iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 Powerstrip

We recently reviewed the iClever BoostCube 4 Wall Charger (read our review here), and have made it one of our regular travel accessories.  But sometimes, you may need ever more connectivity options and for that, we like the iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01.

Apple Tech Talk Scorecard

iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 – Unboxing

In the box is the iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01, a small user guide and the iClever warranty card.

Like the BoostCube, the iClever BoostStrip has four (4) SmartID USB charging ports, that can each provides 2.4A output to allow you to charge multiple iOS products at once.  In addition, it contains two (2) three prong, surge protected AC outlets, that provide 10A/125V/1000W of power,  to allow you to plug in additional charging blocks or your MacBook.

All of this is packed into a neat package that measures a mere 5.4” x 5.2” x 2” and weighs only 12.8 oz.

The iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 has a heavy duty 5 ft. cord attached to the side and even include a nice Velcro wrap to keep the cord neatly bundled for storage and transport.

iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 – Test Results

Compared to the usual iPhone or iPad charging bricks, or even the iClever BoostCube, this unit is bulky. But considering how many items can be connected to the iClever BoostStrip at one time, we this it is a reasonable trade off and is certainly still small enough to fit in a backpack or small carry-on bag if you need it for travel.

Overall, the unit has a nice feel to it and sufficient weight that it doesn’t move around when items are plugged into it.

The 5 ft. power cord makes it easy to keep it on your desk or on a hotel nightstand, even if the outlet is not right where you need it to be.

We do take exception to the claim that each of the USB outlets provides 2.4A output for high speed charging given that the unit is rated for 4.8A output in total.

We reached out to iClever about this and here is their response.

“The total 4.8A is the rated current for total 4 USB ports. Actually, the allowed total USB max current is 5.5amp. This means that we limit the total USB current not to exceed 5.5A.We note it on the product page that the max current allowed by each port is 2.4amp.

Thanks to our SmartID technology, each USB port could recognize your device and offer max current allowed by the device.  For example, the current for iPhone is 1 amp and the iPad current is 2.4 amps. If you only charge one iPad or two, the current for each device can reach 2.4amps; If you charge three, the current for each device will be 1.8 amps as the max current is 5.5A.  Our SmartID technology will dynamically adjust the current according to charging status of the product!”

In the end, we think the message here is that you have access to four (4) USB ports and two (2) surge protected AC outlets, all of which allows you the ability to charge a variety of devices at the same time.  Given the possible combinations of USB ports and power bricks plugged in to the AC outlets, we think the iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 will meet most, if not all of your charging needs.

We should point out that this unit is only a power strip and cannot act as a USB hub. Perhaps, if iClever is listening, they might consider the iClever BoostHub? With two AC outlets to connect your Mac and a monitor and four USB ports for printers, scanners or external hard drives, we think that could easily wind up on everyone’s desk.

The Bottom Line

With the ability to charge four iPhones or even one iPad and 3 iPhones, all without the need to use a power brick, and also be able to plug in your Mac, the iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 is a nice companion to the iClever BoostCube 4 we previously reviewed.  The compact size makes it easy to pack for travel or for use in a group setting when power outlets and/or space is limited.

The iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 comes with an 18-month warranty and iClever’s friendly customer service.  It has an MSRP of $32.99 and is available in the Apple Tech Talk Marketplace or directly from Amazon.

If your needs are such that you need more AC outlets or the side mounted USB ports don’t quite work for you, consider the iClever BoostStrip IC-BS02.  With its third AC outlet and top mounted USB ports, this could be the perfect power strip for a conference room or kitchen counter and could easily become the central charging station for the whole family.

The iClever BoostStrip IC-BS02, comes in your choice of white or black, has an MSRP of $36.99 and is also available in the Apple Tech Talk Marketplace and from Amazon.

We wish to thank the folks at iClever for providing an iClever BoostStrip IC-BS01 for this review.

If you liked this article, please consider sharing it with your friends and leaving a comment below.

Also, don’t forget to “Like” us on Facebook, “Follow Us” on Twitter and add the Apple Tech Talk channel to your Apple News app.

APPLE TECH TALKER