Nomad Base One Max review: Practical, pretty, and powerful

Macworld

At a glanceExpert's Rating
ProsHigh charging speedSolid constructionConsPower supply not includediPhone lays flatOur VerdictThe Base One Max not only looks great, it fully meets the expectations of a high-quality product. It offers fast charging times for the iPhone and high practicality.

Let’s get this out of the way: the Base One Max does not prop your iPhone up for Standby Mode. Rather, the iPhone lays flat so you can’t see its display unless you’re looking down at it. But if you want to take advantage of the all-on display on newer iPhones, this isn’t the stand to get. (However, the Apple Watch charging side does put the watch in an upright position, which makes it easy to read the time.)

The Base One Max weighs a whopping 1.67 pounds (755 grams) and is one of the heaviest stands I’ve tested. Along with the rubberized underside, the stand sits firmly in place.  The minimalist design features a metal construction with a soft-touch surface on one side and a glass base on the other. It’s an attractive stand.

Thomas Bergbold

With Apple MFi certification, the Base One Max supports MagSafe charging at 15 watts. It’s one of the fastest chargers I’ve tested–an iPhone 15 gained 31 percent battery life in 30 minutes, and it doesn’t get too warm while charging.

The Apple Watch charger does not offer fast charging, so the speed of 32 percent within 30 minutes is comparable to charging with the bundled Apple Watch charger. The charging station for AirPods and other in-ear headphone charging cases offers a charging power of 5 watts.

The Base One Max gets power via the integrated USB-C port on the back. A two-meter-long USB-C cable with fabric sheath is included, but a required 30-watt power supply is not included–you’ll have to pay an additional $30 for it, but if you already have a USB-C power adapter, you can use it. The stand is available in Carbide (black) or silver.

Should you buy the Base One Max 3-in-1?

All in all, the Base One Max is a recommended charging station for users who appreciate great design–though if you want your iPhone propped up, it’s not the one for you. It fits particularly well on a table, nightstand, or chest of drawers. The fast-charging speed for the iPhone is a good feature, too.

This article originally appeared on Macwelt and was translated by Roman Loyola.

iPhone, Mobile Phone Accessories