Apple

Apple Watch has a charging dock to call its own

Cost more than twice of third-party devices but it ticks all the right boxes, design-wise

The Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Dock is quite thin. It measures 1.3cm thick when the connector is laid flat, making it easy to pack when you are travelling. PHOTO: APPLE

There has been a flurry of third-party charging docks available in the market since the launch of the Apple Watch. Now, Apple has come up with its own.

Most third-party charging docks cost about $30 to $50 each. But none has the minimalist elegant design of Apple's take - which costs more than twice the third-party charging docks.

Likely inspired by Apple's new "UFO" Campus 2, the Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Dock features a white flying saucer-like design, with an inductive charging connector for the watch in the middle.

A smooth white silicone top, which has a texture like the exterior of Apple's iPhone Silicone Case, surrounds the connector. The base of the dock has a grey microfibre cloth lining. This felt-like surface prevents slippage. The dock charges both the 38mm and 42mm Apple Watch models.

  • TECH SPECS

    PRICE: $118

    CONNECTIVITY: Lightning

    WEIGHT: 158g


    RATING

    DESIGN: 5/5

    PERFORMANCE: 4/5

    VALUE: 3/5

    OVERALL: 4/5

The charging connector can be laid flat or tilted upwards to 90 degrees, so you can charge your Apple Watch in a flat position or on its side. When docked on its side, your Apple Watch (with watchOS 2) automatically goes into Nightstand mode or a digital clock display that illuminates whenever you touch the display or buttons.

I like that the dock is quite thin. It measures 1.3cm thick when the connector is laid flat. This makes it easy to pack into bags when travelling.

One worry though, is that the white silicone top will get dirty as it seems like a dust magnet. I packed it in my bag on a recent working trip and used it on my hotel's bedside table for five days, but the dock's top has remained surprisingly pristine. But I can't be sure it will stay that way in the long run.

Given its hefty price tag, you probably thought a USB power adapter would be included. But it only comes with a Lightning USB cable.

• Verdict: It is no doubt very expensive, but the Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Dock is one beautiful and elegant charging dock that you will not regret buying. Even if it hurts your pocket.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on December 16, 2015, with the headline Apple Watch has a charging dock to call its own. Subscribe