Until some company makes the ultimate battery - one that doesn't need frequent recharging, then most of us will have to deal with power issues, especially in terms of conservation. And if you're like me, constantly on the road (bus, train or plane) and always on the phone, then you're going to need a way to extend your mobile device's battery life. And to be honest, on a daily basis, I just don't want to be huddled next to a random stranger by an outlet or a power station. Enter Ventev, who’ve come up with a larger Powercell portable charger, the 6000+, a 1000mAh step up from its predecessor - the Powercell 5000 while also retaining the trademark Grey and orange that Ventev is known for, plus, I love the materials they use for their chargers and accessories. The best way to describe it: If plastic came with a velvet feel.
The Powercell 6000+ is both a Wall charger and Portable battery pack; as a wall charger I can attach a phone, tablet or USB device and it will prioritize my charging to the necessary device. When used as a portable battery pack, you can attach up to 2 devices via one of the two USB ports, one is labeled “rapid charge” 2.1(10W) and the other is a regular 1A (5W). You can get 1/1.25 of a charge from 0 to 100% on two items or 2.5 on a single rapid charge. It took about 4-5 hours to charge the Powercell from 0 to 100% but I usually just let it charge overnight anyway.
The Bang:
I’ve tested and used my share of portable battery packs and I’ve found the Ventev Powercell 6000+ to be very convenient as the outlet plug is attached to the device, which cuts down on the wires. Plus you can charge your device while the pack is plugged into the wall. This works out great, especially if you’re at a hotel or in an area where outlet real estate can be limited and you’re travelling tech-heavy. The 6000+ works great for a single fast charge and I was also very happy with the dual charge; both options were very quick however the fast charge slows down when both ports are used. Next, I like that the Powercell is labeled; many other portable chargers aren’t properly labeled and some countries might attempt to confiscate them as you try to enter or leave. Finally, as I mentioned above, I have always liked the way Ventev products feel when you hold them, which entices me to use them more often. This adds to it’s a clean efficient setup and looks aesthetically professional, as some charger like being a bit ostentatious with their neon colors.
The Slack:
Either on the wall or on the go, the Powercell 6000+ keeps charging even after its reached 100%. l assumed that at full charge it would auto shut down. I also wished it came with a way to charge the unit via USB, since at times I am in other countries or just don’t have the outlet room, but I guess an extension cord or an outlet adapter (100-240V) is a solution to that. Finally, the pack is very wide and doesn’t sit well when plugged into a surge protector – at least not in the middle area.
The Ventev Powercell 6000+ is a well-designed and efficient portable battery pack, especially for those of us on the go. I've used it every day since I’ve received it and the performance has been consistent with a fairly impressive quick charge. And out of TOV 5 stars, I give the Ventev Powercell 6000+ a TOV 4 out of 5.