This $20 MagSafe charger for my iPhone has an unexpected bonus feature
MagSafe chargers are an excellent way to extend your iPhone’s battery life, helping it last through the day. I use them regularly, and there have been many times when they’ve saved the day.
The only downside is they can be pricey. For example, my current traveling companion, the Sharge CarbonMag 5K, is a 5,000mAh/17.25Wh unit that costs $60. It’s hard to put a price on fully-charged devices, but that might be more than you want to spend.
Also: This prism-shaped power bank I tested looks odd, but it makes so much sense
What if I said you could grab a MagSafe power bank made by a reputable company with twice the capacity? The Zendure Supermini Q offers all that and more.
At 10,000mAh capacity, this is one of the bigger MagSafe power banks, and it’s rather chunky, measuring 4.3 x 2.7 x 0.69 inches and 0.49 pounds. It’s not the biggest power bank around, but it’s quite large for a MagSafe charger that you’ll be carrying around.
The Zendure Supermini Q is not a small, thin power bank.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
That being said, the MagSafe connection is solid, holding it in place when the iPhone is in a pocket or bag. And operation is as simple as it gets: just attach the unit to an iPhone and charging begins automatically.
Regarding the device’s build, things are pretty simple. There’s a single button on the side to activate the LED power indicator, and a USB-C port that functions as both an input (18W max) and an output (20W max), along with a USB-A port that serves as an output only (22.5W max).
Just note that the power bank does not support simultaneous wired and wireless charging.
Also: The best portable power stations you can buy
On the back of the Supermini Q is a foldable kickstand that allows you to position your iPhone vertically or horizontally at a comfortable viewing angle. This is particularly handy for hands-free calls, watching videos or movies, or using your iPhone on a nightstand.
Additionally, you can charge the Supermini Q itself while it charges your iPhone, making it a convenient nightstand companion that prepares you for the next day’s use.
The kickstand is super useful, and folds away flat when not in use.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
As I’d expect from Zendure, this is an excellent product. Everything works as advertised, and it doesn’t generate too much heat while in use, certainly not enough to become uncomfortable.
ZDNET’s buying advice
No fuss, no gimmicks, the Zendure Supermini Q is an excellent MagSafe power bank, with a charge capacity that’ll keep your iPhone in the game all day. Yes, it’s a little on the big size, but if you don’t mind carrying it around, it’s worth it.
One thing that isn’t big about the Supermini Q is the price. Currently, you can pick one up from Amazon for $21.60 (just remember to click the 20% off coupon). Even at the full price, it’s a fair ask for a charger with this capacity and features.
