I have been getting a lot of Apple Watch-compatible docks recently, which I believe are currently the most popular docks around. Differently, from iPhones and iPads, you actually need a dock for your Apple Watch in case you want to take proper care of this wrist-worn iOS device. Even Apple has come up with a dock for their own device! However, having a dock for our iPhones also seems essential to many iOS users, which is why I always like to return to this product category and take a look at some of the newest offerings. In fact, some of the more extravagant Apple Watch docks actually inspired companies to translate this design into a dock that is compatible with the rest of iOS devices.
In this article, we will be taking a look at a dock named HeroDock ($50), created by CableJive. This is the first time I reviewed a product created by this company, so I can’t say that I had any expectations prior to unpacking this product. However, it positively surprised me once I saw how quality made it is, but what made me confused was the number of parts that needed to be assembled. Continue reading to learn more.
The most prominent feature of HeroDock is that this is a universal stand, designed to accommodate a number of different devices and cables. I know that a lot of people own both iOS and Android device, and these individuals are the main type of customer for this product. You will receive several large parts that build the main frame, along with several smaller parts that you need to use based on a charging cable you want to install. Even though it is true that HeroDock can be assembled without using any additional tools, it will take some time to figure where all the parts go. I actually liked taking the time to figure out where each part goes, mostly because I actually loved playing with LEGOs when I was a kid. This is why I enjoyed this process, but I am sure that many will find it frustrating. The package includes easy-to-follow instructions with detailed IKEA-like instructions, so I am sure you will figure out how to properly assemble this dock. Additionally, this dock is fully adaptable, allowing use with Lightning, Micro-USB, and USB-C cables. This means that you can use it no matter what kind of phone you use. I also wanted to embed a YouTube video in this article, where you can find detailed instructions on how to assemble HeroDock. The following video is 2 minutes long, so it won’t take much of your time.
[vsw id=”2yKci1se7NE” source=”youtube” width=”735″ height=”400″ autoplay=”no”]
As I said in the previous paragraph, cable routing is provided on the underside of the base, which I feel is a very elegant solution. The cable is practically invisible, except for the part where it comes out of HeroDock.
Once fully assembled, you will see that HeroDock is made of an aluminum base, with one piece designed to dock a device, and the larger one used for rear support. Interestingly enough, you can move the rear piece to accommodate different kinds of protective cases, which is a huge advantage. I have tested a number of iPhone-compatible docks that omitted this feature, which I feel is quite important. Many of us use some form of a protective case, so it’s impossible to remove the case every time the phone needs to be placed on a dock. Additionally, there is a small hook on the back where you can place some earbuds.
The packaging will also include two sticky strips, so you can affix the dock onto a surface. In other words, you can place and remove your iPhone from the dock using only one hand, which is also not something that I see very often. While the dock sticks nicely to any smooth surface, it can be also removed without a problem and without any fear of taking the finish off of your desk.
I have also tried charging my full-sized iPad by placing it on this dock, and it worked without a problem, but I still think this can cause some stability issues, so I wouldn’t risk it again. On the other hand, this is the result of aluminum use. It is very strong and won’t break apart in case you drop it on the floor, but it’s also very light. Plus, it looks good and nicely complements any Apple-made product.
For $50, you can buy a quality-made aluminum stand that can help you store and charge your iPhone. The only problem is somewhat complicated setup, but this is the price you will need to pay if you want a dock that is compatible with all iOS devices. Once fully assembled, this is an attractive and fully-functioning docking solution.
What also needs to be mentioned is that CableJive is advertising this dock as a one-dock-fits-all solution, which is only partly true. Most users are not going to want to swap out cables to charge and dock different devices, which means that this is a one-device dock after all.
