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| The Plus versions have a slightly better magnetic design than the non-Plus models. Pictured: the 10K Blade 2+ with devices around it. |
The portable power market just got a fresh injection of competition. Xiaomi has officially unveiled the Black Shark Blade 2+ series in China, and while they carry the aggressive "Black Shark" gaming sub-brand, these new power banks are designed for everyone—not just mobile gamers.
Positioned as slightly upgraded variants of the existing non-Plus models, the Blade 2+ series focuses on two things that often get overlooked in the power bank world: texture and thinness. Xiaomi has managed to pack respectable capacity into chassis that are shockingly slim, making these some of the most pocket-friendly chargers we’ve seen this year.
A New Kind of Grip: The UV Excimer Coating
If you are tired of power banks that feel like slick, fingerprint-magnet slabs of plastic, the Black Shark Blade 2+ might catch your attention. The most notable change in this "Plus" iteration is the surface texture.
Xiaomi has applied a new coating derived from a UV excimer process to the magnetic side of the devices. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick; the process creates a fine, tactile texture that improves grip and resists smudges. Whether you are sticking it to the back of an iPhone or holding it while charging a pair of earbuds, the new finish promises a more premium and stable feel compared to the glossy surfaces of yesteryear.
Size Matters: The 0.8cm Wonder
The headline feature of the Black Shark Blade 2+ lineup is the sheer portability, particularly in the smaller variant. Xiaomi is offering two capacities to suit different lifestyles:
- The 5,000mAh Model: This unit is the star for minimalists. Measuring just 0.8cm (8mm) in thickness and weighing a mere 105g, it is thinner than most smartphones on the market today. It is designed to be carried in a wallet or slipped into a small pocket without creating a noticeable bulge.
- The 10,000mAh Model: For those who need more juice, the larger sibling measures 1.36cm thick and weighs 175g. While not as ethereal as the 5,000mAh version, it is still remarkably lightweight for a 10,000mAh battery pack.
Charging Speeds: Wireless Convenience and Wired Muscle
Despite their slim profiles, the new power banks don’t skimp on charging speeds. Both models support 15W wireless charging, making them perfect companions for MagSafe-compatible devices or Android phones with magnetic cases.
When it comes to wired charging, there is a slight differentiation:
- The 5,000mAh variant supports up to 18W wired input/output.
- The 10,000mAh variant steps it up to 22.5W, allowing for faster top-ups on compatible smartphones.
To get the most out of these speeds, you will need a reliable cable. While the units ship with standard cables in the box, a high-quality braided option like the 3-foot Anker 240W cable (currently $9.99 on Amazon) is a great pairing to ensure maximum power delivery without bottlenecking.
"Apple-Derived" Batteries and Smart Features
One of the more intriguing claims in Xiaomi’s marketing material is the use of "Apple-derived" batteries. The company states that the cells inside the Blade 2+ series are sourced from the same supply chain that provides batteries for Apple devices, promising stable and reliable power delivery with minimal voltage fluctuations. For users worried about battery health degradation on their expensive iPhones or Android flagships, this is a reassuring detail.
The design also embraces a futuristic aesthetic. The power banks feature a discreet button on the side with a dual-function interface:
- Press once: Activates the power indicators to show the current battery level.
- Press twice: Shuts the portable charger off, preserving its own battery when not in use.
Strong Magnets and Global Availability
For iPhone users, the inclusion of N52 neodymium magnets ensures a strong, secure magnetic suction to the back of MagSafe iPhones. The magnets are designed to hold the bank firmly in place, preventing the dreaded slip that plagues weaker magnetic accessories.
Currently, the Black Shark Blade 2+ series is available in two colorways in China. You can find the official listing and specifications on the JD.com page here.
Pricing is aggressive, as is typical for Xiaomi’s ecosystem:
- The 5,000mAh model is priced at CNY 159 (approximately $29).
- The 10,000mAh model is priced at CNY 189 (approximately $27).
It is worth noting that the larger capacity model is actually priced slightly higher in Yuan, but the conversion rate brings it to a lower USD equivalent, making the 10,000mAh version look like the better value on paper.
The Bottom Line
While Xiaomi has confirmed the launch in China, a wide global rollout is not expected. However, given the popularity of Black Shark accessories in Europe and other markets, a limited international release via third-party retailers is possible.
If you are looking for an ultra-slim magnetic power bank that prioritizes build quality with its UV excimer finish and "Apple-derived" battery cells, the Black Shark Blade 2+ series is shaping up to be a top contender in the portable power space.
Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
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| Main highlights of the 5,000mAh power bank (machine translated) |
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| Differences between the two power banks (machine translated) |