Our electronic devices are using more power than ever before, so having extra juice is critical for today’s on-the-go workers. This past January at CES 2014, the pnosker.com crew checked out many various portable charging devices – cases, battery packs, and everything in between. The offGRID Pro battery case for iPhone 5 is our first reviewed charging device from CES 2014.
Most battery cases on the market have a non-removable battery fixed within them. While this reduces the potential for losing parts of the charging case, it limits the total amount of charge allowable. The Incipio offGRID Pro battery case solves this problem by utilizing removable battery packs. The battery packs, each of which have a capacity of 2000 mAh, are charged in a separate charging unit. They then fit into the back of the battery case, which charges your phone.
The charging unit is able to charge both battery packs at the same time, which is very convenient for users that plan on using both packs while out. However, charging did not work until a cover film was removed from the metal contacts on the batteries. This may seem straightforward, but the charging unit LEDs were on and indicating that charging was underway even with the film on. Yet when placed into the battery case, charging of my iPhone 5S did not occur. Only after careful investigation did I find the films to remove. Once removed, the battery packs charged fine, so I consider the film issue minor.
The offGRID Pro itself has the perfect weight and feel to it, adding only minimal bulk to my phone. The volume and power button covers are the best I’ve ever felt in a full phone case. They are pliable enough to respond to user input, but rigid enough to actually do the desired action. The design of the offGRID Pro case allows for a firm grasp while talking on the phone. The case is considerably difficult to remove, however. If most users are like myself, they only use a charging case when extra battery is needed (like when at a concert), so this may be an annoyance for users.
Charge capacity is ultimately the most important feature of a battery case, and the offGRID Pro lives up to its claims. I was able to charge my phone from 2% to 87% and 89%, respectively, on two consecutive charges using each of the provided battery packs. Each charge took only 2 hours. This is in line with how much charge a 2000 mAh battery should restore.
Overall, the Incipio offGRID Pro iPhone 5 battery case is an excellent product with only a few minor issues. If you’re looking for a sturdy and versatile charging case for your iPhone 5, you should definitely check out the offGRID Pro.
Incipio offGRID Pro iPhone 5 Battery Case – $66.18
