Anker PowerWave II Stand Review
The constant projection of technology is towards convenience with less cluttering. Ever since internet connectivity became wireless, it was only natural that everything will follow in the same trend. From wireless mice to keyboards to printers to wireless headphones/earbuds. Wireless Charging is no different, it’s a game changer. You just throw your phone on it and it starts charging right away. You don’t have to worry about plugging the phone, nor making sure the plug is aligned with the socket (even though this isn’t an issue anymore with Lightening or USB-C). However, the ongoing debate is that it charges the phone slower than a cable which is true for most part, but companies keep on improving their products.
Anker just released two updated versions of its infamous PowerWave Qi wireless chargers: The PowerWave II Stand and Pad. I was fortunate to get my hands on PowerWave II Stand to test it out. If you are interested in the Pad version, make sure you checkout this review by my friend Joe Gobran.
General Information
- Desk-Stand design
- Smart Charging; it automatically detects which phone is placed and delivers the optimal compatible wattage for fast charging to your phone.
- Universal Compatibility: 5W Standard charging for all Qi-enabled phones, 7.5W Fast Charge for iPhone 11/11 pro/XS/XS Max/XR/X/8/8 plus, 10W Fast charge for Samsung S10+/S10/S10e/S9+/S9/S8+/S8/Note 10/9/8. And 15W fast charge for Pixel 4/4 XL, LG V50/V40/V30+/V30/G7/G8, Sony Xperia XZ23.
- Two Way Charging Orientation: Vertical and Horizontal
- Supports Through Case Charging up to 5 mm case thickness.
- Price on Amazon $39.99 (Price dated for this post)
What’s included in the Box
- PowerWave II Stand
- DC Power Adapter with 5 ft power cord
- Welcome Guide, Friendly customer service
- 18-month Warranty
Design and Build
Anker never fails to impress me with their designs. Despite the functionality improvements, they still pay attention to the finish of their products. First impression is that it is a bit bulky compared to the previous model but it’s not as square. The base is a nice circular pad and the edges are curved which helps in compensating for that thickness, giving an esthetic illusion. The increase in thickness is to provide space for the charging coils and to be able to smartly detect which phone is placed on it. Also, that provides some space between the coils and the phone preventing it from over-heating by temperature control, protecting your device.
In addition, it has a DC circular port at the back. You might argue; well why didn’t Anker just include a USB-C which you would be able to connect to any wall plug. However, due to the different wattage output it can produce, having a DC adapter provides a safer power control avoiding any power surge. On the bottom of the circular pad, there’s a rubber band providing traction which aids in the stability. When you place your phone on it, a small blue LED lights on indicating that it’s charging.
Deeper Dive
Well so what makes this version different than its predecessor? For starters there are two coils, one oriented vertically and the other horizontally allowing you to place your phone in whichever orientation you prefer. Hence, if you are watching a video on your phone, you can place it horizontally and it will still charge. The loops of each coil are more to support higher wattage up to 15W. Furthermore, it is able to detect which phone is placed on it to provide the optimal wattage for the phone’s fast charging.
Pros
- Supports Fast Wireless Charging
- Universal Compatibility
- DC Adapter included
- Two-Way Charging Orientation
- Very Good Temperature Control
Cons
- Doesn’t Have USB-C
- Bulky design
- Bulky DC Adapter
Conclusion
For me I can overlook the bulky design because of its curvature. It is meant to be mounted on your desk rather than portability. Moreover, not only does it provide fast charging, it optimizes to the phone you place. Personally, I appreciate how Anker constantly upgrades its devices taking in consideration universal compatibility while maintaining their sleek designs.
