There's nothing worse than watching your phone's battery drop to zero when you're nowhere near a power outlet. Especially nowadays, when so much of our lives depend on our devices, a dead phone or laptop can feel like hitting pause on everything. In such a situation, a power bank becomes a lifesaver.
However, not all power banks are created equal. Choosing the right one depends on two key factors: battery capacity and portability. This article will discuss both factors and guide you to find the perfect power bank to match your needs.
Portability vs Capacity: What is the Right Power Bank for you
As earlier stated, you should consider two major factors before getting a power bank. Below is a detailed explanation of each factor, together with their pros and cons.
Portability
10000mAh Portable Power Bank
A portable power bank is one that you can easily slip into your bag or pocket. It is typically designed for users who prioritize mobility over capacity. In other words, a portable power bank has a range of power outages. This doesn't mean it is not efficient. Below are some advantages and disadvantages of a portable power bank.
Advantages of a Portable Power Bank
- Compact Design
Portable power banks are small and easy to carry around without adding unnecessary weight.
- Convenient for Everybody Use
The portable designs are ideal for adding power to your devices during daily commutes, work, or errands. It ensures you stay connected throughout the day.
- Quick to Recharge
Most Portable Power Banks have a power output range of 5000MaH to 20000MaH. Since the power output is not much, it is easy and fast to recharge, thereby saving you time.
- Cost-Effective Option
Smaller power banks are generally more affordable than high-capacity alternatives, making them more accessible for most users.
- Air Travel Friendly
A portable power bank is also the best choice for someone who always travels by air. Due to their small size, portable power banks fall well below the airline's watt-hour (Wh) limit for carry-on luggage.
- Reduced Heat Generation
Due to its low power output, the power bank generates less heat, which makes it safe and comfortable to use.
Disadvantages of a Portable Power Bank
1.Limited Battery Capacity
The battery capacity of a portable power bank is usually between 5000MaH and 20000MaH. This capacity may only allow most mobile phones to be charged for 1-2 full charges.
- Inability to Charge Multiple Devices Simultaneously
Many portable models have only one output port, which means you can only charge one device at a time.
- Unsuitable for High-Power Devices
A portable power bank cannot charge high-power devices like laptops, tablets, or gaming consoles. Hence, it can only power a phone at most.
- Shorter Lifespan with Frequent Use
Portable power banks often undergo more frequent recharge cycles, which shortens their overall lifespan.
Capacity
The capable power bank is the direct opposite of the portable power bank. It has a bulky build but more battery capacity. These types of power banks are made for people who have multiple devices and want to have a power supply at all times. Below are some detailed pros and cons of a capable power bank.
Advantages of a High-Capacity Power Bank
- Durability
A capable power bank is typically built with robust materials to accommodate the large batteries, making it durable for long-term use.
- Emergency Power Backup
The high capacity allows a capable power bank to act as a reliable backup power source during emergencies or power outages.
- Compatible with high-energy power devices
The battery capacity of these power banks can charge devices with high energy demands, such as laptops and gaming consoles.
- Multiple Device Charges
Most high-capacity power banks always have two or more outlets. These outlets charge different devices with their individual energy needs simultaneously.
- Advanced Features
High-capacity power banks occasionally include additional features, such as LED displays, wireless charging capabilities, and built-in cables.
Disadvantages of a High-Capacity Power Bank
30000mAh High-Capacity Power Bank
- Heavy Designs
A typical High-capacity power bank is heavy, which makes it challenging to carry out.
- Longer Recharging Time
Because of the large batteries, high-capacity power banks take a significantly longer time to recharge. This can be inconvenient if you are on a tight schedule.
- Price
A high-capacity power bank costs a lot more than the small portable ones. Although the features and specs of these power banks are decent, they are usually out of range for people on a low budget.
- Heat Generation
Charging multiple devices simultaneously or using high-speed charging features can cause these power banks to heat up.
- Risk of Damage to Devices
If not used properly, high-capacity power banks with high output voltage can cause damage to devices not designed for fast charging.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Portability and Capacity
In order to carry out a proper analysis before settling for a choice, below are some personal factors you should consider.
- How and where you plan to use it is a huge deciding factor in getting a type of power bank.
- The type of devices you have also plays a significant factor in settling for a power bank.
- Ensure you buy a power bank according to your budget.
- Review the advanced features of the high-capacity power banks and determine if they will be useful to you.
- If you take frequent flights, remember to buy a power bank that is allowed by the plane's policy.
- Environmental and climate change advocates may want to opt for a portable power bank because it causes less environmental damage.
- If the power bank comes with an inbuilt cord, make sure you buy the cord that is compatible with your devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right power bank for you may seem like a chore. However, you can easily peruse the factors and characteristics of each power bank listed above before making a choice. Ensure you don't believe the myth that "one power bank is better than the other." Each has its specs; just make sure it suits your current needs.
Related Reading:How to Choose the Best Power Bank for Your Travels