The battery of your mobile phone has run out while you are out for a walk or at work! What you need at that moment is a power bank!

Portable devices such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, laptops, and others are an integral part of our daily lives. Power banks are a practical solution for charging these devices when we are away from home or the office and do not have access to a power outlet.

In this guide, you will find the basic features of each type of power bank along with useful tips.

But what is a power bank? 

It is an external battery that can charge your device. Essentially, it is a rechargeable external battery that you can connect to the charging port of your device when the regular battery has weakened, and it charges your device as if you were using a regular charger.

Below you will see the main factors to consider before purchasing a power bank. 

What to look out for when buying a power bank?

Power banks have input and output ports.

Output Ports

Power banks have output ports to power your devices. These can be the classic USB-A as well as the newer USB-C. The current that flows from these ports is what will power your device. Modern smartphone and tablet devices require 2-3 Amperes of current. You can check the charger that came with your device for details regarding the necessary current output. The correct Amperes and the Watts of the power bank will determine how quickly your device charges. The more Watts the power bank has, the faster your device will charge, provided it supports fast charging.

Another factor for fast charging your device is the charging standards that have been developed and are integrated into the device, but the power bank must also be compatible. These standards are Quick Charge & Power Delivery.

Input Ports

Input ports are the slots that the power bank has to receive energy (to charge). Usually, power banks have one input port, which can be either micro USB or USB-C. The charger must be connected to the port in order to charge the power bank. The charging time depends on the capacity of the power bank and our charger. 

Wireless Charging

Another feature offered by the new power banks is wireless charging. An extremely useful function for charging your devices wirelessly. This, of course, requires that your device also supports wireless charging. 

Magsafe

If you have an iPhone, you can choose a power bank that features Magsafe, the wireless charging technology combined with magnetic placement offered by Apple products (iPhone 9 and newer). 

Solar Power Bank

If your needs for charging your device are combined with outdoor activities (hiking, camping), then you will need a Solar Power Bank. Solar power banks can have all the above features and can also charge using solar energy, as they have a solar panel.

Cables

Power banks usually come with at least one cable for recharging the power bank itself. However, you will need to use the appropriate cable to charge your device correctly and safely.

Safety Features

Power banks may also have various safety features, such as protection against overcharging, protection against short circuit, and temperature control. These features can prevent damage to your devices and ensure their safety.

How to use a power bank?

1. Connect the device you want to charge to the output port of the power bank.
2. Connect the input port of the power bank to a socket or another power source to charge it.

To check the battery level of the power bank, check the LED indicators usually located at the edge of the power bank or the built-in screen that some models have.

In summary, when choosing a power bank, consider the capacity, charging speed, portability, compatibility, safety features, USB ports, and built-in cables. By considering these factors, you can choose a power bank that meets your needs and ensures that your devices remain charged and ready for use.

At Skroutz, you will find a wide variety of power banks. Choose the one that suits your needs and get it at the best price immediately!

Now that you've learned the basic features, click here to see the best power banks on the market (2023)

Skroutz Tip

The performance of the power bank will decrease over time. So when it's time to replace it, don't forget to take it to recycling.