After taking a look at the PowerConnect Mini, today we will be taking a look at the larger brother – Echo PowerConnect. In the larger version, Echo has bumped up the specifications from 1,600mAh to 4,000mAh. At the same time, the integrated cable is still preserved, though the weight too has increased to 75grams (2.65 ounce).
Similar to the mini variant, Echo will pack a small brochure of their products, an instructions sheet as well as an authenticity/warranty card. In addition to the powerbank itself, a separate small microUSB cable is provided for charging.
The Echo PowerConnect 4000mAh Integrated Cable comes in slightly longer at ~7 cm, though you will still need to keep the powerbank relatively close to the device to charge it. Unlike the mini, the PowerConnect comes with both microUSB and lightning heads attached to it.
The powerbank, again, has similarity from the mini in terms of its design. With the matte rubber surface, it has a very good grip, apart from being fingerprint resistant. On the left of it, you can find the microUSB port, which is used to charge the powerbank. On the right side, we can find where the cable is slotted in and on the front, we find the power/control button where you can turn or off the power bank. The bottom is flush clean.
As usual, it is time to stress test this! Connected to our measuring kit, it draws a healthy 5.07V. What happens when we put in the stress testing unit?
Connected to a 1A load, it draws out 0.98A. Connecting in the 2A load, we managed to draw 1.86A. This is a step better than the mini!
Well, does this charge up the picky BlackBerry Bold 9900? As we can see in the image above, yes it does!
The powerbank itself is relatively light and small for its power and is definitely made of good quality parts. It is a nice move away from the aluminum/metal shell casings that we have seen manufacturers use recently. Furthermore, the added convenience of having not one but TWO charging heads is a bonus for those who dislike carrying cables around. In our tests, this powerbank sure impressed us, charging up my BlackBerry Bold 9900 from 15% to full and charging up my passport from 30% to full. Even with this, I still had a little juice left. This calculates to over 80% of efficiency.
It is pretty hard to go wrong with this small charger, though not as small as the mini, it can serve as an emergency juice pack without fail. With christmas and thanks giving coming up, do give this a check out if your still undecided!
