Preface
The Xtar PB2 model is the first model from the Xtar PB Series.
This Xtar PB2C model can be considered as an improved version of the original Xtar PB2 model.
Let’s check out the merits and demerits of this new Xtar PB2C model.
Packaging & First Impressions
This is what the Power Bank will come with as shown below.
- Simple packaging that slides open to reveal contents.
- Made of fire-resistance PC (Polycarbonate) material.
- Strong Dual Magnets to hold the Magnetic Lid and 18650 batteries in place.
- Minimal flexing is found on the PC portions of the power bank.
- Positive & Negative terminals are well labelled and easily distinguishable.
- Provision of the Battery Strap ensures for easy removal/replacement of 18650 battery as required.
- The Spring on both Negative terminals enable for longer Protected and Unprotected 18650 batteries usage.
- USB-C Cable provided is of fairly good quality and should hold up to the test of time.
Note: The 2 x 18650 XTAR 18650 2600mAh 35A batteries shown in this review, are not included with the Xtar PB2C but are recommended for usage with this XTAR PB2C power bank.
Front:
Back:
Box Contents:
Recommended Battery:
Quick Overview (Manufacturer Specifications)
- Body Material: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Body Color Options:
- Blue (as seen in this Review)
- Orange
- Maximum Charging: 5V @ 2A (2A x 1*18650 Batteries OR 1A x 2*18650 Battery)
- Maximum Discharging: 5V @ 2.1A
- Battery Charge Voltage: 4.20V ± 0.05V
- 0V activation feature
- Over-discharge & overheat protection
- Trailing Charge, Constant Current & Constant Voltage charging algorithm
- Battery reverse polarity protection
- Supported Battery Formats: Protected OR Unprotected 18650 ONLY (Button Top / Flat Top batteries)
- Dimension: 110mm (length) x 51mm (width) x 24.3mm (height)
- Weight: 55g (excluding batteries)
- Accessories Included:
- USB-C Charging Cable
- Note: PB2C does not come with any 18650 battery.
- MSRP: ~$13
Form Factor
The PB2C is a fairly small size Power Bank, considering it uses 2 * 18650 batteries along with USB-A Output and USB-C Input ports. It can be placed in larger sized pockets, bag, purse, etc. (away from moisture and dust); and one would probably not realize it is there, till it is actually needed.
Note: The following 18650 batteries shown are not included with the power bank.
Charging Process
The power bank is capable of charging the 18650 batteries at ~1.87A.
The Blinking WHITE indicator depicts charging in progress and 4 Solid WHITE indicator lit depicts charging has completed.
Discharging – Power Bank Function
The PB2C was able to provide an Apple iPad Pro 9.7 with a charging rate of ~1.32A.
The lit WHITE indicators depicts discharging in progress.
Each of the 4 WHITE indicators depicts 25% battery capacity.
- Hence, 3 WHITE indicators lit means ~75% battery capacity.
- When not used as a Power Bank, press the button on the side to activate the above Battery Check capacity.
Quick Comparison to XTAR PB2
| Description | XTAR PB2C | XTAR PB2 |
|---|---|---|
| Body Color Options | Blue and Orange | Black, Red, Blue and Orange |
| Height of Power Bank | 24.3mm | 24mm |
| Battery Compatibility | Protected OR Unprotected 18650 Batteries | Unprotected 18650 Batteries only |
| Charging Input Type | USB-C | Micro-USB |
| Battery Indicator | 4 WHITE Indicator LEDs | Battery Indicator displayed in Percentage (%) |
Scale Comparison (Ruler)
Summary
To sum up, we believe that the most important part of any review is if given the chance to purchase the same power bank for our own usage or to gift to our loved ones out from one’s pocket (wallet), would we still do it?
For this power bank, it is a definite YES.
The strong magnetic lid, battery strap, ability to swap out to preferred 18650 batteries as required, simple interface with 4 WHITE Indicators, USB-C charging, 2 color options and capability of using both unprotected and protected 18650 batteries as well as Button Top or Flat top batteries are all plus points for this power bank.
That said, it would be nice if XTAR had retained the all Black color option (as found in the Xtar PB2 model), for those who prefer a more stealthy appearance.
As with all gears, two is one and one is none.
Stay safe,
The Lite Review
Disclaimer: Charger and Batteries were provided for by Xtar (manufacturer) for this review. No other compensation was provided.
Where to Buy Links
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XTAR PB2C
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Available Discount Coupon Codes
- Click HERE to view our complete list of discount Coupon Codes.