Why You Can Trust CNET Recharge gizmos on the run for $29 shipped
The Tekkeon TekCharge is a compact rechargeable battery that can juice hundreds of different devices. It normally sells for about $45, but Amazon has this deal.
Tired of running out of juice when you're on the run? The Tekkeon TekCharge MP1800 is a rechargeable portable battery pack that supplies power to phones, MP3 players, Bluetooth headsets, and other mobile devices.
It normally sells for around $45, but Amazon is selling the Tekkeon TekCharge for $28.99 with free shipping.
The charger comes with seven adapter tips for use with most kinds of mobile phones, but you can also use the USB cable that came with your iPod, Zune, or other device. In other words, it's almost universally compatible, provided that your gizmo can be charged via USB.
The TekCharge sports a status meter that shows available power, a voltage regulator to prevent damage to devices and batteries, and even a flashlight, in case you get stuck in the dark. It comes with a drawstring carrying case too.
Just one oversight: Tekkeon doesn't supply an AC adapter for charging the TekCharge itself (which takes about six hours, according to CNET's mostly positive review). For that, you need a USB port or a wall plug that supplies power to USB devices.
If you can overlook that annoying inconvenience, you should find the TekCharge a very welcome travel companion. Although it is compact enough to slip into a bag or even pocket, it delivers hours upon hours of extra talk time, video viewing, audio playback, and more.