As the number of small electronic devices has greatly proliferated in recent years, a great new trend has emerged: almost all of these devices can be charged using some form of the standard USB charger. Even though at the device end of the charging cable there are still many existing standards, the USB plug seems to justify the U in its name – it is becoming pretty near universal. However, the sheer number of such devices that I travel with – iPhone, iPad, Kindle, headphones, et.c – still means that I usually have to remember to take with me at least three or four chargers if I am to be able to charge all of my gadgets simultaneously. This is why I am always excited to come across a solution that can simplify my digital life and make it more tractable. This wall charger is definitely one such device.

This charger enables you to simultaneously charge up to four different devices. Two of its USB ports carry 2 A currents, and the other two carry 1 A currents. The former are more suitable for larger devices such as tablets, while the latter are ideal for charging smartphones or headsets.

I’ve used this charger several times already, and was indeed able to charge four devices simultaneously. The charger is pretty solidly built, and it seems pretty reliable.

I do have a couple of issues with this charger though:

1. It is pretty bulky. There are several external battery/chargers that are as large and those have the advantage of serving dual purposes.

2. The wall prongs are not foldable/retractable. This might not be as much of an issue with the small single/purpose chargers, but putting this kind of charger in your travel bag directly is less than ideal.

If this charger were about half as large and had retractable prongs it would be an ideal travel accessory. Even so, it is a very valuable gadget that can greatly simplify your life.