OtterBox has recently expanded its product line and is now providing power bank options for charging your mobile devices on the go. Well-known for cell phone cases and dry boxes that can take a beating, do their power storage batteries and cables follow suit?
The slim Mobile Charging Kit can be stored in any vehicle console or a pouch on a motorcycle. This unit fits in the palm of your hand and has a solid feel. The charger stores 5,000 mAh (milliampere-hour), providing up to 14 hours of battery life for a smartphone, 8 hours for a small tablet, and 4 hours for a large tablet. The included 3 in 1 cable charges this battery pack and has adaptors that can be joined together to charge the new Power Bank or any other devices with USB-C, Lightning, or Micro USB ports.
I also tested the Fast Charge Power Bank, which is robust and provides a quick charge to manage a cache of devices at once using USB-C 18-watt and USB-A 18-watt delivery. The textured base makes it easy to grip while maintaining an attractive look. This unit stores 10,000 mAh, offering up to 30 hours of battery life for a smartphone, 18 hours for a small tablet, and 9 hours for a large tablet.
For the occasional hotel or hostel stay, the Fast Charge Dual Port Wall Charger with 30-watt capability has sleek, durable styling and proven drop protection. OtterBox’s gold band indicates their quick-charge rating, up to 3.6 times faster than the standard. The Lightning to USB-C Fast Charge Cable pairs perfectly with the wall charger and provides ample length at 2 meters/6.6 feet to charge your device while in use. The tangle- and fray-resistant construction is engineered to last and survives a 10,000 bend test. Delivering up to 60 watts of power, it allows charging up to 4 times faster than standard 15-watt cables.
The Lightning to USB-C Fast Charge Car Charging Kit offers the ideal length at 1 meter/3.3 feet to charge a cell phone while in a hands-free bracket or console. Excess cordage remains tangle-free with an adjustable Velcro wrap. The 18-watt output charges up to 3.6 times faster than the 5-watt industry standard. The compact, durable design is drop and vibration tested and is built for the road. However, in my Tacoma outlet, I found that the fit in the 12-volt receptacle is loose and became disconnected on long stretches of tough terrain.
Overall, all components are as durable as expected and both the Power Bank and the Mobile Charging Kit charge in less time than it takes to get a restful night’s sleep. Each of these options is compatible with many well-known devices.
$33 and up | otterbox.com
Contributor’s Note: During my research, I found that OtterBox gives back in more ways than providing mobile power solutions. otterbox.com/givingback
