Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsAnker 615 Power Strip: Champ or Chump? 🤔
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 10, 2023
First, let’s highlight some specs:
- Dimensions: 2-1/4” x 2-1/2” x 6” (including wrapped cord and wall plug)
- Weight: 11.3 oz
- Cord Length: 3 ft
- Number of Ports/Outlets: 5
- Types of Ports: 1 USB-A, 2 USB-C, and 2 Type B Sockets (Standard US w/ 3 pins: hot, neutral & ground)
- USB-C max output is 65W. When using both USB-C ports, the first port you connect to will output 45W, the second port will output 18W max.
- USB-A port maxes out at 12W.
- Voltage: 100-240V～50/60Hz (more on this later)
- Warranty: 24-Month with up to $25,000 insurance for connected devices.
- MSRP: $69.99 (often on sale for as low as $49.99 + tax)
Now, here are the 3 questions I’ve tried to answer. Also, check out my photos 📸 for a closer look 👀
1️⃣ What are you getting for your money? Are you getting a compact 3ft extension cord with 2 sockets? Or are you getting a 65W GaN fast charger with 3 ports? You are actually getting BOTH!
2️⃣ How does this Anker product compare to the competition? The best I could find browsing Amazon’s endless catalogue was a top-rated power strip by “NTONPOWER.” It has 4 ft cord, 1 USB-A , 1 USB-C with 45W Gan charging and 4 Standard US sockets. It’s listed for $48 and goes on sale for just under $40.
3️⃣ Is it worth it? It’s almost a tossup between the two, right? We’re talking a $10 difference! But once I realized that, then it was an easy choice for me: I’d rather spend a little more with a Brand I know, with good track record and solid warranty than to save $10 and possibly ruin my electronics and my trip!
Cons 👎👎👎
This power strip isn’t without its flaws, some are minor and others are inexplicably stupid! Here’s a short list:
- The Voltage Fiasco: I don’t understand why Anker has done this: The product listing and description, as well as customers’ anecdotal accounts all confirm: this power strip supports 100-240V～50/60Hz. The packaging you will receive mentions only “125V AC 60Hz 10A” 😳 Was it a printing error? Was it a certification problem? No matter, Anker should’ve cleared this mess up 😡
- The Rubber Flap is a Flop 😒 It looks neat and may serve some function but I agree with other reviewers, it’s just not necessary.
- Misleading Info: I hold Anker to higher standards. The measurements do not account for the cord sticking out 😠
- One side is glossy which looks beautiful when photographed but is a fingerprint magnet 😒
My Verdict 🧐
Despite its shortcomings, this power strip makes a good tech companion for savvy travelers. It’s compact, robust and versatile. I got mine. You should get yours before your next trip! It’ll come in handy 🧳✈️😎
Hope my review has helped you make a more informed buying decision 👍😊✌️
🚨 🚨 Anker’s Response (02/21/2022) 🚨 🚨
“Both the AC outlets and USB ports on the Anker 615 Charging Station ( GaNPrime 65W ) can support 100-240V input for travel use safely… [But] according to the new changes in certification requirements, we are not allowed to print 100-240V on the product itself.”
The fact that Anker reached out to clarify means they actually listen and care about their customers. I appreciate that and so felt obligated to include this in my review for the benefit of the readers. I also attached a screen grab from Anker’s email 😊✌️
