Review: Kuxiu S2 Power Bank - Semi-Solid State Tech Promises Longer Life, Better Safety
Kuxiu S2 Power Bank Review: A Premium Power Bank with Exceptional Longevity and Safety
The market for MagSafe power banks is often crowded with similar products. However, the Kuxiu S2 distinguishes itself with its innovative semi-solid state battery technology. This technology promises significantly improved safety and a much longer lifespan, although it comes with a higher price tag than traditional options.
Design and Features: Sleek and Durable
The Kuxiu S2 boasts a sleek, compact design. Its premium build quality is immediately apparent. Key features include a magnetic wireless charging area on top for seamless MagSafe compatibility, a side-mounted power button for easy control, a USB-C port (with a braided USB-C cable included) for both input and output, and a clear LED indicator system to show the remaining battery life. The aluminum alloy frame and matte Corning Gorilla Glass panels provide a robust and attractive exterior. While durable, it's important to note that it's not scratch-proof; minor cosmetic wear may appear with regular use.
Weighing in at just 143g (5.04oz) and measuring 106 × 69.5 × 10mm (4.17 × 2.74 × 0.39in), the S2 is remarkably portable. It's even lighter than an iPhone 16. When attached to an iPhone 16 Pro, the power bank extends slightly beyond the phone's bottom edge, creating a minor aesthetic imbalance. This is less noticeable with the larger iPhone 16 Pro Max. Importantly, the camera remains unobstructed in either case.
The LED indicator system is user-friendly. Four LEDs indicate battery levels: Four LEDs (>75%), three LEDs (>50%), two LEDs (>25%), and one LED (>10%). When the battery drops below 10%, a single LED flashes. A unique four-light flickering pattern indicates that the Small Current Mode is active (explained further below).
The Solid State Difference: Enhanced Safety and Reliability
The Kuxiu S2's standout feature is its semi-solid state battery technology. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, this design virtually eliminates the risk of leakage, explosion, and combustion. Kuxiu claims, and demonstrates in their videos, that the battery can withstand extreme damage, such as nail penetration, without catching fire or exploding. While it continues to function, such testing should not be attempted by users.
Although the labeling might initially cause confusion (it states "Li Polymer Battery"), Kuxiu confirms that the S2 utilizes semi-solid state technology. Solid electrolytes can be composed of various materials, including polymers, making both descriptions technically correct.
Performance and Functionality: Efficient Charging and Versatile Modes
The 5,000mAh power bank supports 15W MagSafe wireless charging for iPhones from the 12 series through to the 16 series. Wired charging is supported up to 20W via USB-C. The USB-C input supports 5V⎓3A/9V⎓2.2A for self-charging.
The manual recommends a crucial first-use step: completely discharging the power bank to 0% before fully charging it to 100%. Using a PD fast charger is recommended for optimal charging speed.
The Kuxiu S2 offers three charging modes: wireless MagSafe charging, wired charging for other devices, and a Small Current Charging mode. This last mode, activated by double-clicking the power button, is ideal for low-power devices such as earbuds and smartwatches. It prevents the power bank from prematurely shutting down due to insufficient power draw. During testing, charging AirPods Pro via MagSafe and an Apple Watch via the USB-C port worked flawlessly.
In testing with an iPhone 16 Pro, a fully charged S2 brought a completely drained phone to 97% charge before depleting. This is slightly less than Kuxiu's advertised "approximately 1.2 full charges." The 16 N52 magnets provide a strong and secure connection, holding firm even in loose pockets or bags. However, it's important to note that if your iPhone has a non-MagSafe case, the power bank might eventually detach.
The Kuxiu S2's thermal management is particularly noteworthy. Unlike some slim power banks that can overheat during discharge, especially at low charge levels, the S2 remained noticeably cool throughout testing.
Longevity and Value: A Long-Term Investment
The benefits of the semi-solid state technology become truly apparent when considering longevity. While the S2's $79.99 price tag is significantly higher (approximately 60%) than comparable liquid-based power banks from brands like Anker or EcoFlow, the increased lifespan justifies the cost. Kuxiu claims the S2 will retain 80% of its original capacity after 1,000 charging cycles, compared to the 300-500 cycles typical of traditional power banks. This represents a potentially double or triple the lifespan.
The power bank's efficiency is also impressive. A full discharge provides 18-19Wh of usable power, an excellent output considering conversion losses. Considering the extended cycle life and efficiency, the higher upfront cost becomes more justifiable over the long term.
Summing Up: A Powerful and Safe Choice
The Kuxiu S2 represents a significant advancement in power bank technology. While the $79.99 price might seem high initially, the potential for a much longer lifespan (double or triple that of competitors), enhanced safety features, and premium materials make it a compelling investment, particularly for users who frequently need portable power. The return on investment over time is substantial.
Areas for potential improvement include the addition of a kickstand for easier hands-free use. Some users might also miss the iOS widget integration found in Kuxiu's previous S1 model. Due to Qi2 certification requirements, the S2 lacks the visual iOS integration of Apple's MagSafe battery pack (no lock screen animation or battery widget appearance). However, this is a minor drawback considering the overall performance and innovation.
If safety, longevity, and a premium experience are priorities over immediate cost savings, the Kuxiu S2 is a strong contender and deserves serious consideration.
Where to Buy: Availability and Pricing
The Kuxiu S2 Qi2 5000mAh MagSafe Solid-State Power Bank is available in black or natural titanium for $79.99 from Kuxiu's website and authorized resellers.
This article, "Review: Kuxiu S2 Power Bank - Semi-Solid State Tech Promises Longer Life, Better Safety" first appeared on MacRumors.com
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