Powermat

Reasons to buy A magnetic mat that uses induction to charge up to three portable devices at the same time, “wirelessly”. There are sleek battery backs available for iPhone and BlackBerry models. These carry a circuit that allows your phone to charge directly from the mat. You can either buy a travel mat or a home and office mat. Both are compatible with most mobile phones, MP3 players, electronic games, digital cameras and GPS units.

Reasons not to Although it’s billed as wireless, it isn’t because the mat is plugged in. You might expect for an adapter to be included but, no, the components need to be bought separately. The Powercube is pointless because your phone plugs into it, so you may as well just use a normal charger.

Price £69.99 for a home and office mat

Verdict A tastefully designed contraption that charges electronics without the usual tangle of wires. Would be better with a solar panel or a docking station that powers the mat so that it is wireless.

powermat.com

Laura Westcott