Remax Youth Edition Multiple Ports (5 Ports) USB Charging Hub Review (Part 1)

I've to get this because my brandless 6 port USB charger decided to perform kamikaze and caused a HUGE "waiting Q" at my charging "station".

You see, we've 4 phones (1 x iPhone 6S Plus, 2 x 6 Plus, 1 x 5S), 2 iPad Mini and at least 3 10000mAh power bank waiting to be charge each day. (Although my sister's 6 Plus is usually not in the Q because she hardly play games on her phone)

We definitely need at least 6 USB chargers due to our usage - My mum's "Special" ability to play social games with herself. Basically, she run her own "Hayday Neighborhood" across 3 devices, and give herself tickets and lives (in Candy Crush). While I am always out attacking villages and shopping (Of course!). So basically, me and my mum took turns to play "social" games with ourselves, draining battery of at least 2-3 devices at the same time.

Anyway, this is not the main point, LOL. The main point is: I need a replacement for the charging hub and I need it fast! I immediately turn to Qoo10 and Carousell, but the options were kinda limited and expensive or simply outdated.

So I hoped onto Taobao. I found a few of the "common/popular" options (like the Aukey and Anker 6 ports charging hub without QuickCharge) that are a little cheaper than Qoo10 (even after including Shipment). But they're still not very cheap (over SG$30).

As a "budget-freak", I decided to look further and I came across the Remax 5 ports charging hub, which only cost RMB40! That is about SG$8-9 (excluding shipping)! I also came across the CD ComingData 5 ports charger with 1 QC3.0 port and it cost about the same as the Remax one! Another one that I came across is the Hagibis 6 ports Charging Hub which cost about SG$20. (excluding shipping) Not that cheap but not so bad when compared to the Anker/Aukey ones (which cost about $30 excluding shipping).

After much consideration, I decided to only get the Remax one and the ComingData one as a spare. So whenever one hub is down, I still have one to replace it. Not having a charging hub is just such a terrible experience, I wanna avoid it as much as possible!

I know it's kind of risky (because I've burnt at least 3 Chinese multiple ports hub/plug before. Just for your info, they won't burn down your house, but might trigger a power trip) but I decided to take the risk after reading comments/feedback and contacting the seller. Always do some research before buying. There are usually someone who had died tried before you that can help you make your buying decision.

Anyway, now I'll die before you, I'll be sharing my own experience with the Remax Youth Edition 5 ports Charging Hub:

Compatibility
Most popular smart phones, e.g. smart phones from Apple, Samsung, Google, HTC, Nokia, LG etc
Most popular tablet, e.g. iPad, Kindle, Samsung Galaxy, Google Nexus 7 etc

Specifications:
Brand: Remax
Model: RU-U1
Material: Fireproof ABS + PC silicone covers
Input: AC 100-240V
Total Output: 5V/6A (Some site advertise it as 10A *roll eyes*, some 6.2A)
Charging Port Output: 5V/2.4A(Max.)
Size: 2.95 x 2.36 x 1.18 inches  / 75 x 60 x 30 mm
Weight ( Youth edition): 2.9 oz - 83 g


What You Will Get:
1 x Remax 5-Port 10A USB Desktop Charging Station
1 x 4FT/ 120CM Power Cord
1 x User Manual
Color Available for Youth Edition: Purple, Yellow, Pink, Blue

I must say, the packaging is pretty plain and unattractive (according to the seller, the stock with the "retail packaging" has ran out, so hard luck for me). This version of the packaging feels a little cheap and "unpresentable".

But the charger itself is rather solid and the build is pretty smooth. The design is simply and has a slight "cute" feel to it. I do love the charger itself, only that it's pretty light and tend to topple left and right like a toddler learning to sit.



I need to get this clear, this is my own observation/experience with my set.

The ports are use in this order and devices:

Port 1: DC5V/1.0A - 10000mAh Power bank
Port 2: DC5V/1.0A - Step Tracker/Smart band
Port 3: DC5V/1.0A - iPhone 6 Plus
Port 4: DC5V/2.1A - iPad Mini 2
Port 5: DC5V/2.4A - iPad Mini 1

I started off with the iPad Mini 1 in Port 5 and work my way up, so meaning if I say, use with 2 devices, it'll mean Port 4 and 5, 3 devices means Port 3, 4 and 5... You get it.

I basically use an application that reflects Charging current and Max Charging current to get my readings. (Although it might not be as accurate as using current tester and other professional equipment)

Anyway here are the results:

1 Device
 Detected Max charger current as 2.1A (As reading on the iPad Application) but charging at 1100ish mA (Max)
*Detected Max charger current is the Maximum possible output of the charger/port not the current supplied to the device*

2 Devices
Port 5 - Detected Max charger current as 2.1A (As reading on the iPad Application) but charging at 900-1000ish mA (Max)
Port 4 - Detected Max charger current as 1.0A (As reading on the iPad Application)


3 Devices
Port 5 - Detected Max charger current as 2.1A (As reading on the iPad Application) but charging at 700-800ish mA (Max)
Port 4 - Detected Max charger current as 1.0A (As reading on the iPad Application)
Port 3: -

4 Devices
Port 5 - Detected Max charger current as 2.1A (As reading on the iPad Application) but charging at 600-700ish mA (Max)
Port 4 - Detected Max charger current as 1.0A (As reading on the iPad Application)
Port 3 -
Port 2 -



5 Devices
Port 5 - Detected Max charger current as 2.1A (As reading on the iPad Application) but charging at 500-600ish mA (Max)
Port 4 - Detected Max charger current as 1.0A (As reading on the iPad Application)
Port 3 -
Port 2 -
Port 1 - Detected Max charger current as 1.0A (As reading on the Phone Application) but charging at 200-300ish mA (Max), lowest being at 100ish mA.

I've the charger hub run for slightly more than 2 hours (the time that the iPad Mini 1 took to charger from 69% - 100% on the "2.4A" port), it does get quite hot and give off a faint smell (not burning smell, I don't know what it is) but nothing worrying. After I plug off most of the devices, it cools down pretty fast. I'll try again later for a longer period of time, with the same setup to see how it goes.

Basically, we already know that the highest charging port output 2.1A instead of 2.4A as stated and the 2.1A port (Port 4) is just giving 1.0A (I've confirmed this by plugging only into the 2.1A port and it still shows Max charging current as 1.0A)

Cheap and Reliable International Forwarder: Xiayi Biao Ju (Chivalrous) Delivery/forwarder

 I've mentioned in my previous post that I've ordered some "very sensitive chips" from Taobao, hence they need to be shipped via sensitive (special) shipping, which cost a little more.

I've chosen to ship with Xiayi Biao Ju (Chivalrous.cn) (Chinese: 侠义镖局集运中心). The company seems to build their image on being a chivalrous group of escorts (Deliveryman in ancient China).

But that of course is not what attracted me to their website. It's their price, reviews and quick respond time. Here is their Price list for shipment to Singapore.

 Xiayi Biao Ju also promised that price include tax if total shipment is below RMB2000 and also full compensation for shipment below RMB5000 (for Normal Goods Shipment).

Although their price is actually a little more expensive than the cheapest Taobao Appointed forwarder, but I've no choice since I need to be shipping "special goods".

As mentioned above, one of the reason I engaged them is because of their respond or rather their customer service. I remember contacting quite a number of forwarders via chat on Taobao and they're one of the first few that responded, almost within minutes.

I've contacted them quite a few times, sometimes asking "stupid" questions like (is this the correct way to write the address? Is postal code correct...blah)  and the customer service personnel is patient and very helpful. They reconfirm everything with me and made me feel quite safe engaging their service.

HOWEVER! YES, THERE IS A HOWEVER!

3 days (2 working days) after making payment, they've yet to update me about the status of my package and I've to contact them to ask about it. Waited for a day, no reply...

Finally, they replied the next day, stating that they have a little difficulty finding my parcel because I've entered a different User ID (which is true, I mistype my User ID, oops) But anyway, they also confirmed (showing tracking number and parcel status) that my parcel has already reached Singapore. I was a little skeptical, but when I checked my phone, I saw an SMS informing that I've a parcel that will be delivered today.

Minutes later, I received a call and it's the deliveryman asking if there is anyone home. He promise to delivery within 2 hours time (by 2pm). And sure enough, I got the parcel in my hands before 2pm!

Although one of the bottle is badly wrecked (and chips fell all over the box and my floor!), I'm still pretty satisfy with the overall service and speed. I mean to be fair, the package went through a at least 2-3 deliveries (from place of origin to Shen Zhen) before reaching Singapore and delivery took only 5 working days.

However, if you don't find this acceptable, you may need to inform the seller and your forwarder to double secure you items. But that would also add weight and volume, meaning you might need to pay more, give and take.

Anyway, here is my score card for Xiayi Biao Ju (Chivalrous) Delivery/forwarder:

Pre-payment Customer Service: 5/5

Speed of Sending out: 4.5/5 

Overall: 4/5 (-1 because I wasn't informed or given tracking number before contacting them)

Trustworthiness: 4.5/5.

I find Xiayi Biao Ju (Chivalrous) Delivery/forwarder to be a cheap and good international forwarder/delivery and I'm sure I'll engage them again if I need to buy "sensitive goods". 

EDIT:  It seems like Xiayi Biao Ju has closed down... and I've switched to another forwarder. I'll share about it later.

Lazada (Air) Shipping and Shipping Sensitive Items from Taobao!

I went online shopping again... Fine, you can scream at me for being a "online-shopaholic", but I do have a need for most of the things I bought this time.

Items I bought:

Normal Goods

1 x Remax 3 USB ports Wall Charger
1 x Remax Youth Edition Multiple Ports (5 Ports) USB Charging Hub
A bunch of small stuffs like earphone cases, pens and hairbands
2 x Remax Fast Data Cables (RC-008i)

(I guess you know by now that I'm quite a huge Remax fan) Well, I've used many products from Remax, including earphones/earpieces, charging cables and portable charger/power bank. I'm always satisfied with their products (both in terms of design and usability) and have recommended them to my friends.

These items added up to about SG$26 including shipment.

I realised that Lazada (Air) and (Sea) shipment methods had been added to Taobao Appointed forwarder list. Their price is one of the cheapest (alongside Ninja Van).

Their Air shipment is at
RMB26 for first KG and 9 for subsequent 500g.

Their Sea Shipment is at
RMB14.5/kg for items 0-30KG, capped at RMB315.
RMB10.5/kg for items 30-60KG, capped at RMB480.
RMB8/kg for items 60-160KG, capped at RMB668.
RMB4/kg for items over 160KG.

Lazada (Sea) accepts large items but takes a longer time (estimated 14-25 days as compared to 3-7 days of Air shipment)

I chose Lazada (Air) as I know I'm not going to over shoot the 1KG limit. I like that they send SMS to notify me when my items arrived in their warehouse, so I do not need to check back frequently. They also promised that packages consolidated before 4pm will be shipment by midnight and they kept their promise well! I consolidated my items before 4pm and it was packed and out for clearance before midnight.

About 7 days (including 2 weekends) after I consolidated my items, I received a SMS informing me that my package will arrived today. The SMS was sent at 11am, and I was pretty surprised to see that it'll be NinjaVan that will be delivering my package. I've a good previous experience with them and I know it'll be good this time round too. However, I waited and waited and the deliveryman only came knocking at about 7:30pm. It was quite a long wait, but well, no complaints, at least its still "today". I've deal with some delivery promised today but never hear a knock at all!

Overall, I'm satisfy with Lazada (Air) delivery service!



Also this time round, I ordered some "sensitive items" (just some exotic flavoured Lays Chips - Lime, Cucumber and Beef flavour) Don't ask me why they're considered Sensitive items... I was thinking is it because some people will get "sensitive" when they see tidbits and will be tempted to eat them?

Anyway, I cannot use the official Taobao Appointed forwarder to ship them, I've to find another forwarder that allows shipment of sensitive goods to ship them. The procedure is pretty much like using the official forwarder, but there is a lot more communicating to do and if you don't know Mandarin well, then it's almost impossible.

Basically, I'm contacting both the seller and forwarder company.

First I've to get the address of the forwarder, key into my address list, contact the seller about forwarder's "request/requirements" and "take-notes" (like extra protection if is "breakable" items).


Wait for seller to sent item, when item reach the warehouse, contact the forwarder again to get quoting. Pay, then they'll sent the package out. The forwarding company have yet to send the package out, so will update later.

Pelson cute Charging Cables! Great as souvenirs and small gifts!

I've gotten these cute little "candies" as a souvenir from a friend. I really adore them! I mean they're really really cute and the packaging is just very colourful and eye catching. (They come in a few more colours than these, there is purple, green...etc) Although to be honest, the cable can be a little thinner, width wise, but oh well ... can't get best of both world.

I've been using the cable (pink one) for almost 2 weeks now and it prove to be very durable. I am guessing it's because of the not-so-thin cable that it can actually hold weight and stress quite well. I mean, I accidentally left my power bank hanging just by this cable for a few times (I admit, I have a problem remembering that I've a power bank attached. My doctor say there is no cure, so...) Anyway, the cable is still staying very strong.

The charging speed is good and charging is stable throughout. However, I do find the length might be a problem at times, like when I prefers my power bank to be on the table while I play game on my phone, and with the 20cm length, I obviously couldn't do that... (So actually, it's not totally my fault that the power bank is left hanging by the cable, right?)

Anyway, I really think these cute little cables are very good as souvenirs or for gift exchange if the budget is not high!

*They have a Android version too.

1More 1M301 Single Driver Earphone Review

Specifications

            

Type	Dynamic Driver IEM
Drivers	8mm Single Dynamic
Frequency Range	20 Hz – 20 kHz
Impedance	32 Ω
Sensitivity	98 dB
IEM Body	Aluminum Alloy (80%)
Cable Material	OFC enameled copper, Kevlar reinforced
Cable Type	Fixed, 125 cm, cloth knit outer (below Y-connect)
Controls	3-Button Remote and Mic (Android)
Jack	Straight, Gold plated, 3.5 mm, 3 pole
Weight	15 g

I must say, the unboxing experience is really really fun! There are just so much surprises! And this is of course due to the wonderful packaging design!

I've mentioned in my previous post that the Remax RM-610D and Plextone X53M are very "gift-able"; and the 1More 1M301 win those 2 by a whole body length in terms of packaging and presentation! I especially love the colour combination of black/dark grey and red, great contrast and very eye catching!

I won't go into all the details, but here is everything included in the package. You'll probably be thinking, "How the hell did they packed so much in such a small box?"... At least I did.

Basically, other than the earphone, you get a clipper, 3 sets of replacement eartips (XS, S, L), a 1More bear sticker, a earphone pouch and a very nice container for the earphones.

 

The earphone itself... well feels pretty plain when compared to the packaging, I was little disappointed actually. I guess, it just looks better in the promotion posters and it also lacks character and uniqueness, even though I like the combination cable (braided and TPE). I do love the Mic/Volume controller though, it looks very stylish and is also very comfortable and responsive. It is also surprisingly light.

I've been using this pair for a few days now, I must say, I really love how it sounds. I love the overall sound of this pair than the others I've reviewed. I guess it could be the very good sounding and clear midrange which made the vocals forward and very appealing. Bass is boomy and I can "feel" it although there seems to be something lacking in the low. High is comfortable to hear.

Without wasting time, I'll go to the Pros and Cons.


Pros:

- Accessories. Pouch, cable click, 1More sticker and 3 replacement eartips (XS, S, L)

- Stylish Packaging Design that is full of surprise

- Fit. Very comfortable and stay in my ears.

- Noise cancellation is pretty good.

- Mids is clear, smooth and sweet. Vocals are such good enjoyment.

- Remote Controller works well with iPhone (skip, pause, play songs, answer/end calls, volume control)

- Remote buttons are easy to press. (not too stiff or loose)


Cons:

- Earphone design can be a little better, although its not ugly or what.

- Low can be better.

- I actually don't like the cable clip

- Microphone is a little soft when singing on some app.

Overall score: 4/5	Microphone: 3/5

The 1More 1M301 is my favourite pair so far (well, excluding the Sennheiser one, which I try to hypnotise myself that I've never own it). I really like how the vocals/mid sound on it.


*Note: I'm no audiophile, just a person who loves music and earphones!! And is learning about them.

Plextone X53M Earphone Review

Specifications:

General Specification
Brand Name	Plextone
Model Number	X53M
Optional Color	Black, Grey, Gold
Wearing Type	In-ear
Cable Length (m)	1.2m
Product Weight	20g
Cable Material	TPE
Technical Parameters
Microphone	Yes
Wired Control	Support
Louspeaker Diameter	10mm
Plug Type	3.5mm
Distortion	0.1%
Receive Sensitivity	95±1dB
Impedance	16Ω

I'm actually pretty excited about receiving my spree and able to try out new earphones!

However, that's before I open the packaging!

The one I got was not only opened before, the seal is being stick back with some tape. I'm also missing the pouch and my pair have no magnetic absorption as promised! (Maybe the seller realised that his phone cover's magnet isn't working anymore and decided to "borrow" from the earphone, who knows). Fortunately, the earphones are working fine.

 

Even though it's only about SG$15 and I don't need those items, but I'm not very please with the seller's dishonest acts. If you ask me, I'll probably not go back to him again.

Anyway, back to the earphone. Although there is no "Wow" factor when unboxing, I was pretty surprised by the packaging design actually. It's simple but yet presentable (Although mine obvious has been opened before!), which make it pretty "gift-able" (presentable as a gift).

 

The earphone itself feels very solid, especially the metal housing and the strong cables that feels like it can be use to walk a dog. (Ok, I'm exaggerating, but it just feels much more solid and durable than any earphones I've owned)

I've a difficult time deciding if I like the design of the earphones. I kinda like the very metalic and golden colour of the housing but the design of the Mic piece, just feels a little bleh... I don't know it feels kinda "old-school". I guess, you can say the overall feel of the earpiece is pretty "vintage", 60s, in a way and that's what makes it special (or kinda "turn-off" for some who prefers a more futuristic, modern look.)

I've tried the earphones for 2 days now and I like how it sound on most of the genre I listen to (mainly, Indie, Electro-Rock, Alternative Rock, Rock, Cpop and rap) Oh, I also tried it on the Diamond Zhang (Bi Chen) song I mentioned in a previous post. All test are done on my iPhone 6 Plus.

Ok, now, I'll jump straight to the Pros and Cons.

Pros:

- Accessories (2 replacements eartips (S,L), 1 cable clip and a pouch (which mine got eaten!)

- Bass lacks a little impact but is still good!


- Solid build and cable.

- Vintage, 60s feel (depends on your preference)

- Mic is really nice to sing with.


Cons:

- Noise Cancellation is pretty weak.

- Mids is overpowered by the bass and seems 

- The person beside you can sing-along if you turn the volume up. (> 70%)

- Bad fit, they just keep falling out of my ears.

- The control just doesn't feel or look too good.

- Highs can be a little clearer but is still pretty decent.

Overall score: 3/5	Microphone: 4/5

*Note: I'm no audiophile, just a person who loves music and earphones!! And is learning about them.

Which is a better site to shop online? Taobao Vs Qoo100 Vs Aliexpress

 Ok, I decided to do a comparison out of fun. And before getting started, please note that this is personal opinion and experience.

Taobao

Taobao is my favourite out of the 3 shopping sites, because it has a huuuuuuge variety of selections and products and the price can be really really cheap. Delivery is also pretty cheap and fast.

As usual, I'll go straight to Pros and Cons.

Pros:

Huge selection of products in different categories

Relatively Cheap

Lots of sales and promotion (like the well-known 11.11 Sales)

Easy and cheap delivery 

Can combine items for shipment

Responsive Customer Service/Sellers

Able to buy insurance for quite a cheap price (but is not very helpful)

Freebies (although hard to win) and $0.01 try out.
Loyalty Program

Cons:

Considerable risk of getting fake stuffs

Risk of scam (but will be greatly reduced if buy from TMall)

Site is in Chinese, so might be a problem if you don't know Chinese

I've received a few faulty but usable items, when contacted the seller, they quickly refunded me without any problem.

Qoo10

Qoo10 is a local shopping site in Singapore which offers products and items catered more towards locals. Shipment is very cheap for locals, not so sure about overseas shipping.

Pros:

Cheap to free delivery (and options to pickup at store)

Fast local Shipment

Lesser risk of fake and scam

Promotions, Coupons and other ways to get discounts
Loyalty Program

Cons:

Selection is not as great

Can be a little more expensive than Taobao

Shipment outside Singapore might be expensive

Cannot combine for shipment

Aliexpress

One of the largest international/global shopping site. A huge range of selections too but no one came close to the selection Taobao offers.

Pros:

Free to low shipping (for some shops)

Quite a huge selection

Buyer Protection (helpful or not, I'm not sure)

Freebies and chance to win Coupons

Cons:

Shipment is very long (3 weeks or more)

More expensive than Taobao

Higher risk of fake and scams 

Loyalty Program is not that attractive
Cannot combine shipment

I've had 2 disputes on Aliexpress, one turn out well and I get my refund but the other was a bad experience. The way Aliexpress handle dispute can be a little rigid like they require a certain format and content to get approved.

Anyway, I made a little table to compare the 3 sites:

Ok, this conclude my post! See ya!