If you have a newer iPhone and Apple Watch combination that you use (and charge) daily, you’re going to want to check out the Pitaka MagDock. It’s a ready-to-travel all-in-one wireless charger and dock for both those items and more.
There are two versions of the MagDock available — MagDock (as low as $49) and MagDock Pro (as low as $64). Best I can tell, the only difference between the two is that the Pro version includes a built-in 7,800mAh battery so that you can use the MagDock as a wireless charger on the go. At 3.6″ tall by 3.5″ wide (at the base), the MagDock is a bit more cumbersome than the average pocket-sized portable battery, but I think it’s always good to have a bit of backup power available because you never know when it might come in handy.
Included with every MagDock are two Apple watch adapters (one for the 38mm and one for the 42mm version), a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, and a 30W wall charger; this is everything you need to power your MacBook, iPhone, and Apple Watch away from home. If you do plan on traveling with the MagDock, the optional zippered travel pouch ($7) is well worth adding at checkout.
The Pitaka MagDock is composed of matte white plastic with what appears to be a woven Aramid top.
On the bottom, there is a non-slip nano gel base.
On the back side of the MagDock, there is a Type-C USB port for plugging the dock in for use. If you have the MagDock Pro, you can also use this port for charging your Type-C phone or tablet.
On the right side, there is a charging hollow built into the side of the MagDock that will hold your 38 or 42mm Apple Watch. Depending upon which watch you have, you may need to swap out the gray plastic Apple Watch ledge for a perfect fit.
There is a built-in Apple Watch Band holder built-in along the left side which will help hold the watch in place for charging if you are using a traditional buckle band.
So, how do you use the Pitaka MagDock?
The top of the MagDock can be twisted so that your phone can be laid flat on top — or if you have your phone in a Pitaka MagCase, you can swivel the dock’s top so that you can easily see your iPhone while seated, and your phone will be held in place with the magnets embedded in the MagDock. Either way, if you are using the Pitaka MagCase with the MagDock, your phone will be automatically aligned for proper charging and it won’t slip from the sweet spot.
If you have a second phone that you regularly charge wirelessly, or if you are planning to buy the new Apple Airpods that will charge wirelessly, you can purchase a separate MagPad ($12) which magnetically attaches to the pins on the side of the MagDock.
It’s worth pointing out that there are currently three stretch goals for this campaign. If Pitaka raises $100K, they will include a MagCase for $15; this is a great deal because they are usually $49.99. Even better, if the campaign reaches $150K, the MagCase will be $5, but at $200K a MagCase will be included for free.
If you plan on using the MagDock by your bed, then you will love the fact that it has zero distracting LED lights on it.
Not having a light on it means that you’ll probably want to get the MagDock app for iOS or Android; you can use the app to keep track of the devices which are charging battery levels, and if you have the MagDock Pro, you’ll also be able to check its battery levels.
The add-on travel case is probably the smartest buy if you plan on traveling with your MagDock. There’s enough room in there for other cables or other small items you might need when traveling; it’s a great hold-all.
Whether you use it at home or on the road, the Pitaka MagCase is an elegant charging station.
The Pitaka MagDock is currently on Kickstarter starting at $49 with delivery planned for before Christmas.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample
What I Like: Perfect for travel; Creates a charging station and dock for your iPhone, Apple Watch, and another wireless charge enabled device if you get the optional MagPad; Included Type-C cable and wall charger can power a MacBook; No watch charging cable needed and no iPhone charging cable needed; Pitaka MagCase app will tell you the charging status of the MagDock Pro and your other devices it’s charging; No LEDs, so it is ideal for bedside use
What Needs Improvement: It’s a little bit bulky for the typical external battery pack use, but it will be good to have that backup battery power in a pinch!
