Review: Mi Power Bank 2i

The Mi Power Bank 2i from Xiaomi has a 20,000mAh capacity. The 2i has two-way fast charging support, it can charge your device at 18W, and it charges at 18W too. Please read the review to know how good the 2i essentially is.

Design and Dimensions

The 2i almost resemble a brick. It is not only larger but bulky as well than other power banks. The device weighs 430 grams, and you can feel the heaviness. It isn't very pocket-friendly, we would suggest you keep it in your bag.

The device measure around 15.1 x 7.2 x 2.6cm, and it comes in three colours: a red, a white, and a sandstone black. The grip of the device is average, and it is neither too slippery nor very grippy.

The styling is very nominal. The front part of the device goes clean with a 'Mi' branding in the lower middle. The left side edge is clean, while the right side edges stocks a differently textured power button near the top corner. The top corner has two USB ports for charging various devices and one Micro-USB port in the centre to charge the power bank. To indicate the battery levels, there is also a four-part LED.

While the horizontal edges of the device are curved, it is still angular and can be set straight on any of its six faces. The shape of the device is pretty solid. There are no weird creaking sounds or bending faces. The power bank is built actually like a brick and displays sturdiness.

Performance

The USP of the power bank is the fast charging on the device works both ways, so you can fast charge your phones at 18W, and the power bank too. The brand claims that it can charge phones like the Redmi K20 Pro and the Redmi Note 7 Pro three times, and the iPhone 8, seven times.

There are two output ports, and two devices can be charged simultaneously. Not just smartphones, but anything that supports USB charging, including speakers, fitness trackers, and even other power banks. Moreover, both ports smartly detect when a phone supports fast charging, and when a phone doesn't and regardless of which port you plug the phone in, the device charges it accordingly.

It takes a long time to charge the power bank. You need more than 6 hours to charge the 2i on 18W fast charging fully, and 10 hours on a regular 10W charger. But even a 50 per cent battery on the power bank means you have approximately 10,000mAh of power with you. If you do have an 18W or higher charger, an overnight charge should top up the Xiaomi 2i.

Price and Conclusion

A robust device, the Xiaomi 2i can function as a regular everyday portable charger, but it is ideal for long trips where you may not have access to a wall charger for a few days. The device comes at a very affordable price of Rs 1,499 with a massive 20,000mAh capacity, 18W two-way fast charging support, nine-layer circuit protection, smart detection, two USB ports and a warranty of 6 months. The Xiaomi power bank 2i is a good buy for this amount of money.