Our favourite portable chargers and power banks rated and reviewed, plus an in-depth buyer’s guide
by Matt Jones
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In recent years, the rise of portable battery chargers or power banks has meant that heading into the great outdoors no longer means going off-grid. And being able to keep your devices charged even when you’re miles from the mains has some undeniable benefits. After all, a functioning phone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. We’ve tested ten of the best portable power banks and solar chargers for backpacking in a range of sizes and capacities. So whether you’re after a small, lightweight pal or a rugged, heavy-duty Hero, there should be something for you. This group test also includes three solar-powered chargers. These offer an alternative solution to the perennial power problem for adventurers planning to spend multiple days in the wilderness.
What Makes The Best Portable Power Pack?
Firstly, think about how much power you’re likely to need and how long you might be away from a power source. This will dictate what size power bank you need in terms of battery capacity, which is usually measured in milliamp hours (mAh).
To help you out, note that it typically takes 2,500 to 3,500mAh to charge a modern smartphone (though many factors can affect power consumption). Charging a GPS unit or digital camera is likely to consume a similar amount of power, while charging a head torch, smartwatch or GoPro will consume much less. High-powered devices like tablets and laptops are the biggest drain on battery capacity.
Put simply, the larger the rated capacity (in mAh), the more juice the power bank can store – though the trade-off is increased size and weight. So if you’re only carrying a smartphone on a day walk and just want a back-up power source, look for a.sized battery charger. On the other hand, if you’re planning to spend multiple days in the wilderness carrying a number of different devices (like a GPS, phone, GoPro and digital camera), then you’re going to need one of the bigger power banks around (probably 20,000mAh).
To power multiple devices effectively you’ll also need a power bank that supports simultaneous charging, i.e. one that has at least two or more outlet ports. Many of the latest models also offer features such as quick charging through high-speed USB or USB-C connectivity, as well as in-built technologies to prevent over-charging and optimise charging efficiency.
Durable Power Banks
Also consider your environment. In damp, humid conditions or on expeditions you might need a waterproof and rugged power bank, which can cope with moisture or even complete immersion as well as bumps and knocks. If so, look for a product with a certified IP (International Protection) rating, which is usually expressed as two letters or numerals, e.g. IPX6 or IP67. This standard classifies the degree of protection provided against intrusion, dust, accidental contact and water.
“It typically takes 2,500 to 3,500mAh to charge a modern smartphone”
As well as being impact and water-resistant, power banks specifically designed for the great outdoors often have LED lights, so they can be used as torches. This can be a useful additional feature, as can power banks with integrated charging cables – so you don’t have to remember to bring separate cables with you.
Other devices have integrated or add-on solar panels, which offer the ability to top up the power using energy from the sun. Solar panels are becoming more efficient all the time, meaning that this is now a viable option for those planning to spend days or even weeks off-grid. Most solar panels trickle-charge a power bank over a period of several hours, but others can also be plugged directly into your device.
GP Batteries Charge AnyWay
Price: £29.99 Weight: 224g Capacity: 10,400mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 81 x 64 x 25 mm
One of the most innovative bits of outdoor kit we’ve seen recently, The Charge AnyWay from GP Batteries is a 2-in-1 battery charger and power bank. It comes with 4 x nifty RecyKo rechargeable AA batteries. These batteries can all be used separately from the power bank. That means that with the power bank and these batteries, you’ve got the versatility to charge your smartphone or battery-powered devices like a headtorch. It’s easy to use too, thanks to a dual color LED indicator that displays charging status. In-built safety protection offers security against overheating, overloading or short circuits.
Pros: Lightweight, versatile, easy to use and eco-friendly, since it uses rechargeable batteries rather than a lithium ion cell, and reduces your reliance on single-use AA batteries. Cons: Not the speediest. It takes about 6 hours to fully charge the supplied 4 x AA RecyKo AA batteries. It’s also not as quick as other portable chargers when used as a power bank due to the 1A USB output.
Biolite Charge 20
Price: £40 Weight: 166g Capacity: 5,200mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 108 x 44 x 20mm
The smallest power bank on test, the Biolite Charge 20 weighs under 200g and slides easily into a It has a 5,200mAh capacity – enough for about two smartphone charges. It is easy to operate. There’s just a single button that lights up a four-LED indicator telling you how much juice is left. There’s one micro-USB input and one 2.1A USB output, offering fairly swift charging. The stainless steel housing is sleek and durable, while a flip-top lid helps to protect the ports from dirt and moisture. The Charge 20 has an IPX6 rating, offering resistance to rain and spills. It is supplied with its own charging cable.
Pros: Lightweight, compact and durable. Just slip it into a and head out into the hills for peace of mind, knowing you can keep your phone alive throughout the day. Cons: Single outlet port and limited battery capacity means this little guy reaches his limits when it comes to charging bigger devices.
Goalzero Venture 70
Price: £136.95 Weight: 485g Capacity: 17,700mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 170 x 103 x 29mm
The Goal Zero Venture 70 is a seriously rugged, waterproof power bank with an IP67 rating. It has a fairly generous 17,700mAh capacity – enough to charge a smartphone five times (though the manufacturer quotes up to six charges). The two high-speed 2.4A USB outputs can charge two devices simultaneously.
The Venture 70 also has a Smart charge feature that can identify different devices. It then applies the fastest charging profile possible, without risk of overheating or overcharging. It also allows pass-through charging. That means you can safely charge devices from the power bank even when it’s plugged into the mains. We also liked the built-in 65-lumen LED torch, which has two brightness settings and three strobe modes, including SOS.
Pros: Packed with useful features and some sophisticated internal tech. The extremely rugged, waterproof housing with integrated cables makes the Venture 70 a very practical option for the great outdoors. Cons: It’s the heaviest power bank in this round-up, and also the most expensive. If you really want to get the best out of the product you’ll need to read the instruction manual. That explains how to initiate the Smart charge sequence whenever you plug in a device for the first time.
Zendure A6PB
Price: £80 Weight: 392g Capacity: 20,100mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 168 x 85 x 28mm
Zendure’s A6PB cutting-edge power bank is equipped with USB-C and 3.0A USB outlet ports for Rapid charging of two devices simultaneously. It has a generous 20,100mAh capacity, enough to fully charge an iPhone X 5½ times. We found that real-world performance matched the manufacturer’s claims. It also offers pass-through charging. Auto-detection means that devices start to charge as soon as they are plugged in. Adaptive charging automatically adjusts the output to charge your device at optimum speed. The A6PD also has in-built protection against short circuits, power surges, overheating and overcharging. It comes with a protective cloth pouch and USB cable.
Pros: With the quickest charge times of any power bank in this round-up, the A6PD is ideal for those with the latest devices who need their juice fast. Cons: Although housed in an extremely rugged composite case, this power bank does not carry an IP rating and is not waterproof.
GP Batteries M-Series MP15MA
Price: £34.99 Weight: 347g Capacity: 15,000mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 140 x 75 x 24mm
With USB-C and twin 2.4A USB outputs, the GP Batteries M-series power bank supports the latest devices and offers speedy charging. You can charge up to three devices simultaneously. The 15,000mAh capacity gives a real-world performance of about four to five smartphone charges (though the manufacturer quotes six). It’s very simple and easy to use – a single button with four LED indicator lights and device auto-detection means you can just plug in and go. It is supplied with a 2-in-1 micro-USB and USB-C cable.
Pros: Striking a good balance between capacity, weight and size, this is a versatile all-rounder at a competitive price. For us, it’s the best value option in this test. The triple outlet ports are very useful, while USB-C input/output supports the latest devices and permits Rapid mains charging. Cons: Though the case features anti-slip rubber coated edges that may help to absorb minor impacts, the power bank does not carry an IP rating. Nor is it supplied with a protective pouch.
Outdoor Tech Kodiak Plus 2.0
Price: £59.99 Weight: 290g Capacity: 10,000mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 123 x 88 x 28mm
Thanks to its IPX7 rating, this power bank by Outdoor Tech can be submerged in 3ft of water for up to 30 minutes. That makes it well-suited to the most demanding conditions. It also has a built-in 100-lumen torch with three light settings – another useful feature for the great outdoors. The design is compact and relatively lightweight, while the 10,000mAh capacity gives you real-world performance of a little over three full smartphone charges. However, although there are two USB outlet ports, only one of these supports high-speed charging. The Kodiak Plus 2.0 does not have charge-through capability either.
Pros: Very rugged construction and simple operation. We also like the bright LED flashlight for use around camp. Cons: While the 2.4A USB output is speedy, the slower 1.0A port is sluggish compared to the multiple high-speed charging options of other power banks here.
Anker Powercore 20100
Price: £34.99 Weight: 353g Capacity: 20,100mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 173 x 67 x 26mm
This slim-line power bank has two 2.4A USB outputs for high-speed charging, augmented by Anker’s PowerIQ Smart charge and voltage boost technology. This identifies your device and adjusts voltage output accordingly, while also compensating for cable resistance. It’s all intended to deliver the fastest possible charging speed, even when charging two devices simultaneously.
Real world performance was very good. The large 20,100mAh capacity gives five to seven smartphone charges, depending on the model. The Powercore 20100 also has built-in protection from power surges and short circuits. It comes with a micro USB cable and a travel pouch.
Pros: Slim design, simple to use and good performance. High battery capacity and competitively priced too. Cons: We wish it had a USB-C port. The only other real drawback is that the plastic case is not IP-rated against impact or moisture, meaning it’s not as tough as some other power banks we tested. Basically, don’t drop it or let it get wet!
Ravpower Xtreme RP-PB41
Price: £36.99 Weight: 459g Capacity: 26,800mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 178 x 85 x 27mm
This Ravpower Xtreme power bank boasts triple 2.4A USB ports so you can charge three devices simultaneously at high speed. An impressive array of built-in technology protects against overheating, overcharging, short circuits and power surges. It also automatically adjusts charge output and voltage for optimum charging speeds. It’s incredibly simple to use, with a single button that displays a four-LED power indicator to let you know how much juice you have left. Not that you’re likely to run out, given the whopping 26,800mAh battery capacity. That gives you nine full charges for the iPhone X, which is impressive. It is supplied with a micro-USB cable and a travel pouch.
Pros: Huge battery capacity, multiple outlets, high-speed charging, easy to use and very well-priced. Cons: Inevitably, this power bank is fairly heavy. We also wish it had a USB-C port – though the latest 26800mAh Ravpower model (the PB058) has added this feature. Our only other negative is that this power bank isn’t IP-rated, so it isn’t as tough as some.
WakaWaka Power With Solar Panel And Link
Price: Power £49.99, Solar panel and link £79.99 Weight: Power 165g, Solar panel and link 751g Capacity: Power 3,000mAh, Solar panel and link max 10W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Power 125 x 83 x 21mm, Solar panel (folded) 170 x 170 x 28mm
A compact and lightweight power bank with an integrated solar panel that can fully recharge its 3,000mAh internal battery in 12-18 hours of sunlight. The WakaWaka Power has a single 2.1A USB output and a micro-USB input (so you can charge it from the mains too). In addition, the Power has a 70-lumen LED torch with four brightness settings and SOS mode. The 3,000mAh capacity gives you about 200 hours of light or one full smartphone charge, and charging speed is fairly swift. The power bank has a swivelling base that enables you to place it at almost any angle. This is ideal for positioning it as a camp lantern or adjusting the solar panel to ensure it is in direct sunlight.
To boost the capability, you can also add a separate folding solar panel with a max 10W output. It connects to the Power via a link box. This also has a second USB port so you can charge another device simultaneously. Setup is simpler than it sounds, and the Power’s LED indicators tell you how much juice it has left as well as how effectively it is charging from the sun.
Pros: It has a useful LED light and enough juice to give your smartphone a full charge. When coupled with the separate solar panel and link, its capabilities are drastically increased for off-grid trips. The 10W panel has a bigger output than any other solar charger we tested. Cons: The Power is obviously limited by its small 3,000mAh capacity, though WakaWaka also sell 5,000 and 10,000mAh power banks that are compatible with the solar panel and link. However, the key drawbacks of the system are cost and weight. Though it has a big 10W output, the solar panel is heavy, while the total cost of the Power, solar panel and link is nearly £130. And like all solar-powered systems, you’re obviously reliant on several hours of sunshine to get optimum results. The panel itself delivers solid performance though.
Freeloader Sixer Plus Supercharger Solar Panel
Price: Sixer £69.99, Supercharger £49.99 (or buy together as the Off Grid Adventurer bundle for £110) Weight: Sixer 250g, Supercharger 311g Capacity: Sixer 6,000mAh, Supercharger max 5W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Sixer 134 x 83 x 30mm, Supercharger 275 x 180 x 15mm
Another compact and relatively lightweight power bank with an integrated solar panel that can fully recharge its 6,000mAh internal battery in 28 hours of sunlight. However, with the Supercharger solar panel attached, charge time is reduced to around 8 hours, or 6 hours if all the solar panels are in direct sunlight. The Freeloader Sixer has a 2.1A USB output as well as integrated micro-USB and lightning cables, enabling up to three devices to be charged simultaneously.
Pros: Easy to use thanks to the LCD screen’s clear icons that indicate remaining battery life and charging source. We liked the integrated charging cables too. The 5W Supercharger solar panel is impressively thin and light. It also comes with Velcro straps to attach it to a rucksack. The solar cells are efficient enough to charge even in overcast conditions. That makes the system a good option for off-grid adventurers – provided you’ll see some sun. Cons: The integrated support stand used to position the Sixer is flimsy and snapped on test. Though marketed as impact- and water-resistant, it does not carry an IP-rating. It does have a rubberised cover to help protect against damage, but this needs to be removed to use the integrated charging cables.
Powertraveller Extreme Solar – Best In Test
Price: £115 Weight: Extreme 280g, Solar panel 284g Capacity: Extreme 12,000mAh, Solar panel max 5W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Extreme 140 x 78 x 28mm, Solar panel (folded) 275 x 180 x 15mm
This combination battery and solar charger kit consists of two components. There’s a 12,000mAh capacity power bank and a separate folding solar panel of clamshell design that delivers a max output of 5W. The power bank has a 2.0A USB output as well as a USB-C port and, uniquely among the power banks in this test, a 12V DC outlet. This makes the Powertraveller a versatile option for charging multiple devices quickly, from SLR cameras and GPS devices to the latest smartphones. It’s housed in a tough, rugged, waterproof case with an IP65 rating, meaning it is dust-proof and waterproof (though not immersible). The power bank also supports pass-through charging and is supplied with an array of cables to fit various devices.
The solar panel is compact and lightweight. It unfolds to 210 degrees and will charge in low light conditions. A flashing LED light shows green for optimum charging, red for lower-quality conditions. Handily it also comes with a Velcro strap that enables you to attach the panel to a rucksack.
Pros: Very versatile thanks to multiple outlets, including USB-C and a 12V DC output. Decent battery capacity gives up to five full smartphone charges. This is also the toughest solar charger on test, making it our preferred option for multi-day wilderness trips. Cons: Few drawbacks other than the standard proviso that applies to all solar-powered products – you’re obviously reliant on several hours of decent sunshine to get good performance. However, even when used as a standard power bank the Powertraveller performs extremely well.
Li-ion power banks
Flexible, sustainable, powerful – this is what distinguishes our Powerbanks belonging to the Flex series. Offering six functions in a robust and water-resistant housing it provides: powerbank, battery charger with charge level indicator.
Li-ion power bank RIVER
Load capacity: 25.6 AhWeight: 850 g
RIVER Bank is the largest capacity rechargeable battery in the world that you can take on a plane. It is Smart, packed with power (Up to 94Wh, 25,600 mAh @3.7V), and lightweight (1.88 Ibs). Unthinkably.
Li-ion power bank Rapid
Load capacity: 5 AhWeight: 101 g
Rapid Power Bank: Compared with power bank at the same capacity, RIVER Rapid is the smallest, lightest weight, and supports quick charging for the best on-the-go charging.
Li-ion power bank Rapid PLUS
Load capacity: 10 AhWeight: 180 g
Rapid PLUS Power Bank is durable and equipped with the safest, most advanced battery management software technology. With 18W Power Delivery via USB-C, RIVER Rapid can power.
Li-ion power bank OPM-P01T
Load capacity: 5.7 Ah
Li-ion 3S2P battery pack. 10.8V. 5700 mAh. Support battery management system, remote monitor and auto alarm. LED indicator, easily to check battery status. Light weight, only 320g
Li-ion power bank OPM-P02T
Load capacity: 8.55 Ah
Li-ion 3S2P battery pack 10.95V 8550mAh. Compatible with all Venus-series and all UPower-series. X1.5 battery capacity increase. Supports remote management software (ORION). Battery capacity.
Li-ion power bank OPM-P03T
Load capacity: 12.06 Ah
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PB-48-5. Industrial Grade Battery
PB-48-5 is an industrial-grade battery product designed as a portable energy storage system or on-call power bank product that allows companies to seamlessly continue operations using “instant-on” backup power for their industrial devices. In consumer applications, power bank products are focused on delivering the highest capacity of power at the lowest price possible. For industrial users, performance, safety and reliability are their major considerations for meeting their operational needs.
Lithium Power Inc.’s unique Battery Management System (BMS) innovation enhances battery power availability for the industrial user in need of performance, safety and reliability.
Lithium Power also provides charger design and tester for PB-48-5 as a complete Smart battery system that allows industrial users to charge and test the PB-48-5 without compromising quality, keeping their business continuously operating.
Lithium Power’s PB-48-5 is a 240Wh power bank designed for business and industrial users to ensure continuous operation of their industrial applications. The performance, safety and reliability of lithium battery power are the major concerns for business users when choosing a power supply solution.
How does the PB-48-5 match up against these concerns?
Performance
Industrial users want the battery power bank to maintain a constant capacity, without experiencing any unexpected drops in capacity that could leave the user without sufficient power to keep operating.
Lithium Power’s unique BMS ensures the user against an unexpected lack of power by providing a data log function to developers in the product development stage to understand how their devices use battery power over time. This allows developers to improve their design and prevent outages and downtime.
For example, developers can read the data log of the BMS and understand that the temperature of the location housing the battery array is too high, causing the BMS to stop operation to protect the battery from damage and deliver the data to improve the thermal design of the battery pack and enhance its performance. The data log also reports exactly how much power is discharged at what time and for how long. This lets industrial device manufacturers understand how their customers use their product and battery power. Note: Lithium Power’s BMS data log information can only be accessed by Lithium Power’s proprietary tester.
The design of PB-48-5 is designed to store power at 48V, which is the most efficient voltage at which to store power. But, the product is designed to deliver multiple voltages to match the device’s performance requirements. This allows industrial users to use a low power current. PB-48-5 can easily be set for DC to DC conversion at lower voltages such as 36V, 24V or 12V to match the user’s application.
Safety
Using lithium batteries safely is also a major business concern for industrial users. Lithium Power’s unique BMS ensures safe operation by providing the most safety features in the market. The temperature protection of BMS allows PB-48-5 be safely used in a wide temperature range: from.15 degree Cᵒ to 60 degree Cᵒ. Note: The consumer power bank product due to cost considerations, does not offer temperature protection in its BMS programming.
The mechanical design against shock and vibration for the PB-48-5 is another safety feature. The battery case keeps the battery cells steady and the welding of the frames is designed to be robust enough to allow the power packs to be transported and carried around worldwide. This makes the PB-48-5 the perfect power solution for mobile devices.
Reliability
Reliability is always a main business concern for industrial users. The designed-in quality of lithium battery packs starts from the very first step of the design phase. The PB-48-5, a 240Wh power bank for industrial use, is designed from the start to operate with Lithium Power’s unique Battery Management System (BMS) to provide high reliability. The unique feature of cell balancing in BMS, temperature protection for charging/discharging in high/low temperature, the mechanical design of battery holder, the welding of the case housing against shock and vibration. The overall design is focused on creating a durable, long-lasting, reliable power solution, extending the usage of the PB-48-5 far longer than competitive solutions.
facility
PB-48-5 is manufactured at Lithium Power’s UL-certified factories. Lithium Power’s lithium battery packs have been certified by UL2054 for medical devices and under UL2271 for light vehicle applications like hoverboards, skateboards, and mobile, automated and guided vehicles.
our Smart battery system complete
Most chargers on the market are designed for lead acid batteries. They are not designed to efficiently support lithium battery products, or not is another compatibility issue. They also lack a “shake-hand” feature that allows the charger to work effectively with the battery. For example, our charger starts charging when the temperature of the battery is within the correct temperature range for safe recharging. The BMS’s protection function prevents charging in excessive temperatures automatically, protecting the health of the batteries and preventing overheating. In addition, most industrial users want the battery to be charged in full in a short period of time. Our system ensures that this quick recharging occurs safely. Adapting separately purchased chargers to work with lithium batteries will compromise the quality and performance of the whole battery system.
Lithium Power can design a charger that fits the varied chemistry of the lithium battery: Different chemistries of lithium have different charging voltages. To charge the lithium battery in full, the last 10% of the lithium battery’s capacity must be charged in CV mode.
Tester
A Tester is also a professional tool that industrial users need to know and track the battery status in detail. Lithium Power’s tester allows user to get the status of individual battery cells within the bank. A warning signal will be sent automatically to your technician if an abnormal situation happens.
Lithium Power’s proprietary tester delivers comprehensive information about each cell in the battery pack to help the product developer access necessary information about battery power use and status in the product development stage. Engineers can also retrieve insightful usage data from units received back from customers (real marketplace usage data.)
Specifications of PB-48-5
| Model No. | : PB-48-5 |
| Application | : Industrial |
| Battery Type | : Lithium Ion |
| Battery Configuration | : 13S2P |
| Nominal Voltage | : 48.1 V |
| Maximum Charge Voltage | : 54.6 V |
| Discharge Cut-off Voltage | : 36.4 V |
| Capacity | : 5 Ah (typical 1 ) |
| Standard Charge Current | : 5.0 A |
| Standard Discharge Current | : 10.0 A (5-45° C) 7.5A (45-60° C) 2.5A (-15-5° C) |
| Maximum Charging Current | : 5.0 A |
| Maximum Discharging Current | : 10.0 A (Continuous) |
| Operating Temperature | : 0°C to 45°C (Charging).15°C to 60°C (Discharging) |
| Storage Temperature | :.10°C to 35°C (12 months), Recoverable Capacity: 80% 2 |
| Safety Device | : Each pack is equipped with a protection circuit against over-voltage, over-discharge, over-current and excessive temperature. |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | : 210 mm x 70 mm x 65 mm Max. |
| Safety Regulation | : UN38.3 |
LPI-54-4 charger (for PB-48-5) Main Spec.
- Input: 110V-220VAC
- Output: 54.5 /- 0.2V
- Charge current: 4.0 /- 0.2A
- Rated output power: 218W
- Operating temperature:.10°C to 40°C
- Dimension: 187.9 x 90.3 x 65.2 mm
Please contact us at info@LithiumPowerInc.com for more technical information. Please refer Lithium Power’s custom-made battery capabilities on our Custom-made Design page
Custom made battery solutions to meet specific needs for medical applications Lithium Power, Inc. is devoted to using clean energy technology to promote sustainability and create a better world. We plan on developing high-safety, quality batteries for medical applications. Our medical battery can be customized to integrate your creative ideas and meet specific industrial needs. Please contact us at info@LithiumPowerInc.com for additional information or to discuss potential collaborative projects.
How is a Power Bank Made How Does It Work?
Power banks have become widely popular because of the use of battery-powered electronics like our smartphones. Some batteries just aren’t powerful enough to go all day without needing a recharge, so power banks are often a necessity! The real question is: How are these portable chargers even made? We’ve got the power to show you exactly how the mighty power bank was made, along with some helpful tips and tricks to keep yours in perfect working order. This small mobile accessory packs a large punch!
What is a Power Bank? Top
A power bank is a portable charger that works on battery-powered electronics. Power banks can recharge smartphones, tablets, laptops, and Bluetooth devices.
You’ll find power banks in a variety of shapes and sizes, both with and without a wire. These chargers are a good backup if you lose battery.
How Does a Power Bank Work? Top
A power bank is a wireless battery that can receive and produce charge. For a power bank to work, it must be charged to store energy. First, an adapter cable provided with the power bank is used to charge it with a wall outlet. Once the indicator light on the power bank shows the accessory is charged, it can be used to charge electronic devices.
The energy stored in a power bank is then transferred through a charging cable from the USB port to the device.
How a Power Bank is Made Top
If you’ve ever wondered what’s inside your power bank, we have the answers. A power bank is made through 10 simple steps!
Here’s how a power bank is made:
- Step 1: Terminals are attached to the lithium-ion battery.
- Step 2: The circuit board is assembled.
- Step 3: The batteries are soldered to the circuit board.
- Step 4: Each power bank is tested to determine current and voltage.
- Step 5: The batteries are encased in a protective housing.
- Step 6: Electrical connections are tested again to ensure working order.
- Step 7: A burn-in test is performed to check the battery capacity.
- Step 8 (Optional): The brand name or a design is printed or engraved onto the protective housing.
- Step 9: Finished power banks are given one last visual inspection before shipping.
- Step 10: The power banks are ready to charge your electronic devices.
- Step 1
Attach the Battery
The terminals are attached to the positive and negative ends of the lithium-ion battery using soldering.
Step 2
Assemble the Circuit Board
Next is the Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) where the electric components are soldered on to the circuit board. A circuit board is the brains of a power bank.
Step 3
Solder the Batteries
The batteries are soldered to the circuit board by the terminals. The newly conjoined circuit boards and batteries are then sent down a conveyor belt for the next step.
Step 4
Test the Power Bank
A DC Power Tester is used to determine the current and voltage of the power banks. The power bank is tested through the USB and USB min ports on the circuit board.
Step 5
Add Protective Housing
The battery and circuit board are encased in protective housing made of aluminum or ABS plastic.
Step 6
Test Electrical Connections
CT100 testers are used to check the electrical connections in the power bank. The chargers are checked to make sure they can receive and produce a charge.
Step 7
Test Battery Capacity
A burn-in test is performed to monitor the battery capacity of the newly produced power banks. Hundreds of power banks are charged at once for several hours.
Step 8 (Optional)
Add Label and Design
Labeling and design is added to the power banks using screen printing, pad printing, or laser engraving.
Step 9
Final Visual Inspection
The power banks are given one final visual inspection before they are packaged and shipped to the destination.
Step 10
Ready to Charge Your Device
Check out how power banks are made in this video! Top
And there you have it! The simple process allows large quantities of power banks to be made at once for a lower cost. You now know how your power bank came to be one of your most important tech accessories.
What Is the Lifetime of a Power Bank? Top
The average working life of a power bank is between 200 and 1000 cycles. A cycle is one charge of the device, either partially or fully. The average lithium-ion battery inside power banks will start to lose their capacity after so many charging cycles. Larger power banks require less charging cycles, so they will last longer than smaller power banks.
There is no guarantee to how long your power bank will last, but reducing how often you use your power bank can make it last longer.
What Can a Power Bank Charge? Top
A power bank can charge just about any electronic device that has a rechargeable battery. Devices that normally use a USB charger can be charged with a power bank!
A power bank can charge the following electronics:
- Smartphones
- Cameras
- GPS systems
- Gaming devices
- Laptops
- GoPros
- MP3 players
- Tablets
If your device does not have a USB interface, you might still be able to use a power bank if wireless charging is a feature of both the device and charger. Before using your power bank, make sure that it provides proper voltage to adequately charge your device. You can always check with the manufacturer of your device if you are uncertain.
Can a Power Bank Charge a Laptop? Top
Yes, a power bank can charge a laptop, but only if it is the right kind! Unfortunately, you won’t be able to charge your laptop with just any power bank, but there are certain types that can keep your battery charged.
Most laptops can be charged with a USB-C port. If the charging cord provided with your laptop has a USB-C, then you can use a power bank that also has a USB-C output to charge it.
Once you have the correct cables, you’ll want to make sure your power bank will deliver 30W of power in order to charge your laptop. If your power bank has fewer watts, it won’t be powerful enough to charge your laptop and could potentially drain your battery.
The following manufacturers make laptops that are USB-C compatible:
If your laptop does not support USB-C charging, you’ll need a power bank with a 12V output and a cable that fits the laptop’s charging port. If you are unsure if your power bank can charge your laptop, you can always reach out to the manufacturer!
Why Are Some Power Banks Expensive? Top
Not all power banks are created equal, especially when it comes to price. Some power banks are more expensive than others because of how they are made and their charging capacity.
Higher quality power banks are more expensive because they last longer, have a more powerful battery, and are made with high quality materials. A more budget-friendly power bank will still charge your battery, but it may be smaller or not hold a charge as long.
Do Power Banks Ruin Your Phone? Top
It is possible to damage your phone’s battery from using a power bank. However, if you are using your power bank correctly, you significantly decrease the odds of ruining your phone.
Here are some of the ways a power bank can ruin your phone:
- Using a low-quality power bank
- Power banks with insufficient voltage
- Overcharging your phone
Using a Low-Quality Power Bank
Low-quality power banks aren’t all guaranteed to ruin your smartphone battery. However, if you are using it frequently and for long periods of time, it can cause damage to your phone’s battery by making it lose its charge faster. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a high-quality power bank, or to use your lower quality charger only when you need it most. Lower-quality power banks usually have small batteries, are low-cost, and provide insufficient power to your devices.
A Power Bank With Insufficient Voltage
The power bank you use to charge your phone should have 5V. If your power bank has less voltage, it can drain your battery instead. If your power bank has a voltage greater than 5V, it can damage your phone by overloading the battery. Be sure to check the voltage of your power bank before using it to charge your phone.
Overcharging Your Phone
Power banks aren’t designed to be constantly plugged into your phone to keep it at 100% battery life. If you constantly charge your phone, your battery will not be able to hold its charge for long periods of time. It is best to use your power bank sparingly and to unplug it from your phone when it’s close to being fully charged.
Following these tips will allow you to use your power bank without fear of damaging your smartphone! The best rule of thumb is to use your power bank only when you absolutely need it, and to unplug your phone after it has enough battery.
The Bottom Line
Power banks will always be a necessity because they provide the energy our phones, laptops, and tablets need each day. Through their simple manufacturing process and their capacity to charge a variety of devices, power banks are the ultimate tech accessory!
Kishore, Aseem. (2019, July 20). Everything You Should Know About Power Banks. Retrieved on March 9, 2020, from, https://helpdeskgeek.com/reviews/everything-you-should-know-about-power-banks/
Dealna. (2020). Power Banks – What Impact They Have On Your Phone’s Battery. Retrieved on March 10, 2020, from https://dealna.com/Article/Post/20822/Power-Banks-What-Impact-They-Have-On-Your-Phone-s-Battery
Tespack. (2016, August 10). 7 facts you didn’t know about power banks. Retrieved on March 10, 2020, from https://www.tespack.com/7-facts-dont-know-power-banks/
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