The Mophie range of iPhone cases are designed to offer both protection and additional battery power. Designed for the iPhone 4 and 4S, the cases add a little weight but a great deal of power and are ideal for users on the run, campers, hikers, travellers, and anyone else who’s likely to spend an extended period of time away from a plug.
Available in two models, Mophie cases are charged via micro-USB and include four LEDs for a visual representation of the pack’s power level. The Air model includes a 1 500mAh battery, while the Plus offers 2 000mAh.
We reviewed the Mophie Plus, and the unit provided a full charge for an iPhone 4S, with a bit of power to spare, in about 90 minutes. Moreover, it offered the ability to do something previously only dreamed of: charge and sync an iPhone via micro-USB rather than Apple’s proprietary 30-pin connector.
The Mophie Air provides approximately 60% of a full charge to an iPhone 4 or 4S.
The case splits two-thirds of the way up and slides apart to release the handset, meaning it’s not necessary to keep the phone in it at all times. This makes it ideal for those who want emergency power in a compact unit they can drop in a bag or slip in a jacket pocket.
The bottom portion of the case includes a built-in 30-pin connector that is used for charging. In order to charge the device, one flicks a switch on the bottom left-hand corner of the case.
Both models allow for access to the silent switch and buttons that align with the lock/power and volume buttons. There are also two holes on the bottom of the case to allow for speaker sounds to be heard.
The Mophie Plus and Air weigh around 70g. The Plus is a little thicker at 182mm compared to the 172mm of the Air and both make the iPhone feel heftier, but also sturdier and well-protected against drops and dings. The rubberised rear also inspires confidence and there’s a hole for the lens and flash of the phone’s camera in the rear of the case.
The Mophie Air costs R699, while the Mophie Plus costs R799. That’s not cheap for a case, but if you’re the sort of user who regularly requires additional battery power, you’ll find the Mophie Air or Plus a great accessory. — (c) 2012 NewsCentral Media
