Windows Phone Thoughts: VersaCharger Pro Review

Compared To The Older Brother


Figure 3: VC Pro is quite a bit bigger than its older brother.

As I mentioned before, the second generation is quite a bit bigger than the previous. When wrapping my hands around both units, the tips of my fingers can touch below my thumb with a VersaCharger - they're miles away with the new version. The extra bulk is undoubtedly due to the increased power output and the repositioning of the USB port.

While we're on the subject, BoxWave claims that the USB port was moved "so you can charge the device without taking up two outlets". Their reasoning is simple - cord hangs from bottom, nix outlet below if it's plugged into the outlet above. If the charger is plugged into the lower outlet, the car charging plug will cover the top outlet. However, in my extremely scientific testing (i.e. I plugged the old one into the top outlet), I found the bottom outlet could easily be used. But whatever, the outlet is moved, for better or worse. While I think the new design makes a lot of sense for wall outlet charging, I could see potential troubles when charging in the car, as the USB cord would stick up perpendicular to the cigarette lighter plug. So depending on your particular car, an issue could arise. Of course this is easily alleviated by purchasing a small extension adapter for the car plug. Still, something bugs me about the moving of the port, and I don't quite know why!


Figure 4: Side by side comparison. Version 2 will definitely take up a bit more space, but the new port location may be worth it.

Another change on the new unit involves the power prongs that go into the wall. The previous unit kept the prongs tight up against the body of the charger, while the unit I received to review featured prongs that were larger and dangled a centimeter or so away from the device if held upside down. I figure this is probably due to the manufacturing process needing to be versatile enough to support putting either the UK or US plug on the unit. I don't foresee this being an issue other than the device could potentially get caught up while sliding it in and out of tight spaces (such as a gear bag). I also found that plugging the device into the wall required more care since the prongs were looser. If I plugged it in too quickly (and not straight on) the prongs were pushed back up into their folded position! I suppose that reinforces the good common sense approach - be nice to expensive toys and their accessories!