Smartphones and tablets are now so ubiquitous that most families own multiple devices. Charging them becomes a real problem. More so if you also own smartwatches or smartbands. You either use multiple chargers, or recharge them in turns. This is where USB charging stations come in. They allow multiple devices to be recharged at once.
Most are just glorified USB hubs that are used to supply power. But once in a while, you come across a really unique USB charging station that is not only functional and aesthetic pleasing, but also designed to quick charge your devices. We present the GELID ZenTree USB charging station!
GELID ZenTree Specifications
| Specifications | GELID ZenTree |
|---|---|
| Number of USB ports | 4 |
| Maximum Output Current | 2.4 A per port |
| Maximum Power Output | 12 W per port 48 W total |
| Power Conversion Efficiency | > 87% |
| Idle Power Consumption | 0.04 W |
| Dimensions | 224 mm wide x 159 mm deep x 95 mm high |
| Weight | 590 grams |
Unboxing The GELID ZenTree
The GELID ZenTree USB charging station comes in an attractive white retail box with a handle for easy transport. Be sure to check the bottom of the box for the plug type. GELID offers a choice of four different plug heads. This video takes you through our unboxing process.
- One GELID ZenTree USB charging station
- One GELID ZenTree installation instruction sheet
- Two cable holders (with double-sided tape applied)
- Four micro USB cables (40 cm long)
- One power cord (four plug type options)
Now, let’s take a closer look at the GELID ZenTree and check out how well it works!
Next Page > The GELID ZenTree, Fast & Smart Charging, 3D Tree Array
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The GELID ZenTree USB Charging Station
The GELID ZenTree USB charging station is made up of a base unit that contains the USB charging ports, and a unique 3D tree array lid with with a removable silicone rubber cover. The lid is secured by two locks that allow for quick access to the USB ports inside.
The four micro USB cables (provided in the package) allow you to charge up to four devices simultaneously. If you have Apple devices though, you will need to use your own Lightning cables, as the GELID ZenTree does not come with any Lightning cable. This video shows you how to install and use the GELID ZenTree USB charging station.
Now, the GELID ZenTree is not just a fancy powered USB hub. Let’s take a closer look at the GELID ZenTree’s key features.
Fast & Smart Charging
The four USB ports in the GELID ZenTree are not ordinary USB 2.0 ports. They can deliver up to 2.4 A of current simultaneously. Standard USB 2.0 ports can only deliver up to 1.5 A of current. This means the ZenTree can potentially recharge your mobile devices 60% faster than if you used an ordinary USB 2.0 port.
Of course, that high output is only part of the story. The ZenTree has a smart chip that automatically negotiates the best charging current for the device. This ensures the most efficient charging speed, while helping to extend the lifespan of the device’s battery. The GELID ZenTree is about 87% efficient in converting power from an AC source into the DC power for the USB ports.
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3D Tree Array
The 3D tree array is not only aesthetically-pleasing, it accommodates devices of all sizes in any position. You can also loop the cables around the “trees”.
The 3D tree array is covered with a layer of green silicone rubber. This soft anti-slip layer not only protects your smartphones and tablets from being scratched, it also prevents your devices from slipping off. This silicone rubber layer even peels off for easy cleaning.
Next Page > Space Saving, Our Verdict, Award
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Space Saving
The first thing we realised after using it was how much desktop space it saved us. Take a look at these before and after photos we took of our mobile lab.
In the first picture, you can see five devices – the Samsung Galaxy S6, the ASUS ZenFone 2 Laser, the ASUS ZenFone Zoom, the honor 5X and the ASUS ZenPad 7.0. That is how we used to arrange them, and they take turns sharing two USB cables running off two separate chargers.
Once we mounted those devices on the GELID ZenTree, they took up far less space. In fact, when we stacked the ZenTree on top of our KVM switch, that really freed up a lot of desktop space!
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Our Verdict
The GELID ZenTree USB charging station is really useful for those who have many mobile devices. It gives us four high-current USB charging ports in a very unique design. You will either love the bright green colour and organic design, or you won’t. But you will definitely appreciate the convenience of being able to charge four devices simultaneously.
It is also important to point out that the ZenTree uses a Smart IC to automatically control the charging current. This is important because it ensures fast and safe charging, as well as better battery lifespan. It really pays to invest in quality USB chargers.
We like the click-lock design which allows for quick access to the USB ports, as well as the removable silicone rubber cover. It speaks of attention to detail, something which is lacking in many other products. In fact, we like the GELID ZenTree so much, we think it deserves our Reviewer’s Choice Award. Congratulations, GELID!
Support Tech ARP!
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!