Portable USB charger?

by **lambchop** » September 13th, 2009

What is the best option for a portable USB charger? I hate traveling with my laptop and my MP3 player and camera require charging from my laptop (via USB). I just found out that portable chargers are available, but I'm not sure which one to get (I'd also like to use it for my cell phone). Lithium batteries seem to last longer and handle things that require more power, however, I'm worried about if the battery dies when I'm on the road and don't have access to a computer that can charge it. For AA or AAA battery requirements, I'm worried that I'll have to constantly buy batteries.

I know there is no one-size fits all solution. I'm just looking to get some real-life stories/experiences so I can figure out what will best meet my needs.

Any ideas?

by **Zuleika** » September 14th, 2009

This may not be what you are looking for exactly but I have one of these very handy universal plugs with USB plug included for my MP3 etc = total all in one.
so I dont need my laptop or have to rely on batteries.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASI ... oh_product
(this is a UK version BTW)

by **lambchop** » September 15th, 2009

I clicked on that link and several others... not sure how this works. Does it plug into an outlet in the wall and there's a USB on the unit that you plug into?

Do you have any complaints about this product?

by **Zuleika** » September 15th, 2009

yes - each plug type slides in and out with the slider button on the side and there is a USB port on the cap for your USB cable. You do have to plug into a socket for power so its not portable.
I have used it on several holidays and its great and more compact than the traditional 3 separate adaptors you usually get.

by **Scritch** » September 22nd, 2009

What about this guy?

I don't own one, I just covet it from afar. Essentially it's a core unit, the chargepod, and you buy tips for your devices. There's a generic USB tip, and lots of specific ones made for different phone models you can look up on their website.

by **lambchop** » September 28th, 2009

I ended up buying a universal A/C USB adapter. Basically, it plugs into the wall and accepts a USB cable. Obviously, if I don't have access to a wall outlet, then I'm screwed, but that's a rare case that I can live with.