Solid-State Battery Tested: Lithium-Ion Feels Outdated
▼ Summary
– The BMX SolidSafe 5K is a 5,000mAh wireless power bank that uses solid-state cells, which are far less flammable than traditional lithium-ion batteries.
– It is designed for iPhone compatibility with a Qi2-standard magnetic wireless charger offering up to 15W and includes a USB-C port supporting up to 20W output and pass-through charging.
– The power bank features a clear color display for power levels and comes with a lanyard that doubles as a USB-C cable, adding to its convenience and premium feel.
– At $79.99, it is more expensive than typical power banks, positioning it for users who prioritize safety, such as travelers or first responders.
– The article confirms its safety through a destructive test where puncturing the charged cells only resulted in minor smoke, with no fire or explosion.
For anyone seeking a truly safe and portable charging solution, the BMX SolidSafe 5K power bank presents a compelling, albeit premium, option. This device leverages solid-state battery technology, a significant advancement that dramatically reduces the fire risk associated with traditional lithium-ion cells. While the $80 price tag positions it as a niche product for safety-conscious users, its performance and thoughtful design make a strong case for its value.
Having tested numerous power banks over the years, I’ve grown accustomed to the inherent trade-offs of lithium-ion batteries. They offer affordability and high energy density, but their flammable liquid electrolyte presents a well-documented safety hazard. The SolidSafe 5K addresses this fundamental concern by replacing that volatile component with a stable, non-flammable solid electrolyte. This core innovation is the product’s main selling point.
Designed to complement an iPhone, the unit is remarkably slim and lightweight. It features a built-in magnetic wireless charger compliant with the Qi2 standard, delivering up to 15W for efficient charging. The magnets provide a secure hold, ensuring the phone stays connected. For wired charging, a single USB-C port offers a maximum output of 20W. A particularly useful feature is pass-through charging, allowing you to replenish the power bank via USB-C while it simultaneously charges a device wirelessly. This is perfect for travelers who want to minimize clutter and charge everything overnight with one outlet.
A clear color display shows battery level and charging metrics, adding a premium feel and practical utility. The included lanyard cleverly integrates a USB-C cable, so you’re less likely to be caught without a charging cord. The SolidSafe 5K is part of a broader ecosystem, with BMX also offering a higher-capacity 10K model and multi-bay docking stations for charging several units at once.
The critical question, of course, is just how safe these solid-state cells really are. To find out, I conducted a destructive test, something you should never attempt yourself. After taking precautions, I deliberately punctured a fully charged cell with a screwdriver. The result was reassuringly uneventful; the cell released only a few puffs of smoke with no flames or violent reaction, starkly contrasting with the dangerous thermal runaway typical of damaged lithium-ion batteries.
When considering a purchase, it’s important to acknowledge the cost. At $79.99, the SolidSafe 5K commands a higher price than most conventional power banks with similar capacity. This premium is due to its nascent technology, and prices will likely decrease as solid-state batteries become more common. However, given the entrenched position and low cost of lithium-ion, a wholesale replacement isn’t imminent.
This power bank won’t be for everyone, but for specific users, the investment is justified. If you frequently travel, engage in activities like cycling or motorcycling where a battery failure could be catastrophic, or work as a first responder, the enhanced safety of solid-state technology offers invaluable peace of mind. The BMX SolidSafe 5K proves that a safer, more stable future for portable power is already here.
(Source: ZDNET)
