Maxell iPod Backup Battery Pack Reviews

• An iPod battery pack is necessary on long trips

  
  By A3QUDXLOJTKEP9 on 2007-05-12
  I was disappointed when Belkin discotinued their Tune Juice, a very small external power pack that used a regular 9 volt (smoke alarm size) battery. I assume it must not have worked with all the newer iPods.
  As a substitute, I bought this Maxell one. It's OK, but there are two complaints. 1) It's bigger than an iPod and with 4 AA batteries, it's considerably heavier. 2) It costs around $25.00 because it includes a really awkward collection of plastic holders, clamps, belt cilps and doodads which, for me are all totally unnecessary. You don't use a battery pack while hiking or at the gym, you use it on a plane during long flights - small and light are the important features. However, I don't see many alternatives at the moment so, I'm happy - with reservations.
  
  

• It works with 60GB Video iPod

  
  By A1IAYC69NNXZ6X on 2007-04-10
  There is a great deal of confusion about what models of iPod work with this unit. I have the 60GB video iPod and it works fine. 15 hour flight to China and no problems at all - power to spare, even watching video most of the time. The "clip on arrangement does not fit the video iPod but that isn't too big a problem.
  
  

• works with G5 video ipod

  
  By A3HGQW5TNUSS1G on 2006-10-24
  I ordered this one for traveling purpose. I have a G5 60G video ipod. I just got the backup battery pack today and noticed on the package that it was not compatible with "G5 Video". I called the Maxell tech support and found out it is compatible but the clip case is not compatible with G5 video. Even the manual came with the battery pack shows that G5 video is one of the ipods NOT compatible with this pack. After talking with the tech support, I opened it and tried it with my G5 60G video ipod and was relieved to find out it works. The clip on case doesn't fit with G5 60G ipod but if you don't need the case, it does work as backup battery.
  
  

• Works with iPod Video as well

  
  By A32UVORM7873FP on 2006-09-21
  The iPod Video works well with this too, as long as you don't have it in a case. It's true that it's slimmer than the previous generations, but the suction cup holds it down with no problems.
  
  

• Does not work with 80GB Video iPod

  
  By A36D8XBH1TQLU6 on 2007-08-28
  Although I read that this works well with other video ipods, I found out that it doesn't work with the 80GB version. Luckily, I purchased this from Easy Street Electronics. They immediately refunded my purchase along with my shipping costs. Extremely helpful and customer oriented vendor on Amazon. They answered my phone call immediately (with a live person) and transfered me just as quickly to a knowledgable technician (Mitch).
  
  I'm not really sure how to rate this product since I don't have the proper ipod, but I would definitely give Easy Street Electronics, especially Mitch, an A+ and 5 STARS.
  
  I wish Amazon would list all ipod products with a product matrix displaying what works with which ipod product.
  
  
• Works as promised
  By AKD6N3IQC5W92 on 2007-05-21
  Works perfectly, even with the iPod 5 gen. The package says it is incompatible but that's only if you use the included clip. I only gave it 4 stars because of the very cheap plastic that was used in the construction. If not careful, it will break when removing the battery cover. Use rechargeable AA batteries for the longest use. I am very pleased.
  
  
• Great for travel
  By A39MVPAFNRX66S on 2007-10-02
  I have an iPod classic (video) 80GB. I originally bought the battery pack for my 30GB iPod, but it kicked the bucket before I could try it. So I was hoping it would work with the gen. 6 models.
  
  I'm pleased to report that it worked well, at least in initial tests. It fit into the sleeve snugly and the supplied battery to iPod cord fit well into the iPod. When I turned on the battery back-up, the charging light on the iPod increased to full. I'd imagine that it would decrease as the AA batteries are drained so you'll know if you have to put in new AA batteries.
  
  Remember that this isn't a re-charger but rather a battery extender. If you allow the iPod battery to drain, this won't ressurect it. So if you're type A, you might want to pack an extra set of batteries in case the battery gauge gets too low for comfort.
  
  
• better than advertised
  By A315868EHML5FQ on 2007-06-03
  I had sent an earlier review because I was thrilled that this unit could function with my 80g video IPod. Still, I had not really tested it much. Then while on vacation in Italy, I finally had the opportunity to put it to work--and did it perform! My biggest concern about my trip was not having backup power during my long flight overseas, but I later found out that the AC outlet configuation in Italy is not compatible with my plug. So having my Pod in my hotel room at night was truly a thrill, because most of the television stations were in Italian, and I don't speak the language that well. In every situation, the Backup Pack performed flawlessly while listening to music or watching movies. I didn't use the docking portion though. It seemed a bit "bulky" and unnecessary. Still, this item is more than worth the price, and an absolute must for overseas travel.
  
  
• More than Backup Battery Pack
  By A1JZUI3JE5CKVT on 2007-11-27
  This is a great product. In spite of some reviews it DOES work too with the 80 gig iPod Video [I've got three of them from 2006 & 2007 and the Maxell performs splendid with all three]. It doesn't matter if you use rechargeable or disposable AA batteries.
  When you switch the power button on, your iPod switches automatically on too: I think this is the -safest and probably most effective- way to use this device. On the matter of not charging the internal battery of the iPod: I think this is fantastic! The internal battery has only a limited amount of [dis]charge cycles and is spared this way, thus lenghtening your iPod's lifespan. But there's more. With two good sets of 4 NiMH [say 2500 mAh a piece] batteries and a charger you can -if you wish to- use your iPod non-stop without the annoying charging sessions which, in my opinion, shorten the lifetime of an iPod considerably: especially when you do this via your pc. One can read so many stories about dying iPods when they are connected to the computer, supposedly many things can go wrong during this procedure. And when you're in a car, plane or at home: who care's about the extra weight of the battery-pack. Last but not least: my iPod works much longer on one set of 4 AA 2500 mAh rechargeables than on one charge of the internal battery. Ten hours of video is no problem. On average, with varied ways of using [music, games and video] the battery-pack works -within a period of days when you use NiMH's, they have a very high selfdischarge rate- 24 hours!
  
  
• This product is compatible with iPod Mini.
  By A3IFHM5DM4DAGM on 2006-05-18
  I got this battery pack to use when I go to China next week. The packaging said that is does not work with the iPod Mini. I called the company and they assured me the packaging is incorrect and it is compatible. I am now looking forward to my trip with my iPod!
  
  
• It works -great way to get more playback time out of the Ipod
  By A24TL7UVMHY9V9 on 2007-03-12
  I had the Maxell backup battery pack for two weeks. It works fine. I get 15 to 25 hours more of playback time (depending of the batteries you use) I use NiMh rechargeables, the same kind I need for my digital camera so it is very convenient.
  
  I got rid of the ipod clip provided with the product because it doesn't fit my 30gb video with a protector case on. I have a custom made leather case with a special pocket for the battery pack so it's very easy to transport.
  
  The Maxell pack adds weight and bulk to the ipod but I guess it is the price you pay for convenience. The battery status leds are not very accurate but give you a general idea of the charge left.
  
  I wish there's a black one, to match my ipod but since it goes in the leather case it doesn't matter much to me.
  
  It does what I wanted it to do but could be smaller.
  
  
• Amazing! Great for the video iPod!!!
  By A2AW0YJ7V9I1GV on 2007-05-13
  I used this battery pack on my 15 hour flight and I was so impressed that I was able to watch over 15 hours of VIDEO without changing the batteries!! This product was a great deal!!
  
  
• Works with iPod Touch
  By A1OZUB5XEHJ5CE on 2007-11-01
  Not only does the battery pack work with the iPod Touch, but the iPod actually fits in the case and attaches securely to the suction cup. I need the battery pack for long flights to Asia, and extra sets of AA batteries are easy to come by.
  
  
• Maxell iPod Backup Battery Pack
  By A1MUDCQB0ZWSX4 on 2007-05-14
  I purchased this product for our long flight to China. It did exactly what we needed it to do - allowed my daughter to use her iPod for the entire 12 day trip without ever having to change the batteries. It is big & bulky, but it does what it is supposed to do.
  
  
• iPod Backup Battery Pack
  By A239Q8JNHY5WUP on 2007-05-17
  Recently took with me on flight from Orlando FL to Honolulu. It was a good thing since I forgot to charge my iPod. I was only about 2 hours into 10 hour flight when my iPOD battery died. I pulled out the battery pack and was able to enjoy my music and movie downloads all the way to Honolulu. Worked like a charm.
  
  
• Convenient and functional
  By A26S871J8O5CKN on 2007-06-26
  As a battery, it's smartly designed since you can load it up with 4 AA batteries over and over getting dozens of hours of life out of your iPod.
  
  The accessories aren't designed so well, however. Bulky, clunky, they never hired a good industrial designer. It would be cool if it operated as a stand for your iPod (very convenient when watching videos on a plane, for example).
  
  But overall, no complaints. Works great, very affordable and doesn't let you down.
  
  
• don't buy it
  By ATSUENCNRGQCU on 2007-10-25
  this is an ok product for what it does, which is power your iPod. notice I said "power" it does not CHARGE the iPod!!!!! this is poor labelling on Mexell's part. I would not get this, because you can get a device that not only powers, but actually charges you iPod, for less money!
  
  
• iPod Backup Battery Pack
  By A1CS7HOK37T37J on 2007-06-07
  We ordered 2 of this item. We had to send one back to the manufacturer as it did not work when we received it. We have yet to hear from them nor have we received a new one to replace the first one we sent back. The one that we do have is working fine.
  
  
• Travel Tip
  By A2YBKD4738X7NC on 2007-06-27
  I recently went to Italy, knowing full well that I hate to fly! With this in mind I knew that I would want to watch movies on my IPod to keep my mind off of the flight. So, I started researching external chargers for the IPod. This charger did the trick. The only down side is that it is rather large and bulky. It worked so well, that the 8 hour flight flew by!
  
  
• Not compatible with 40G or 60G iPod
  By A12Z574JFLDOA on 2007-05-10
  The box clearly says "not compatible with 40G or 60G iPod".
  
  
• Maxell Battery Pack
  By A1SWCQXE9RS7NJ on 2007-06-21
  Great product. Made a trip to Minnesota then Los Angeles easy. Never ran out of juice,played movies,podcasts,music.
  A little bulky but worth it. I wish it came in black to match my iPod.
  
  
• Best back-up power source for your iPod
  By A3PLOQLH4IQXBY on 2007-10-14
  If you want a really reliable, working back-up power source that was designed with total understanding of principles of iPod, buy this one.I just got mine yesturday and my iPod 3G works already for 22 hours. And it's battery indicator shows no signs of juice loss! I've tried Griffin, Macally, Power Stick - total waist of money, batteries and time. This one is a little bulky, but it is the one that will work right out of box. And it is even kind of cute with it's bright blue indicator light and glossy white surface.
  
  
• Great battery pack!
  By A3UDCINO372GI0 on 2007-12-07
  This thing got me through my 20 hours of flight from Washington, Dulles airport to Thailand. The battery life on this guy is surprisingly long. I watched about 20 hours of video on my iPod (6G).
  
  The only downside is that it doesn't charge your iPod and doesn't fit my iPod perfectly (mine's too thin for it to fit perfectly). But if aesthetics aren't your concern then this thing is awesome. You'll have a hard time finding something better for the cost.
  
  I liked having AA batteries instead of a Lithium battery since the only time you'd really need a battery pack like this is for travel anyway, and who wants to be tied to charging a lithium battery when you're on the road?
  
  
• Great
  By A2S45EVBDGB06W on 2007-12-14
  I ordered this last month.
  It works great with my new 80 gig ipod classic.
  I was on a 17 day trip of Europe and this thing was a lifesaver.
  Surprisingly I only went through 12 AA batteries. The batteries last a long time and let me watch video for hours and hours. 11 episodes of the wire at one point. Line at the airport? No problem.
  It is a bit bulky but I don't mind. I'd rather have this that be a slave to a wall plug.
  The only problem is I live in Canada and Amazon will not ship up here (why?!) so it was a bit of a production to get this here.
  Well worth it.
  
  
  
• Adds long life to the 60GB Video IPod
  By A20AEFKGU2R35U on 2008-02-19
  I took a chance and purchased this after reading the reviews of buyers who use it with their 60GB iPod models.
  I have the 60GB Video iPod and have been using the Maxell.
  To test it out, I've deliberately been playing nothing but videos on it to see just how long and how well it works.
  I've gone probably 16 hours and am only now on the verge of having to replace the batteries.
  Despite Maxell saying it's not compatible with this battery pack...it most definitely is compatible...and it does fit in the supplied holder although you can't use the actual clip that's included.
  I can make do well enough without it.
  I highly recommend this for anyone who needs a lot more hours of usage than would be otherwise possible with just the ipod's internal battery power.
  
  
• Not perfect, but it works
  By A1I89V1KQIE1XJ on 2008-03-16
  I purchased this battery pack in preparation to a few long flights. I haven't used regular alkaline batteries- I can only attest to using this battery pack with rechargeable NiMH rechargeable batteries, 2500 mA.
  
  One set of rechargeable batteries got me through about 21 hours of video playback (without skipping back and forth, and with my iPod screen set to minimal brightness).
  
  The battery level reading on the LED lights of this unit varies whether your iPod is on or off. If the iPod is receiving power from the battery pack, the LEDs will show a lower level than if your iPod is off. The LED indicator could be redesigned a bit to make it easier to read. You have to hold it at just the right angle to see each LED - there's too much reflection from the surrounding plastic.
  
  As far as I can tell, this battery pack won't charge your iPod - it just supplies power. Another thing to be aware of is that if the batteries die out, the iPod will run off it's internal battery. You have to keep tabs on the AA battery level if you don't want to drain the iPod completely.
  
  Overall, worth the money.
  
  ***
  The following comments are more of a wish list than an expectation - for a $20 dollar item, this battery pack met my expectations. With that, it never hurts to have a list of "revisions" to ask for:
  
  1. Changing the batteries is a bit awkward.. you have to disconnect the iPod and slide the pack out of the cradle. If you're on a plane or tight space, it's a lot to juggle. It would be nice to be able to just open the panel while it's still attached to the iPod.
  
  2. Finally, the pack's holster separates from the iPod's holster - the unit comes with a belt clip to allow the iPod holster to act as an independent holster as well. Adding another piece of plastic to the product to allow iPod to use the battery pack as a base, allowing the iPod to stand on it's own would be nice. The cord from the battery pack sticks out the bottom when it's plugged into the iPod and both the pack and iPod are in their respective holsters. It's hard to stand up and lean against something.
  
  
• Cool product!
  By A3FELWFD0SQK1E on 2006-01-14
  Only had the unit for about an hour; I have a second-generation iPod (10 gigs) and the unit works perfectly (instructions say it is not compatable with the mini). Price was good, battery vs. rechargable pack is a minor concern, and the unit does doubles the iPod size and probably tripples the weight, but that wasn't one of my concerns, just battery life. Expecting the 15-20 hours as per the manufacture, and will re-post if not happy.
  
  
• Great for long trips
  By A2M4TZ5K04M3P8 on 2007-03-23
  I just got back from Australia and this was the ultimate travel accessory. My ipod mini made it through 29 hours of travel with one set of batteries. The only reason I didn't give it 5 is because it's kinda bulky and may be annoying if using it while being active.
  
  
• Great for overseas flights!
  By A2Z0IMUD719WWB on 2007-03-27
  This battery backup was great for my recent trip to the Philippines. I was able to watch a number of movies on the flight plus listen to many hours of music. The original set of batteries was still functional for half the return trip. It is a nice feature that the iPod battery is not used up while the backup is in use. I would highly recommend this product for anyone that takes long flights.
  
  
• Extra Battery power
  By A3SVJ6JGLSKPWT on 2007-05-28
  It does not recharge your iPop batters but it does supply five or six hours of extra batters power and the 4 AA batteries are eary to replay. Need a long lasting iPod? Get this unit.
  
  

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