Askborg ChargeCube 20,800mAh and 10,400mAh external batteries [Review]
I tend to use my smartphone more than usual when I'm away, so before I go on a trip I make sure to throw an external battery in my bag. That way, if my device is about to run out of juice early I can plug it in and get enough charge to last me through the day.
Because I want to charge my smartphone a couple of times or two smartphones at the same time, I prefer larger external batteries. Askborg's ChargeCube 20,800mAh and 10,400mAh models meet this requirement, featuring two full-sized USB ports and big-enough batteries inside to keep me happy for a few days. I've tested both to see whether they're worth your attention.
The ChargeCube series includes three distinct options, namely the 5,200mAh, 10,400mAh (shown above) and 20,800mAh models. Although they share the same name, each seems to be designed for a different purpose.
The 5,200mAh external battery is the most pocketable, but only has a single USB port for charging. The 10,400mAh ChargeCube has a boxier design and two full-sized USB ports. Last but not least, the 20,800mAh model improves upon the mid-range offering by adding a small display which reveals the battery charge and charging status.
The most-balanced option, in terms of capacity and size, is the 10,400mAh ChargeCube. It measures 10.3 x 7.7 x 2.2cm (4.1 x 3.0 x 0.9in) and weighs 256g (9oz). It's closer to the 5,200mAh model -- which comes in at 10 x 5 x 2.8cm (3.9 x 2 x 1in) and 140g (5oz) -- in size, but offers twice the capacity.
The 20,800 monster (shown below) is the biggest and heaviest of the three, by far, measuring 16.3 x 7.9 x 2.2cm (6.4 x 3.1 x 0.9in) and weighing 493g (17.4oz). But it is also the best option if you need to charge a couple of devices or just need to charge a large smartphone or tablet a few times.
I cannot comment on how the 5,200mAh model performs, but both the 10,400mAh and 20,800mAh ChargeCube external batteries have worked great for me. I prefer the range-topper because it has the biggest battery -- and because the size does not bother me -- but the mid-range option is more than enough if I only need to charge my Samsung Galaxy S7 edge.
The 10,400mAh ChargeCube does not have the display that its big brother comes with, but there are four status LEDs to let you know how much charge it has left. It has a leather-like finish, so it looks a bit less industrial, whereas the 20,800mAh ChargeCube has a smooth, metal feel.
Both the 10,400 and 20,800 ChargeCube external batteries have what Askborg calls Speed ID. That's a port which adapts the charging depending on the device, so if your smartphone can handle more it will get more amps. The second port charges devices at 2.1A, which is the same as you would find on a standard, non-fast-charging, wall adapter.
There are no USB cables supplied in the box, so you will have to use your own. Alternatively, Askborg sells nylon braided microUSB and Lightning cables that are more durable than what manufacturers include with their smartphones and tablets.
Now, let's talk about price. The 20,800mAh ChargeCube sells for $29.99 in US, €30.99 in Germany and £30.99 in UK, on Amazon. The 10,400mAh ChargeCube is available on Amazon for $15.99 in US, €16.99 in Germany and £16.99 in UK. Last but not least, the 5,200mAh ChargeCube can be had on Amazon for $11.99 in US, €10.99 in Germany and £9.99 in UK.
But Askborg has kindly provided a 15 percent discount for every product it sells on Amazon US, Germany, and UK. Enter the "BETANEWS" code during check-out to take advantage of it.
Photo Credit: Mihăiță Bamburic