The Mophie Snap+ Powerstation is a portable, magnetic, wireless battery unit designed for compatibility with Apple’s MagSafe technology for wireless charging. It features a built-in 10,000mAh battery capacity. Ideal for outdoor activities, a portable battery like this is well-suited for travel, beach outings, or cycling.
The functionality of power banks is generally straightforward, so we will proceed directly to an evaluation of the Mophie’s device, outlining its strengths and weaknesses.
Key Advantages:
- Robust build quality and ample capacity. The 10,000mAh internal battery of the Mophie Snap+ Powerstation allows for multiple charges of most smartphones. Specifically, it can typically provide approximately two full charges for a modern iPhone, a figure that holds true for many Android devices as well. The construction imparts a sense of durability, and Mophie’s reputation as a premium brand suggests rigorous testing procedures and a close partnership with Apple. (Note that not all devices are certified; more details below.) A power bank’s reliability is paramount for travel, ensuring safe operation without risk of malfunction. Furthermore, some budget-oriented brands exhibit a rapid decline in charging capacity, diminishing their long-term utility.
- MagSafe Compatibility: For older iPhone models lacking integrated MagSafe, the device can be utilized in conjunction with a MagSafe ring (available separately or in bundled packages from Mophie).
- Multifunctionality: The Mophie Snap+ doubles as a mobile stand, suitable for video conferencing or media consumption in portrait orientation. It also incorporates a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount for enhanced stability.
- USB-C compatibility allows charging with a USB-C-to-Lightning cable, enabling faster charging speeds via Power Delivery (PD). Testing confirms the device’s PD capability, though it is not explicitly mentioned in the official specifications. Mophie also offers a certified iPhone charger providing 20W charging via USB and 15W wirelessly, but it comes at a significantly higher price point (1500 SEK).
5. Contrary to some online claims regarding a weak magnet for phones with built-in MagSafe, our testing with an iPhone 13 confirms a secure connection, comparable to that achieved with an external adhesive magnet.
Disadvantages:
- The device employs wireless Qi charging, rather than true MagSafe charging, resulting in slower charging speeds and increased power consumption. Our tests yielded only a 4% charge increase in 10 minutes without phone usage. Simultaneous phone use effectively halts wireless charging.
- While the charger supports Power Delivery (PD) and is theoretically capable of up to 20W output, this information was ascertained through direct communication with the EU product manager and subsequent experimentation. Initial testing with a USB-C-to-Lightning cable from Apple failed to achieve PD speeds, while a different cable proved successful. Alternative power banks offering PD support are available at lower price points, though variations in build quality and longevity should be considered. For example, our editorial team has been satisfied with the iMoshion Powerbank 20 000 mhA for two years, which offers double the capacity and PD support for approximately half the price (it lacks wireless charging and the stand function).
In conclusion, the Mophie Snap+ Powerstation is a versatile, well-constructed wireless battery unit offering substantial capacity and MagSafe compatibility. Its drawbacks include slower Qi charging and a relatively high price, although the inclusion of PD charging is a notable advantage.
This is a suitable option for users prioritizing functionality and quality over cost.
ZAGG provided review samples for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence or testing methodologies.
