are USB-C and one is USB-A – it’s the ideal solution if you’re someone that needs to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Let's say you’re out and about and need to charge your phone, laptop, and wireless earbuds. This charger would easily get your devices back to full charge quickly, thanks to a maximum total power output of 100W. That’s definitely going to be more than enough power for the vast majority of people. It’s worth noting, though, that individually, the single USB-A port only has a maximum output of 22.5W, compared to the 100W of the USB-C ports – so bear that in mind when charging more power-hungry devices.

Thanks to its high power output, you’ll be able to fast charge devices, or even super-fast charge them, if they’re compatible with this. For instance, my Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, which is capable of super-fast charging, went from 0% to 100% in less than one hour and 30 minutes – even with two PS5 controllers charging alongside it. That’s the sort of speeds you'd expect from the best Android phone chargers or best iPhone chargers.

Given how much power this charger offers, it’s decently compact. Don’t get me wrong, it's not super tiny and lightweight, but compared to competitors that offer around 100W of power, this is nicely sized. The charger has foldable prongs too, which is ideal if you want to carry it in your pocket.

Overall, this is a well-designed plug. It has a sleek, silver exterior that is decently nice to look at, although there are no other color options available. It's well designed on a technical level too, with Anker’s ActiveShield 2.0 safety tech able to monitor temperature and adjust power output, creating a more secure charging experience.

Let’s tackle the elephant in the room though, which is price. This charger is $84.99 / £79.99 (about AU$120) – that’s by no means inexpensive. Not only that, but there are a decent amount of similar products out there at a considerably lower price. For instance, the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port GaN Fast Charger is only $64.98 / £59.99 – more on this later. Overall though, the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) is still a great multi-port charger and is certain to offer excellent performance and practicality, even when you’re on-the-go.

Front of the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) with prongs folded

(Image credit: Future)

Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review: Price & specs

Top of the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports)

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports)?

Buy it if…

You need to charge multiple devices simultaneously
This charger has three ports and offers a maximum power output of 100W. That’s going to be more than enough to get devices such as smartphones, wireless earbuds or headphones and a tablet juiced up quickly, all at once.

You’re in the market for something more premium
You get plenty of capacity here, but that’s not all. This is a well-built, sleek, compact charger with higher build quality than most cheap alternatives. This does mean, of course, you have to pay a fairly steep price.

Don't buy it if…

You only need a phone charger
If you’re only really going to charge your phone or can stomach the concept of juicing up one device at a time, this isn’t the best choice for you. That’s because there are so many great single-port options on the market. For instance, the Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W) is a fantastic, stylish single-port charger that will only cost a fraction of this plug’s price.

You’re looking for a cheap option
If you’re in the market for a cheap multi-port charger, this isn’t it. This plug is part of Anker’s Prime range and there are plenty of cheaper high-wattage, multi-port alternatives available on Amazon (and beyond).

Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review: Also consider

UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port GaN Fast Charger
Ok, so you want a decently powerful multi-port charger, but this option from Anker is just a bit out of your budget. Enter the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port GaN Fast Charger. This isn’t quite as compact as Anker’s alternative and only one of the USB-C ports can get up to 100W maximum output, but these are going to be minor issues for the majority of people. At $64.98 / £59.99 (about AU$90), you’re getting a good quality plug for substantially less.View Deal

Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad review: the cure for my last-minute iPhone charging woes
11:00 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad review

The Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad is reasonably priced at $24.99 / £24.99 / AU$49.95, so it's roughly the same price as a similar charging pad from ESR. Although I can't speak for its charging speeds, the ESR caught my eye as it has a reinforced cable base, and braided nylon around the wire, potentially giving it more longevity than the Anker equivalent, but I'll touch more on this later.

Equipped with Wireless PowerIQ, Anker's signature wireless fast charging, the speed at which the MagGo Wireless Charger Pad juiced up an iPhone 13 Pro was satisfying. It took just two hours and ten minutes to charge it fully, and it charged both AirPods Pro 2, and Motorola Moto Buds+ cases happily.

The magnetic attachment is satisfyingly strong. I was able to shake the phone about vigorously multiple times without the pad shifting more than a tiny amount from side to side. I also tested the magnet's strength by hanging the pad, with the phone attached, by its cable, and the phone stayed put – which is great, even for one of the best iPhone chargers. When it doesn't stay put, on the other hand, is when it's placed on a flat, smooth surface. As the concept behind this particular charger's design appears to be for it to be easy to hold, I can forgive Anker for this.

Due to its slim depth and curved base, it was pleasantly easy to continue to use my phone as it charged. I have rather small hands, and I didn't feel like it was particularly disrupting the way I'd usually hold my phone, which made a welcome change from the power banks I often use for this purpose.

One small negative I have to raise is that the integrated power cable was a little annoying. Because it's not removable, it makes it a little more tricky when you're trying to pack it up when heading out. I've not had it long enough to observe this, but my concern is that the first section of flexible cable that comes out of the pad could become worn over time –though this is only my speculation. My rationale is that if Mous managed to fit a USB-C port in the slimmest part of their low-cost MagSafe Compatible 3-In-1 Portable Charger, then I'd have thought that it'd be plausible for Anker to have done this too.

Overall though, this is a simple but satisfying MagSafe charger. I found it minimally disruptive and nice to hold as I continued to use my phone while replenishing its life force, and when left to charge my phone without me using it, the charging time was good for the price. If you're looking for something cheap but practical because your phone rarely leaves your hand, I'd recommend taking a look at the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad. However, if you're in the market for something a little different, we have a variety of other chargers to check out in our pick of the best wireless chargers.

The back of the Anker Wireless Charging Pad, which is sitting on a grey stone-effect surface, against a light pink background.

(Image credit: Future)

Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad review: Price & specs

The side of the Anker Wireless Charging Pad, which is sitting on a grey stone-effect surface, against a light pink background.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad?

Buy it if…

You want a comfortable solution
Due to its small and curved design, it's satisfyingly easy to hold as you continue to use your phone. I have small hands, and I found it a convenient alternative to larger options, like wireless power banks.

You want something small and light
Despite my niggles with the cable, the charger is light and compact, so you won't need to awkwardly cart about a charging stand.

Don't buy it if…

You want to take it out with you regularly
As the cable is fixed into the charging pad, it isn't the best choice if you regularly want to pack it away. You might be more organized than me, and be happy to fold up the cable each time and neatly secure it, but if you want to just chuck it in your bag, it's not as convenient to pull it back out as it would be if you could pack the pad and cable separately.

You want a secure desktop charger
This charger is perfect for hand-held use, but it isn't the best choice for desktop charging. With no anti-slip elements, and a smooth and slightly curved base, there's no chance of it staying put if the phone gets knocked or the cable gets pulled.

Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad review: Also consider

Apple MagSafe Charger
If you're a die-hard Apple consumer, then you'll be happy to know that there's an official Apple charging pad available to purchase at Amazon. Providing up to 15W of power, it's compatible with the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 12, and iPhone 12 Pro. It currently features as the best Apple MagSafe charger in our selection of the best wireless chargers. View Deal

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