In an age where staying connected is paramount, portable multi-device chargers have emerged as indispensable accessories for frequent travelers. They allow users to recharge their iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other devices while on the go. Alogic has recently launched its innovative Roam 21,000mAh 6-in-1 Power Bank, which enhances the travel experience by integrating multiple charging options, thus enabling users to keep their devices powered up even in the absence of a fixed power source.

Having tested the Roam during a week-long, multi-stop journey across the United States, I can attest to its functionality as a reliable travel companion, despite some limitations. The Roam is a substantial power bank, boasting a capacity of 21,000mAh (or 77 watt-hours), and is designed with a variety of charging surfaces and ports, including an integrated USB-C cable. This versatility makes it suitable for charging a range of devices while you travel.

The Roam features a compact, rectangular design that folds down neatly. When it's time to charge your devices, the built-in Qi2 magnetic phone charging pad and the Apple Watch charging puck can be easily swung up to enable optimal positioning. This also reveals a recessed Qi charging surface designed specifically for AirPods. Additionally, for users needing to charge more substantial devices like an iPad or MacBook, there's a short integrated USB-C cable that conveniently tucks into the side of the power bank, along with two USB-C ports located on the rear.

Constructed primarily from matte black plastic, the Roam does have a tendency to attract fingerprints over time. However, its sleek design is complemented by a band of aluminum around the edges, giving it an elegant and high-quality feel. The phone charger is compatible with MagSafe and Qi2 standards, providing up to 15 watts of charging power for most newer iPhone models. Although this speed falls short of the 25-watt MagSafe capability introduced with the iPhone 16 series, it remains adequate. In my tests, the Roam was able to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 50% in less than an hour, which aligns with the performance of other Qi2 chargers. The folding charging pad can be adjusted to any angle from flat to nearly 90 degrees, ensuring that users can charge their phones in both vertical and horizontal orientations, with StandBy mode also available.

Once the Qi2 pad is raised, a charging surface for AirPods is revealed. This simple 5-watt Qi charging pad lacks magnetic alignment but performs adequately for keeping wireless charging-capable AirPods cases powered up. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch charging puck swings up from the rear of the Roam, featuring a matte black finish that integrates seamlessly with the device's overall aesthetic. In contrast to the standard white Apple Watch charging pucks, this design choice is visually appealing. Although the puck supports Nightstand mode, its placement behind the Qi2 charger can make it less visible when multiple devices are being charged at once. However, the larger screen StandBy functionality on the iPhone is more favorable for nighttime use.

The Apple Watch charger does have a notable limitation; it is not a fast charger and offers only 2 watts of output. Consequently, my Apple Watch Ultra 2's battery only charged by about 25% in an hour, whereas a fast charger could typically deliver around 80% within the same timeframe. This limitation may not be an issue for users who prefer to charge their watches overnight, but for those who like to wear their watches while sleeping and need a quick charge before bedtime, the Roam may not meet their needs.

Regarding charging other devices, the Roam is equipped with a short, built-in USB-C cable that supports up to 100 watts of charging power. It also includes two additional USB-C ports on the rearone capable of delivering 100 watts, while the other offers 18 watts. It is essential to note that the Roam can deliver a maximum output of 100 watts when used simultaneously, which means that users will only achieve the maximum wattage from USB-C options if no other devices are connected. Nonetheless, users can still obtain a substantial amount of power even while charging multiple devices at once.

The Roam supports input charging of up to 65 watts, either through the integrated cable or the 100-watt USB-C port. It took around 90 minutes to recharge the Roam from 25% to 90%, although charging slowed significantly as it neared a full charge, ultimately reaching 97% after 120 minutes. Additionally, passthrough charging of other devices is supported if using the 100-watt USB-C port, but not when utilizing the integrated cable.

To help users monitor the charging state, the Roam includes a small LCD screen on the side that displays the current battery level, accompanied by green icons that indicate charging input and output status. A power button located on the rear allows users to turn the device on and off and activate passthrough charging. The Roam also features an automatic shut-off mechanism after a period of inactivity to prevent battery drain.

With its considerable 21,000 mAh battery, the Roam comfortably falls below the limit for airline travel. However, the power bank does carry some weight, tipping the scales at around 606 grams, or approximately 1.3 pounds. While this weight is manageable for a backpack, it may be noticeable for lighter travelers. The dimensions of the Roam are 158 mm (6.2 inches) in length, 82 mm (3.2 inches) in width, and 35 mm (1.4 inches) in thickness, making it roughly the size of a Pro Max phone but significantly thicker and nearly three times heavier.

The trade-off for having such a large battery capacity is weight and bulk, leading to the question: how much power can one realistically expect from the 21,000 mAh? According to Alogic, users should be able to charge an iPhone 16 four times using the Roam. My experience was in line with this claim, as I found that I could charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max approximately three times. Although the iPhone 16 Pro Max has a battery capacity of only 4,685 mAh, various inefficiencies in power storage and transfer prevent users from achieving the theoretical maximum. Charging smaller devices like an Apple Watch or AirPods does not consume much battery, but for larger items such as an iPad or MacBook, the Roam's capacity will be quickly depleted.

It's possible to fully charge a 13-inch MacBook Air with the Roam, but larger models, like the 15-inch MacBook, would definitely challenge its limits, and MacBook Pro models would likely fail to charge entirely. This limitation becomes evident when considering the necessity to charge multiple devices concurrently.

As a result, while the Roam is suitable for a weekend getaway with smaller devices, it may fall short for extended use with a complete set of Apple portable products. Users must keep in mind that while it may be tempting to think that the Roam could keep all devices charged for days, the reality of power demands and the necessary trade-offs in size and weight make this a challenging proposition. However, for those who can manage their expectations and understand the limitations, the Roam can serve as an excellent travel companion, ensuring that your devices remain powered even when away from a fixed charging source.

Lastly, its essential to consider the added features of the Roam that contribute to its bulk, weight, and price. Those seeking a more straightforward power bank with comparable capacity may find cheaper, lighter options available. However, these alternatives may require separate cables for each device and may not support simultaneous charging as effectively as the Roam. Thus, while the Roam is a premium product designed for convenience and simplicity during travel, its worth evaluating whether the benefits justify the additional cost and weight.

The Roam 21,000mAh 6-in-1 Power Bank is currently available for purchase on Alogic's website, with a standard price of $197.99. However, an enticing Easter sale is currently offering a 20% discount, reducing the price to $158.39.