Review: Griffin PowerDock4 iPod iPhone Multi Charger

Griffin's PowerDock Charger is one of the best charging solution for families with multiple iPods/iPhones. A while ago, I reviewed the PowerDock2 (Amazon: $29 Shipped)charger and it has been serving me well, I have had it next to my bed and it charges two iPhones at the same time for the past year. While the two charger solution is fulfilling my personal needs, I can see a situation where a larger family could use a little more support and this is where the PowerDock4 comes to play.

The PowerDock4 (Amazon: $43 shipped) to my surprise is not much larger than its little bro. It didn't take much more footprint on my nightstand than the PowerDock2 did. All the while capable of charging four devices simultaneously. I retired the PowerDock2 to my guest bedroom for friends and family visiting us (most couples visiting me has a combination of two iPhones/iPods so it becomes very handy for them not having to worry about bringing a charger). As for me, with all the testing for this blog, the PowerDock4 will certainly be handy with my charging needs.

The major difference with the PowerDock4 is the fact that it has the AC/DC adaptor built into its base. Unlike the PowerDock2 where there is an external AC/DC brick/adaptor, the PowerDock4 can be used with any two-prong power cord. This actually makes the PowerDock4 a little more flexible in the event you misplaced your powercord, you can always find replacement easily.

Like all other Griffin dock designs, they supply a handful of inserts/adaptors to give you a snug fit for most iPods with docking capabilities. However, I don't use any of the inserts since most of my devices have protective cases on them therefore the larger default opening works out great for me. My only feedback is if these docks can dedicate a few line-outs in the event you'd also like to hook this up to a stereo system.

Review: Griffin PowerDock2 for iPhone(s) and iPod(s)

Few weeks back, Griffin Technology announced PowerDock chargers which allows you to charge from 2 to 4 iPhones and/or iPods at once. There are other solutions for charging multiple i-Devices (ie. buy a second wall charger or a music/speakers dock from Altec Lansing or Bose) but none of which provides the sleekness of PowerDock stations (MSRP $49-$69) with its low-profile aluminum design with minimal cord exposure. I received a PowerDock2 review unit from Griffin (thanks to Jeniifer L. at FortyThreePR for the arrangement), you'll find my review below.

A lot of people may wonder why is it necessary to charge two iPhone s and/or iPods at once, instead of taking turns. I have two answers for that: 1). in some scenarios such as preparing for a trip for the next day, it's nice to be able to simultaneously charge two or more devices at once and 2). Family members - if you have a growing family, chances are you will have a few iPods and iPhone(s) amongst Mom, Dad, Kids and visitors fighting for the one charger you have. For the most part, iPods don't even come with a wall-charger anymore. These scenarios will make you wish you had a PowerDock in hand.

The PowerDock2 packaging is no non-sense; as soon as you open it, the PowerDock reveals itself along with power charger and six ipod adapters/inserts which provides a perfect fit to all iPods (and iPhone) up to date. Although in two weeks, the iPhone 3G will very likely require a new adapter insert. Regarding to the inserts, I have a couple of complaints: 1). Once installed, it is hard to remove due to its smooth/curvature design. I had to use a toothpick to pry it out after I installed the wrong size insert; it would have been nice to label each insert for its dedicated iPod generation. 2). With the insert in place, it is a real tight fit; which means you'll really have to push your device down to get a good flush connection thus charging. As for me, I decided to leave the inserts completely out to make charging an easier task (warning: if you don't have a proper adapter-insert in place, you are taking a chance of snapping off the connectors in the event you push your iPod/iPhone forwards or backwards, consider yourself warned!). A benefit of leaving the inserts off is the ability to charge an iPhone with a sleeve on them, ie. Griffin ClearBoost or Wave (see picture); this is very handy more so than any other dock on the market today. Kudos to Griffin Technology on this design!

Overall, I am very pleased with Griffin PowerDock2's design and quality; it has a very low profile which can blend into most modern homes. If I can add one more feature, it would be adding more connectivity (ie. two sets of an auxiliary output and USB/data ports for syncing) on the back of the PowerDock; this feature would be handy for people with a nice stereo system.

Please find a slide show for unboxing and product images below (or click here to view album):

Charge 2 or 4 iPods/iPhones with Griffin PowerDock

I've accumulated several iPods over the years. In fact, right now, I've got an iPod 30GB, iPod Nano and two iPhones in my household. When preparing for a trip, making sure all of my devices have been charged has becoming a daunting task. The time it takes to charge your cameras, laptops, cell phones, iPods, iPhone, Gameboy and PSP can take a long time and it becomes a hassle to juggle between multiple chargers as well as finding available outlets.

Griffin Technology just announced the availability of two multi-charging stations that can ease up this process. The PowerDock2 ($49), available today, can support any combination of two iPods or iPhones while the PowerDock4 ($69), available in July, can support up to any four devices. Griffin will include six different adapters to support any size iPod that includes a dock connector.

This looks pretty handy and will definitely provide the solution needed families with multiple iPods and iPhones. I will try to provide a real life review shortly. Stay tuned!