8 Consumer Reports-Approved Gadgets Under $50
▼ Summary
– Anker’s Nano Portable Charger has a 5,000 mAh battery, 22.5-watt fast charging, and weighs only 3.5 ounces with compact dimensions.
– It features a built-in pop-up USB-C connector, eliminating the need for a separate cable.
– The charger can be used normally while connected to a phone, and a side USB-C slot allows charging a second device at 18 watts.
– A drawback is that the pop-up connector can sometimes pop out of the charging slot unexpectedly.
– iPhone users must use a separate USB-C cable to charge their phone, but the $26.99 price makes these issues minor.
A compact power bank that eliminates the need for a separate cable? That is exactly what the Anker Nano Portable Charger delivers, earning it a Consumer Reports ‘Smart Buy’ designation. While many portable chargers force users to juggle a bulky battery pack and a loose USB-C cord, this 5,000 mAh device streamlines the experience with a built-in, pop-up connector. Weighing just 3.5 ounces and measuring a mere 3 inches long, 1.5 inches wide, and 1 inch thick, it is designed for true on-the-go convenience. Its 22.5-watt power output supports very fast charging, making it a surprisingly capable gadget for its size and price point.
The real innovation here is the integrated USB-C connector that slides out when needed and retracts when not in use. This eliminates the hassle of carrying an extra cable. The design is so seamless that you can plug the charger directly into your phone and use the device normally, without dangling wires. A side USB-C port handles recharging the power bank itself, and it can also charge a second device via a separate cable. However, be aware that the output drops to 18 watts when powering two devices simultaneously.
While the pop-up mechanism feels sturdy, the charger has a tendency to occasionally slide out of its charging slot. iPhone users should also note that this model requires a separate USB-C cable to charge their devices. Priced at just $26.99, these minor drawbacks are easy to overlook for anyone seeking a truly portable and cable-free charging solution.
(Source: BGR)
