When you are in the market for a Good Power Bank, there are several important aspects you should consider to ensure you choose the best option for your needs. A power bank is an essential accessory in today’s mobile world, but understanding what makes a power bank truly effective is key to making a smart purchase.
Capacity: Understanding mAh and Device Charges
The capacity of a power bank is typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). While this figure gives you an idea of how much charge a power bank can hold, it’s not a straightforward representation of how many times it can recharge your devices. The actual usable capacity is affected by factors like the cable you use, the efficiency of your device’s charging system, and the method of charging itself. For instance, Qi wireless charging is convenient but less efficient compared to wired connections. Therefore, you will never get to utilize the full mAh capacity advertised. When evaluating a power bank, think beyond just the mAh number and consider estimates of how many full charges it can provide for your specific devices like smartphones or tablets.
Charging Speeds and Standards: Watts, Volts, and Amps Explained
Charging speed is another crucial factor. For devices like smartphones, charging rates are measured in watts (W). However, power banks often list their output in voltage (V) and amperage (A). You can easily calculate the wattage by multiplying the voltage and amperage (Watts = Volts x Amps). Achieving the maximum advertised charging speed depends not only on the power bank but also on your device’s capabilities, the charging standards it supports, and the quality of your charging cable.
Many modern smartphones, including Apple iPhones, support the Power Delivery (PD) standard. This means they can safely utilize higher-power power banks to achieve faster charging times. Some phones, like Samsung Galaxy S series models, even support a more advanced PD protocol called PPS (Programmable Power Supply), which can go up to 45W for incredibly fast charging. Additionally, Qualcomm’s Quick Charge (QC) is a widely supported proprietary fast-charging standard found in numerous Android devices. While other proprietary fast-charging technologies exist, power banks supporting them are less common and are usually offered by the smartphone manufacturers themselves. When selecting a good power bank, ensure it supports the charging standards compatible with your devices to maximize charging efficiency and speed.
Pass-Through Charging: Convenience and Considerations
Pass-through charging is a feature that allows you to charge your power bank and simultaneously use it to charge another device. This can be incredibly convenient, especially when you have limited power outlets. Several reputable brands like Nimble, GoalZero, Biolite, Mophie, Zendure, and Sharge offer power banks with pass-through capabilities.
However, it’s worth noting that some manufacturers, such as Anker, have discontinued pass-through support in certain products. This decision was based on findings that the fluctuating power flow between the wall charger and the device being charged through the power bank could lead to rapid cycling and potentially shorten the power bank’s lifespan. Monoprice also does not support pass-through charging. Furthermore, using pass-through charging can sometimes cause power banks to heat up, which is another factor to be mindful of. While convenient, it’s wise to use pass-through charging judiciously to maintain the longevity and safety of your power bank.
Travel Considerations: Airline Regulations for Power Banks
Traveling with a good power bank is generally safe and permitted, but there are important airline restrictions you need to be aware of, especially when flying. Firstly, power banks must always be carried in your carry-on luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. Secondly, there is a limit on the capacity of power banks allowed on flights: they must not exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh).
While capacity is often listed in mAh, for air travel, the watt-hour (Wh) rating is what matters. A power bank with a capacity larger than approximately 27,000 mAh might exceed the 100 Wh limit, depending on the voltage. If your power bank is in this higher capacity range, it’s always best to check with your specific airline before traveling to avoid any issues at security. For most standard power banks under 27,000 mAh, you should not encounter any problems when flying. Understanding these travel restrictions ensures you can bring your good power bank along on your journeys without any complications.
