Cat Power Cube Review: The Ultimate Automotive Tool with Lithium-Ion Batteries

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Unboxing and Features
• Battery Analysis
• Charging Test
• Tire Inflation Test
• Product Improvements
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion
• Additional Cat Brand Products

Introduction 📦

In this article, we will be discussing the all-new Cat brand power Cube from Costco, specifically focusing on the upgraded version with lithium-ion batteries. We will dive into the features, tear it open to examine the battery type, discuss the upgrades, and evaluate whether it is worth upgrading from the previous model. So, let's get started!

Unboxing and Features 📦🔍

When unboxing the Cat brand power Cube, we immediately notice the sleek design and the promise of improved batteries with the lithium-ion upgrade. The new model boasts a significant reduction in weight compared to the previous model, making it much more convenient to handle. The presence of an LED light adds to its functionality, allowing for better visibility in dark areas.

Battery Analysis 🔋

To satisfy our curiosity about the type of batteries used in the power Cube, we decided to take it apart. Despite the lack of visible labels, we deduced that there are likely five cells within the battery pack. Measuring just shy of 4 inches long, 2 and 3/4 inches high, and 3/4 inches thick, the battery pack appears compact yet powerful. Surprisingly, the power Cube still functions even after disassembling and reassembling it.

Charging Test ⚡

To test the effectiveness of the power Cube, we decided to assess its charging capabilities. Using a compatible Power Smart power bank, we connected it to the power Cube via a USB-C cable. With an initial charge level of 84%, we were able to achieve a charging output of 27 watts. Additionally, we tested the compatibility of the power Cube with other charging cables, such as the high-quality 5V USB-C cables from Anchor, which worked seamlessly.

Tire Inflation Test 🚗

In addition to its charging capabilities, the Cat brand power Cube boasts a tire inflation feature. Curiosity led us to conduct a tire inflation test to determine the efficiency of the power Cube. With a starting tire pressure of 8 PSI, we set the power Cube to inflate the tire up to 32 PSI. In approximately 12 minutes, the power Cube successfully inflated the tire—a notable achievement considering its compact size.

Product Improvements ✨

The all-new Cat brand power Cube encompasses several upgrades and improvements compared to its predecessor. Here are eight noteworthy changes:

1. Auto Shut-Off: The new model now includes an auto shut-off feature, providing a convenient way to power off the device after a period of inactivity.
2. Power Delivery USB-C Port: Unlike the previous model's proprietary AC adapter, the new power Cube features a standard 30W power delivery USB-C port for charging, making it easier to find replacement adapters.
3. Reduced Weight: With a weight reduction of over 50%, the new model is significantly lighter than its predecessor.
4. Improved Booster Cables: The booster cables are slightly shorter but feature a stronger standard connector with reverse polarity protection.
5. Enhanced USB Ports: The new model features one standard USB-A port and an upgraded USB-C port with Power Delivery labeled for faster and more efficient charging.
6. Removal of Wireless Charging Pad: The unnecessary wireless charging pad has been removed from the new power Cube, reducing weight and simplifying its design.
7. Increased Peak Amperage: While the previous model boasted 1,200 peak amperage, the new power Cube offers 750 peak amperage, sufficient for most vehicles except heavy-duty ones.
8. Lithium-Ion Batteries: The most significant improvement is the transition from lead-acid batteries to lightweight lithium-ion batteries, offering better durability and performance.

Despite the numerous improvements, there are a couple of areas where further enhancements could have been made. Firstly, the battery pack's capacity could have been increased to provide more charge time. Secondly, the USB-C port compatibility appeared to be finicky with certain cables, so using certified cables from reputable brands is recommended.

Pros and Cons 👍👎

Considering the features and improvements mentioned above, let's summarize the pros and cons of the all-new Cat brand power Cube:

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact design
• Improved battery performance with lithium-ion technology
• Efficient charging capabilities
• Convenient auto shut-off feature
• Enhanced booster cables with reverse polarity protection
• Upgraded USB ports for faster charging
• Prominent reduction in weight compared to the previous model

Cons:

• Limited battery capacity (could have been larger)
• Finicky USB-C port compatibility with certain cables

Conclusion 🏁

In conclusion, the all-new Cat brand power Cube from Costco proves to be an excellent all-in-one automotive tool. With its lightweight and compact design, efficient charging capabilities, tire inflation feature, and numerous upgrades, it certainly delivers on its promises. While there are a few areas that could be improved, the power Cube's overall functionality and convenience make it a worthy investment, particularly for small SUVs and compact vehicles.

Additional Cat Brand Products 🔧

If you're interested in exploring more Cat brand products, be sure to check out their small lithium-ion booster pack, which is perfect for on-the-go charging solutions. You can find the review for this product [here](insert link).

Highlights ✨

• The all-new Cat brand power Cube is an upgraded version with lithium-ion batteries, offering improved performance and reduced weight.
• The power Cube features an auto shut-off function, a power delivery USB-C port for faster charging, and enhanced booster cables with reverse polarity protection.
• During the tire inflation test, the power Cube successfully inflated a tire from 8 PSI to 32 PSI in approximately 12 minutes.
• The power Cube's transition from lead-acid batteries to lightweight lithium-ion batteries is one of its most significant improvements.
• Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as limited battery capacity and finicky USB-C port compatibility, the power Cube is highly recommended for its functionality and convenience.

FAQ

Q: Can the Cat brand power Cube be used for heavy-duty vehicles? A: While the power Cube has a peak amperage of 750, it is not suitable for heavy-duty vehicles. It is best suited for compact and small SUVs.

Q: Does the new power Cube come with an AC adapter? A: No, the new power Cube does not come with an AC adapter. It features a power delivery USB-C port for charging, allowing for greater convenience.

Q: What is the battery capacity of the power Cube? A: The power Cube has a battery capacity of 41.7 wat hours, which provides sufficient power for most automotive tasks. However, a larger battery pack could have been a welcome improvement.

Q: Are there any recommended charging cables for the power Cube? A: While the power Cube's USB-C port compatibility may be finicky with certain cables, it is recommended to use certified cables from reputable brands, such as Apple-certified USB-C to Lightning cables or high-quality USB-C cables from companies like Anchor.

Q: Is the power Cube worth the upgrade from the previous model? A: Yes, the all-new Cat brand power Cube offers significant improvements, including a lighter and more compact design, better battery performance, enhanced charging capabilities, and various other features that make it a worthwhile upgrade.

Q: Can the power Cube be used as a wireless charging pad? A: No, the wireless charging pad feature was removed in the new power Cube model. This elimination was done to streamline the design and reduce unnecessary weight.