There’s a rite of passage every Raspberry Pi enthusiast goes through. It’s that moment of triumph when your code finally compiles, your retro gaming emulator boots up, or your little home server hums to life. But then, it happens. A flicker. A sudden, inexplicable reboot. Or worse, the dreaded little lightning bolt icon appears in the corner of your screen, a silent harbinger of an underpowered system. For me, that moment came while running a long-term data logging project on a Raspberry Pi 3 B+. Hours of data were lost to a corrupted SD card, and the culprit wasn’t my code or the hardware; it was the generic, repurposed phone charger I was using. This experience taught me a fundamental lesson in the world of single-board computing: stable, sufficient power isn’t a luxury, it’s the very foundation upon which every successful project is built. Without it, you’re inviting instability, data corruption, and endless frustration into your life. The search for a dedicated, reliable power source isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting your work and ensuring your Pi performs as intended.
![[5V 3A UL Listed] iUniker Power Supply for Raspberry Pi 3, Power Supply for Raspberry Pi MicroUSB...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41lYLFAVkjL.jpg)
- Compatible only with the Raspberry Pi 2, Pi 3 and Pi 3 B+. NOT Compatible with Raspberry Pi 4
- Power Supply with Easy ON/OFF Switch
- UL Listed
What to Consider Before Buying a Raspberry Pi Power Supply
An internal power supply, especially one for a sensitive device like a Raspberry Pi, is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for stability and longevity. The core problem this product category solves is the delivery of clean, consistent voltage and amperage. Unlike a standard PC which has a large, internal power supply unit (PSU) to regulate power from the wall, a Raspberry Pi relies entirely on its small external adapter. Using an inadequate supply can lead to processor throttling, peripheral failures (especially with USB devices), and the aforementioned file system corruption. A dedicated supply like the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply ensures the board receives the precise 5 volts and sufficient amperage (in this case, 3 amps) it needs to operate under load, protecting your investment and your projects.
The ideal customer for this type of product is any Raspberry Pi user, from the beginner setting up their first project to the seasoned veteran running a critical home server, print server, or a complex robotics build. If you’ve ever seen the under-voltage warning or experienced random crashes, a dedicated power supply is a non-negotiable upgrade. However, it might not be suitable for those who own a Raspberry Pi 4 or newer models, as those boards require a USB-C connector and have different power requirements. For those users, a dedicated USB-C power adapter is the correct choice. Additionally, if your project is mobile and requires battery power, this corded adapter would not be the right fit; you would need to explore battery packs or Power over Ethernet (PoE) solutions instead.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Voltage and Amperage: This is the most critical specification. For a Raspberry Pi 3 B+, the official recommendation is 5V/2.5A. The iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply provides 5V/3A, offering a healthy overhead for power-hungry USB peripherals like external hard drives or webcams. Always ensure the output matches your Pi’s requirements.
- Connector Type: The Raspberry Pi ecosystem has seen a shift in connectors. Models like the Pi 3 B+, Pi Zero, and their predecessors use a Micro USB connector. The Raspberry Pi 4 and later models use a USB-C connector. Buying a power supply with the wrong connector is a common and frustrating mistake, so always double-check compatibility.
- Safety Certifications (UL Listing): Power adapters connect directly to your mains electricity, making safety paramount. A UL (Underwriters Laboratories) Listed certification means the product has undergone rigorous testing to meet safety standards, protecting against fire hazards and electrical shock. We strongly advise against using uncertified adapters for any electronic device, especially one that may be left running 24/7.
- Cable Length and Features: Practicality matters. A 3-foot cable might be too short, forcing your project to hug the wall outlet. This iUniker model features a 5-foot cable, offering excellent placement flexibility. Furthermore, an in-line on/off switch is a massive quality-of-life improvement, saving the Micro USB port from the wear and tear of constant plugging and unplugging.
Keeping these factors in mind, the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply stands out in several areas, particularly its generous amperage, UL safety listing, and the indispensable power switch. You can explore its detailed specifications and user feedback here.
While the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply is an excellent choice for its intended devices, it’s always wise to understand the broader landscape of power solutions. For a wider look at power supplies, including those for full-sized PCs, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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First Impressions: Simplicity and a Welcome Surprise
Unboxing the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply is a straightforward affair. The packaging is simple, but as a couple of users noted, it can be momentarily confusing. Our box was indeed labeled “Power Adapter Type-C,” which caused a brief moment of panic. Had we been sent the wrong product? Thankfully, upon opening it, we found the correct Micro USB adapter nestled inside, exactly as described in the product listing. It’s a minor packaging oversight that’s worth noting, but ultimately harmless.
The power brick itself is compact and lightweight, with a standard two-prong US plug that won’t monopolize your power strip. The main attraction, however, is the cable. It measures a generous 5 feet, a length we found to be perfect for reaching from a desk to a wall outlet without needing an extension cord. The cable feels reasonably durable, but the star of the show is the in-line on/off switch. Positioned conveniently close to the Micro USB end, it has a satisfyingly tactile click. This single feature elevates the user experience immensely, transforming the process of rebooting or shutting down your Pi from a fumbling plug-pulling exercise into a simple, decisive press of a button.
Key Benefits
- Integrated on/off switch greatly improves convenience and reduces port wear.
- UL Listed certification provides crucial peace of mind regarding safety.
- Provides a full 3.0 Amps, offering plenty of power for peripherals.
- Generous 5-foot cable length allows for flexible project placement.
Potential Drawbacks
- Some users still report under-voltage issues on specific Pi models.
- Mislabeled packaging (“Type-C”) could cause initial confusion.
A Deep Dive into the iUniker Power Supply’s Performance
A power supply has one primary job: deliver stable power. But how a product accomplishes that, and the features it includes to make the user’s life easier, are what separate an adequate choice from an excellent one. We put the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply through its paces, focusing on its core electrical performance, the real-world utility of its features, and its overall build quality to see if it truly is the ideal companion for your Pi.
The All-Important On/Off Switch: A Game-Changer for Convenience
It’s hard to overstate how much we appreciate the in-line power switch. For anyone who has ever managed a Raspberry Pi project—be it a desktop replacement, a server, or an embedded device—the standard method of power cycling is to physically unplug the Micro USB cable and plug it back in. This is not only clumsy but also puts significant mechanical stress on the Pi’s delicate power port over time. We’ve seen more than one Pi board rendered useless by a damaged power port from years of this abuse.
The iUniker switch completely eliminates this problem. It’s a simple, binary toggle switch with a firm, confident click that leaves no doubt as to whether it’s on or off. During our testing with a Pi 3 B+ running a print server, we performed dozens of reboots and shutdowns over several days. The ability to simply flick a switch to initiate a safe shutdown sequence (via software) and then cut power completely was a massive improvement to our workflow. It feels like how the Raspberry Pi should have been designed from the start. This sentiment was echoed by numerous users, with one stating, “Physical power button is always a plus in the Pi world!” Another rightly pointed out, “It isn’t a big deal to plug-in and unplug a pi to turn it on and off, but having the switch on the wire is actually super helpful.” We wholeheartedly agree. It’s a simple feature that, once you’ve used it, you’ll never want to live without.
Power Delivery and Stability: A Closer Look at the 5V 3A Output
This is the heart of the review. Does the power supply deliver on its promise of clean, stable power? The unit is rated for 5 Volts and 3 Amps (15 Watts). This is a crucial specification, as the official Raspberry Pi foundation recommends at least 2.5A for the Pi 3 B+. The extra half-amp provided by the iUniker supply creates a valuable power budget for peripherals.
To test this, we connected our Raspberry Pi 3 B+ to the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply and proceeded to stress the system. We ran a CPU stress test (`stress-ng`) while simultaneously transferring a large file from an externally powered USB 3.0 SSD. Throughout this heavy load, we monitored the system logs for any under-voltage warnings. In our specific test case, with this particular Pi 3 B+ board, we saw no lightning bolt icon and no throttling messages in the kernel log (`dmesg`). The system remained perfectly stable. We also confirmed this performance on a Pi Zero 2 W, which has much lower power requirements, and it ran flawlessly.
However, it’s crucial to address the mixed feedback. A couple of users reported that the power supply did *not* solve their under-voltage issues. This is a complex topic. Under-voltage can be caused by more than just the adapter itself. Factors include the quality of the specific Pi’s power regulation circuitry, the power draw of connected peripherals (especially those powered directly by the Pi’s USB ports), and even the resistance in the USB cable itself. While our unit performed admirably, it’s possible that certain combinations of Pi board and high-draw peripherals could still trigger the sensitive voltage detection. The UL Listing does, however, give us confidence in the safety and regulation of the adapter’s core circuitry. For the vast majority of projects, the 3A output should be more than sufficient, representing a significant upgrade over a standard phone charger.
Build Quality, Cable Length, and Long-Term Reliability
Beyond the raw electrical output, the physical construction of a power supply is a key indicator of its longevity. The iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply feels well-made for its price point. The plastic housing of the wall adapter is solid, and the Micro USB connector fits snugly into the Pi’s port without any wiggle or looseness, ensuring a good electrical connection.
The 5-foot (approximately 1.5-meter) cable is a standout feature. In our lab, this extra length was a blessing, allowing us to position our Pi project on a high shelf while still reaching the power strip on the floor. This flexibility is often overlooked but is incredibly important for practical, real-world setups. A user who upgraded from a cell phone charger specifically praised this, noting, “Measuring in at roughly 5 feet, the cord is plenty long to reach the nearest outlet.”
The product also comes with an 18-month warranty, which is a strong signal from the manufacturer. In a market flooded with generic, no-name adapters, a stated warranty period provides a level of assurance that the company stands behind its product. While we can’t test for 18 months of continuous use, the initial build quality combined with the UL certification and warranty suggests this is a power supply built for reliable, long-term operation. If you’re tired of dealing with flaky power issues and want a set-it-and-forget-it solution, the overall construction of the iUniker Power Supply makes it a compelling choice.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the user sentiment for the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply is largely positive, with most of the praise centered on its most prominent feature: the on/off switch. One user succinctly captured this feeling: “Really bought this as a dedicated supply with its own switch to power a Raspberry Pi3 print and mysql server. Physical power button is always a plus in the Pi world!” Another user, who upgraded from a phone charger, found the switch to be an unexpected delight, calling it “one of those things that doesn’t seem like a big deal, until you have it.” The confusion over the “Type-C” labeling on the box was a recurring theme, but in every case, users confirmed the product inside was the correct Micro USB version as ordered, turning a potential negative into a minor, well-documented quirk.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. The most significant criticism comes from a small number of users who found it did not resolve their under-voltage warnings. One user stated plainly, “Does not solve the under voltage issue on pi3 b+.” This highlights that while this power supply is a robust solution, it may not overcome issues inherent in a particularly power-hungry setup or a specific Pi board that is especially sensitive to voltage drops.
Competitors and Alternatives in the Power Supply Space
While the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply serves a very specific niche, it’s helpful to understand other products in the broader category of computer power components. The following alternatives cater to different needs, from PC aesthetics to diagnostics and full system builds.
1. EZDIY-FAB PSU Cable Extension Kit
- Our PSU cable extension kit uses 18AWG wire, meeting ATX3.0/3.1 specification standards. Low resistance and high efficiency, ideal for high-power GPUs and CPUs, it ensures stable power during peak...
- Designing highly conductive terminals can significantly improve the stability and reliability of power transmission, making it ideal for users who seek the ultimate gaming experience and graphics...
- Our cable extensions harmonize perfectly with PC components, offering a customized and tidy appearance. The kit includes cable combs for better organization and airflow. At 30 cm long and made from...
This product is not a power supply itself but an aesthetic upgrade for one. The EZDIY-FAB kit provides sleeved cable extensions for a standard ATX PC power supply. This is for PC builders who have already selected a powerful PSU (like the ARESGAME model below) and want to achieve a clean, professional look inside their computer case with neatly combed, colored cables. A user building a custom gaming rig with a windowed side panel would choose this for visual flair and improved cable management, whereas a Raspberry Pi user has no need for it whatsoever.
2. Kingwin KPST-01 Power Supply Tester
- ✔️Comprehensive Power Supply Testing: Efficiently test a wide range of power supply units (PSUs) including ATX, ITX, IDE, HDD, SATA, and BTX, ensuring your components are functioning correctly.
- ✔️Digital LCD Display: The clear LCD screen provides real-time readouts of voltage levels, allowing you to easily monitor and diagnose potential issues with your power supply.
- ✔️User-Friendly Interface: Designed for both beginners and professionals, this power supply tester is easy to use, with simple plug-and-play functionality that requires no advanced technical...
The Kingwin Power Supply Tester is a diagnostic tool, not a power source. This device is invaluable for serious system builders and repair technicians. It allows you to plug in a standard ATX power supply and instantly see if all the voltage rails (+12V, +5V, +3.3V, etc.) are within their proper operating ranges. Someone troubleshooting a PC that won’t boot, or a builder wanting to verify a new PSU before installing it, would find this tool essential. It’s for verification and problem-solving, not for powering a device directly.
3. ARESGAME AGV Series 500W 80 Plus Bronze Power Supply
- ATX PSU. Delivers 500 Watt Continuous output
- 80 PLUS Bronze certified, with 85% efficiency or higher under typical loads
- 5 Year Warranty and heavy protection including OVP/UVP/OPP/SCP
This ARESGAME unit is a full-fledged ATX power supply designed to be the heart of a desktop computer. With a 500W capacity and an 80 Plus Bronze efficiency rating, it’s an entry-level to mid-range choice for powering a complete PC with a dedicated motherboard, CPU, graphics card, and storage drives. This is an entirely different class of product from the iUniker adapter. A person building a new desktop PC from scratch would select this PSU, whereas the iUniker is purpose-built for the low-power, single-board computer world of the Raspberry Pi.
Final Verdict: Is the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply the Right Choice?
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently recommend the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply to any user of a compatible Raspberry Pi model (3 B+, 3, 2, Zero, Zero 2 W). Its combination of a full 3-amp output, a generous 5-foot cable, and crucial UL safety certification already places it ahead of generic, repurposed chargers. However, its true value lies in the simple, brilliant addition of an in-line on/off switch. This feature alone transforms the user experience, adding a layer of convenience and professionalism while protecting the Pi’s delicate hardware from wear and tear.
While we acknowledge that a small subset of users with extremely demanding peripheral loads might still encounter voltage issues, our testing showed stable, reliable performance under significant stress. For the vast majority of projects—from home servers and retro gaming consoles to educational tools and IoT devices—this power supply provides the clean, stable foundation needed for success. It’s an affordable, high-impact upgrade that solves one of the most common points of failure in the Raspberry Pi ecosystem.
If you’ve decided the iUniker Raspberry Pi 3 Power Supply is the right fit for your project, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API