Early last spring we presented a Head to Head feature pitting a Goal Zero Switch 8 against the lesser known New Trent iCarrier. Judging by the feedback we received, there is a great deal of interest in portable chargers. This is not surprising given our dependence on the power greedy gadgets we have all grown to love and need.
Popular as that piece was, we thought we’d take a look at New Trent’s latest power pack, cleverly dubbed the PowerPak+. The iCarrier we previously reviewed was already impressive with 12000 mAh of power. The new PowerPak+ ups that number to 13500 mAh and includes upgraded features. Like the iCarrier, the PowerPak+ can be cycled 500 times thanks to its advanced Lithium Ion Polymer battery. It can also charge two devices simultaneously via two 5v USB ports. New Trent even went the extra step to ensure dual charging would not degrade charging times. Capable of charging most smart phones up to six times, the PowerPak+ can also charge many of the popular tablets on the market. If our experience of the iCarrier is any indicator, the PowerPak+ will be a highly successful release for New Trent.
Previous New Trent power packs were charged via a proprietary charging plug, and Expedition Portal readers being such a savvy lot, quickly pegged that as a potential problem. The PowerPak+ now features a micro-USB charging port. It’s worthy of mention that the new iCarrier also features a micro-USB input port.
At only 10 ounces, the PowerPak+ is light, compact, and even constructed with the same fingerprint resistant plastic as the iCarrier. It’s a solid device ready to take on the hard knocks of overland travel. Not that the rounded shape of the iCarrier was an issue, the blockish shape of the PowerPak+ almost seems easier to handle and use. At $69.95 it’s also an impressive value.
Pros:
- Impressive 13500 mAh power
- Dual USB charging ports
- New micro-USB input charging port
- Excellent materials and construction
- Impressive value
Cons:
- Uh….that’s a tough one.
