Baseus combined a power bank with a hotspot. A brilliant idea, or a superfluous gadget?

Baseus has just introduced a device that looks like an answer to a question nobody asked: what if a power bank had its own 4G connection? The EnerGeek GX11 combines a 20,000 mAh capacity, 67 W fast charging, and a built-in mobile hotspot with CloudSIM technology support. According to the manufacturer, it’s the world’s first product to offer all three functions in one compact package. But the question is: does anyone actually need it?

Power Bank with its Own Internet

The basic idea is simple – you travel, you need to charge your phone, and at the same time, you want to have internet access. Instead of two devices (power bank + hotspot), you have one. The EnerGeek GX11 uses uCloudlink’s CloudSIM technology, which means it automatically connects to local networks in over 150 countries without the need to buy a physical SIM card.

The device supports 13 global frequency bands and works with major operators like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. In practice, this means you arrive in the USA, turn on the power bank, and you have internet – no searching for an eSIM, no checking roaming tariffs. At least in theory.

However, reality is often more complex. CloudSIM connects to a “premium local network,” which translates to getting a connection through a partner who has an agreement with local operators. Download speeds are up to 150 Mbps, upload speeds up to 50 Mbps – which sounds decent, but the key word is “up to.” In practice, it depends on coverage, network load, and data traffic prioritization.

How the Data Plan Works

Baseus includes 1 GB of global data per month for 12 months with the EnerGeek GX11. This is barely enough for a few hours of browsing or checking social media. If you plan to work, stream, or download larger files, you will need more data.

You purchase additional data packages via the Baseus MiFi app, where you can choose either by data volume or by validity period. Baseus has not yet published a detailed price list, which is a shame – the price of data determines whether the whole concept is worthwhile. If the data price were comparable to classic eSIM cards (for example, from Airalo or Holafly), then it would make sense. If not, you’ll still end up using a regular eSIM and only using the GX11 as a power bank.

67W Charging and 20,000 mAh Capacity

Aside from the hotspot, the EnerGeek GX11 functions as a standard power bank with a 20,000 mAh capacity. This is enough for approximately 3–4 charges of a typical smartphone or one charge of a laptop, depending on its size. Charging supports USB-C Power Delivery and USB-A Quick Charge with a maximum output of 67 W.

In single USB-C port mode, you get the full 67W, which is sufficient for fast charging most phones and smaller laptops. If you charge multiple devices simultaneously, the power will be split: either 45W + 22.5W, or 18W + 18W + 12W.

An interesting feature is the detachable braided USB-C cable, which wraps around the power bank’s body and also serves as a strap.

Up to 114 Hours of Hotspot Operation? It Depends on Conditions

Baseus claims that the GX11 can handle up to 114 hours of standalone Wi-Fi operation. This sounds great, but it refers to ideal conditions – likely with minimal data traffic and without simultaneously charging other devices. If you use the power bank to its maximum – meaning charging a phone, a laptop, and simultaneously running a hotspot for several people – the battery life will be significantly shorter.

Price and Availability

Baseus received both the CES Innovation Award 2025 and the IFA Innovation Award 2025 for the EnerGeek GX11. The device is currently available in North America with a recommended price of $129.99 (about 2,700 CZK).

On Amazon, it is sold at a discount for $116.99, and with the promo code BOZCFCGS, the price drops to $99.99 (approximately 2,100 CZK). Baseus plans to launch it on the European market soon, but it is not yet clear exactly when and at what price.

Would you buy a power bank with a built-in hotspot?

Source: gizmochina.com