By 'Doctor Dave' Greenbaum

The Dexim BluePack S8 (http://www.dexim.net/us/products/B-P/DCA171.html) is an absolutely outstanding all purpose external battery charger, not just for iPhone and the iPad, but any
device that charges via a USB port. In particular this device is great for anyone who travels.

The capacity is rated at 3000 mAh, which claims to add 11 hours of talk time for your iPhone.  While I could not fully test that, I was able to take a almost dead iPhone 4 to a full charge.

The most surprising feature of the BluePack was its weight. Even though it is high capacity, the device only weights 3.2 ounces and is of a similar shape and size to the iPhone 4.

Another feature of the BluePack S8 is a built-in flashlight. At first I thought that was a silly feature, until I traveled with it (which would be a common use of an external battery pack), and needed a flashlight in the middle of the night.  Then I saw the light -- literally

The accessories the BluePack comes with are also quite handy. For one, it does a fast charge with a dual USB AC adapter. While you can use this for the S8, it works well for other devices. Additionally, it has a USB to 30-pin iOS adapter, a USB Mini and a USB Micro cable. Since the charger provides a standard USB port, you can use either the included USB adapter or bring your own if you have a speciality one.

A great feature not always found in external batteries is the ability to charge your USB device while the S8 is charging.  Plug the S8 into the wall and then your iPad or iPhone into the S8.  Both devices get the necessary charge.

Overall, the BluePack S8 is a perfect balance of price, performance and features. I strongly recommend it as an external battery charger.

Pros:   Great capacity, very portable, flashlight and adapters
Cons:  Carrying case, cable length

Rating: 10 out of 10