In today's fast-paced world, where smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, keeping them charged and running at all times is essential. Enter power banks – the lifesavers that keep our devices juiced up when we are on the go.
However, with an overwhelming number of options available in the market, selecting the right one becomes daunting. Worry not! We've got you covered. This two-part series will share the essential factors to consider before buying a power bank. Let us dive right in!
Capacity
The first and foremost factor to consider is the capacity of the powerbank, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). In simple terms, it indicates the amount of energy a powerbank can store. The higher the capacity, the more times you can charge your device.
Ideally, you should opt for a unit with a capacity of at least 1.5 times that of your smartphone's battery capacity. For instance, if your phone has a 3,000mAh battery, look for one with a minimum capacity of 4,500mAh. It ensures you can charge your device at least once and have an emergency backup.
Output Power
Output power, measured in watts (W), refers to the speed at which a power bank can charge your device. A higher output power translates to quicker charging times. Most units come with a 5W (5V/1A) output, but if you want faster charging, opt for one with at least a 10W (5V/2A) output. Some advanced models even offer 18W (9V/2A) or higher, ensuring rapid charging for compatible devices. Remember, your device should also support fast charging to take full advantage of this feature.
Number of Ports
If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously or share the powerbank with friends and family, the number of output ports becomes a crucial factor. While a single USB port may suffice for individual use, having two or more ports will enable you to charge multiple devices at once.
Some high-capacity units even offer up to four output ports. However, note that charging several devices simultaneously may lead to slower charging speeds, as the output power gets distributed across the connected devices.
Input Power and Charging Time
Just like your devices, powerbanks also need to be charged. The input power (also measured in watts) determines how quickly you can recharge your power bank. Standard units come with a 5W (5V/1A) input, taking about 6-8 hours for a full charge.
If you want to shorten this time, consider one with higher input power, such as 10W (5V/2A) or 18W (9V/2A). Additionally, some models offer dual input ports (Micro-USB and USB-C), allowing you to use different cables or charge the power bank twice as fast by connecting both input ports simultaneously.
Build Quality and Design
A good power bank should be sturdy, durable, and easy to carry. Look for one with a robust outer casing made of high-quality materials like aluminium or polycarbonate. Ideally, the design should be compact and lightweight, fitting comfortably in your pocket, purse, or backpack. Moreover, consider features like non-slip surfaces or rounded edges that offer a better grip and prevent accidental drops.
Conclusion
Selecting the right power bank is crucial to ensure you never run out of battery while on the go. In part one of this series, we discussed the capacity, output power, number of ports, input power, and build quality as critical factors to consider. In part two, we will explore additional aspects like safety features, compatibility, and other functionalities to help you make an informed decision, so stay tuned!
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