Jaycar Waterproof Power Bank
For those who love the great outdoors.
While most power banks are pretty tough, even just a light accidental dunking can put them out of commission permanently. This Jaycar power bank adds a layer of protection, with a double-moulded housing that’s IP67 waterproof, dustproof and shockproof. It’s rated to handle a fresh-water swim of up to 1m deep for 30 minutes, and will shrug off rain without a care. Considering many phones are now also waterproof, or at least water resistant, it’s a pretty handy feature — just make sure to dry the USB cable ends before charging.
The Jaycar power bank has a 10,400mAh capacity, and in testing, we found that an adequate 96% of that is available for charging.
The unit has dual USB ports — one that can fast charge up to 2.1A, while the other outputs 1A. The power bank charges up via standard micro-USB at a 2A rate — going from empty to full in about 5.5 hours. It also has a four-LED power level indicator but sadly no torch, like the Comsol back over the page. It does, however, offer over-charge, short-circuit and over-heat protection, similar to that in the Anker power bank (see page 68).
Despite the extra protection, the power bank is still a fairly slim 14.5 x 7.5 x 2.5cm and weighs 300 grams, making it well and truly portable, although perhaps not quite comfortably slipped into a pocket.
Its design, too, is also likely to be an acquired taste, looking a bit more like an old-school GPS than a modern smartphone accessory.
Verdict
A great power bank for venturing off the beaten track, albeit for a hefty asking price.