The boAt pb600 160W power bank promises blazing-fast charging speeds, boasting a claimed 160W output across its four ports (two USB-C, two USB-A). This review dives deep into its performance, examining whether this high-power portable charger lives up to its ambitious claims and justifies its hefty price tag. We put the pb600 to the test, charging a variety of devices, including a Nothing Phone 2 and a 65W laptop, to assess its real-world charging capabilities and identify any limitations.This in-depth analysis explores the power bank's build quality, charging speeds under various scenarios, and its overall usability. We consider factors such as simultaneous charging limitations, portability (including the lack of air travel certification), and the substantial cost to determine if the boAt pb600 160W is a worthwhile investment for the average consumer or a niche product best suited for specific user needs.
Pros And Cons
- Solid build quality
- Scratch-resistant material
- Four ports (two USB-C, two USB-A)
- Physical buttons and digital display
- Supports Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 3.0
- Can charge a variety of devices (mobile phones, tablets, laptops)
- Fast charging speed (up to 100W from a single Type-C port)
- Digital display shows output in volts and amperes
- Expensive (Rs 27,000)
- Maximum 160W output is achieved by splitting the power between ports, not from a single port
- Cannot charge four devices simultaneously if charging a laptop via USB-C
- Laptop charging stops if other USB-C ports are used
- Lack of clear information on website regarding limitations when charging multiple devices with a laptop.
- Large and heavy (over 600 grams), making it unsuitable for air travel
- Takes a long time to charge fully from 0% to 100%
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The boAt pb600 160W power bank arrived in simple packaging, containing the power bank itself, a user manual, and a heavy-duty 100W charging cable. The power bank boasts a solid build quality with a scratch-resistant exterior, though scratches are a minor concern considering its functionality. The design is sleek and includes the boAt branding on the front.
The top features four ports – two USB-C and two USB-A – along with physical buttons and a digital display. The bottom displays various certifications and specifications. Initial impressions suggest a well-built and feature-rich device.
The claimed 160W output is a significant selling point, but the user should understand that this power is not delivered through a single port.
Charging Capabilities and Performance
The boAt pb600 supports both Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 3.0 technologies. While a single Type-C port can output 100W, this output is shared when charging multiple devices simultaneously. For instance, charging two devices concurrently might reduce the output to 80W per port, totaling 160W.
Testing with a Nothing Phone 2 and its 65W charger showed consistent charging speeds between 47-50W, mirrored by the power bank's performance. Although a 100W test couldn't be performed due to a lack of a suitable device, a 65W laptop charged efficiently via the power bank.
The digital display shows output in volts and amps, not watts which might lead to some confusion for users. Charging multiple devices simultaneously presents limitations; using a USB-C port for a laptop disables simultaneous charging from other ports.
Portability and Overall Value
The boAt pb600's large size and weight (over 600 grams) make it unsuitable for air travel due to the lack of flight certification. This is a significant drawback for frequent travelers. While it excels at charging laptops and other devices, its portability is compromised.
The 27000mAh capacity is substantial, offering extended usage, but recharging takes considerable time. The high price point of ₹27,000 (launch price) is a major consideration, despite the advanced features and fast charging capabilities.
Despite its high initial cost, the boAt pb600 160W offers features such as 12-year production, Power Delivery 3.0, Quick Charge 3.0 and an aluminum casing. The numerous certifications available with this power bank do not justify the high price tag.
Conclusion
The boAt pb600 160W power bank offers impressive fast charging speeds, particularly for laptops, and its high capacity is beneficial for extended use. However, the limitations of simultaneous charging and lack of air travel certification are significant drawbacks.
The high price, despite premium features like Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 3.0, makes it a difficult recommendation for most consumers unless their needs strongly align with its high-power, single-device charging capabilities. The lack of clear information on the website regarding simultaneous charging limitations adds to this skepticism.
Consider alternatives if portability and affordability are priorities. The boAt pb600 is best suited for users who require high-power charging for one device, who don't travel by air frequently, and who are willing to pay a premium for this specific feature set.