Nyko Charge Base IC (Wii)
Starting at: $17.94
CNET Editors' Review
CNET Editors' Rating
- Reviewed by: Jeff Bakalar
- Released on:
- Reviewed on:
The good: Provides magnetic inductive charging of two Wii remote batteries simultaneously; Wii remotes don't need to be attached; power switch; auxiliary USB charger.
The bad: A bit expensive.
The bottom line: While the Nyko Charge Base IC goes for a few dollars more than we'd like to pay, its magnetic induction, auxiliary USB port, and power toggle separate it from other charging systems we've seen.
After a seemingly endless tirade of Nintendo Wii charging accessories, not until now have we seen third-party manufacturers enter the world of induction charging.
We already have our hands on the Energizer 2X Induction Charge Station and we really enjoyed the convenience of not having to detach batteries and Wii remote skins to charge. With the Nyko Charge Base IC, you can now enjoy the advantages of a magnetic induction charging system.
The Nyko Charge Base IC is simple enough, and it's the best Nyko charger we've used to date. The company has included a few additions here ... Expand full review
After a seemingly endless tirade of Nintendo Wii charging accessories, not until now have we seen third-party manufacturers enter the world of induction charging.
We already have our hands on the Energizer 2X Induction Charge Station and we really enjoyed the convenience of not having to detach batteries and Wii remote skins to charge. With the Nyko Charge Base IC, you can now enjoy the advantages of a magnetic induction charging system.
The Nyko Charge Base IC is simple enough, and it's the best Nyko charger we've used to date. The company has included a few additions here and there that really make the device stand out, and at $40, it should be the only Wii charge you'll need for a long time.
The Charge Base IC is a slick stand composed of two charging docks and a base. Between the magnetic charging docks is a power button--the first we've seen on a controller charger--that turns the system on and off. Kudos to Nyko here, as this definitely reduces the dreaded phantom power that idle devices can sometimes leak.
The two included battery packs double as controller grips, similar to the ones we've seen in the standard Nyko Charging Station. The only difference with these cases is that they offer access to the Wii sync buttons via a tiny hole placed in the casing. Nyko cleverly included a funny-looking accessory to reach the button, a plastic "sync tool."
Compare to other power devices/battery
Compare selected Before covering video games and gear for CNET Reviews, Jeff Bakalar worked in film and video production. He's a gamer, comic book nut, and a diehard New Jersey Devils fan. Off the ice you can catch him live every day as the co-host of CNET's infamous podcast, The 404, or every week on preGame.
User Reviews
See all user reviewsMost recent user reviews
Showing 3 of 3 reviews
"Great product! Plan to get another!" By MicStr27
Pros: Easy to charge batteries. Batteries hold a long charge (as long as any rechargeable AA I've used). Stylish displays.
Cons: Can't find the batteries sold separately to have a spare or two around.
Summary: Not anything to complain about here. Have used these extensively since last Christmas (nearly 10 months) and have re-charged several times (my boys play A LOT of wii). If it wasn't for our dog chewing up one of the wii remotes, and needing another spare battery for another wiimote, ... Expand full review
"Great idea - but flawed." By gmarino
Pros: Great Design. Easy to charge (don't have to remove batteries or wii cover). Hole in battery cover to get to Wii Remote Sync button
Cons: Lights are obnoxiously bright and cannot be dimmed.
One batter stopped working after just 2 charges.
Battery contact broke off
Summary: I really liked this out of the box. Great design - magnetic induction charger is a neat idea that looks and works great!
Easy to charge - just put the remote near the charger and it magnetically connects to it.
Cord has "extra" female receptacle so that it does not ... Expand full review
Specifications
See full specsQuick Specs
- Mfr estimated battery life: 10 hour(s)
- Battery technology: Nickel metal hydride
