Review: ZAGGsparq 2.0

by Mac Jadalhack

1 June 2010 3 Comments

ZAGG is definitely one of my favorite BlackBerry accessory companies as you never know what to expect from them next. We’ve seen the clever Invisible Shield, ZAGGskins, and even the ZAGGsparq. I’ve personally been following up on this bad boy for quite some time now, and found out that it has launched about two weeks ago officially. Now this isn’t a direct BlackBerry related accessory, but it does charge its battery for me and therefore it should very well be included here. For those unaware, the ZAGGsparq is pretty much a portable and chargeable battery that allows you to charge your electronics (BlackBerry, iPod, iPad, etc) by connecting the USB wire in it and into your device. If any of you have been following this item, then you’re well aware that this is version 2.0 which is new and improved, supporting the Apple iPad now. It’s got two USB ports allowing you to charge two devices at a time. As you can see in the thumbnails below, you have four lights and a button to push at anytime to check how far along the charge is. Remind you of a MacBook AC adapter by any chance? Hit the jump to check out our full review.

Now the biggest question many people ask is “how many full charges does this thing hold?” According to the video provided by ZAGG, you’ll be able to do up to 4 iPhone charges. As for the BlackBerry, I have used it twice so far without recharging it, and I am now just about low enough to need to charge the ZAGGsparq again. I would say 2.5 charges is quite accurate for the BlackBerry.

On a side note, I found it pretty cool that the ZAGGsparq 2.0 does support the Apple iPad. As I am a proud owner of one, i can add an addition 5 to 6 hours of video playback to the iPad according to ZAGG. Using it for the iPad, I have been able to get about 70 percent of my battery back up, which is wonderful.

ZAGGsparq Features:

Portable power: More than a simple extended battery, ZAGGsparq 2.0 carries multiple charges for any personal electronic device with you – including four full recharges for a power-hungry Apple iPhone™
On-the-go convenience: ZAGGsparq 2.0 fits easily in a pocket or bag, the perfect size for travelers and business people
Very compatible: ZAGGsparq 2.0 works with most USB charged device, including cell phones, handheld gaming systems, and digital cameras (adapters for mini-USB to USB sold separately)**
Charge multiple devices: ZAGGsparq 2.0 provides twoUSB charging ports: Optimized and General
Optimized: The top USB charging port is optimized for smartphones and other devices that are capable of taking an optimized charge, including Apple’s iPhone, iPad and iPod family of products.
General: The bottom port uses the standard USB specification and will charge devices that do not utilize the optimized USB charging specification.
Superior Engineering: ZAGGsparq 2.0 has been specifically engineered to charge Apple’s iPad. It adds an additional 5 to 6 hours of video playback to the iPad.

Do I Need It?

For me it’s great because there are many scenarios where the ZAGGsparq comes in handy. If you’re on the go a lot or just don’t always have local access to wall sockets and a BlackBerry home charger, then it is also good for you as well. Some see it more convenient getting an extended battery as it could be a little cheaper route. Again, in my case the ZAGGsparq is used for my BlackBerry and iPad and that’s what makes it right for me.

Pricing

It’s not that cheap, nor is it overboard expensive. Surely you’ll find lots of “Made in China” ones on eBay, but you won’t receive the same warranty or quality in the product as you do with ZAGG. The ZAGGsparq retails for $99.99 over at their website now. Given that it can charge all your USB compatible electronics, the price is right here.

Design & Weight

For a device that can charge your electronics on the go, it’s not heavy at all. It’s only half a pound (0.54lbs) and fits great in any backpack or laptop bag. It looks a lot like an Apple MacBook charger in its design, but is a bit bigger and obviously a little bit more heavier. Don’t look at this as pocket candy though folks unless you’re rockin’ some big pocket jeans and don’t mind them sagged a bit.

Where to Buy?

You can buy the ZAGGsparq right from the official ZAGG website today for only $99.99.