How to Choose a Power Bank: Key Criteria for Users
On the way home, on vacation, or even at home, we face the problem of turning off the phone and not finding a place to recharge it. In such cases, we are rescued by portable chargers. But how to choose them?
What Is a Power Bank
A power bank is a large-capacity lithium-ion Li-ion or lithium polymer Li-Pol battery. The Li-Pol battery’s operating time is five times longer than the Li-ion battery; they don’t heat up during long use or self-discharge.
The case is made of standard materials and the usual smartphone shape. In general, it is an uncomplicated device by design and operating principle.
Our smartphones, tablets, and laptops tend to run out of power at the most responsible and inopportune moment. That’s why they invented a portable, compact, and reliable accessory.
These devices have higher power and allow mobile gadgets to work without electricity. They are helpful in everyday life and travel, especially when doing battery-consuming activities, like playing at a casino lobby or watching movies.
Tips On How to Choose a Power Bank
Compatibility
The most important thing when choosing a power bank is to determine the compatibility of the portable device’s characteristics with your gadget. One of the main criteria here is that the portable charger’s output voltage coincides with your equipment’s input voltage. The standard voltage is 5VDC; if you charge your technique with a higher voltage, you can not worry. She will take only the correct charge. The system may not work when the current consumption is 2A, and we have connected it to a smaller current, such as 1A. In this case, our gadget will charge for a long time or may not take charge at all, which can further affect the performance of the device’s battery.
Capacity
Before deciding on the capacity of the power bank, you need to determine how many charge cycles your device needs. To do this, you need to multiply the number of cycles by the capacity of your battery. Then, you will know approximately how many charges your 100% portable device will last.
For example, if you charge a phone with a 3100mAh capacity and an additional 10,000mAh charger, you will charge your phone 2.5 times or even twice. Since there are losses when charging any equipment, you have to consider that.
Manufacturer
When choosing a power bank, the manufacturer is one of the essential criteria. Taking a device from an unknown brand is dangerous not only for you but also for your equipment. Since these products are mostly not adequately tested, such portable chargers can destroy your gadget, serve little time, or burn themselves out. That’s why it’s essential to choose brand-name products. Some of the leaders in producing additional batteries are companies such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Remax, Hoco, Hiper, Canyon, and Accesstyle.
Functionality
Power banks differ in the functionality that will be useful. This number of connectors on the battery’s output will help charge multiple devices simultaneously. Standard models of chargers come with one connector, more advanced models with 2 and 3 ports. And they can have different output current strengths.
When choosing an external battery, be sure to know how it charges. Some models only get a charge from the mains. And those that can charge from your computer via micro-USB. Besides these options, there are also solar-powered devices.
Another feature of external batteries is the function of fast and wireless charging. Fast charging saves you time and will help you even in a challenging situation. If you don’t have a working port for charging, you can help with wireless charging, but you have to consider the model’s compatibility.
Case Material
Portable chargers are made of the following materials: metal, plastic, chrome-nickel stainless steel, aluminum alloy, ABS plastic, and Soft Touch plastic.
The case material doesn’t affect the charger’s performance; it depends on its protection from damage. The metal case will better protect against drops, chips, and bumps, while the plastic can crack or break. So, choose a more durable material if you want your power bank to last a long time.
Summary
So, when choosing a power bank, it’s important not to make a mistake with compatibility because it depends on the result and performance of your gadget’s battery. A large-capacity charger will be a reliable helper for those away from home for a long time and often on the road. The number of charging ports allows you to charge your phone and your watch or e-book. The devices with solar recharging will help those who can not take advantage of the benefits of civilization. All other add-ons we listed will help you comfortably use a portable charger.
