Mophie Powerstation Plus XL Review
The Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is a versatile and reliable portable charger designed to keep your devices powered on the go. With a substantial 12,000mAh battery capacity, it can provide multiple charges for smartphones, tablets, and other USB-enabled devices. The Powerstation Plus XL features an integrated, switch-tip charging cable that supports both Apple Lightning and Micro USB connections, eliminating the need for carrying extra cables. Its compact and sleek design ensures easy portability, while the premium fabric finish adds a touch of elegance and durability. Equipped with Priority+ Charging, it enables pass-through charging, allowing your device to charge before the power bank itself. An LED power indicator conveniently displays the remaining battery life, making it a perfect companion for travel and daily use.
With the increasing reliance on smartphones and other portable devices, having a reliable power bank has become essential for many. Enter the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL, a versatile and robust portable charger designed to provide extra juice for your devices when you're on the go. In this review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, and overall value of the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL to see if it lives up to the hype.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things you'll notice about the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is its sleek and premium design. The device features a high-quality aluminum finish that not only looks sophisticated but also feels sturdy and durable. At 5.9 x 3.3 x 0.7 inches and weighing around 0.8 pounds, it's portable enough to carry in a bag or even a large pocket, but it does have a bit more heft to it compared to some other power banks in its class.
The build quality is impeccable, with a smooth surface and rounded edges that make it comfortable to hold. The integrated Lightning and USB-C cables are a thoughtful addition, eliminating the need to carry extra cables. The cables conveniently tuck into the side of the power bank, maintaining a clean look when not in use. Additionally, there's a USB-A port for charging other devices, adding to its versatility.
Battery Capacity and Charging Performance
The Mophie Powerstation Plus XL boasts a 12,000mAh battery capacity, which is substantial enough to charge most smartphones multiple times. For instance, it can charge an iPhone 12 up to 2.5 times and an iPad mini once. This makes it a reliable companion for long trips, busy workdays, or times when you simply can't get to a wall outlet.
In terms of charging performance, the Powerstation Plus XL supports fast charging with its 18W USB-C PD (Power Delivery) output. This means you can quickly juice up your devices, which is especially handy when you're in a rush. The integrated Lightning cable is MFi-certified, ensuring compatibility and safe charging for Apple devices. The USB-A port delivers a standard 12W output, which is adequate for a wide range of devices.
The power bank itself can be recharged via the USB-C port, and with an 18W input, it doesn't take too long to get it back to full capacity. On average, it takes around 3-4 hours to fully recharge, which is reasonable given its large battery capacity. The LED power indicator on the side helps you keep track of the remaining battery life, so you're never caught off guard.
Integrated Cables and Versatility
One of the standout features of the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is the integrated Lightning and USB-C cables. This thoughtful design element means you don't have to worry about carrying extra cables or dealing with tangled cords. The cables are neatly stowed away when not in use, making the power bank more convenient and reducing the chance of losing them.
The inclusion of both Lightning and USB-C cables makes this power bank incredibly versatile, catering to both Apple and Android users. Whether you need to charge an iPhone, iPad, Android smartphone, or even a USB-C laptop in a pinch, the Powerstation Plus XL has you covered. The additional USB-A port further enhances its versatility, allowing you to charge three devices simultaneously.
Safety and Protection
Mophie has incorporated several safety features into the Powerstation Plus XL to ensure the protection of your devices. The power bank includes advanced circuitry to prevent overcharging, short-circuiting, and overheating. These safety measures provide peace of mind, allowing you to charge your devices without worrying about potential damage.
Value for Money
Retailing at around $100, the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum for power banks. However, considering its premium build quality, integrated cables, large battery capacity, and fast charging capabilities, it offers good value for money. The convenience of having both Lightning and USB-C cables integrated into the device is a significant selling point, potentially saving you money and hassle in the long run.
Conclusion
Overall, the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile power bank. Its premium design, substantial battery capacity, fast charging capabilities, and integrated cables make it a standout product in a crowded market. While it is slightly more expensive than some competitors, the added convenience and peace of mind it offers make it worth the investment.
Whether you're a frequent traveler, a busy professional, or just someone who uses their devices heavily throughout the day, the Mophie Powerstation Plus XL is a dependable companion that ensures you stay powered up when you need it most.
