Review of Anker 5200 mAh extended battery w/lots of pics!!!

[twister6]

This is a review of Anker extended 5200 mAh battery for S4: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CXFMZPS

With a lot of different phone battery releases, Anker established themselves with a strong and dependable reputation. I used their battery with my Note 2, so testing their extended with S4 was no brainer. Although Anker doesn't manufacturer their own batteries, each one features grade A cells and full CE and RoHS certification. I know these guys stand behind their product and make sure it passes all the required built-in over-load and over-voltage protection. And to back it up, they always include 18-month warranty and a top notch support. This particular battery is no exception.

It comes in capacity of 5200 mAh which is a double of OEM 2600 mAh from Samsung. The battery has a built in NFC, just like a standard one. Obviously, double capacity comes at a price of double thickness and double weight. I confirmed that by measuring original battery to be 44g (1.6oz) and 5mm (0.2in) in thickness, while extended one 90g (3.2oz) and 11mm (0.47in). No matter what you find on ebay claiming capacity of more than 5200 - I would never trust it because it's physically impossible to stuff more cells into that footprint.

The battery comes with a cover that doubles the thickness of the phone. The one I received had a very nice deep blue color, and a smooth finish. I did find the finish to be somewhat on a slippery side. The good news, you can easily find extended tpu honeycomb case for S4 on ebay for about $6. That will add more grip and give your phone extra protection. I just found that Anker also offers their own TPU case for S4 (Amazon.com: Anker

 

[halon]

Does the case around the lens and flash cause any problems while taking pictures?

 

[twister6]

Does the case around the lens and flash cause any problems while taking pictures?

I haven't notice any. Sometimes people experience problem with white cases/covers because of the flash reflection that can wash out the picture. This one seems to be ok. Beside, in my opinion I would use tpu case like this

ONE.

 

[dontpanicbobby]

I love the battery life test you did. That's probably a usage scenario I'd do a lot. The only thing is this makes the S4 look positively huge. Like iPaq with dual PC Card sleeve huge once you put everything together. Can this combo actually fit in your pocket?

 

[2badmice]

Thanks for the review, wow, that is what fat bastard. Not sure it's something I need, but for power users, then without a doubt. Good review.

 

[ANewDay]

Wow, I'll never use a battery that big. Rather carry another spare lol

 

[twister6]

You know a picture adds 10lbs lol! Keep in mind it was extreme zoom in. In person it doesn't look that bad, still slim and pocketable. This is definitely intended for power users who play games or watch movies, or if you are on a trip and will be away from power source for awhile. Imagine a scenario where you spend 1-2 hours on a train commuting to work and play videos or watch YT before you get to work. There you no longer have a fresh battery and might not have enough charge for the trip back. Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but some might benefit or use it in specific situation.

 

[sntaylor]

Can see the reason for it, but after deliberation I just decided I'd be better getting the two normal anker batteries with charger for

 

[ksidd94]

Hi awesome review. I wanted to know if the case you mentioned is a perfect fit for the ANKER extended battery? thanks.

 

[lotus49]

Thanks for the review, it made interesting reading. Having said that, I shall be sticking with my spare battery. This giant battery turns the S4 into a fat munter.

 

[captainm27]

Do you know if any of the seido's snap-on covers work with the extended battery?