$2.50 iPhone Dock Review. Docking stations for iPhone: more than charging Buy a docking station for iphone 5

The modern world is hard to imagine without personal electronic devices that are always at hand. One of the manufacturers, namely Apple, has long won the hearts of many caring users. iPhone smartphones, iPad tablets, iPod players - all this finds application in various aspects of everyday life. Of course, you can’t do without the process of charging the device’s battery, but few people know that this can be done not only by “tying” the device to the cable, but also with pleasure and benefit at the same time. All you need is an iPhone docking station. This article will tell you what types of them are, what they are for, and will allow you to decide on the choice of the most useful and convenient device for charging.

Some statistics

It is not possible to count the exact number of smartphones that are used daily by almost every person on earth. Most often, the figures showing the production volumes of certain devices are classified or simply not disclosed. In addition, even counting devices sold from store shelves, you can find out completely incomplete information. And all because there are online stores, sales of "gray devices" and other uncovered factors.

Thanks to independent researchers like GSMA Intelligence, in 2014 the number of activated and used SIM cards exceeded 7.2 billion! It's not hard to imagine that (again, according to independent estimates) Apple occupies a large niche in the competition. Actually, for that part of users who live in Europe and on other continents, it has long become customary to use such a device as an Apple dock in everyday life.

What is a docking station for?

Translated from English, the dock station sounds like a “docking station” (popularly they are also called “cradles”). Its main task was initially to provide users with the opportunity to expand the original functionality of the device. Docking stations in their original form had more connectors for connecting several devices and simultaneously charging the main one.

In addition, along with charging, it became possible to transfer multimedia data and traffic from the connected device. Comfortable and very functional. But time does not stand still, and now docking stations can become whole portable audio systems and simply beautiful accessories that fit the interior design of even the most sophisticated owner's home.

Practical use

So do you need a docking station for the iPhone? This question was easily answered by experts from Apple even when the iPhone 2G appeared. The first devices were supplied complete with a similar device, which caused a flurry of positive emotions and responses from Apple fans. When the Cupertino-based company realized how popular docking stations were, docking stations were dropped from standard iPhones and sold separately. Of course, this was done because of the thirst for profit. But this did not reduce the popularity of devices, and the number of satisfied customers continued to grow with the release of new models of smartphones, tablets and players.

Types of docking stations

Every self-respecting manufacturer of accessories for Apple technology does not disdain the creation of high-quality chargers. Actually, the docking station for the iPhone is the charger, and that is why the variety of these devices has long exceeded all imaginable and unimaginable limits. As described above, the main difference is the ability to charge, play music and decorative functions. Very often, special mounts-holders are attributed to this category, which help to fix the device in a car or on any surface. Such devices have only mechanical functions and are not equipped with charging connectors. That is why you should not confuse docking stations with mounts.

Compatibility

Most often, cradles are designed for use with certain models of devices. But there is such a thing as a universal docking station. Of course, when purchasing a particular stand with charging, you want the cradle to continue to perform its function when you change your Apple smartphone, for example, to Samsung. But in this case, the uniqueness of the accessory is violated, which is not very beneficial for the manufacturers of the stations themselves. There is no need to think here, because it is more profitable to sell several different products, albeit with a time difference, but having received a large profit. But on the other hand, the buyer may opt for lesser-known brands that produce universal stands. However, this statement is true only in the case of a change in the brand of a smartphone or tablet. But devices from the same manufacturer most often retain their standard connectors, and you don’t have to change the cradle. For example, the docking station for the iPhone 5 can easily "shelter" the newer 5S and SE models, and in some cases the larger 6, 6S, 6 Plus and 6S Plus.

Popular brands

Of course, there are quite a lot of manufacturers of accessories, including docking stations, so much so that you can’t count them on the fingers. But still, some of them are relatively more popular among competitors in their price segment.

For example, if you want to be able to charge your smartphone and listen to music at the same time, names such as Bowers & Wilkins, Bang & Olufsen, JBL, Bose and Philips most often flash. Entire portable audio systems are capable of reproducing high quality sound and enjoying your favorite songs. If the cradle is needed simply as a beautiful stand suitable for the interior, and at the same time charging, then the iPhone docking station from Juice, Twelve South, Belkin, HengeDocks and the like will turn out to be of high quality.

Branded cradles from Apple

For those who are very seriously passionate about the "apple" brand, there are branded coasters. Of course, recently their diversity has been reduced to almost zero due to low sales. But if you visit the manufacturer's website, you can see that a couple of models still linger on the market. Of course, the Apple dock will not show cool functionality, but it will be able to guarantee full and unhindered charging of the device. At the moment, small cradles are offered with an 8-pin connector (the standard Lightning used since the iPhone 5). The color scheme is quite boring - the stations are offered in black and white.

But, besides this, Apple guarantees full compatibility and excellent performance of the aforementioned Belkin and Twelve South brands, which is confirmed by their presence on the official website.

iHome iDL46gc Lightning Dock Station

It will be fair to describe the functionality of several cradles. The first device is a docking station with speakers, a built-in FM receiver, as well as an alarm clock and a calendar. iHome iDL46gc is a great option not only for charging your favorite gadget from Apple, but also for listening to music from it. In addition, the functionality of the station provides for the presence of 6 cells for storing FM frequencies, if you suddenly want to listen to the news in the morning or enjoy new compositions on your favorite wave.

The cradle automatically syncs and charges any device with a Lightning connector. But this is not a simple docking station. Charging a second device becomes possible thanks to the presence of an additional USB connector, which will allow you to fill the batteries of devices with Type-C and others with the appropriate cable. Relatively low cost (about $100) makes this device an indispensable center for entertainment and time planning on the desktop.

OnBeat Mini

You can not ignore the compact device from the manufacturer JBL from the USA. The cradle is equipped with a Lightning connector in conjunction with a 3.5mm TRS stereo jack. Originally planned as a docking station for the iPhone 5, 5C and 5S, OnBeat Mini pleasantly surprised owners of newer Apple models, because the latter also fit perfectly into a niche for the device.

The modern speaker system, equipped with branded broadband speakers, produces deep high-quality sound. This can hardly be expected from such a "baby". In addition, JBL has equipped the docking station with a built-in battery that will allow you to play audio offline for up to 8 hours. A nice addition is the power saving mode, which is activated after 10 minutes of inactivity. It is impossible not to note the on / off and volume buttons that the docking station is equipped with. The price, by the way, is quite high - $150, which is logical, because you always have to pay for quality.

Fuz Designs EverDock

The developers from Fuz Designs did not bother with cool audio systems, alarm clocks and other, in their opinion, unnecessary features. All they have done is a very comfortable and functional cradle that allows you to place almost any device on you, even if it is wearing a case. The design of the stand is quite stable due to the material from which it is made - solid aluminum.

The device comes with special silicone pads, replacing which, you can fix cables with almost any connector - Micro USB, 30-pin, Lightning and others. The latter allows you to forget about changing the docking station for a long time, because when purchasing new devices, you can always use the functional EverDock. The extended version with the Duo box will also allow you to charge multiple devices at the same time without taking up much space on your desk.

The docking station for the iPhone is a fairly convenient and useful accessory. Strong fixation in a conspicuous place is the key to the integrity and safety of a smartphone or tablet. Well, if in addition to have a portable audio system, a pleasant pastime is guaranteed. And finally, a little advice: in order not to ruin the battery of the device, you should beware of fakes and unknown manufacturers. No need to skimp when buying such an accessory - and then with peace of mind you can forget about unexpected breakdowns.

A modern mobile phone is an essential attribute of almost every person. Today it is easy to solve the problem of uninterrupted communication by choosing the best device to charge your smart phone. The docking station for the iPhone is a small-sized device (usually a horizontally lying case with a non-slip bottom), capable of "powering" the gadget both from a standard electrical outlet and in a battery version. A special notch will hold the phone in place. In most cases, they come with a Lightning cable, and for some developments, a USB input is also provided. It will be interesting to know which of the existing stations claims to be the best?

The main mission of such an "assistant" is to phone charging. But besides this, the mini-device has a lot of additional features.

Allows you to organize the location of the phone on any surface - from the table to the shelf. The risk of the iPhone falling out is minimal, and it will be easy to find it.
The smartphone is in a conspicuous place: you can continue to use it even at a distance, for example, connect speakers and listen to music without interruption from other important matters.
Most of today's iPhone docking stations have the ability to synchronization between PC and smartphone. The action takes place through iTunes.
Through such recharging, you can connect your iPhone to any of the multimedia devices.

Overview of popular models

Before you start describing the advantages of iPhone docking stations on the market today, you need to know that each of them can be attributed to one of the following types:

universal, capable of being charged both from the mains and from batteries, and also performing not only the role of a charger, but also the functions of other devices;
for charging large screen options(this includes "plus" models - from 6 plus and 7 to 7 plus;
for recharging straightaway several "apple" devices(e.g. iPhone and iPad).

Let's go through the most popular models for each of these types.

In fairness, it should be noted that many popular models combine several of the presented features.

Universal Soldier

The full name of the multifunctional model is − iHome iDL46gc Llightning Dock DualCharging fm stereo clock radio. Already from the name it becomes clear that such a docking station for the iPhone will combine the talents of a watch and a radio receiver (operating in Reson8 and 3D sound modes). Additional features include using it as an alarm clock and a digital calendar.

iHome iDL46gc Llightning Dock DualCharging fm stereo clock radio

Versatility here is manifested in recharging not only "Apple" gadgets (you can also connect an iPod with an iPad), but also the ability to connect to a personal computer or laptop - there is a USB connector. And in case of an emergency power outage, the station will continue to charge: a charge-saving mode is provided.

Another similar universal device is the English which is able to "energize" all the latest releases of Apple technology. There is also a large clock display, a countdown alarm clock, a timer and a radio. The latter is able to catch up to 20 stations. With iRise, you can charge your smartphone and listen to music, all at the same time.

Real music lovers will appreciate the included audio cable, which is used to connect related audio devices.

AZATOM iRISE docking station

What suits larger devices

One of these options recommended by the "apple" brand itself is It is great for models 6, 6s and 6 Plus. At the same time, it is not even necessary to remove the branded case and stop communicating with friends - the manufacturers have taken into account all the necessary points. And inside there is a rubberized liner, which will not only prevent the smartphone from scratches, but also help to change the viewing angle.

Juice Pack Dock

Dockplus for iPhone also works well for 6, 6+ and all Apple Lightning devices. Yes, it has a rather significant weight - 900 grams, but it is precisely because of this that it is very stable. It has compatibility with all cases and a mandatory branded Lightning cable that has been certified.

Dockplus for iPhone

Useful portability

Docking stations in this category allow you to use smartphones while driving, while simultaneously recharging devices and freeing the driver's hands. stands out here Easy One Touch 2(manufacturer iOttie), which, by the way, is suitable not only for the iPhone 6 series, but also for other types of smartphones. Bribes access to all ports of devices, as well as the ability to rotate it 360 degrees.

The whole secret is in a special mount that is fixed on any type of surface, and a special gel adhesive backing allows you to do this countless times. The station also has a special telescopic tube for pushing the smartphone forward for a more detailed view of information.

Simultaneous charging of multiple devices

Very interesting and convenient due to the adjustment possibilities and compatibility with other "apple" gadgets docking station Twelve South HiRise(can be used for both version 6 and iPad mini). The holder can be easily "fitted" to various covers - for this there is a screw washer on the reverse side. The microphone with speaker and the headphone jack remain open. Charging can be done via Lightning and USB cables.

Another station for the latest devices (iphone, iPad and iPod) is called Here, the possibility of contactless charging is provided - while compatibility with most cases is thought out.

By the way, this product is also super-light (only 200 grams) and compact, which allows you to take it on the road as the only “charger” for all mobile devices.

Belkin Charge & SyncDock

The same know-how for contactless charge recovery of various devices was released by the Revocharge brand. The model was named Universal Desk Mount. Her duties include the fastest possible battery charge - this applies not only to gadgets, but also to your own battery. The product also has two USB and one micro-USB ports.

Universal Desk Mount

By simply replacing the earbuds, you can adapt to work with various devices and Gravitas(manufacturer HengeDocks). This is especially convenient for equipment of different series and types (starting from the iPhone 5, 6, 6 Plus and ending with the iPad). In this case, the Lightning cable is inside the stand itself, on the outside there is a USB port and an audio jack (which can work with both headphones and a stereo system).

Gravitas device from HengeDocks

Other Noteworthy Docks

Not every user has the latest iPhone to come out. Issues 5/5s/5c will fit the OnBeat MINI perfectly. Despite its small size, the station has excellent features:

Lightning and USB ports;
TRS stereo jack (diameter only 3.5 mm);
the possibility of eight hours of autonomous music playback (at full power);
enters standby mode after 10 minutes of inactivity.

Station OnBeat MINI

No less interesting is the Rokform version. Charging Docking station It is hand assembled and made of aluminum material used in aviation. True, for trouble-free operation with all versions of the iPhone, you should use a special Lightning cable kit - Rokform black, but this situation does not bother true connoisseurs of such devices. And, finally, the product from NewNow is recognized as an affordable model - Charger Docking Station Cradle Charging Sync Dock

The purchase of a docking station will be a great investment in the work of your "apple" gadget. It is especially worth recommending it to those users who are used to being constantly in touch.

Apple fans have long made fun of the fact that Android smartphone owners are forced to look for an outlet everywhere - but now they themselves have found themselves in an unenviable position. There are more and more complaints about the fact that iPhones sit down in front of our eyes on the forums. Especially often they complain about old modifications that have been updated to the latest versions of iOS.

The most obvious way to solve the problem with the rapid consumption of the battery of an Apple device is to buy. But then you get two devices instead of one that needs to be constantly charged. Therefore, a more effective way can be considered an acquisition capable of simultaneously performing the functions of a stand and. A wide selection of quality accessories for Apple and other equipment can be found in the online store iCover.com. He received a lot of positive feedback from customers for fast delivery, reasonable prices and prompt processing of orders.

In this article, we will highlight the best iPhone docking stations available on the market in 2019.

Apple Lightning Dock

Price: from 4 290 rubles

Apple started selling a branded docking station with a Lightning plug back in 2015. Even in 2019, it is a trendy branded accessory. One of the main advantages of the stand is stability. The platform is so small that it seems as if it is enough to slightly touch the gadget installed on it - and it will fall. But in reality, it’s not so easy to fill up the Apple dock on its side - it is made of metal, has a fairly large weight (providing balance) and a rubber base, thanks to which it does not slip at all.

Powering up the iPhone isn't the only function of Apple's docking station. It can also act as an intermediary between a mobile device and speakers that connect to the connector located at the back of the accessory. This is especially true for iPhones of the latest modifications, which lack the 3.5 mm jack beloved by music lovers.

Advantages:

Laconic design and small dimensions - the docking station can be easily placed even on a cluttered office table.
Docking station musical; it is equipped with a connector for connecting audio equipment.
Lots of color options.
The ability to charge your phone right in the case.

Flaws:

Branded accessories require regular maintenance.

Belkin Valet Charge Dock

Price: from 9,990 rubles.

Belkin Valet Charge Dock, like all products of this brand, has a great design. The device is designed to simultaneously charge the iPhone and smart watch Apple. The model is made very simply - an anodized aluminum pedestal with a chrome finish is made in such a way that the smartphone stands at the perfect angle, and the non-slip coating of the base prevents it from falling. If necessary, the position of the connector can be changed - there is a special position regulator on the back of the case.

The watch is placed on a special magnetic base and seems to float in the air. The docking station is powered by a laptop or wall outlet. The connector for connecting is located on the back side and does not spoil the appearance of the device. An additional option of the stand is the function of synchronization with a computer. This accessory will become not only a useful gadget purchase, but also a real decoration. Dimensions - 10.93 x 13.4 x 8.8 cm. Suitable for all Apple models with a Lightning connector and smart watches of the company with a diameter of 42 and 38 mm. There is a black version.

Advantages:

Excellent appearance that can decorate any interior.
The ideal tilt angle for your smartphone and the non-slip surface ensure the perfect stability of the gadget.
Ability to charge and sync iPhone with PC at the same time.
There is an adjustment of the position of the connector.

Flaws:

High price.

COTEetCI Base19 (CS7201-GY)

Price: from 3,290 rubles.

Apple fans rarely complain about the devices of their favorite brand, but there is still some dissatisfaction. With the abandonment of the standard headset jack and the release of AirPods, users have the need to charge not only their smartphone, but also their headphones. The new COTEetCI Base19 docking station solves this problem, because it has three seats at once for charging iPhone, AirPods and .

The model has a strict design and small size. The base has received weighting, which provides good stability on the table. The stand will not only be a convenient way to charge gadgets, but will also allow you to simply place them for storage, for example, at night. The watch is placed on the QI platform with a special hole for the cable (not supplied), the smartphone and headphones are installed on the Lightning connector, while the tilt angle can be adjusted for the phone. The power cable is connected at the back. The model is suitable for any Apple Watch, smartphones - from iPhone 5. Docking station colors - gray, silver, pink.

Advantages:

Minimalistic design.
Ability to charge three devices simultaneously.
Ease of power connection.
There is an adjustment of the position of the connector for the smartphone.
Convenient seat and channel for the Apple smart watch charger cable.
Low price.

Flaws:

There is no charger for Apple Watch included.

Elago Charging Hub 3 in 1 (EST-TRIO-CWH)

Price: from 2690 rubles.

A fairly inexpensive stand Elago Charging Hub 3 in 1 differs from numerous competitors in the material of execution. In this case, silicone is used, which increases the stability of the docking station and eliminates the appearance of scratches on gadgets. The model is designed for simultaneous charging of smart watches, smartphones and Apple headphones.

The manufacturer did not equip the device with charging connectors, so you will have to use your own cables. There are holes especially for them, and on the back side they are conveniently assembled in one place, which eliminates the mess on the table and helps to organize the space competently. The accessory is designed for any Apple smartphones and watches, as well as AirPods. There are several color solutions for the execution of the docking station - you can choose the option that fits perfectly into the interior.

Advantages:

Silicone increases the stability of the charger and devices, and also eliminates the appearance of scratches on them.
You can charge three devices at the same time.
Convenient places for wires.
Several color performances.
Small size.
Low price.

Flaws:

There are no wires included.

Studio Neat Material Dock

Price: from 2 900 rubles

Made from walnut, Studio Neat's walnut stand is the perfect addition to any home. The platform is sold in 4 versions: wired for iPhone, wireless for iPhone, for iPhone + Apple Watch, for smartphone (wireless) + headphones + watch. The most inexpensive option - a wired station just for the phone will cost $ 45, the maximum price for the iPhone version, headphones and watch - $ 95.

A feature of the platform from Studio Neat is that special suction cups are placed in its lower part. Thanks to them, the docking station remains very stable even with its very modest weight.

Advantages:

Expensive wooden design.
Has suction cups for stability.
Possibilities for adjustment - both the Lightning plug and the back on which the gadget rests, the user is able to move as he sees fit. Thanks to this, the iPhone can be connected to the docking station, even if it is in a heavy case.
A wide range of options - for a different number of devices and with a different way of power supply.
Low cost - when compared with other docking stations from our rating.

Flaws:

Unavailability - a product from Studio Neat is difficult to find on sale in Russia.

Elevation Dock 3

Price: from 6 400 rubles

The Elevation Dock is made using Unibody technology - that is, from a single piece of metal. The accessory is quite heavy, but the manufacturer considered that a significant weight was not able to provide proper stability and equipped the platform with sticky rubber substrates. Take this docking station off the table.

Another advantage of the Elevation Dock is the presence of a special removable panel at the base - thanks to which you can charge your iPhone even if it is “dressed” in a case. This Elevation Dock differs for the better from a number of other docking stations.

The Elevation Lab official website has a model Elevation Dock 4 - a platform that supports Qi (wireless) charging, however, reviews of the brand's products are more positive regarding the 3rd version of Elevation Dock.

Advantages:

Durability provided by aluminum execution.
The minimum screen deflection angle is up to 8%. Thanks to this, the user can track all notifications that appear on the gadget's screen.
Certified Lightning MFI cable included.
Secure grip - iPhone can be removed with one hand without holding the platform itself.
You can connect speakers to this docking station for iPhone. In addition, the Elevation Dock is considered acoustic - being in it, the iPhone SE (or other model) sounds better than being on a flat surface.

Flaws:

An impressive cost - to spend almost 6.5 thousand rubles on an accessory in which there is no vital need, not every domestic user is ready.

Conclusion

On the forums, you can often find reviews in which users express bewilderment: why buy an expensive docking station for an iPhone of a well-known brand (or even a branded one), if Chinese or Chinese counterparts are sold for a penny?

In fact, products from the Middle Kingdom are not even close to branded products in terms of workmanship - and they look so-so, because they are made, as a rule, from the cheapest plastic, and not from walnut or aluminum. Docking stations for iPhone and Apple Watch from our top will not only serve faithfully without harming the battery of an expensive device, but will also be an excellent addition to the interior of the room.