This MagSafe pack is equal parts stylish and efficient - but I have one issue
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Casely’s Power Pod MagSafe battery pack effortlessly combines form and function.
- The $60 battery pack can boost your devices with up to 5,000 mAh of added juice via USB‑C charging or wireless charging (Qi and MagSafe).
- If you need a purely powerful or multifunctional battery pack, you may be better off with alternatives.
There’s no denying the usefulness of [battery packs][zdnet-battery-packs], especially those designed with [MagSafe technology][zdnet-magsafe-battery]. They give your devices an endurance boost when you’re on the go, in an emergency, or traveling abroad.
But many of them are dull, uninspiring, and—dare I say—ugly. Thick, brick‑like, boxy designs in the same old boring colors dominate the market (aside from a few occasional colored versions). They look as technologically advanced as my mom’s first cell phone from the 80s—great if you’re nostalgic for that era, but not exactly cutting‑edge.
Also: [Looking for an Apple Watch charging solution? This keychain gadget saved me][zdnet-watchit]
I tend to avoid many MagSafe battery packs because of their clunky designs, preferring traditional USB‑C packs for my charging needs. You won’t catch me with a hideous MagSafe brick—until I discovered the [Casely Power Pod][casely-pod]. It blends all the necessities of a battery pack with a refined aesthetic that makes my Gen‑Z heart sing.
After testing the Power Pod nonstop for a week (it accompanied me on errands, a night out, and even a bar visit), I’m impressed by its multifunctional charging capabilities and sleek, ergonomic design that integrates flawlessly with my iPhone case—all for a price of $60.
Also: [I switched to a solid‑state portable battery for a week—now lithium‑ion feels outdated][zdnet-solidstate]
How it works
- MagSafe attachment: Snap the pod onto the back of your iPhone or any adapter‑equipped device.
- Case compatibility: Works with any MagSafe‑compatible case or any wireless‑charging‑compatible case. Casely also includes an adhesive magnetic ring that turns a non‑MagSafe case or device into a MagSafe‑compatible accessory.
- Charging options:
- MagSafe battery pack – wireless charging up to 15 W.
- Qi charging pad – for wireless earbuds and other Qi‑enabled devices.
- Traditional USB‑C – use the included cord for wired charging.
The pod offers 5,000 mAh of capacity and a maximum wireless output of 15 W, giving you three versatile ways to keep your devices powered.
How Long Does It Take to Charge a Phone?
After starting with a fully‑charged Power Pod (indicated by four LED lights at the bottom of the pack), my phone went from 47 % to 83 % after an hour of MagSafe charging. I still had 50 % charge left in the Power Pod, indicated by two remaining lights on the pack.
The Power Pod can also charge itself via USB‑C while charging your phone via MagSafe (I tried it). When I used the pod as a Qi wireless charging pad, my AirPods Pro 2 went from 75 % to 100 % in about 45 minutes, and I still had more than 25 % battery remaining in the Power Pod.
![Casely Power Pod – used as a wireless charger for AirPods Pro 2]
Kayla Solino / ZDNET
In comparison to other MagSafe battery packs that ZDNET has tested, I was happy with the charging rate and speed; it is on par with similar 5,000 mAh packs I have tested. Of course, the exact charging speed of my iPhone 14 Pro each time I used the Power Pod depended on factors such as:
- How many devices I was charging simultaneously
- The starting battery level of the phone
Design & Personalization
Casely’s secret weapon isn’t just the Power Pod’s charging capabilities—it’s the uniquely crafted ergonomic shape and designs. The Power Pod is available in 50 different colors, patterns, and prints, a level of customization that’s unparalleled in the MagSafe battery‑pack market.
![Casely Power Pod next to the Mophie snap+ juice pack mini wallet]
Kayla Solino / ZDNET
I’m a greedy consumer: I want style and personalization to reflect in my tech—especially something as visible as my phone. That’s why the Casely Power Pod has gone everywhere with me since I unboxed it.
Also: Here’s a portable power bank that’s actually worth its high price—especially if you travel
The pod fits into my tiny, trendy “going‑out” bag (which, for the record, barely holds my iPhone 14 Pro, a cardholder, and a lip‑gloss). When I pull it out, it’s cute, fun, and another outward projection of myself that I can control.
![Casely Power Pod]
Kayla Solino / ZDNET
Casely’s Power Pods can also be matched with the brand’s phone cases, creating a near‑seamless illusion between where your phone case ends and where the Power Pod starts. The combo I tested was the prettiest lavender‑heart pattern, cutely dubbed “Love Song” for Valentine’s Day. As someone who appreciates products that offer both style and sustenance, Casely knocks it out of the park on aesthetic appeal.
Also: I tried this bizarre wireless charger for my Apple Watch—it’s surprisingly useful
Size & Build
Beyond the obvious color and print options, the Power Pod stands out for its shape. At only 3.2 oz,