The Iniu BI-B7 MagSafe Battery Bank offers a compelling blend of speed, convenience, and affordability. This review dives into the performance of this budget-friendly power solution, examining its charging speeds, MagSafe connection, and overall user experience. We put the BI-B7 through rigorous testing to determine whether it truly delivers on its promise of being a powerhouse option without breaking the bank. Key areas of focus include charging times compared to competitors, the strength and security of the MagSafe connection, and the functionality of its single USB-C port.Our testing covered various aspects, from raw charging speed and temperature performance to the stability of the integrated kickstand and the overall build quality. We'll explore whether the compromises made to achieve the BI-B7's attractive price point impact its usability and effectiveness. Ultimately, we aim to determine if this MagSafe battery bank is a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable and convenient charging solution for their iPhones.
Pros And Cons
- Decently priced compared to competitors.
- Decent charging speed (27% in 30 minutes with a 20W charger).
- Stable stand for use with iPhones.
- Can be used as a grip.
- Relatively cool operating temperature (104°F).
- Rubber coating may become gummy over time.
- Slower flow-through charging (12% in 30 minutes with a dead iPhone).
- Flimsy-looking stand.
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Performance and Charging Speed
The Iniu BI-B7 boasts impressive charging speeds, considering its price point. In a 30-minute test, it achieved a 27% charge on an iPhone using a 20W charger, exceeding the average 22% for similar chargers. While this is slower than higher-end options (around 36% for a 22W charger), it still represents excellent value. The flow-through charging test, where a depleted iPhone is charged via the battery bank, yielded a standard 12% charge in 30 minutes, aligning with expectations for a similar-wattage charger.
Charging temperature also performed well, registering at a cooler 104°F compared to the average 107°F for competing models. This suggests efficient energy conversion and reduced heat generation during operation. While it's not as fast as top-tier chargers, the BI-B7 offers a considerable speed advantage over older-generation chargers at a much more appealing price.
MagSafe Compatibility and Design
The BI-B7's MagSafe compatibility is a key selling point. The reviewer noted that it took 9.2 Newtons of force to dislodge the battery bank from an iPhone, slightly less than the average 9.5 Newtons for other MagSafe battery packs. This suggests a secure but not overly tight connection. The soft rubber coating enhances grip and protection. However, there's a concern that this coating might become gummy over extended use.
The included kickstand is unexpectedly stable, unlike some competitors' rounded kickstands that tend to wobble. This flat design provides better stability and can also double as a comfortable grip for the phone. This is a very helpful feature for one-handed use.
Ports and Wattage
The BI-B7 features a single USB-C port for both input and output, supporting 20W output and 15W input. The 20W output is excellent for fast charging, while the 15W input means it will take approximately 30 extra minutes to fully recharge compared to faster-charging equivalents. This compromise is understandable given the device's budget-friendly nature.
The wattage capabilities are practical, enabling fast charging of the iPhone and recharging of the battery pack efficiently. The choice of a single USB-C port simplifies things for the user, eliminating confusion over port compatibility or functionality.
Conclusion: Value for Money?
The Iniu BI-B7 is presented as a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a MagSafe-compatible battery bank. While not the absolute fastest charger available, it offers a significant speed advantage over older generations and achieves competitive charging speeds at a fraction of the cost of premium models. The durable design, stable kickstand, and secure MagSafe connection provide added practicality.
Overall, the Iniu BI-B7 offers impressive performance, considering its budget-friendly price tag. It might not match the top-tier models in charging speed, but its balance of speed, functionality, and cost-effectiveness makes it a strong contender in the MagSafe battery bank market. If speed is your top priority, you should consider higher-end alternatives but for the price and features, this is an excellent option.