Review of a docking station for iPhone for $2.5. Dock station for iPhone: models, description, functions Apple dock station with Lightning connector

(in general, it is compatible with any iPhone equipped with a Lightning connector), which cost me 2.5 dollars, which at the current exchange rate is just over 150 rubles.

• Dimensions: 82 x 58 x 15 mm
• Support iPhone 5/5c/5s/SE/6/6 Plus/6s/6s Plus/7/7 Plus
• Made from plastic
• Lightning cable included

Appearance and delivery set

The delivery set of the iPhone docking station consisted of the iPhone dock itself, a Lightning cable and a transparent plastic bag in which it was all packed. The top of the docking station was covered with a protective film to prevent scratches during transportation.

The docking station itself is made of white glossy plastic.

But its lower edge was an unpleasant surprise.

There should be an anti-slip soft-touch coating. In the photographs on the website it looks like an anti-slip soft-touch coating. In my amateur photographs it also looks like a soft-touch coating.

In fact, it is ordinary plastic: hard and slippery. These cunning Chinese managed to make it look as similar as possible to a real soft-touch.

The included Chinese Lightning cable and the original Apple Lightning cable - try to guess which is which.

Hint: original on the left, Chinese copy on the right. Outwardly, they are practically indistinguishable. The real differences can be found only in the Lightning connector: in the Chinese cable it was made more roughly. In the photo, the original Lightning connector is on the top left, and on the right side are the Lightning connectors of the docking station and the Chinese cable.

The supplied Chinese cable does not have MFi certification. This means that it can be used to charge an iPhone, but cannot be used to synchronize it with a computer - iTunes simply will not recognize a smartphone connected via an uncertified cable.

iPhone docking station in action

The iPhone 5s installed on the dock looks great with it.

The Home button can be pressed, and you can unlock your iPhone using Touch ID without removing it from the dock.

When you connect an original (not Chinese) Lightning cable to the dock, synchronization with the computer begins to work.

I had the greatest concerns about this when purchasing: I had no doubt that the included cable would not work during synchronization; at such a low price it would be foolish to expect otherwise. But with the dock itself, everything was not so clear.

However, the fears were not confirmed: with the original cable, synchronization works without problems, tested on the latest version of iTunes.

But the lack of a soft-touch coating on the bottom causes a little discomfort: the dock is very light and in order for it to slide across the table, you just need to lightly touch it with the wire from the keyboard. This problem can be solved: all you need is an anti-slip rubber band and double-sided tape.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Apple style design
• Looks great with iPhone
• Supports synchronization with PC (with MFi-certified cable)

Do you really need anything more from something as simple as a docking station?

As Steve Jobs said, “It just works.”

There is only one drawback:

• Slippery bottom edge

But this can be fixed.

Differences from the original Apple dock

The iPhone dock I’m reviewing is, of course, not a unique Chinese development. This is a successful copy of the original Apple docking station, which is called the Apple iPhone 5s Dock (technical name: MF030ZM/A).

The original docking station for iPhone 5s costs more – from 1300 to 2300 rubles, depending on the greed of a particular seller. But the problem is not even this, but the fact that at the moment it is very difficult to find on sale. In the catalogs of the largest retailers (Ulmart, re:Store, DNS) it is listed as out of stock, and in the official Apple online store it was completely removed from the catalog.

What are we losing by buying a Chinese iPhone dock instead of the original one? Almost nothing.

Original Apple iPhone 5s Dock

The only difference between them is that on the back panel of the original dock there is a Line Out connector, which allows you to connect external wired speakers or headphones.

Well, the width of the original dock is about a centimeter smaller - because it was created specifically for the dimensions of the iPhone 5/5s/SE, while the Chinese dock is universal and can be used with larger iPhones of the 6th and 7th generations.

Are these differences really that significant? I think no. At least for the time that I have been using the Chinese docking station, I have never had to regret the lack of an audio jack in it.

Conclusion

Am I happy with the purchase of this docking station? Not that word.

With its appearance, my iPhone now has a permanent place where it now sleeps on recharging all the time that I am at home.

This docking station is definitely worth the money, and the included cable will come in handy as a backup. It may not work for synchronization, but it copes with charging. This means you can take it with you on the go, avoiding the unnecessary shock absorption of original Apple Lightning cables – which are brittle and expensive.

iPhone docking station (white) in the GearBest online store Dock station for iPhone (black) in the GearBest online store

A modern mobile phone is an integral attribute of almost every person. Today it is easy to solve the problem of uninterrupted communication by choosing the optimal device for charging your smart phone. A docking station for iPhone is a small-sized device (usually a horizontal body with a non-slip lower part) that can “power” the gadget both from a standard electrical outlet and in a battery version. A special recess will hold the phone in place. In most cases, they come with a Lightning cable; 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 charging your phone. But besides this, the mini-device has a lot of additional capabilities.

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

Review of popular models

Before you begin to describe the advantages of iPhone docking stations existing on the modern market, you need to know that each of them can be classified into 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;
• intended for charging more screen options(this includes “plus” models - from 6 plus and 7 to 7 plus;
• intended for recharging straightaway several Apple devices(for example, 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 capabilities.

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 iPhone will combine the talents of a watch and a radio receiver (working in Reson8 and 3D sound modes). Additional features include using it as an alarm clock and digital calendar.

iHome iDL46gc Llightning Dock DualCharging fm stereo clock radio

The 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 the event 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 capable of “fueling” 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 capable of picking up to 20 stations. With iRise, you can charge your smartphone and listen to music, all at the same time.

True music lovers will be pleased with the audio cable included in the kit, which is used to connect related audio devices.

Docking station AZATOM iRISE

What suits large devices

One of these options recommended by the Apple brand itself is It fits perfectly on the 6, 6s and 6 Plus models. 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 that will not only prevent the smartphone from scratches, but also help change the viewing angle.

Juice Pack Dock

Dockplus for iPhone Also works well for 6, 6+ and all Lightning devices from Apple. Yes, it has a rather noticeable weight - 900 grams, but that is precisely why it is very stable. It is compatible with all cases and requires a branded Lightning cable that has passed certification.

Dockplus for iPhone

Useful portability

Docking stations in this category allow you to use smartphones while driving, while simultaneously recharging devices and freeing up 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. Access to all device ports, as well as the ability to rotate it 360 degrees, is captivating.

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 moving the smartphone forward for more detailed viewing of information.

Simultaneously charge multiple devices

The docking station is very interesting and convenient thanks to its adjustability and compatibility with other Apple gadgets. Twelve South HiRise(can be used for both version 6 and iPad mini). The holder can be easily adjusted to fit various cases - for this purpose there is a screw washer on the reverse side. The microphone with speaker and headphone input remain open. Charging can be done via Lightning and USB cables.

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

By the way, this product is also super-light (weighs 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 restoration of various devices was released by the Revocharge brand. The model was named Universal Desk Mount. Her responsibilities include charging the battery as quickly as possible - this applies not only to gadgets, but also to her own battery. The product also has two USB and one micro-USB ports.

Universal Desk Mount

By simply replacing the earbuds, you can adapt them to work with different devices and Gravitas(manufacturer HengeDocks). This is especially convenient for equipment of different series and types (from iPhone 5, 6, 6 Plus to iPad). In this case, the Lightning cable is located 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).

HengeDocks Gravitas device

Other noteworthy docking stations

Not every user has the latest iPhone model released. OnBeat MINI is perfect for editions 5/5s/5c. Despite its small size, the station has excellent capabilities:

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

OnBeat MINI Station

The Rokform option is no less interesting. Charging Docking Station It is hand-assembled and made from aviation-grade aluminum material. True, for trouble-free operation with all versions of the iPhone, you should use a special set of Lightning cable - 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

Purchasing a docking station will be an excellent investment in the operation of your Apple gadget. It is especially worth recommending to those users who are used to being constantly in touch.

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

The most obvious way to solve the problem of fast battery drain on an Apple device is to buy. But then instead of one device that needs to be constantly charged, you get two. Therefore, a more effective way can be considered purchasing one that can simultaneously perform the functions of a stand and. A wide selection of high-quality accessories for Apple and other equipment can be found in the online store iCover.ru. It received a lot of positive feedback from customers for fast delivery, reasonable prices and prompt order processing.

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

Apple docking station with Lightning connector

Price: from 4,290 rubles

Apple began selling a proprietary docking station with a Lightning plug back in 2015. Even in 2019, it is a current branded accessory. One of the main advantages of the stand is its stability. The platform is so small that it seems as if you just slightly touch the gadget installed on it and it will fall. But in reality, tilting the Apple dock on its side is not so easy - 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.

Recharging your iPhone is not the only function of Apple's docking station. It can also act as an intermediary between the mobile device and the speakers, which are connected to the connector located at the back of the accessory. This is especially true for the latest modifications of iPhones, which lack the 3.5 mm jack beloved by music lovers.

Advantages:

• Laconic design and small dimensions – the docking station can be placed without any problems even on a cluttered office desk.
• Music docking station; It is equipped with a connector for connecting audio equipment.
• Many color options.
• Ability to charge your phone directly in the case.

Flaws:

• A branded accessory requires regular care.

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 an iPhone and Apple smart watch. The model is made very simply - the pedestal is made of anodized aluminum with a chrome finish and is made in such a way that the smartphone stands at the ideal 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 from a laptop or wall outlet. The connection connector is located on the back side and does not spoil the appearance of the device. An additional option for the stand is the synchronization function 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 the company's smart watches with a diameter of 42 and 38 mm. There is a version in black.

Advantages:

• Excellent appearance that can decorate any interior.
• The ideal angle of inclination for a smartphone and the non-slip surface ensure ideal stability of the gadget.
• Ability to simultaneously charge and sync iPhone with PC.
• There is an adjustment for 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 now need to charge not only their smartphones, but also their headphones. The new COTEetCI Base19 docking station solves this problem, because it has three seats for simultaneous charging of iPhone, AirPods and.

The model has a strict design and small dimensions. The base is weighted, which provides good stability on the table. The stand will not only be a convenient way to charge your gadgets, but will also allow you to simply place them for storage, for example, overnight. The watch is placed on a QI pad with a special hole for the cable (not included), the smartphone and headphones are installed on the Lightning connector, and the tilt angle can be adjusted for the phone. The power cable is connected from the rear. The model is suitable for any Apple Watch, smartphones from iPhone 5. The colors of the docking station are gray, silver, pink.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• There is no charger for Apple Watch included.

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

Price: from 2690 rubles.

The fairly inexpensive Elago Charging Hub 3 in 1 stand differs from numerous competitors in its material. In this case, silicone is used, which increases the stability of the docking station and prevents scratches on gadgets. The model is designed to simultaneously charge 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 specifically for them, and on the back side they are conveniently collected in one place, which eliminates clutter on the table and helps to properly organize the space. The accessory is designed for any Apple smartphones and watches, as well as AirPods. There are several color options for the design 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 prevents scratches on them.
• You can charge three devices at once.
• Convenient places for wires.
• Several colors available.
• Small size.
• Low price.

Flaws:

• No wires included.

Studio Neat Material Dock

Price: from 2,900 rubles

This stand from Studio Neat, made of walnut wood, will fit perfectly into the interior of 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 is a wired station only for a phone will cost $45, the maximum price for the iPhone, headphones and watch version is $95.

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

Advantages:

• "Expensive" wooden design.
• The presence of suction cups that provide stability.
• Possibilities for adjustment - the user can move both the Lightning plug and the back on which the gadget rests 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 large selection of options - for a different number of devices and with different power supply methods.
• Low cost - when compared with other docking stations from our rating.

Flaws:

• Inaccessibility – a product from Studio Neat is difficult to find for 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 the significant weight was not able to provide adequate stability and equipped the platform with sticky rubber backings. Go ahead and tear this docking station away from your desk.

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 makes Elevation Dock different from a number of other docking stations.

On the official website of Elevation Lab there is a model of Elevation Dock 4 - a platform that supports charging using the Qi standard (wireless), however, reviews of the brand’s products are more positive regarding the 3rd version of Elevation Dock.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

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

Conclusion

On 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 analogues are sold for pennies?

In fact, products from the Middle Kingdom are not even close to branded ones 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. Dock 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.

A docking station is an accessory that many users have not yet “tried” and therefore do not pay enough attention to. But once you have a docking station, believe me, you won't be able to live without it! Why? This is both convenience and safety for your smartphone!

What is a docking station for iPhone?

With a docking station you will secure your iPhone.

Any docking station for an Apple smartphone is a device that has three connectors. One of them, the Lightning male connector, is located on the upper part - the iPhone is placed on it with the lower end. The other two are usually located on the back - this is a port for connecting the docking station to a PC or to the mains and a 3.5 mm mini-jack jack for headphones or speakers.

Why an iPhone docking station?

Firstly, for charging. But you yourself know how well the iPhone “flies” from the table and how easy it is to sit on it if you connect the gadget to an outlet near the sofa or armchair. With a docking station, you will protect your iPhone from such troubles. The base is heavy, and you can put it on a table, on a shelf in a closet, in general, on any horizontal surface.

Secondly, the docking station allows you to connect speakers and enjoy music. You can, of course, simply connect the speakers to your smartphone via a mini-jack, but if you use a docking station with an IR Apple Remote, you can control playback without leaving the couch.

The docking station makes it easier to synchronize data in iTunes on your computer and smartphone.

Thirdly, the docking station facilitates the process of synchronizing data in iTunes on a computer and on a smartphone, and also allows you to connect the iPhone to a TV or music center.

The bottom of the docking station is rubberized, so it does not slip. The iPhone will not fall off it, because it is held in place due to the tight contact between the connector and the Lightning plug, and in some models, also thanks to an additional recess for your smartphone. In general, a mega-useful thing!

What types of docking stations are there for iPhone?

The ones made by Apple and everyone else. Formally, if you use a third-party docking station, you will lose your iPhone warranty. The truth is that usually no one will know about it. If, of course, the docking station works properly and charges accurately, because, let's face it, not all Chinese devices are equally safe. Also, devices produced by other companies are made of plastic of a different color; From Apple you can order a docking station to match your iPhone tone. Models with built-in speakers and docking stations for several devices at once are also available.

Apple offers universal docking stations and options for specific gadget models. The first ones are more convenient if you only have an iPhone, the second ones if you want to use them for an iPod or, if necessary, let friends recharge.

So, which models are worth paying attention to?

Dock stations for iPhone 5s and 5c

The docking station for 5s is compatible with iPhone 5.

The two models differ slightly, but it is impossible to confuse them if you have an iPhone 5s and 5c. The fact is that every model has a notch. And since the 5c is wider and thicker than the 5s, it simply won’t fit into the dock for the iPhone 5s. By the way, like the 5s itself in a case or in a bumper, this is perhaps the only disadvantage of the device. But the docking station for 5s is compatible with iPhone 5.

Apple iPhone Lightning Dock

The docking station is available in white and gold colors.

This model is universal - it is compatible with the latest iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, as well as iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPod touch 5th generation. But it is not recommended to use a docking station with an iPad. The tablet is heavy, and if you install it here, it risks deforming the Lightning plug and causing the iPad to fall onto the table.