Belkin Launches First Semi-Solid-State Power Bank
▼ Summary
– Belkin has launched its first power banks featuring semi-solid-state battery technology, joining competitors like BMX and Zens in this emerging market segment.
– The new BoostSolid Cell technology utilizes a gel-like layer to extend lifespan by up to three times while reducing overheating risks compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
– The smaller UltraCharge Pro Slim model offers 5,000mAh capacity for $69.99, providing magnetic wireless charging at 15W and USB-C output at 22.5W.
– The larger UltraCharge Pro model provides 10,000mAh capacity for $89.99, supporting up to 60W single-device charging and including a display for monitoring status.
– While more expensive than standard power banks, Belkin claims the longer functional lifespan and improved safety features justify the premium pricing.
Belkin has officially entered the semi-solid-state battery market, launching its first power banks that utilize this advanced technology. By joining early adopters like BMX, Kuxiu, and Zens, Belkin is introducing a new generation of accessories designed for superior longevity and safety. The company states that these new units are “engineered to last up to 3x longer than other power banks” due to the inclusion of a “gel-like layer” combined with the standard liquid electrolyte found in traditional lithium-ion cells.
This innovation, dubbed BoostSolid Cell, aims to mitigate common issues associated with portable charging, such as overheating, swelling, and fire risks. Additionally, the technology ensures stable power delivery across a broader spectrum of temperatures. While these premium-priced models cost more than conventional equivalents, Belkin argues that the extended functional lifespan justifies the higher initial investment.
The entry-level option is the UltraCharge Pro Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5K Qi2 15W. Priced at $69.99, this device features a 5,000mAh capacity and is marketed as being 40 percent slimmer than comparable standard power banks. It is designed to magnetically attach to compatible smartphones, providing wireless charging at speeds up to 15W. For wired connections, the USB-C port supports output up to 22.5W. However, users should note that simultaneous charging reduces performance significantly; powering two devices drops wireless output to just 5W and wired output to 12W.
For those requiring greater capacity, Belkin offers the UltraCharge Pro Power Bank 10K 60W with Display. This larger model holds a 10,000mAh battery and costs $89.99, representing a $20 premium over the smaller version. Leveraging the higher energy density of semi-solid-state cells, it remains compact despite doubling the storage. When charging a single device via USB-C, it delivers up to 60W. Connecting multiple devices through its dual USB-C ports and single USB-A port will reduce the total output accordingly. A distinctive feature of this model is its integrated screen, which displays real-time data including charge level, current power output, and internal temperature, catering to users who value detailed monitoring capabilities.
(Source: The Verge)
