Portronics has introduced a new addition to its automotive accessory lineup in India, and I think it is quite a practical one for people who often work or travel on the road. The new Zaptor car inverter, priced at ₹2,499, is designed to offer a dependable power source for everyday electronics during long commutes or road trips. It is available through the official Portronics website, Amazon.in, and various offline stores across the country.
The idea behind the Zaptor is simple enough: many of us carry devices that need more than just a quick phone charge, and having access to a small, portable power hub inside the car can be surprisingly helpful. Below are the key highlights as they stand.
Key Takeaways
- Performance: Provides a total output of 200W that can support multiple devices at once.
- Connectivity: Includes 2 AC sockets, 2 Type C PD ports rated at 20W each, and 2 USB A ports.
- Safety: Offers a real time digital voltage display along with an AC master switch for control.
- Warranty: Backed by a 12 month warranty.
Powering Mobile Workspaces
One of the interesting things about the Zaptor is how it goes beyond what standard car chargers usually offer. Instead of limiting users to USB charging, this inverter can power gadgets that typically need a regular wall outlet. It plugs into the familiar 12V cigarette lighter socket found in most cars and converts DC power into usable AC output.
This makes it particularly useful for professionals who move between shoots, meetings, or remote locations. It feels almost like turning the car into a temporary mobile office, especially for charging laptops, drone batteries, cameras, or other equipment that would otherwise sit idle until reaching a power outlet. I suppose anyone who has tried to finish work on the go will understand how convenient that can be.
Versatile Charging Options
Portronics has fitted the Zaptor with six ports, giving it a bit of a multitool feel. The two AC sockets accept universal plugs, which keeps things simple for laptops or small appliances. For phones and tablets, the two Type C PD ports support 20W fast charging each. The additional two USB A ports offer a combined output of 36W, which is helpful for accessories such as dashcams, GPS devices, or smaller gadgets.
While it is certainly capable of running multiple devices together, users still need to keep an eye on the 200W limit. Exceeding it could reduce efficiency or interrupt power delivery, so a little caution goes a long way here.
Safety and Build Quality
Battery health is often a concern with such inverters, so the inclusion of a real time digital voltage display feels like a useful touch. It gives users a better sense of how the car battery is performing and helps avoid accidental drainage, something that does happen if these devices are left running without thinking about it.
There is also a dedicated master switch for the AC sockets. It lets users cut power to the higher voltage outlets when they are not needed, which adds a bit more control and reassurance. The build itself uses fire resistant materials, and Portronics says it has integrated protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. These layers of safety matter, especially when connecting expensive electronics or relying on the car’s electrical system for prolonged periods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will the Portronics Zaptor charge a gaming laptop?
A1: It depends on the laptop’s power requirements. The Zaptor supports up to 200W. If your gaming laptop requires more than 200W (which many high-performance models do), this inverter will not be sufficient. Always check your laptop’s power adapter label.
Q2: Can I use this inverter in any car model?
A2: Yes, the Zaptor is compatible with any vehicle that features a standard 12V cigarette lighter socket.
Q3: Is it safe to leave the Zaptor plugged in when the car is parked?
A3: It is advisable to unplug the inverter when the engine is turned off. Although it has safety features, leaving it connected for extended periods without the engine running could drain the car battery.
Q4: What does the “36W combined” mean for the USB A ports?
A4: This means the two USB A ports share a total power capacity of 36W. If you plug in two devices, the speed will be distributed between them.
Q5: Can this run a portable car fridge?
A5: Yes, provided the portable fridge draws less than 200W. Most small car coolers operate well within this limit.
