[Review] Anker 2nd Gen Astro and Astro 2 Battery banks, 6k and 9k mAh

One of the joys of doing what we do is getting the chance to not only review some amazing accessories, apps and games, but also the chance to be part of the progression of a company. Over the years we have reviewed numerous battery banks from Anker and they have all been wonderful units, at the time. As the months pass newer technology emerges and new designs come out of the woodwork. Keeping up with the ever changing needs and desires of the mobile community we have been able to watch Anker grow and change into what they are today, a fantastic and affordable external battery pack solution for anyone with any type of mobile device. Just look at the current models versus two previous models.

Quite a difference in style and design.

The Run Down

Anker Astro 

• 6000 mAh
• single port Smart Port provide 5v / 2A to all USB-enabled devices
• Quick shake to turn it on and check remaining battery power
• Dimensions: 93 x 46 x 1in / 93 x 46 25mm
• 135g / 4.8oz

Anker Astro 2

• 9000 mAh
• Dual Ports: Smart port up to 5v /2.4a out and Universal port 5v / 3A out
• Quick shake to turn on and view remaining battery power
• Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.5 x 1in / 106 x 64 x 25mm
• Weight: 250g / 8.8oz

With the exception of the extra port on the Astro 2 and the obvious size coupled with the battery increase, both look the same. They have a soft rubberish outer material coating that makes them soft to the touch and easy to hold onto. They fit well in your hand. While I like the look and feel of them, I do kinda miss the brick design. While both new Anker designs fit fine in your pocket if you need them too, the brick design sat well with a device perched on top of it.

 

 

Both units deviate from some of the previous models and remove the need of a physical button to check remaining power or turning it on. Simply shake it a little and the front leds (displayed in a circle with a soft white glow) turn on and display for you. Really slick design too. Unless you look really hard in the right light at the right angle, you don’t even see the indicator at all.

 

 

With the Smart charge ports you can be assured that whatever device you are charging, the Anker external battery pack will only push what the device is supposed to take. Ensuring the fastest charge at the right amps. Depending on your device, if you are using it and all the normal exceptions, you should be able to get 2 to 3 full charges from the Astro or 3 to 4 out of the Astro 2. For most people that will easily get them through 2 or 3 days without needing to find a wall outlet. Unless you get two, then you could pull a week off the power grid.

Lets talk pricing. Where we have seen some of the other manufacturers charging rather large amounts for similar products, Anker has been able to consistently deliver newer technology and better abilities for a fraction of the price. I don’t ever feel guilty about recommending Anker to anyone. Seriously, how can you go wrong with the Astro 6000 mAh for $29.99 or the Astro 2 9000mAh for $36.99? If you are looking for a great, and affordable, stocking stuffer for the gadget geek that has it all, you might consider picking one up. Check out a couple of their offerings while you are at it.