The Zens Semi-Solid-State Powerbank: a modest but worthwhile battery breakthrough
Source: 9to5Mac
Overview
Next‑generation battery technology is often compared to fusion power: breakthroughs are promised but rarely materialize. While we still hear about month‑long laptop batteries and room‑scale wireless charging, most of those claims remain speculative.
One modest yet worthwhile breakthrough is already available: solid‑state powerbanks, including a new MagSafe model from Zens.
My colleague Fernando Silva tested a solid‑state MagSafe battery last month, and I’ve been testing another. The Zens Semi‑Solid‑State Powerbank is a hybrid battery that combines solid‑state cells (offering the highest energy density) with conventional lithium cells (providing better performance and lifespan). This blend aims to deliver the best of both worlds.
Specs
- Capacity: 5,000 mAh (8 mm thick) and 10,000 mAh (14 mm thick)
- Dimensions: 10.2 × 7 cm (both variants)
- Charging: Qi 2.2 compatible, up to 25 W with iPhone 16 series and newer, 15 W with earlier models
- Compatibility: Works with iPhone 16 Pro Max and earlier, as well as any AirPods model that supports wireless charging
- Ports: USB‑C charging socket (bottom)
Look & Feel
The powerbank sports a very dark gray, almost black, finish with squircle‑shaped rounded corners. The exterior is matte, while the interior surface that contacts the iPhone is rubberized to prevent scratches. Branding is subtle, placed above five tiny charge‑state LEDs.
In Use
I’m not a typical MagSafe battery user—I work from home and usually keep my iPhone on a MagSafe charger set to 80 % maximum capacity. However, two scenarios highlighted the powerbank’s value:
- Long cycling rides where I rely on the phone for navigation.
- Extended travel days away from a power source.
In both cases the Zens powerbank roughly doubled the runtime of my fully charged iPhone 16 Pro Max. The added weight (122 g) is comparable to an Apple MagSafe wallet, and the bulk is minimal. Pass‑through charging is a convenient feature: you can plug a charger into the powerbank while it’s attached to the phone, charging both simultaneously.
Pricing & Conclusions
The Zens Semi‑Solid‑State Powerbank isn’t a revolutionary leap, but it represents a notable improvement over earlier, bulkier solutions. Paired with a GaN power brick, it creates a compact, lightweight charging setup.
- 5,000 mAh model: $59.99
- 10,000 mAh model: $79.99
Both variants are available for immediate shipping from the Zens website. While the price is higher than conventional powerbanks, the slim form factor and solid‑state technology make it a worthwhile premium.
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