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Carry all your Apple essentials from your MacBook Pro charger to your AirPods with Function101’s new BentoStack.
Function101’s BentoStack has been around for several years, but its most recent version has some tweaks, including the integration of a stand at the top. Whether it’s a modern case for storing your peripherals at home or for travelling, the BentoStack is a fun Asian-inspired solution.
Be more organized
Originating in Japan, the bento is a single-serving meal that has evolved into a popular style of lunch box here in the United States. They usually stack, containing food in different compartments, with the top reserved for utensils.
Function101 took that idea and turned it into a modular storage system designed specifically for Apple accessories.
Function101 BentoStack Components
The base kit comes with two large storage containers with two smaller dividers that fit on top. You can use all four (plus the lid), or you can choose to use only the top or bottom compartments if you have less to hold. Function101 provides two different elastic bands to accommodate either setup.
Each compartment is designed slightly differently. Some can be used for general storage, while others hold specific items.
The bottom compartment is the largest. It has two adjustable dividers inside to help you group your items. We removed one of the dividers and placed our MacBook Pro’s MagSafe cable and our 140W GaN power adapter.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro’s charger is the largest power adapter Apple makes, and if you have another portable Mac, its charger will take up a little less space.
Our Mac charger, cables and watch straps in the Function101 BentoStack
On top is one of the two thinner layers equipped with two clips to hold spare Apple Watch bands in place. Most bands will do just fine, but we had a few of our usual bands that didn’t work. This includes Nomad’s Graphite Stainless Steel Metal Link Band. It is curved and cannot be flat enough.
Between the watch band clips there is a small gap, just big enough for your Apple Pencil. The size of the box is just big enough for the Apple Pencil to fit inside.
Place the lid on the Function101 BentoStack
The top compartment is slightly smaller, which has its drawbacks. Our AirPods, MagSafe Duo, and USB-C power brick have all been dropped. Apple’s 5W brick fits fine, but anything larger wouldn’t allow the top to fit.
This caused us problems when we tried to integrate all our equipment. We need the 20W brick to power MagSafe, but we didn’t have enough space in the bottom compartment to install it. We tried moving our cables up, but they were too tight too.
The best option is to leave the top insert thin and just put the top on.
Watch TV on Function101 BentoStack
Speaking of the upper slim piece, this one is new. It has a built-in stand that you can use to prop up your phone. A plastic part swivels to hold your phone but folds flat when towed.
Function101 BentoStack
Many users prefer to have their iPhone propped up while they work, and BentoStack provides it for you on the go, without requiring you to bring a dedicated stand. It’s also perfect for crashing and catching up on Central Park’s first season before the debut of the second part of season two.
Should you buy the Function101 BentoStack?
BentoStack is pretty smart. We love that it was designed just for Apple users. Anyone could technically use it, but its dimensions are tailored to Apple accessories. The Mac charger fits perfectly. Apple Pencil is just short enough. And, of course, clips for Apple Watch straps.
Several colors of the Function101 BentoStack
Function101 also lets you choose a second larger compartment, choose the pencil cover instead, or mix it with different colors. You can also purchase a separate cover with a backup battery or USB hub if you want to expand functionality.
There are limitations to the BentoStack, such as not supporting all bands or certain accessories that are not suitable. Still, it is sure to meet the needs of many users between different models and additional components.
- Simple but effective design
- Modular system can be tailored to your use case
- Several color options to choose from
- Internal dividers can slide out or be removed
- Some of Apple’s biggest accessories no longer fit
- Not all Apple Watch bands will fit clips
Rating: 4 out of 5
Or buy
Shop other colors and additional inserts on the Function101 website. Function101 @BentoStack review: A Japanese-inspired modular tote to store many of your #Apple accessories.
