Anker PowerPort Mini USB Charger Review

Anker has shrunk down their popular PowerPort 2 to an Apple brick-like design. However, unlike the little, white Apple brick, the Anker PowerPort Mini has 2 USB ports.

Design

The Anker PowerPort Mini is not quite as small as the Apple iPhone charging brick. The dimensions of the Anker PowerPort Mini is 1.2 x 1.3 x 1.5 inches and weighs just 1.28 ounces.

However, unlike Apple’s charging brick, the PowerPort Mini has foldable prongs and two USB ports, while still maintaining its compact size. This makes the PowerPort Mini a handy travel companion as it will take up minimal space in your bag and can charge two of your devices simultaneously.

[caption id=“attachment_4267” align=“aligncenter” width=“840”] Anker PowerPort Mini vs the Apple iPhone charging brick[/caption]

Performance

The PowerPort Mini is a 12 watt (5V 2.4 amp) charger, but it’s important to note that the 12 watts are split between the two ports. That means if you connect only 1 iPad to it, it will charge full speed at 2.4 amps.

However, if you, for example, connect an iPad and an iPhone to it, those 2.4 amps are split. This means the iPhone will get about 1 amp and the iPad will get what’s left: 1.4 amps. Both items will still charge, but the iPad will charge a little slower.

[caption id=“attachment_4264” align=“aligncenter” width=“840”] In this example, the iPad is the only item connect and it charges at full speed.[/caption]

Interestingly, I found that when two devices are connected, it can slightly exceed 12 watts (a total of 2.8 amps shown below).

[caption id=“attachment_4265” align=“aligncenter” width=“840”] In this example, a SoundCore Flare and an iPad are both connected. The power is split between the two.[/caption]

Features

As noted earlier, the PowerCore Mini features two USB ports that feature PowerIQ technology. This means it can adapt to charge higher draw devices such as tablets and large power banks.

Please note that the PowerPort mini does not feature QuickCharge technology, likely in an effort to maintain its compact size.

Safety

Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate a UL-listed certification on this Anker charger. However, as with many Anker products, it comes with Anker’s standard set of safety features such as overvoltage protection, temperature control and short-circuit protections. The charger does become warm while in use, but not alarmingly hot even while charging two devices