Expert's Rating
Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
USB power adapter for iPod and iPhone
If you need an iPod or iPhone USB Power Adapter, you can spend $30 on another Apple USB Power Adapter. Or, if you’re interested in giving your hard-earned cash to a company other than Apple, you can consider Griffin’s PowerBlock.
The PowerBlock is your basic power adapter that comes with a USB dock-connector cable (like the one included with your iPod). An LED indicator shines amber while your device charges, and turns green when charging is done. The PowerBlock measures 1.25-by-2.63-by-1.13 inches; you can flip it upside-down and plug it into a top wall outlet, leaving the bottom outlet unblocked.
The PowerBlock’s prongs can fold away when not in use, a nice touch. One very good reason why you might opt for the Apple adapter instead of Griffin’s: The PowerBlock lacks the removable prongs that the Apple adapter has for Apples World Travel Adapter Kit ($40) or, if you have a MacBook, the power extension cord that comes with the laptop.
If you’re not a world traveler and just need a power adapter for home or work, the PowerBlock does the job adequately. Though at this price, there’s no compelling reason why you should opt for the PowerBlock over Apple’s adapter–or an adapter that offers more value for your money, such as PDO’s PowerTwo.
–Roman Loyola