According to a recent CNET review, the Baseus PicoGo Air AM71 is among the thinnest and lightest wireless magnetic power banks currently available, designed for iOS and Android phones. The review evaluates its design, battery capacity, charging speeds, and overall usability in comparison to competitors like Anker’s Nano MagSafe.
- Exceptionally slim and lightweight design for easy portability
- 5,000mAh capacity suitable for partial to full phone charges
- Faster wired charging preferred over wireless mode by reviewer
Product angle
The source review presents the Baseus PicoGo Air AM71 as a remarkably thin and lightweight portable charger, measuring only 0.27 inches thick and weighing approximately 105 grams. It stands out for its compact form factor that fits comfortably in pockets, appealing to users prioritizing portability. The device supports both magnetic wireless charging for compatible phones and wired charging with a supplied short USB-C cable, the latter offering expedited charging speeds.
The reviewer reports that while the power bank’s 5,000mAh capacity is sufficient to fully charge recent iPhone models under ideal conditions, real-world usage may result in slightly reduced effective capacity due to heat and power conversion losses. Compared to its predecessors and competitors like Anker’s Nano MagSafe, the PicoGo Air AM71 offers modest improvements in thickness, weight, and cooling efficiency, though with some trade-offs regarding wireless charging speed consistency.
Best for / avoid if
This power bank is best suited for users who prioritize a slim, lightweight charger that can easily accompany them on the go without adding bulk. It is ideal for smartphone owners who appreciate magnetic wireless compatibility but often prefer faster wired charging, as highlighted by the source review. Those who value portability above raw capacity will find the PicoGo Air AM71 appealing.
Conversely, users requiring extended battery capacity or high-speed wireless charging for prolonged use might find this model inadequate. The 5,000mAh battery may not meet demands for multiple full charges of larger smartphones, and the wireless charging speed may throttle under heat constraints, making it less favorable for heavy wireless charging sessions. Budget-conscious buyers may also weigh the value against Baseus’ older, lower-priced options.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The PicoGo Air AM71 is competitively priced relative to its features, with discounts available through select retailers such as a $30-off deal on Amazon mentioned in the source review. This pricing positions it between older Baseus models priced near $25 and more feature-rich options like the Baseus PicoGo AM52, which offers a larger 10,000mAh battery and faster wireless charging, but at roughly double the size, weight, and cost (around $55).
Key alternatives include Anker’s Nano MagSafe charger, which shares a similar 5,000mAh capacity and thickness but falls short on weight and cooling efficiency compared to Baseus’ offering. For buyers seeking greater capacity or wired charging convenience, the PicoGo AM52 may be worth consideration despite the increased bulk. Buyers should evaluate their priorities in size versus capacity and charging speed before deciding.