As a camper and tech enthusiast, finding the right portable power bank to keep all my devices charged while on the road has always been a priority. I do have a leisure battery, which is connected to my van, and this allows me to use devices when parked up after being charged while driving. However, if I want to stay in a spot longer I would be pinched for power.
When I stumbled upon the FJD PONY 500, I was immediately intrigued by its impressive specifications: 504 Watt-hours of charge, which is the equivalent of 100,800 mAh seemed very attractive to me. The manufacturer's claim to have the ability to charge a laptop 10 times, a tablet 20 times, and a phone 40 times, all in a compact and durable package also had me intrigued. In this review, I will share my experiences with the FJD PONY 500 so far and explore its design, performance, and overall suitability for outdoor enthusiasts like myself.
Design and Build Quality
The FJD PONY 500 is designed with portability in mind. Measuring just 8.7 x 5.7x 3.2 inches (221 x 146 x 82 mm), it is incredibly compact and easy to carry around, unlike other options that are on the market. Despite its robust 504-Watt-hours capacity, the power bank weighs a manageable 3.5 kilograms, making it suitable for travel without adding too much extra weight to my camper van setup.
The construction of the FJD PONY 500 is quality, The outer casing is made from a premium aluminum alloy, and the shell material is scratch-resistant, durable, and self-cooling, providing excellent protection against bumps and minor impacts.
Charging Capabilities
The FJD PONY 500's impressive charging capabilities are one of its standout features. With the ability to recharge a laptop 10 times, a tablet 20 times, and a phone 40 times, it goes above and beyond what most other portable power banks can offer. This vast capacity ensures that all my essential electronic devices remain charged and operational during extended trips. During my time using it, I haven't tested the manufacturer’s exact claims; however, I was able to charge multiple items many times and still have power remaining to go again with ease. In a nutshell, I wasn't worried at any stage about running out of power.
The inclusion of both USB Type-C and Type-A connectors is highly convenient. The USB Type-C allows for faster charging of compatible devices, at 2x 100 W and 1x 65 W, while the Type-A connectors ensure compatibility with a wide range of gadgets at 2x 18 W. The power bank supports multiple devices simultaneously, making it a versatile charging solution for my camper van, where various electronics are often in use. An additional USB-C 100 W port sits at the front, used to charge the unit and also power your devices. Additionally, these units can be chain-linked up to 10 devices if you require a large amount of power on the go.
Charging Speed and Efficiency
The FJD PONY 500 doesn't disappoint when it comes to charging speed. Whether I am recharging my smartphone or topping up my laptop, the power bank consistently delivers a quick and efficient charge. The USB Type-C connector, in particular, stands out for its ability to power up my devices rapidly, as this will charge at 100 W.
Even with its substantial 504-Watt-hours capacity, the power bank maintains its efficiency well. It charges multiple devices without significant drops in speed, which is essential for a smooth and uninterrupted camping experience. I was able to recharge all of my devices at the same time and without any fear of not having enough power at hand. This peace of mind is crucial for me when I want to stay out for extended periods in the field. Otherwise, the fear of not having power could take over and restrict my creativity when shooting and recording videos for my YouTube channel.
Recharging the Power Bank
One aspect that impressed me the most was the FJD PONY 500's rapid recharge time. Fully recharging the power bank takes just 5 hours, which is remarkably fast considering its high capacity. During my trips, I often had limited time to plug into a power source, and the quick recharge time allowed me to replenish the power bank swiftly, ensuring it was ready for use whenever needed.
Practicality for Camper Van Use
The FJD PONY 500 is an absolute game-changer for my camper van adventures. Its compact size and manageable weight make it easy to store in the limited space of my van. I no longer have to worry about finding electrical hookups or running out of power during remote camping trips.
With the ability to charge my laptop multiple times, I could work on my vlog and edit photos without being restricted by battery life. Charging my tablet meant that entertainment was never an issue during long drives or when taking a break. Furthermore, the capability to recharge my phone multiple times ensured that I remained connected and could call for help in emergencies or capture those breathtaking moments without worrying about my phone dying.
What I Liked
- Massive 504 Watt-hours capacity.
- Charges laptops, tablets, and phones multiple times.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Fast recharge time of just 5 hours.
- USB Type-C and Type-A connectors for versatile compatibility.
What I Didn't Like
- The 3.5 kg weight might be slightly heavy for some ultralight campers.
- A lack of a car charger means I could only charge my tech devices. I did purchase a USB-C to female car adapter, which worked and allowed me to charge my drone plus run my compressor fridge.
- It doesn't have an AC plug to enable standard appliance charging
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FJD PONY 500 Portable Power Bank is a true powerhouse that exceeded my expectations during my van journeys. Its impressive 504-watt-hour capacity, the ability to charge laptops, tablets, and phones multiple times, and the fast recharge time make it a reliable and indispensable companion for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers. The small size and lightweight design make it easier to carry around than other large power units, and I can see this unit being part of my setup going forward.
