Best backup battery for the iPhone? [Archive]

adnurahs

05-20-2009, 08:46 AM

I use a Mophie Juicepack.
http://www.mophie.com/products/juice-pack

How do you like the Juice Pack? I was thinking of getting the Juice Pack Air. People seem to like the new one.

I have been through three Incase Power Sliders. Two of the old one and one of the "new and imporoved" one. One fried my phone the other one just got too hot upon the initial charge to use. This newest unit charged completely and then died so i could not use it at all and that was right out of the box. I don't know why these units suck so bad. What's worse is that I like the slider so much I'm actually thinking I will get a good one one day. :angry:

Europa

05-20-2009, 09:01 AM

I like it. I have the old 3G Juicepack. The new one looks a little nicer.

mdb4403

05-20-2009, 09:31 AM

I purchased a black "air" about 5 days ago. Previously I was using something called a "Mobile Power Station" ("MPS") which I purchased on ebay (search iphone battery case). This unit completely incased the iphone including the face (it has a plastic shield which covered the face). It worked great (2100 amh) and charged the phone almost twice from completely dead. Only problem - it was the size of a brick.

Purchased the "air" primarily because of the size. It fits nicely on the phone. It was the same height as the MPS even though the "air" claims to be the thinnest battery case but the Mophie is about .25 inch shorter and about .5 ounces lighter. Doesn't sound like much but it makes a world of difference in terms of how the phone looks and feels when in the case. The Mophie is well constructed, looks good and feels good in the hand without adding substantial weight.

As to how I carry the phone with the Mophie on (I keep it on all the time) I went down to Microcenter here in my home town of Columbus and bought a generic leather "pouch" type PDA case with a rotating belt clip. The phone just slides in the pouch and is held firmly in place by the elastic siding. It works and fits perfectly. The fit is snug enough that even if I turn the phone and holster completely upside down the phone stays in place. It is not too snug however to allow me to remove it easily from the pouch with firm pressure.

As to the performance of the Mophie this is what I have found. It's rated at 1200 amh which means it has about 90% of the capacity of the actual iphone battery. This is what I have found in real life use from a relatively heavy user. My day typically starts about 8:00. By 4:30 to 5 I get the 20% warning. I turn the "AIR" on to charge. I generally try not to use the phone when charging. In about an hour the "air" has charged the phone to about 90% and still indicates two lights worth of charge on the back of the case. I turn the Air off at which time I will use my phone again until it runs down to 20% again. By that time my day is usually done but I went ahead and turned the AIR on again to see how it would charge. It took it from 20% to about 60-65% before it was dead. So all together the Air took the battery from 20% to 90% and from 20% to 62.5% on one charge. Not bad for what I think most people need.

One other comment. I have had no problem with signal degradation or the micro USB port. The only problem I've seen is that you get two different readings with the blue led lights on the back depending on whether the air pack is on or off. It is not unusual for me to get 4 lights showing when the AIR is off and 2 lights showing when the AIR is on. The lights showing on the ON setting I believe are the most accurate.

Hope this helps

Learn to daytrade - www.fpr-tradingsystem.com

bateseric

06-09-2009, 11:02 AM

I would have to say that for the funtionality/money, that the iPower is the best value and holds the longest charge. The new Air Pack is cool in it's design, but it is a little heavier than expected, costs around $80, and it is pretty hard to take off of your iPhone. The iPower doubles your battery life, has an external amplified speaker, costs half the price, and even works as a protective case for the iPhone. I own both and prefer the iPower. For those of you not familiar with it, I bought mine at http://www.iphonebatterypack.com. If anyone knows of one that's even better, please let me know.

Coolstrategist

06-09-2009, 11:54 PM

I just ordered the Dexim BluePack S3 2600 mAh from RichardSolo. It is certified by Apple for use with the iPhone and iPod.

http://richardsolo.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=366

Review:

http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/reviews/entry/dexim-bluepack-s3-for-iphone-ipod/

I have the earlier version of the RichardSolo charger and am very pleased with the performance so I figured I would upgrade to the newest.

At an Apple certified 2600 mAh I believe you can get at least two full charges for your phone.

They state:

"The BluePack S3 will extend your talk time up to 10 hours, video playback up to 20 hours, and audio playback up to 80 hours. The BluePack battery allows you to charge any phone that charges using a mini or micro USB cable (Including BlackBerry Storm, BlackBerry Bold, and T-Mobile G1 with Google). The BluePack S3 is a rechargeable polymer lithium-ion battery, with advanced charging technology, that automatically switches off to protect the battery from overcharging.

This battery comes with the following features: an ultra-bright LED flashlight, 3 blue LED's indicating charging status and remaining battery life, a button to indicate the battery's charge, and a USB 2.0 charging port. In this kit, you will also get an AC Wall Charger, a Dual USB retractable cable, a USB 2.0 cable for iPhone/iPod, and a USB cable for BlackBerry.

The S3 is built out of a high-quality, scratch-resistant aluminum. The innovative BluePack S3 is both compact and light-weight, making it perfect to take along in your pocket, purse, backpack, briefcase, etc "

RichardSolo had a special last week where they offered a 20% online coupon code. I got them to match Dexim's online price of $69.95 and they took the 20% off of that lower price. So $60 shipped for this level of battery backup and included accessories cannot be beat.

By the way you can find several YouTube videos of guys unboxing and demonstrating the battery. I found it very useful before placing my order.

Napoleon_PhoneApart

06-09-2009, 11:56 PM

Does anyone have a recommendation for the best backup battery on the market? I'm taking a long flight and would like to bring an extra external backup battery, but can't seem to find many reviews! Ideas/recommendations?

www.imaxpower.com

5000mAh

Look for my review soon.

Coolstrategist

06-10-2009, 12:16 AM

Just Mobile Gum and Gum Pro

Even though I ordered the Dexim per my post above, I figured I would also post this battery in response to your inquiry. It is "plain jane" but based on some reviews it seems like the "Pro" version is a power monster that gets the job done.

http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/reviews/entry/just-mobile-gum-and-gum-pro-portable-usb-power-packs/

JWiPhone

06-10-2009, 08:02 PM

I just ordered the Dexim BluePack S3 2600 mAh from RichardSolo. It is certified by Apple for use with the iPhone and iPod.

I would like to purchase this battery but I don't want to pay the $89.95 that is listed on the Richard Solo website. Also, how fast can it recharge the iPhone when the iPhone has zero battery power?

Coolstrategist

06-10-2009, 10:09 PM

I would like to purchase this battery but I don't want to pay the $89.95 that is listed on the Richard Solo website. Also, how fast can it recharge the iPhone when the iPhone has zero battery power?

It seems Dexim is not letting just anyone distribute the BluePack S3 so pricing competition is rather weak. Your best bet is to email RichardSolo online support and ask them to match the $69.95 retail price listed on the Dexim website.

Based upon my experience and their policies, RichardSolo has great customer service and a care free 30 day prepaid return policy. That is a reason to try to get the best price from them as opposed to somewhere else.

As for your question about recharging...I have never let my phone get to "zero battery power" (illustrates the value of the RichardSolo) so I have no idea how long it takes to fully recharge using my previous model RichardSolo/Dexim battery.

I am still awaiting delivery of the new model.

JWiPhone

06-11-2009, 02:48 AM

Thank you for your suggestions. I have sent them an email and will await their reply. If I can get it for $69.90. I will definitely order this.

psylichon

06-11-2009, 03:35 AM

Hope it's not too late for a suggestion, but I got this one for $15 and it now goes for $8:

http://www.thepocketsolution.com/PSI-45407/3g+iPhone+AA+Battery+Booster.html

It will give you just about a full charge on one 4x set of AA batteries. Definitely a cheap, easy solution that I highly recommend.

JWiPhone

06-11-2009, 02:19 PM

Thanks psylichon. I will look into this. What is there to lose except $8. I have rechargeable AA batteries I could use as well with this. Can you continue using your iPhone while it is charging with this Battery Booster?

psylichon

06-11-2009, 02:20 PM

Yeah, though it just about breaks even when you do that. I use it to charge when not in use, and it does fairly well at that.

Although recharchables work, even with 2700 milliamp/hour batteries, I still get more punch form alkalines.

kabloooie

06-11-2009, 09:56 PM

IPHONE Backup Battery Pack (1000mA) (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10831&cs_id=1083105&p_id=5479&seq=1&format=2) - 8.45
I've got this one and it doubles the iphone battery time
http://images.monoprice.com/productmediumimages/54791.jpg
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10831&cs_id=1083105&p_id=5479&seq=1&format=2

IPHONE Backup Battery Pack (2200mAh) (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10831&cs_id=1083105&p_id=5480&seq=1&format=2) - 14.50
http://images.monoprice.com/productmediumimages/54801.jpg

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10831&cs_id=1083105&p_id=5480&seq=1&format=2

JWiPhone

06-15-2009, 03:12 PM

I think I might order this one now: 3G Juice Major Mojo. Although it is very expensive, $89.95, it is 5400 mAh and only takes 2.5 hours to recharge the iPhone 100%. You could fully recharge the iPhone 3 times off of this 3G Juice. I also like its small compact size.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TL5QIA/ref=s9_simz_gw_s0_p107_t1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=18C0884ATSX87TPYA3M7&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846

You can also use it with iPods and other devices.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/textopus_nl/3427733472/in/set-72157616469068553/

Indy

06-24-2009, 07:18 PM

I'm glad someone else started this thread because I'm on the hunt for a battery pack of some sort!

I'm really eyeing the mophie juice pack air and the incase power slider. The only thing that's keeping me from comitting to one is the thought of a screen protector not being compatible.

OTOH, I havnt completely shut out the option of an external pack as long as it will fit through my otterbox. The gum pack would work perfect for this.

Then there's this...

http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1556/as-images.apple.com/is/image/AppleInc/TN786_AV1?wid=326&hei=326&fmt=jpeg&qlt=95&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.5,0.5,0,0&iccEmbed=0&layer=comp

So the battery case option would allow you to have the phone cased and ready to charge at anytime and be pocketable or pouchable or whatever. That's a plus for me.

The external dangling pack would be nice to have but you would need to carry it everywhere with you and plus some of those things I wouldn't want dangling loosely from my iPhone to where a bump or something would stress the plastc casing. The plus for me here would be with some I could still use my otterbox.

And the third option you would also have to carry it everywhere with you and hope your near a plug long enough to get a good charge and not just partial charge it all the time possibly messing up the memory of your battery.

The search continues! A lot of good suggestions!

JWiPhone

06-25-2009, 12:50 AM

Good point Indy. It is hard to recommend a particular type of charger since each person has their own particular needs. For some a Morphie Juice Pack would work best but for others a separate charging device with a variety of connectors would be more suitable. For myself I went with a smaller device but attaching separately.I do prefer a high mAh grade (5400). That way I can get more charges from it before it needs to be fully charged again.

JWiPhone

06-25-2009, 06:33 PM

IBJanky

06-25-2009, 08:22 PM

www.imaxpower.com (http://www.imaxpower.com)

5000mAh

Look for my review soon.

This one looks very promising, great price too!

myke

JWiPhone

06-26-2009, 03:16 PM

Looks like I'm going to ship back my 3G Juice Major Mojo backup battery. I keep getting a 'device not supported' message when I try to charge my iPhone 3GS. I'm not sure what is going on. I sent the company an email and hope to hear back.

Wow, talk about great customer service. I heard directly from the CEO in Netherlands where the 3G Juice company is based. He has offered me another 3G Juice product I inquired about, 1800 mAh, which is just one piece and no cables required. He will give it to me for free and also offered to let me keep the Major Mojo for free. I told him I had already shipped it back to Amazon, however. I was very impressed with such customer service which is quite rare these days. If you want great customer service this is the product I would recommend.

MrMike6by9

06-26-2009, 03:34 PM

In another thread, posts have suggested this is similar to the complaints the 3G owners had last year. The phone would issue that warning but I seem to remember also that many said the phone would charge anyway. I've noticed this same concern appearing from the new 3GS owners and their charging cables and adapters. I have to do something soon. My iDay is approaching ....

YMMV

JoeT

06-26-2009, 04:11 PM

I am using the Duracell Powersource Mini:

http://www.duracellpower.com/images/product-pic/powersourcemini-trans.png

I've been happy with it so far. It's a 3000 mAh unit; it looks like you can get a rebranded unit from Xantrex for $28 on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=duracell+powersource+mini&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=3403182317&ref=pd_sl_5ypja7anuj_e

JWiPhone

06-26-2009, 05:06 PM

I am using the Duracell Powersource Mini:

I've been happy with it so far. It's a 3000 mAh unit; it looks like you can get a rebranded unit from Xantrex for $28 on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=duracell+powersource+mini&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=3403182317&ref=pd_sl_5ypja7anuj_e

The review of this device says it doesn't charge the iPhone.

"you need to extend the mini USB charging arm to connect with the Blackberry. Also, this does not charge the iPhone."

Maaz

06-26-2009, 06:22 PM

Iam thinking of buying the mophie juice air. But I like how slim the phone is already.

JoeT

06-26-2009, 07:17 PM

The review of this device says it doesn't charge the iPhone.

"you need to extend the mini USB charging arm to connect with the Blackberry. Also, this does not charge the iPhone."

Well, I am very positive that this is the exact same unit as the Duracell. With that in mind, it did NOT work before with the stock Apple cable but now it does -- I think it may be related to the 3.0 upgrade. With the stock Apple cable (and with every aftermarket I have here), it DOES charge the 3G and 3GS. I did have to use a different charge cable (regulated voltage); perhaps Apple loosened up the voltage specs with 3.0?

jpm

06-27-2009, 04:57 AM

I just got the incase power case today with my 3Gs, what I don't like is that it’s really slippery and it keeps sliding down when I try to type with two thumbs. I also think its messing with my signal as the bars will fluctuate up and down with it on, Ill have to see if that goes away. I have an external one I used for my V1 phone that I really liked and works well, and can recharge the phone several times but I would like to have one as part of the case and always attached. I just haven't been that impressed with the power slider.

The other one I have is a Lenmar power kit.
http://www.lenmar.com/Web/ProductDetails.aspx?ProductID=PPU2100K

jarofclay73

06-27-2009, 06:45 AM

jarofclay73

06-27-2009, 07:00 AM

I'm totally over batteries hanging off of my iPhone:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/members/jarofclay73-albums-powering-up-my-iphone-3g-picture463-charger.jpg

While this is better than nothing, I'm looking for a battery charger in a case.

So, I'm limited to the Mophie Juice Air, Incase Power Slider and the iPower Air Pack, right?

Maaz

06-27-2009, 07:54 PM

I've made the decision to buy a mophie juice air. But apple didn't have it so now I gotta get it from online applestore or from mophie site.

pepper

06-30-2009, 12:09 PM

It seems Dexim is not letting just anyone distribute the BluePack S3 so pricing competition is rather weak. Your best bet is to email RichardSolo online support and ask them to match the $69.95 retail price listed on the Dexim website.

Based upon my experience and their policies, RichardSolo has great customer service and a care free 30 day prepaid return policy. That is a reason to try to get the best price from them as opposed to somewhere else.

As for your question about recharging...I have never let my phone get to "zero battery power" (illustrates the value of the RichardSolo) so I have no idea how long it takes to fully recharge using my previous model RichardSolo/Dexim battery.

I am still awaiting delivery of the new model.
I emailed RichardSolo yesterday and this is the response I just received: "Due to the level of customer support we supply, such as fast shipping, quick support, and prepaid return shipping, we will not be able to match the $69.95 price."

fredf

07-05-2009, 07:06 PM

Very interesting thread. I too have pondered what to do about an external battery.

It seems to me that there are two different approaches. The first is the type that hangs off the bottom of the phone, inserting into the USB charging dock, examples being Richard Solo and about 20 other brands and knockoffs on eBay and monoprice.

They certainly would work as a charger but I wonder about the practicality of them. If you are at work, at home, or in the car you can just plug in your iPhone with any number of charger/connectors.
But you can't really walk around and use the iPhone with one of these devices attached, I would worry that it would fall off or twist or damage the iPhone while hanging on. Not to mention that it seems very awkward to hold the phone with something almost its size (in the case of the Richard Solo) hanging off it.

It seems to me that these are only useful for that odd time when you aren't near a computer or an electrical outlet...perhaps carried in a briefcase for an emergency....but really putting the phone out of commission while charging.

What seems more useful to me are the jacket types like the Mophie. At least with these you can use the phone in an emergency while it is charging.
But the Mophie is awfully expensive.

There are a number of these types of chargers/batteries on eBay starting as low as about $25. Does anybody know if any of these are any good/reliable?

Lastly, no one has mentioned the Mili Power Pack which is about $30 cheaper than the Mophie on eBay and has 2000-mah and looks quite svelte and lightweight.

Anyone with experience with the Mili?

Indy

07-06-2009, 12:21 PM

Very good post fred. That about covered the thoughts I've been having lately as far as the external 'dangling' pack is concerned. Thank you.

fredf

07-06-2009, 12:38 PM

thanks.
I'd still like to see a few people chime in with experiences with the generic jacket batteries.

whale_hunter

07-13-2009, 11:59 AM

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-13-2009, 12:03 PM

I heard that there are reception problems with the Mophie, but I have no first-hand experience with this.

BCA2812

07-13-2009, 12:13 PM

I bought the Juice Pak Air from my local Apple store and returned it two days later. The fit was so tight that it bubbled up my screen protector on the left and right sides. Plus, the Iphone appeal stems from it's sleekness and with the extra bulk from the battery, it just wasn't the same. I bought an external Gum Pro 4400 mah battery and use that for when I am on the go. It uses the Iphone cable. BCA

fredf

07-13-2009, 12:18 PM

I would go for the Mili over the Mohpie: it's cheaper, faster, less interference with wireless, and in my opinion, much more attractive aesthetically.

aknightstale41

07-13-2009, 12:29 PM

I watched a review on Youtube regarding the Mophie Juice Pack Air and it seems really nice.

Before I bite the bullet and spend $70 on the thing, does anyone have anything bad to say about it ?

(Think of this like you're stopping a wedding )

Otherwise I'm kissing the bride sometime this week.

Ok, then I'm Dustin Hoffman running into the chappel...
I have the JPA and 2 things to take note before you buy, one is it seems to interfere slightly with reception (maybe 1or2 bars less), and two, I had to get my air replaced because the micro USB port came loose and wouldn't charge, I don't think it's a design flaw, just was a bum unit. On the plus side, customer service is great, they shipped a new one in 3 days and all has been well with it so far.

whale_hunter

07-13-2009, 06:49 PM

Well , thanks for the responses. But now I'm wondering if it's worth $70 in light of the fact it's going to cut down my reception.

Ugh

I really need to get one of these due to the nature of my job , I often end up out in the middle of nowhere with no way to charge my phone , so I have to figure out something.

aknightstale41

07-13-2009, 07:23 PM

If you have pretty decent reception where you work, than your probably not going to notice the reduction of a bar or two while surfing or on the phone.
The extra 5 hours of usage is worth that to me.

acosmichippo

07-16-2009, 12:26 AM

well today i went to the apple store (ugh), and got a mophie juicepack air. I would have preferred to get the Just mobile Gum (seems like a much better deal), but i needed it before i leave for a trip tomorrow, and didn't think to get one until today. So far, the juicepack seems like a good product. Solid case, and looks nice. The only real problem i have with it is that there are no speaker holes in the bottom, but instead there are two spaces on the front (about 1mm x 1cm on either side of the dock connector) to leave the speaker and mic open, which looks a little weird, and definitely has the capability of trapping debris.

They also had an incase power slider, which was the same price, and advertised to "double" the iphones battery life, but did not give any specifics. The Mophie, on the other hand, specifically listed 1200mAh capacity, so i went with it. I also prefer how it looks (aside from the speaker holes).

Santa

07-16-2009, 03:02 PM

www.imaxpower.com (http://www.imaxpower.com)

5000mAh

Look for my review soon.

Have you had a chance to try this out?

This could be what I'm looking for as my support for a long international trip.

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-16-2009, 03:27 PM

Have you had a chance to try this out?

This could be what I'm looking for as my support for a long international trip.

It's well built and great.

psylichon

07-16-2009, 03:34 PM

It's well built and great.

Look very interesting. This would be the one I eventually get when I spring for one. How many full charges do you think you can get off it? 4 as advertised? My old charger claimed 2.5 charges with 4xAA but didn't really deliver...

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-16-2009, 03:41 PM

Look very interesting. This would be the one I eventually get when I spring for one. How many full charges do you think you can get off it? 4 as advertised? My old charger claimed 2.5 charges with 4xAA but didn't really deliver...

I'll get off my ass and write the review today...

I got almost four complete charges with it.

Santa

07-16-2009, 04:05 PM

Thanks!!!!!

whale_hunter

07-18-2009, 10:45 PM

I went to the Apple store today and got the Mophie Juice Pack. So far I'm impressed. It fits nice and snug around the phone and the weight doesn't really make it feel heavy , just more solid.

The battery charges pretty slow if you use the phone while charging , but it does slowly make it's way up towards 100%.

So far so good.

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-18-2009, 11:02 PM

Review written - awaiting approval.

Tinman

07-19-2009, 12:00 AM

As FYI the APC Mobile Power Pack is now on sale at Staples for only $19.99, no rebate or anything. It's regularly $50 or $60, so I grabbed one (might go back for another at that price).

This is the unit at amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d.html/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/177-0479550-1980119?a=B000GBN42E

It's been working great. Pretty small, about the size of a BB Bold.

--
Mike

whale_hunter

07-20-2009, 11:42 AM

My first full day with the Juice Pack Air and I couldn't be happier.

Right now Im at 9 hours 34 minutes usage and exactly 24 hours standby and I still have 20% left.

That includes taking 8 pictures, talking on the phone for at least 2 hours, surfing the net for hours at a time , playing an hour of Flight Control, plus using apps that suck a ton of power like MLB and watching trailers on flixster.

It's nice to not have to worry about making it through the day or having to cut conversations short just in case.

Just thought I would post this up in case someone was nervous about dropping $70 like I was.

Santa

07-20-2009, 06:48 PM

Review written - awaiting approval.

Thanks for the review:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/2549-napoleon_phoneapart/1423-review-of-the-imaxpower-imp500a-external-charger-for-the-iphone-3g-3gs-touch/

This look way cool.

Santa

07-20-2009, 06:49 PM

As FYI the APC Mobile Power Pack is now on sale at Staples for only $19.99, no rebate or anything. It's regularly $50 or $60, so I grabbed one (might go back for another at that price).
Mike

APC lists this as a discontinued product... but for $20, I might have to do a drive by of the local Staples

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-20-2009, 06:49 PM

Thanks for the review:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/2549-napoleon_phoneapart/1423-review-of-the-imaxpower-imp500a-external-charger-for-the-iphone-3g-3gs-touch/

This look way cool.

As soon as my thanks are recharged I'll thank you! :dft010:smiling

Santa

07-20-2009, 06:50 PM

How does one give a thanks? I haven't figured that out.

Is there something at the app store I need to download?

Napoleon_PhoneApart

07-20-2009, 06:54 PM

How does one give a thanks? I haven't figured that out.

Is there something at the app store I need to download?

There should be a thanks button at the lower right of your posts, next to the quote, multi and quick buttons. You have to have 25 posts before it shows up, and you get to use five per day.

Santa

07-20-2009, 07:12 PM

I didn't have enough posts until today!

JWiPhone

07-21-2009, 05:55 PM

I'm having nothing but bad luck with these external batteries. I just got the iPWR last night and now I get 'charging is not supported with this accessory' message. They claim it is compatible with the iPhone 3GS. I ran into this same problem with the 3G Juice. Another off-brand (Geissbach 1900 mAh external battery I bought from Amazon similar to the iPWR worked but only charges 80 percent of the battery and that is also being returned. I wish these companies would test out their products on the 3GS before claiming they are compatible. Arggggggggggg!!!

Tinman

07-21-2009, 10:36 PM

APC lists this as a discontinued product... but for $20, I might have to do a drive by of the local Staples

Yep, it's a great deal. It seems to charge my 3GS about as fast as USB. I charged up when the iPhone was done to 35% and after it was done charging the APC battery was about 75%.

But it looks like stock is being cleaned out as someone else posted their Staples had none left. For $20 get 'em while you can. Useful for anything that charges via USB.

--
Mike

scottjf8

07-22-2009, 12:42 AM

My JuicePack Air was freaking awesome for me in Vegas last week.

steve_harmison4

07-22-2009, 03:06 AM

You can try the new 1600mAh batteries now available in the stores.It packs a good punch and it has extra juice then the OEM batteries supplied with your phone.For me these batteries lasted 2 days longer then the OEM one's.

acosmichippo

07-23-2009, 12:43 AM

My Juicepack worked well for me on my trip this weekend. I was out from 8am-10pm every day for three days with no way to charge my iphone, and the juicepack fueled my 3GS with no issues. i consistently had ~25% on the iphone's battery at the end of each day with heavy web surfing, picture/video taking, and game playing (Worms, Myst, Blackjack, etc).

Like i said earlier, i think i would rather have had JustMobile's Gum because of the better charge/$ ratio, and it will charge any device via USB, but i didn't have time to order it before my trip.

djwindsor

08-01-2009, 12:46 AM

There seem to be tons of options as vendors are scrambling to fulfill a need that many iPhone owners want. SPARE POWER. Last year I purchased a nice unit (similar to Morphie) called Fastmac. It is not very well promoted but I've had it for a year and it still works great. What's nice about it is that you can either dock your phone inside it OR attach a USB cable to the battery and connect it to the iPhone.

Secondly, as I mentioned in some other posts, are the batteries that attach to the bottom of the iPhone. I purchased one for $6.79 and it works fantastic!!! It is lithium ion and has a 1900 MA rating. I got two full charges from it. My battery was down to less than 1/3 each time I topped it off.

Lastly, I highly recommend tha iMaxpower battery that is 5000 MA and it costs less than $60. It can charge the phone up to four times!!! It weighs less than five ounces and it very well made.

I don't like the Mophie mainly due to its high price and the fact it makes the iPhone look like a brick phone from the early 90's.

madvillain22

08-11-2009, 10:47 AM

http://www.***********.com/p-494-iphone-3gs-battery-pack.aspx

heres another alternative for extra battery life - its not too bulky plus it kinda doubles as a shield - ive had mine for only a short while but it does actually give you a full charge from that 10% battery warning and for 30bux that aint bad man! i think the 3G fuel is like 60bux or sumthin like that...

adnurahs

08-11-2009, 10:59 AM

NuMystic

08-12-2009, 02:19 AM

Got the exact model from monoprice mentioned earlier in the thread ($14.50) and it works perfectly thus far. Works a treat with my 3GS, charges fast, and it's ridiculously cheap compared to similar size/capacity batteries.

I just don't understand why people would pay so much for something that is nothing more than a basic li-ion battery. (the richard solo 1200mah is $50 for little more than half the capacity!)

I can understand the attraction to the case based batteries, but i love my griffin reveal / custom printed skin combo, and didn't want to add weight or bulk for all the time I don't need the extra juice.

Tinman

08-12-2009, 02:43 PM

Got the exact model from monoprice mentioned earlier in the thread ($14.50) and it works perfectly thus far. Works a treat with my 3GS, charges fast, and it's ridiculously cheap compared to similar size/capacity batteries.

I just don't understand why people would pay so much for something that is nothing more than a basic li-ion battery. (the richard solo 1200mah is $50 for little more than half the capacity!)

Oh I don't know, maybe quality control? I had a cheap generic lion batt pack start to fry on me. Not so bad if I, and 150+ others, weren't at 35,000'.

--
Mike

falconev

08-12-2009, 04:54 PM

For $50 this is very easy and convenient to use with lots of power from the lithium phosphate batteries. This 3000mah unit just keeps going, and going...
See more at falconev.com click on cool stuff

djwindsor

08-14-2009, 02:59 AM

For $50 this is very easy and convenient to use with lots of power from the lithium phosphate batteries. This 3000mah unit just keeps going, and going...
See more at falconev.com click on cool stuff

Makes the phone unwieldy with that odd shape. Some of the other ones like the Mophie don't make the phone longer. I still like my $6.79 one from eBay. Yes it does attach to the bottom but it ain't fifty bucks either. 1900 mAmps

Richard Solo battery (have one on loan from his company to evaluate) is expensive and unwieldy too. My review will be posted next week. Stay Tuned!!

adnurahs

08-14-2009, 11:03 AM

Makes the phone unwieldy with that odd shape. Some of the other ones like the Mophie don't make the phone longer. I still like my $6.79 one from eBay. Yes it does attach to the bottom but it ain't fifty bucks either. 1900 mAmps

Richard Solo battery (have one on loan from his company to evaluate) is expensive and unwieldy too. My review will be posted next week. Stay Tuned!!

Can you please give me the sellers name or a link to the sellers ebay store or even a link to an auction for one like the one you got for this $6.79 battery charger? I have been looking on ebay and there are so many I can't choose. I am being overwhelmed. :dft002:amazed

Please help!:dft006:unhappy

desibhar

08-20-2009, 08:38 PM

I got the monoprice charger, after watching the review on youtube. It seems to work pretty well. It charges about 1.5x as fast as normal, and works with cases. For the price, I don't think you can beat it! :ok:ok

disintigration

10-01-2009, 05:06 PM

About 4 months ago I was looking for a battery backup for my iPhone. I checked out a few of them but I ended up purchasing the Macsense pp-08 Gum Pro. I purchased this directly from Macsense. The battery capacity is 4400mAh. This is enough to charge the iphone 3 or 4 times. I am using it with a iPhone 3G however it works with all iPhones from the 1st gen to the 3GS.

The pp-08 has come in handy so many times when I have been out and not been near a charger. Just keep it in the car or my backpack depending on where im at.

I ordered it from here:

http://store.macsensestore.com/pp-08.html

djwindsor

10-02-2009, 03:44 AM

After some additional research I have discovered that the cheap batteries on eBay (less than $10) are decent for emergency backup power and they hold a charge very well. The issue is that if you intend to use the phone with them connected they will not stay connected well and it will intermittently connect/disconnect. The best way to use these cheap batteries is to lie them flat and give it a 30 minute jolt to get some juice into your limp iPhone. The charge cycles on these cheap batteries will be less than you get from the more expensive lithium polymer type batteries from the major 3rd party companies. Mophie makes an excellent case (1200 mAmp) battery that protects the entire phone (they also provide an optional screen shield). They come in different colors and you can get them discounted on ebay from some sellers. I bought one for $72 with free shipping. The Richard Solo battery is ok but it lacks a juice gauge which is an omission I find odd. It's also very expensive. They claim to give you some accessories but they're cheap stuff that can be had for a fraction of what they claim their value is. As an example, they include a cheap case that has an MSRP of $24.95. Maybe it's worth 50 cents?? The $6.79 batteries have a button that gives you the juice level.

jasonzhangusa

10-02-2009, 03:39 PM

It is a headache that the iphone battery may go out during the heavy use. So we'd better have a backup battery. I found a very powerful backup battery "iPa 3000 portable battery" from amazon for my iphone at competitive price. It is very nice.

Here is the link for you.
http://www.amazon.com/Portable-Battery-Charger-iPhone-Hours/dp/B002KJO1DQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=miscellaneous&qid=1254437486&sr=8-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Portable-Battery-Charger-iPhone-Hours/dp/B002KJO1DQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=miscellaneous&qid=1254437486&sr=8-1)

Wtf0ver

10-18-2009, 06:54 PM

what backup batteries work with the 3gs? so far all ive found is the kensington. im trying to find one that has a cord going to the phone so i dont have to take my phone out of the otterbox

scottjf8

10-18-2009, 07:01 PM

what backup batteries work with the 3gs? so far all ive found is the kensington. im trying to find one that has a cord going to the phone so i dont have to take my phone out of the otterbox

The kensington I have -> http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-Battery-Extender-Charger-iPhone/dp/B0018DKODQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1255906855&sr=8-2

Works just fine on the 3GS.. as does my Mophie Juicepack Air.

Santa

10-21-2009, 12:40 AM

I've been using this puppy with my 3gs:

http://www.amazon.com/Tekkeon-MP1550-TEKCHARGE-MOBILE-CHARGER/dp/B0014KLX9C/

I've been using it for a battery charger as much as I've been using it for the iPhone. And it's only one thing to carry.

simplyiphone

10-26-2009, 09:03 AM

I got the Mophie Juice Pack Air about 2 weeks ago and am happy as a clam (at high tide of course). It does add bulk but I actually find that it makes it easier for me to type with two thumbs in potrait than with my iFrogz case which is much slimmer. The case doesn't slip in my hands but it is slippery on regular surfaces so i have to be careful with anything that is slanted like the keyboard shelf on my computer desk.

I did order an extra cable from Mophie so that I have one as a charger and the other one on my computer for syncing so I don't have to take phone out of the case to sync or move the cable from the charger to the computer.

Overall I absolutely love the Juice Pack Air. I don't have to worry about my battery if I use my GPS. I can have my bluetooth, location and 3G all on and still have battery power left at the end of the day. And, it didn't take long at all to get used to the case.

If you are looking for an all-in-one solution the Mophie is worth checking out.