Before buying a power bank, most users pay attention to the capacity - however, this is far from the only and even not always the main parameter.
If you have to charge a laptop or netbook, it is much more important to find out what amperage the device provides.
It is advisable to take into account the number of external battery connectors, the number of charging ports and even the brand, and for someone the price will be the decisive factor - although savings can lead to the purchase of a low-quality and low-performance gadget.
Device capacity
A parameter called "capacity" affects the number of charges for a tablet or smartphone that the power bank will provide.
It is worth choosing it for the capacity of the batteries of your gadgets.
For example, if it is necessary to double the operating time (1715 mAh), an external battery of 5000 mAh is sufficient, for LeEco Le Pro 3 (4000 mAh) - already models with twice the capacity.
Important: The manufacturer often indicates the maximum capacity of the power bank - the real one turns out to be less by about 30-35%. Therefore, a 20,000 mAh model is not enough for 3 charges of a 6500 mAh battery, but only for 2.
Sizes and weight
The dimensions and weight of the power bank does not matter if it is in the car most of the time. If you need to carry the battery in a pocket or bag, it is desirable that the device be compact and weigh no more than 300-400 g.
These parameters are met by models with a capacity of 10,000 mAh of most manufacturers and some devices with 15-20 thousand mAh.
The weight of the device is also affected by the material of its case.
The best option is aluminum - the shells of the power banks made of this metal provide sufficient strength and do not add too much weight, although the price of the battery is growing.
Plastic models weigh less, but their cost is usually lower.
Connectors for connection
The number of ports matters when you need to charge multiple gadgets at the same time.
Most power banks with a capacity of no more than 10,000 mAh are equipped with only one connector, more productive ones received 2, 3 and even 4 ports.
The main port is standard USB 2.0 or 3.0, less commonly USB Type-C, which increase charging speed.
If you need to connect Apple smartphones, you should give preference to those power banks that allow you to connect iPhones without adapters.
Charging speed
The time spent on charging depends on the current at the output of the connector. Typical value for powerbanks that service smartphones is 2.0-2.1 amperes.
The resource of the device reaches 500 charge and discharge cycles - using the power bank every day, you can notice the deterioration of the parameters not earlier than after 1.5-2 years.
- fairly fast recovery of its own charge (5 hours from the network, 6 hours from the PC);
- maximum current up to 3A, thanks to which you can quickly charge your smartphone, tablet, and netbook using the device;
- small size, thanks to which Romoss ACE Pro can be carried in a pocket;
- support for fast charging technology, thanks to which the capacity of the external battery is restored within only 5 hours from the network or 6 hours from the USB 3.0 port
- support for only two series of netbooks - although this is enough at such a low cost.
- another drawback is the presence of only one USB-connector for charging. This means that with all its power, the gadget allows you to charge even two devices at the same time.
Victor S.: Small, compact and not heavy. Easily fits into your bag, looks stylish. True, it comes with only one connector, so only one smartphone can be charged at a time. But, if desired,
For smartphones
Requirements for external batteries for ordinary smartphones are less than for gadgets designed for laptops and phones with a large battery capacity.
The power of such devices, as a rule, is in the range of 5000–10000 mAh, which is quite enough for 2-3 charges of an average phone.
The differences between power banks from this category are more favorable prices, small size and weight.
Xiaomi Mi Power Bank 2 10000 mAh
The capacity of 10000 mAh is enough to restore the performance of 3-4 iPhones, 2-3 models of the same Xiaomi brand and one powerful tablet like Chuwi P10.
For all its benefits, the battery comes with only one USB port, which means you can charge only one phone or tablet at a time.
- very thin case (although due to this, the remaining dimensions have increased);
- the presence of charging with currents of low power;
- support for Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 technology, which speeds up the charging process of other gadgets;
- small, despite the metal body of the bank, weight.
- a large number of fakes with a low price and much lower capacity (for example, 5000 instead of the declared 10000 mAh).
- to avoid such a purchase, it is worth checking the authenticity of the power bank using a special code and a sticker on the package.
Andrey L.: Easy to use and not much different in appearance from other powerbank models. True, it charges smartphones twice as fast - almost in the same way as from the network through a special charger. I did not find any drawbacks, except for the relatively high price (if you need to charge the smartphone no more than 1 time a day, and the speed is not very important, you can buy a more profitable model).
ASUS ZenPower 10050 mAh ABTU005
The ZenPower ABTU005 model from the well-known ASUS brand received a not quite standard capacity of 10050 mAh - however, the real value that can be transferred to the batteries of rechargeable gadgets is only 6600–6700 mAh.
The model weighs 215 g and takes up a minimum of space (it is still too large for a regular pocket), has an original style and is available in several colors.
- decent capacity, which will be enough for the owners of any tablet PC or smartphone;
- neat and stylish case, the size of which allows you to carry the model even in a woman's purse;
- minimum heating level during operation;
- affordable cost.
- a relatively small resource of the complete wire used for charging - for many it failed after just a few months.
- the disadvantage is the lack of support for fast charging technology, which is why the device charges up to 8 hours.
Alexey K.: Before buying this model, I already owned a similar device, but with a capacity of 5000 mAh. This power bank makes it possible to immediately charge both a tablet with a 5000 mAh battery and a phone with a 2000 mAh battery. I didn't pay attention to the design - I bought it because of the price. But my wife liked the look, she often takes it to charge her smartphones. I did not find any drawbacks - however, I would like another USB port to connect two phones at once.
ZMI Powerbank 10000mAh
A feature of the ZMI Powerbank is the minimum weight for this category - only 180 grams.
The dimensions of the gadget are also small, and the appearance of the front (or top) panel noticeably distinguishes it from other external batteries.
The capacity of the device is enough for 2-3 charges of an average smartphone or one recovery.
- long service life;
- affordable cost;
- attractive design;
- relatively light weight and dimensions.
- not very convenient USB cable included in the kit.
- there is also a long charge of a power bank that does not support Quick Charge technology. A fully discharged device will have to be connected to the network for 7-8 hours.
Anatoly V.: Good gadget for your money. It looks decent, even more expensive than it costs. The charge is enough for 2 phones. It takes a long time to charge, but it is not critical if you do it at home and at night. Another drawback - after six months of use, the charging socket was very loose, I had to take it in for repair, however, under warranty.
HUAWEI AP08Q 10000 mAh
The cost of the AP08Q power bank is one of the highest in the segment, although the model is distinguished by ease of use and stylish case design.
Its capacity is standard for external batteries, whose tasks include charging smartphones - 10,000 mAh.
A design feature is the presence of an additional USB Type-C port, which speeds up the charging process and provides simultaneous work with two gadgets.
Figure: 10. Expensive but stylish Samsung Power Bank Kettle design.
The manufacturer of Power Bank Kettle design, the Samsung brand, has provided a unique design for the gadget and an unusual opportunity - connecting a special LED lamp from above.
Thanks to this feature, the external battery turns into a stylish and eye-catching lighting fixture.
However, they also use it to charge smartphones and tablets - however, the capacity of 5200 mAh is enough to increase their operating time by no more than 2–2.5 times (+ 100–150% of its value).
- original, stable in an upright position and strong enough body;
- a high-quality USB cable that comes with the kit, which does not have to be changed in 2-3 months, like many budget power banks;
- the ability to connect a bright LED lamp, which allows you to use the gadget like a flashlight.
- high cost for such a capacity. On average, 5000 mAh models can be purchased significantly cheaper.
- when the LED lamp is connected, the remaining connectors are blocked, and the total amount when purchasing an additional accessory increases by about a third.
Tatiana Sh.: Model Kettle design from Samsung is a great gift for any person for any occasion. For other purposes, I do not recommend buying it - you can find a more productive device at the same price.
We all faced situations when the phone was not just discharged, but sat down at the most inopportune moment. To get out of such situations, they came up with portable charging devices. They are in demand, and therefore there are many substandard or counterfeit products on the market. In this article we will tell you how to choose a Power Bank and, sorry, do not "go to hell".
Most of the problems and complaints among Power Bank users are caused by their poor quality. The main reason is that often such devices are bought for little money, regardless of the manufacturer and the capacity of the device.
How much should a normal Power Bank cost
High-quality Power Bank with a volume of 10.000 mAh worth from $17 and higher. Per device on 20.000 mAh will have to pay about twice as much... And this is about the simplest devices - no additional connectors, fashionable design or a digital charge level indicator. We are talking now only about buying a portable charger on Aliexpress. If you decide to buy a Power Bank in a store in your city, then feel free to add a 15-20% margin to the recommended cost.
But don't just look at the cost of the device. Often there are expensive cans on sale and, judging by the description, possessing chic characteristics of the cans, but with one small difference - an unknown manufacturer. Such specimens should be treated with double caution, since often hucksters "businessmen" buy the cheapest no-name devices, and then wind up 3 prices on them and tell them that this is a very high-quality product.
Power Bank from which companies should you buy
Power Bank from Samsung, Lenovo, Xiaomi, Asus, Sony and other well-known brands will be many times more reliable, since large world-famous companies value their reputation. Do not forget that such a technique is a complex electronic device that can burn both the phone and itself. But here there are certain points that should be paid attention to. Well-known brands are often counterfeited, and the authenticity of the device cannot be verified in advance by ordering Power Bank from a Chinese online store. Here it is already worth paying attention to the seller's rating, reviews about the store and the number of sales. Better yet, order devices from official stores of companies, some of which are present on Aliexpress.
It is also worth paying attention to the fact that many manufacturers place special codes on the boxes for devices with which you can check the authenticity of the product.
How much should you buy Power Bank
As you may have noticed, Power Banks of different sizes and with a different set of functions are presented on the market. It is clear that a device with a larger number of mAh batteries will weigh more and cost more. Let's not ignore the impressive size of such devices.
Large batteries are perfect for those who are often forced to travel and do not always have the opportunity to charge not only the phone, but also other mobile gadgets. Most "capacious" Power Banks provide the ability to simultaneously charge several devices (phone and tablet).
But what if you are not traveling, and Power Bank is needed only for emergencies, so that the phone does not "die" in the near future, until you reach the outlet. In such cases, it is not entirely advisable to carry around a huge brick, which is larger and heavier than the smartphone itself. For such cases, the optimal solution would be small Power Banks with a volume of 3.000 - 5.000 mAh. Devices with a small charge volume are much smaller in size, which allows some of the models to be carried in a keychain like a keychain. And on the other hand, some models have a built-in flashlight, so that the device turns out to be multifunctional.
Pay attention to the amperage of the output current, which affects the charging speed. For smartphones, 1A (ampere) will be quite enough, but for tablets it is preferable to use devices with a current strength of 2A and above, otherwise it will take several times longer to fully charge.
Conclusion
There are a huge number of Power Banks from different manufacturers on the market. The devices differ in volume and in the presence of bonuses (charge level sensor, several charging ports, original design). In order to choose the best device and not make a mistake, we advise you not to save money, pay attention to the rating and reviews of the seller, as well as to the manufacturer. A large volume of the charger should be chosen by those who like to travel, and for everyday use, small batteries will suffice, which can be hung on the keys instead of a keychain.
Perhaps, many are familiar with the unpleasant feeling of helplessness that arises after a smartphone battery is discharged, as it usually happens at the most inopportune moment. You can extend the battery life of your mobile, and any other gadget, using a portable power source - a power bank.
# 10: Black Fox BMP 207
- Capacity: 20,800mAh;
- Maximum current: 2.1 A;
- Dimensions: 152 x 72 x 22mm.
BMP 207 is a product of the domestic company VELLTIM, which has been developing accessories for mobile devices for several years. The power bank has several lithium-ion power supplies with a total capacity of 20 800 mAh, which is quite enough to charge not only a smartphone, but also a tablet or an ultrabook.
BMP 207 is able to automatically distribute the output voltage and charge several devices at once. The accessory has two USB and one microUSB input. The disadvantages of the power bank include a rather long time for fully charging the batteries (only about 20 hours), which does not prevent BMP 207 from being the best budget high-capacity power banks.
# 9: IconBIT FTB10400DX
- Capacity: 10 400mAh;
- Maximum current: 2.1 A;
- Dimensions: 93 x 78 x 22 mm.
Despite the fact that the FTB10400DX case is made of plastic, the device is quite sturdy and can withstand a fatal fall on the asphalt - the decent strength of the power bank is confirmed by numerous reviews of the owners. Its design also deserves praise, all wired interfaces (1x microUSB and 2x USB) are located on the side of a neat white bar with rounded edges.
The input current of IconBIT FTB10400DX is fixed at 0.95 A, so it will take about 11 hours to fully charge the power elements from the mains. There are four small LEDs next to the USB ports that indicate the percentage of remaining charge. The capacity of the FTB10400DX is enough for about 4-5 iPhone 7 charges or 3 Samsung Galaxy S8 charges.
# 8: ASUS ZenPower 10050
- Capacity: 10,050mAh;
- Maximum current: 2.4 A;
- Dimensions: 90.5 x 59 x 22mm.
The length and width of the ZenPower 10050 is comparable to a credit card, even mentioned on the battery packaging. The main body material is aluminum, plastic is present only on the side ends. One of them houses two connectors - microUSB and USB with an output current of 2.4 amperes. To the right there are four LEDs to display the current charge. By the way, due to the relatively high input voltage (5V / 2A), the ZenPower 10050 will only take 6 hours to charge.
The universal power bank supports overcurrent protection, automatically regulates the output voltage and eliminates short circuits. Perhaps the only drawback of ZenPower 10050 is the limited number of ports - you cannot charge two devices at once from the battery.
# 7: TP-LINK TL-PB10400
- Capacity: 10 400mAh;
- Maximum current: 2 A;
- Dimensions: 88.5 x 44.3 x 44.3 mm.
TL-PB10400 is made in the form of a small cylinder weighing 241 grams - such a gadget can easily fit into a small pocket of a backpack or a handbag. In addition to the usual LEDs and connectors, there is a small flashlight on the end of the battery. It turns on by holding the power button for five seconds. In addition to the flashlight, the side panel of the power bank contains two USB connectors, a power key and four status LEDs.
The USB ports are labeled with output amperage (2A and 1A), so be careful when connecting devices. As practical tests have shown, the TL-PB10400 is quite enough for 3-4 charging cycles of a battery with a capacity of about 3000 mAh. The model has a standard set of protection standards against overheating, power surges and short circuits.
# 6: Samsung EB-P3000
- Capacity: 10,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 1.5 A;
- Dimensions: 148 x 71 x 15 mm.
The power bank is made in blue, the thickness of its case is noticeably lower than that of competitors - the device easily fits into a jeans pocket and fits perfectly in the hand. The EB-P3000 has a tactile feel more like a rather large smartphone without a screen.
When you first look at the battery, you can immediately identify its main drawback - only one USB port. And its output current leaves much to be desired, at 1.5 A it will take more than three and a half hours to charge an average 3000 mAh battery. But the power bank itself has an input current of 2 A and is charged from the network in about five hours. On the side, next to the connectors, there are still several LED indicators to display the current charging progress.
# 5: Meizu M10
- Capacity: 10,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 2 A;
- Dimensions: 143.5 x 75.6 x 17.4 mm.
Meizu M10's design usually evokes either aesthetic ecstasy or harsh rejection. The case of the power bank is plastic, and its upper part is covered with a rubberized surface. At the end of the device there is one USB port and a microUSB input.
Meizu M10 supports fast charging Quick Charge, filling batteries with a total capacity of 10,000 mAh from the mains in just three and a half hours. In normal charging mode, the external battery is charged in about seven hours. The capacity of Meizu M10 is enough for 4-5 iPhone 7 charges.
# 4: HIPER XP17000
- Capacity: 17,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 3 A;
- Dimensions: 141 x 86 x 17mm.
XP17000 has a very interesting distinctive feature - the familiar power button has been replaced with a touch strip. Activating the power bank is more like unlocking a smartphone; to get started, just swipe to the right on the touch surface. Connectors for charging external devices are placed on the end of the battery, here you can find a fairly rich set: two full-size USB ports and two microUSB connectors.
The XP17000 output current reaches three Amperes, so the charging speed of smartphones is practically the same as the speed of charging them from the network. The charging speed of the power bank itself was also pleasing, the batteries were filled up to 100% in about 10 hours.
No. 3: Xiaomi Mi Power Bank Pro
- Capacity: 10,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 2 A;
- Dimensions: 128.5 x 75 x 12.58 mm.
The appearance of the Pro power bank in the 10,000 mAh version is practically no different from other Xiaomi portable batteries. The main body of Power Bank Pro is made of anodized aluminum, side panels are made of plastic.
Compared to previous models of external batteries, the new product has become a little thinner and narrower. For more comfortable wearing of the power bank, you can buy a leather one on Aliexpress, it will also protect the device from light shocks.
The number of ports on the device is limited to one USB Type-C input and a full-size USB connector. Both interfaces have a maximum output current of 2 A. Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 is supported for the phone with fast charging.
# 2: Rombica NEO MS100
- Capacity: 10,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 2.1 A;
- Dimensions: 160 x 76 x 16mm.
NEO MS100 can be safely attributed to the category of stylish and highly functional portable batteries. The power bank comes with a branded book cover, which makes the battery more like a compact leather-bound notebook. On the inside of its cover, there are several small pockets for storing notes and credit cards.
The body of the accessory itself is made of aluminum with a pleasant-to-touch polished finish. At first glance, you might even think that this is a solar external battery with a mirror surface. Wired interfaces (2x USB, 1x microUSB) are located at the top. There is also a battery activation key and one LED indicator, which notifies of the remaining charge in its color. It takes approximately 7 hours to fully charge the NEO MS100 from zero to 100%.
No. 1: Xiaomi Mi Power Bank 2 10000
- Capacity: 10,000mAh;
- Maximum current: 2.4 A;
- Dimensions: 130 x 71 x 13mm.
Mi Power Bank 2 is essentially a cheaper variant of the aforementioned Xiaomi Mi Power Bank Pro. The first place in the rating went to the 10,000 mAh version, there is also a 20,000 mAh version on sale, it is already intended not only for smartphones, but also for laptops and other more "voracious" devices.
Mi Power Bank 2 10000 is significantly thinner than its sibling and comes in two color options: black or silver. In terms of technical characteristics, Mi Power Bank 2 is almost identical to the Pro version, the only difference between them lies in the presence of a USB-C interface, which is equipped with most top smartphones. The maximum output current is set at 2.4 A, which is quite enough for any mobile device.
Let's start our review of powerbanks with a popular firm Xiaomi, which is a leading manufacturer in the Chinese smartphone market and also produces add-ons for its mobile phones such as power banks. The renowned quality of all of the company's products has been compared to premium electronics giant Apple. Xiaomi smartphones are often called the Chinese analogue of the iPhone for their reliability and good equipment. Model Xiaomi Mi Power Bank has not only excellent design, quality and capacity 10 400 mAh, but also at a low price - $15 .
As for the rest of the characteristics, there is one USB connector and one microSD connector on the case. The power button will activate the device to start charging, and the LED indicators will show its level. The dimensions of the pocket battery are 77 x 90 x 21 mm and weighs 250 grams. It will take about 5 hours to fully charge the device.
The popularity of powerbanks is growing every day, because the demand for this device is also increasing. There are quite a few models of mobile batteries for any mobile device on the market today. A special category includes models such as SCOSCHE goBATthat have a protective design and can be used in extreme conditions. The capacity of the gadget is 12,000 mAh, which is quite a capacious volume that will allow you to charge one device several times. Two USB connectors on the case will allow you to power two mobile phones at once, for example, a smartphone and a tablet.
The protective structure of the device has passed IP68 certification, which means that the external battery is resistant to water, dirt and active shocks and drops. Resistance to temperature extremes is also a big plus, since almost all such devices without protective functions can quickly fail in cold or hot weather. The body is made of polycarbonate and is very durable. Connectors for mobile phones are hermetically sealed. To purchase a gadget, you need to pay a pretty impressive amount. $99 , but it is justified by the high reliability of the battery.
Model Poweradd Pilot X7 deserves attention with a very capacious battery on 20,000 mAh at a very attractive cost in $18 ... This price is valid upon presentation of the promotional code on the Amazon portal. For active Internet users, it will not be difficult to find it on the global network. Without a promo code, the cost will almost double to $ 35. Of all puer banks, this model will interest the user with its compact size with such a spaciousness.
There are two USB connectors on the body of the gadget so that you can charge any two mobile devices at once. At the same time, there is also a battery fill level indicator, which consists of four LED-lamps. The user can easily put the device in the pocket of his clothes and carry it with him, and if necessary, quickly use it. The battery lasts for more than 500 cycles, which is quite good given the affordability in terms of price.
Another interesting powerbank from a well-known Chinese company Lenovo, with compact dimensions - 140 x 63 x 21 mm and weighing 240 grams. This gadget is even smaller than the previous one and fits into even the smallest pocket. Battery volume Lenovo PowerBank is 10 400 mAh... The well-known build quality and reliability of this manufacturer's products should tip the choice towards this model. It will take about 5 hours to charge the external battery itself.
The device has a plastic case, which is quite durable and will not crack if accidentally dropped. On the case there are two USB connectors and one microUSB connector to charge several mobile phones at the same time. A very useful function if you actively use your smartphone and tablet, and often you need to charge both mobile phones at once. The LED indicator will indicate how much charge is left in the battery. For those wishing to buy this particular powerbank, a small amount of $20 .
The next powerbank called ROMOSS Sense 4 Heart has excellent build quality from the manufacturer ROMOSSwhich is not as well known as Lenovo, but has a good reputation among its users. The volume of this battery too 10 400 mAh, which is quite enough to charge an average smartphone 3-4 times. Weighing 290 grams, the gadget has a very compact size 130 x 60 x 20 mm. You can easily put your device in the back pocket of your jeans.
Two USB connectors on the side of the case will make it possible to connect two smartphones or two other any mobile devices. The microUSB port is designed to charge an external mobile battery. You can also note the presence of a charge level indicator, consisting of four LED lamps. Overall, the device deserves to be carried in your pocket, not only for its good build quality, but also for its attractive price. $15 .
Although the powerbank VINSIC Alien cannot be called compact - this is one of the ultra-thin external batteries for mobile devices. The capacity is 20000 mAh, which is very impressive and will allow you to charge even a powerful smartphone more than five times. For comparison, an iPhone can be charged ten times. The device will definitely attract attention with its additional advantages - it is primarily a metal case, which creates high strength. The gadget is not afraid of blows and active use.
This powerbank is equipped with two USB ports to charge two of even the most powerful mobile devices at the same time. For example, some Chinese smartphones can boast a battery for 10,000 mAhthat is not an issue for this device. Another big plus is the presence of a digital charge level indicator, which shows the percentage. In general, the device is interesting for its reliability. The price is not the lowest - $45 , but with its good qualities, the device is worth the money.
Many users know the company TP-Link mainly for network products, including Wi-Fi routers, routers, network cards and many other similar things. But there is also an external battery in the assortment TP-Link Power Bank with a pretty decent capacity 10 400 mAh... The user will certainly be interested in the dimensions and design of the powerbank, which has a very compact dimensions of 88 × 44 × 44 mm. Since mobility is paramount for external batteries, the model is sure to attract attention.
There are two USB connectors on the body of the gadget so that you can connect and charge your tablet and smartphone at the same time. With its small size, the gadget weighs quite decently - 240 grams. The charge indicator, which traditionally consists of four LED-lamps, will notify the owner that it is time to fill the powerbank with energy. A very decent gadget from a reputable manufacturer is also not expensive - $25 .
The next powerbank model is Karbonn Polymer 10 PowerBank has a quite acceptable capacity in 10 400 mAhenough to charge more than one mobile device. When considering the appearance, a digital indicator in the form of an LED screen immediately catches the eye, which shows the percentage of the charge level. This is very convenient and will allow you to accurately control the filling of the battery. This rather thin and compact gadget boasts dimensions of 127 x 65 x 10 mm and weighs 215 grams, which is also relatively small.
The cost of the gadget is very affordable, given the presence of a digital charge indicator and is only $20 ... In this case, the user will receive a high-quality external battery for charging various mobile devices. It can be a smartphone or tablet, as well as an MP3 player or other similar device. The quality from the manufacturer Karbonn will also greatly delight the owner of this additional battery.
Any gadget, be it a smartphone, reader or fitness bracelet, becomes a useless toy when its battery is completely discharged. And it often happens that not a single outlet can be found within reach. But today there is a very practical solution to this problem - external batteries. We tested 40 models of power banks at a price of 750 to 5000 rubles.
How a powerbank works is easy to explain. The battery itself, which recharges other devices, is in the case. Mobile devices are connected to it for recharging using a USB cable. The most important criterion, which made up 50% of the overall rating, is power. But first of all, we paid attention to the battery capacity.
Declared and real capacity
The capacity of the devices we tested ranges from 1700 to 20 800 mAh. True, these are manufacturers' data. The actual capacity is 34% less on average. We found the most significant difference in InLine USB Power Bank (20th place). According to the results of measurements, the capacity of the device was only 2063 mAh, which is 48% less than the declared 4000 mAh. For the winner of the test, this difference was 31% (of the declared 16,000 mAh, in reality, you can use a little less than 11,000 mAh).
Charging speed
How quickly the external battery charges the device, along with the level of charge and the capacity of the battery being charged, depends primarily on the output current. In this respect, the difference between the declared value and the measured one was smaller. Moreover, often external batteries delivered more current than indicated in the specifications. Anker Astro3 2nd Gen (3rd place) gave the best result - 4000 mA, but the owners Nokia DC18 (37th place) with 730 mA will have to be patient.
We also measured the self-discharge of the batteries. On average, external batteries with a full charge discharge 5.4% within two weeks. Saved charge almost without loss Voltcraft PB-13 (14th place), Xtorm Powerbank Xtreme 9000 same from A-Solar (36th place) has lost more than a quarter of the original charge.
Additional features
Powerbank is not only an external battery. Practical accessories such as a digital display and several USB outputs can make charging your mobile device much easier.
Digital indicator
If you always need to know exactly how much charge is left, take a closer look at PNY. External batteries from this manufacturer are equipped with LED displays that show the exact state of charge as a percentage.
Heavy and energy intensive or light and comfortable?
If you always carry an external battery with you, you will probably want it to weigh as little as possible. Therefore, we assigned 30% of the total assessment to the mass of the device. The lightest and most comfortable were Pearl revolt powerbank (31st place) weighing 66 grams and Nokia DC18 - 62 grams.
The device with the largest capacity weighs more than all the others: it weighs 429 grams, followed by the heaviest weight in our test - 318 grams. The decisive role in the ratio of mass and capacity is played by energy density - the amount of stored energy per unit mass. Voltcraft PB-19 proved to be the leader here too.
We assigned 20% of the final result to the evaluation of the configuration. We also included USB outputs here. 18 models have one connector, 21 have two. Anker Astro3 2nd Gen - the only external battery that we tested, to which you can connect three devices at once. And so that at any time you can check the state of charge, the external battery must be equipped with either a display or LED indicators.
Chip test results
A capacity of almost 11,000 mAh and a rich package bundle. Plus a built-in flashlight as a nice bonus. The test winner was.
for 1400 rubles in fifth position proves that a decent backup power for use on the road does not have to cost much.
In terms of power, a newcomer breaks records. The measured capacity of more than 15,700 mAh and the energy density of 183 mWh / g proved to be beyond the reach of all other devices.
