Nomad’s new MagSafe charger doesn’t need an external disk, but it costs $130

Nomad has finally revealed its first officially licensed MagSafe charger, the Base One (that is, it already has an Apple MFi-certified MagSafe module, not one with a separate, threaded charging cable). Unfortunately, this convenience isn’t cheap: the Base One costs $129.95.

As usual for a Nomad product, the Base One is a handsome plate of glass and aluminum that promises a more refined experience than just slapping a $40 Apple charging disc on your nightstand. And it sure looks nice enough, with a neat floating glass effect and about a pound of height to keep it from falling off your nightstand.

But the $130 price tag here is definitely an approximation, especially for a charger that basically only improves from the original Apple by making aesthetic improvements. Plus, despite the higher price, Nomad doesn’t include a USB-C wall socket in the box (the Base One needs at least 30W), Nomad cuts its own 30W plug from $30 to $15 if you buy it with the Base One, but you’re still looking to charge extra on top of the already expensive charger if you don’t have a spare on hand.

Nomad is no stranger to expensive MagSafe accessories: The company’s previous weighted MagSafe Mount started at $59.95 for the zinc model and $99.95 for the more premium stainless steel version—neither of which included an actual MagSafe disc. (The previous accessory was intended to help lighten the weight of Apple’s current charging disk, so it’ll stay on your nightstand or desk, as well as improving the overall look.) And if you’re a fan of these offerings, the Base One points out another good step in that direction, With a more integrated charger, braided cable, and a nicer design.

Photo: the Bedouin

I spent a lot of time The general lack of third-party MagSafe extensions regrets, so from that perspective, adding any new options from more companies is a good thing. But it’s hoped that the pricey Base One charger is just the first step in expanding the MagSafe integrated modules to include more products, which offer more functionality or form factors than Apple’s proprietary charger of the future at prices that don’t break the bank.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for an affordable way to activate your MagSafe charger, there is always Nomad’s $25 MagSafe Leather Charging Cover.