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A number of months ago I had the chance to review the Powermat Wireless Charging System for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. I concluded that I liked the “wow” factor, was impressed by the fact that it actually works but found it to be a bit on the pricey side… especially since this isn’t something you actually NEED.
Well Powermat was kind enough to send one of their Powermat Bundles for review. It solves the cost issue by letting you jump into the world of Powermat for less than $70.
Let’s take a look…
From Powermat-
Everything you need to wirelessly charge your iPhone! Simple Steps to Hassle-Free Charging: Plug in your Powermat 1XA (just once), Place the Receiver Case onto your iPhone, Set your iPhone on the mat to charge
What’s In the Package-
1XA Wireless Charging Mat for iPhone
The 1XA Mat is designed specifically for the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G. Its low-profile design and diminutive dimensions allow the 1XA Mat to be placed wherever you want convenient charging while the unique surface geometry fits the Powermat Receiver Cases for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G perfectly assuring proper alignment and fast, efficient charging every time. (Also works with Powermat-enabled iPod touch).
Receiver Case for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G
Powermat’s Receiver Case for iPhone protects your iPhone 3GS or iPhone 3G and allows it to charge wirelessly on the 1XA Mat. The case also features a micro USB port and a micro USB cable (included for data syncing).
Power Adapter
The Powermat power adapter will work with a wide range of voltages (100-240VAC) making it truly international. This adapter also meets Energy Star level 5 efficiency requirements. Built-in cord management keeps your charging area clean and neat.
My Thoughts-
I liked the Powermat system when I first saw it. As I noted at the beginning of this post, pretty much every time I went to use it I had a “wow” experience. It really is impressive and, better still, it really does work.
My issues with the system came down to two specific areas.
The first was the need to use a special iPhone case. (I go through a thorough description of it in this video from my original review. The case is discussed at 4:20 into the video.)
The case remains the same and I continue to have the same issue. The iPhone 3GS is by no means a small phone and using the case adds noticeable weight and thickness. It isn’t a major issue but you have to decide if the trade of f of cutting the cords vs adding some weight is worth it to you. I continue to hope that PowerMat’s next version of the iPhone case has a thinner, less pronounced back plate.
The second issue I had was the actual cost of the system. This kit all but removes that issue since, for an MSRP of $69.99, you get a complete system. When you consider the fact that an Incase Slider costs $34.95 and other quality cases cost that much or more having the added benefit of wireless charging for just $35 is well worth the expense.
Unlike the prior system I reviewed this Powermat has only one spot to charge on device at a time. I actually prefer this single version since it sits on my desk without taking up much space. I also like the fact that the mat’s design fits the plate on the back of the iPhone receiver perfectly. With the other versions you needed to “learn” the right position for contact to be made. Not so here since the connection is made perfectly each time thanks to the design.
The Powermat Wireless Charging System for iPhone 3G/3GS has an MSRP of $69.99 and comes with free ground shipping when purchased through the Powermat website.
If you are still using an iPhone 3G or 3GS it is definitely worth a look.
What I Like: Continues to give me a feeling of “WOW!” each time I use it, truly allows you to cut the various jumble of cords, VERY well designed and built, this system makes getting started with the system reasonably priced
What Needs Improvement: Receivers adds bulk, weight and bulge,
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