If you’re the sort of person who needs a hotspot and a power bank but hates carrying 2 separate devices, the Baseus EnerGeek GX11 is an interesting hybrid that combines functions of both into a single pocketable unit. I’ve been using the GX11 for a couple of weeks now and I’m quite impressed with its offerings.
Disclosure: We received the device as a courtesy for review purposes. However, the review is intended to provide honest, unbiased insights about the product, based on personal experiences and observations.
Out of the box the GX11 feels solid and well-built. It’s not trying to be flashy with a matte plastic finish. The unit feels durable yet light enough to be a portable device. The USB-C cable is included and it doubles as a lanyard. There are a power button and a hotspot switch on the right, and a small screen that shows signal/battery status on the front. I like the simple design as Baseus didn’t try to jam way too many buttons or confusing modes into the compact chassis.
Setting up the EnerGeek is super easy as it is almost ready to use out of the box, you don’t need to insert SIM card or anything. All I had to do was installing the app on my iPhone and connecting it to the device. You can start using it immediately as it comes with a global pass for 1 year with 1GB of full speed/month. If you need more data, they are offering a variety of plans at reasonable prices.
In terms of performance in the US, I’m very impressed because it delivers consistent LTE connectivity even in places with weak phone signal. I have the T-Mobile plan with my phone and it has poor signal in many parts of my state. Surprisingly, the EnerGeek doesn’t cut cost as it uses AT&T’s network and offers much better coverage here. I almost can’t do anything with my phone’s data plan but once connected to the hotspot, I can browse web, check emails, or even stream videos at 360p or 480p. If you are in regions with better reception, of course, you can have much faster speeds. It’s not going to outperform a dedicated home router, but for cafes, airports, and road trips, it provides stable, usable bandwidth.
As a power bank, the battery life is outstanding with 20,000mAh capacity and up to 67W fast charging. I appreciate being able to leave my phone on the hotspot’s Wi-Fi and let the GX11 handle both data and power; it cut down on battery anxiety during long airport layovers and car journeys. Since its capacity is still lower than 27,000 mAh, it is allowed in carry-on bags without prior approval, according to TSA.
Charging the GX11 itself is straightforward via USB-C and it supports pass-through charging; That means you can charge the power bank while it’s also supplying power and internet.
As for security, the GX11 offer the basics like WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption, password protection, and the ability to change SSID and password. If you’re in a business environment and security is critical, consider additional VPN use, but for day-to-day travel and personal use the device gives reasonable protections out of the box.
The GX11 is priced well under similar devices from big carriers. For instance, the Franklin A50 from AT&T costs over $200 and doesn’t include any plan yet. At this time, the official price of the EnerGeek is $129.99, but you can get it for just $99 by applying the 10% discount code and using the promotion code BOZCFCGS.
Baseus has also launched a special “Purchase with Gift” promotion. Customers who buy the GX11 together with one of Baseus’s charging accessories can check out for a flat $129.99. The gifts include either the Baseus 70W Universal Travel Adapter with Retractable Cable (a $35.99 value) or the Baseus PICOGO 67W USB-C Charger (a $23.99 value). You can choose which one you prefer at checkout. Note that this bundle cannot be combined with any in-site coupons or off-site discount codes.
Final Thoughts
After a few weeks of use, I believe the Baseus EnerGeek GX11 could be a perfect companion for anyone who spends time on the road. It’s not the fastest hotspot around but I love its simplicity, portability, and dual-purpose functions. For under $100, this is a travel essential that keeps both your devices and your connection alive.
