With its commitment to audio and design, it’s difficult to ignore anything Bang & Olufsen does. The Danish audio company has been around for over 100 years and has proven it (usually) knows what it’s doing with audio devices. Its track record with power banks isn’t as proven, but hey, everyone has to start somewhere, right?
Bang & Olufsen brings the power
This new device and new product category for the company is certainly a surprise. It stands out, like most B&O products. But in this case, it might not be for the reasons B&O hoped for. At €145, or around R2,685 directly converted, it’s one of the most expensive 5,000mAh power banks to exist.
That’s not the only reason. Its premium glass finish, aluminium frame, diamond-cut details, and pearl-blasted textures give it an unmistakably luxurious finish that seems wasted on a power bank.
The only redeeming factor is that it supports the Qi2 magnetic wireless charging standard with 15W of wireless charging power. It will also provide 20W of wired USB-C charging. Currently, only Google’s Pixels and Apple’s iPhones house the built-in magnets that give Qi2 its attractive personality. Samsung phones also support it, but you’ll need to pair them with a compatible case.
See, the uncreatively named ‘Bang & Olufsen Powerbank’ is meant to complement your R42,000 B&O H100 headphones. You know, the headphones we reviewed last year that last 43 hours with ANC enabled between charges and come with a lambskin carry pouch that allows them to last more than a year on a charge. Those headphones.
If you’ve grown tired of mundane black power banks, faster charging, or affordability, Bang & Olufsen now has a power bank just for you. It might even turn up in South Africa at some point in the near future.
