Voltaic Systems Converter – Review

Voltaic Systems Converter Backpack (Reviewed by Jacob Pluta)

Voltaic Systems Converter bags available at our online store.

I tested the Converter day pack by Voltaic Systems for three months of a gorgeous Vermont summer. Here is what I think of the product:

As a pack, the Converter is super high quality with a sleek, functional design and many uses. Made from 100% recycled PET (recycled soda bottles), the pack is exceptionally durable, water resistant and lightweight. Dense mesh padding makes the pack comfortable and breathable. The pack features a compartment that fits a water bladder, such as a Camel Back, making it perfect for hiking and biking. The versatile strap system allows the pack to be used as a backpack, worn as a sling bag, or attached to a larger rucksack (e.g. I strapped the pack to my 80 liter hiking bag for a trip to Newfoundland). Much to my appreciation, the Converter offers premium zippers and many inner pockets. The high quality zippers assure me that the pack is built to last and the many pockets allow for easy organization. Lastly, the pack has a fully padded internal pocket that fits my 15.4 inch laptop (the pack fits up to a 17 inch MacBook Pro).

As a source of portable power, this pack simplified my life; I am no longer tied to a wall or a car to charge my cell phone! Most useful are the USB plug and car charger socket that allow the pack to connect with almost any hand held device (e.g. I am able to charge iPhones and iPods simply with the USB plug). You can adjust the charging voltage to fit your device, the charging cable stretches so cord tangles are avoided, and the battery pack has LEDs that allow you to monitor the charge-level. And it’s easy to keep the battery pack charged because the Converter comes with a DC car charger and AC wall charger for when there’s no sun. When the battery pack is fully charged, the battery charges my cell phone in the same time as a wall charger. As a note, I found it beneficial to keep the battery fully charged. When I was in the sun a lot, this wasn’t a problem. When I wasn’t, I made sure to charge up through a car or a wall.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by the durability, versatility, and simple functionality of the Converter pack.

Pros:

sleek and lightweight
versatile and easy to use
durable fabric; high quality zippers
plenty of inner pockets
comfortable and breathable backing
comes with 10 universal and phone adapters that makes the pack work with almost any handheld device (e.g. iPod, iPhone, cameras, GPS, PDA, etc.); charges my cell phone in same time as a wall charger
comes with a DC car charger and AC wall charger so you can charge up even when there’s a lack of sun; battery pack has enough stored power for at least a phone charge
super green, way hip and a lovely conversation starter

Cons: