What is the best external battery for smartphone. What is an "external battery" and why is it needed. Power bank output current and fast charging
Along with the increase in the functionality and performance of mobile phones, the requirements for batteries are also increasing. A typical battery is capable of running the device for 2-3 days, but if the operation involves activity in social networks, the use of multimedia tools and frequent conversations, then discharge can be expected in the coming hours. Moreover, carrying a charger with you is not always convenient - the point is not only in the need to find the treasured outlet, but also in attachment to it as such. The best solution to the problem can be a portable battery for mobile phones, which is also called Power Bank. Such accessories also cause some trouble, but with them the user still gets some autonomy.
Choice by capacity
At the first acquaintance with the characteristics of external chargers, an inexperienced user may be fascinated by the huge capacity of such devices. For example, there are models with a capacity of 10,400 mAh. It would seem that such an arsenal is enough for 5 sessions of replenishing the energy of a mobile phone, the battery of which contains 2,000 mAh. In fact, everything is not so simple. The fact is that a portable battery for a phone has a nominal voltage of 3.7 watts. In turn, mobile devices are charged at 5 V. This difference leads to a loss in the energy potential of up to 30%. And this is at best, since cheap Chinese models do not provide more than half of the declared volume.
But you still have to rely on official data - it all depends only on the brand of the manufacturer, based on the reliability of which you should make a discount in the real amount of energy. By the way, if a portable phone battery is purchased for the purpose of emergency maintenance of the device for a short period of time, then there is no need for a large capacity and you can limit yourself to a compact, but high-quality and reliable accessory.
Current selection
For most users of mobile devices dependent on a power source, the indicator of charging speed is also important. This characteristic is determined by the strength of the current, which is measured in Amps (A). Typically phones and smartphones charge at 1A, while more demanding tablets require 2A. These indicators should be guided by, choosing by the way, it can be supplied with two outputs - 1A and 2A. As a rule, such models also have a decent volume - at least 7,800 mAh. Such devices, of course, are more expensive, so you might think about using an external battery with one output to service different devices. But such a solution is inconvenient and risky, since the discrepancy in current strength is harmful to the phone. And this is not to mention the fact that the charging process itself will take longer in the case of a tablet.
Buying a Power Bank without a battery
For the most economical, it is worth recommending the purchase of a separate Power Bank case and battery. This option is beneficial for the reason that initially you can be sure of the reliability and characteristics of the battery. In turn, the Power Bank will act only as a shell of the battery that provides interaction with the phone. True, there are also disadvantages to such a solution. The fact is that a portable battery for a phone in this case will work on a weak outgoing current. Therefore, it will take more time to charge. On the other hand, the owner will have the opportunity to change the battery to another, while maintaining the main Power Bank.
Manufacturers and prices
The importance of the quality of the charger has been noted more than once. In many ways, the reliability, durability and operational properties of external power sources are determined by the manufacturer. According to experts, Korean models from LG and Samsung are the most trustworthy. Usually the sellers themselves do not hide the belonging of the batteries to these brands. If the manufacturer is not indicated at all in the marking or a little-known company appears in it, then it is better to refuse the purchase. It is also worth mentioning manufacturers specializing in the development of such devices. You can safely choose a portable external battery from the Melkco, YooBao or Momax lines. As for prices, they are quite affordable for the average user of a modern phone. Models with a capacity of 10,000 mAh or more usually cost 1.5-2 thousand rubles. By purchasing an option for 5,000 mAh, you can completely meet 1 thousand rubles. And these prices, by the way, refer to models of branded origin.
10.02.2019
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On a long journey, many people have a problem - how to charge their mobile device. Even in the city, an outlet may not always be at hand, to say nothing of hiking in nature for 3-4 days. The solution here will be a convenient and portable battery or power-bank.
Now on sale you can find a huge number of models. But what to look for when choosing?
All power-bank models differ in 6 key parameters:
- capacity;
- output current strength;
- input current strength;
- number of connectors;
- weight and size;
- availability of additional functions.
Let's figure out what each of these characteristics is responsible for.
Capacity
It is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh) and is perhaps the most important parameter of a portable battery. The higher the capacity, the more energy the device can transfer to a mobile gadget.
It is not difficult to navigate when choosing an external charger according to this characteristic. The main thing is that the capacity of the power bank is 2-3 times higher than that of your smartphone. This will provide several full charge cycles. For example, for a gadget with a capacity of 2500 mAh, a battery with a capacity of at least 5000 mAh is suitable.
It is important to note here that the stated storage capacity does not imply 100% transfer. After all, part of the energy of a portable battery goes to its own needs, for example, to power microcircuits. In addition, the energy is partially spent on voltage conversion when current passes through the USB cable and simply turns into heat.
On average, power-bank energy losses are 30% of the original capacity. Therefore, if you take a 12,000 mAh portable battery, be prepared for the actual capacity to be no more than 9,000 mAh.
Capacity largely determines the cost of the battery. The larger it is, the higher the price will be. Here it is already worth starting from what you will charge and how often.
Be attentive to signatures on the body of the power-bank that lure buyers, for example, 5 minutes charge. This does not mean that the battery will be charged in 5 minutes. In fact, that's how long it takes to fill the capacity enough for one full charge cycle of the smartphone.
Number of USB connectors
Everything is simple here: the number of connectors indicates how many gadgets you can connect to the battery. Inexpensive models are equipped with one USB connector to which you can connect a smartphone or tablet, and a microUSB connector for connecting the battery itself to the network. More expensive batteries are equipped with two connectors, which will allow you to charge your smartphone and tablet at the same time.
In some models with two connectors, the strength of the input and output current is sometimes signed for each connector. Follow these signs to connect each of your gadgets to the right socket.
Weight and size
The capacity of the battery determines its dimensions. The more strokes, the more impressive the power-bank will be, the more space it will take up in your bag. However, there are exceptions to every rule.
Pay attention to these models: Canyon CNE-CPB156 and Deppa NRG Power. The first has a capacity of 15,600 mAh, the second has 20,000 mAh. In theory, Deppa should both weigh more and be more solid in size. However, the Canyon weighs 440 grams at 225mm high, 111mm wide and 36mm thick. While Deppa weighs 50 grams less with dimensions of 136.5 x 71.5 x 21.8 mm. What's the catch?
Pay attention to the type of battery. Canyon is a lithium-ion battery, while Deppa is a lithium-polymer battery. A feature of the latter is a polymer electrolyte, which weighs less than lithium-ion and takes up less space in the device case with a similar capacity.
In addition, the case material also affects the weight of the portable battery. Power banks made of plastic or wood will be the easiest, aluminum will be the heaviest.
Additional functions
The more expensive the portable battery model, the more useful lotions it has. So, almost every external battery has a charge indicator today. However, you can find a gadget whose capacity will be displayed as a percentage on a small screen. Also, some batteries are equipped with an LED flashlight or a built-in cable for connecting to a mobile device.
If you need the most reliable and durable power bank, choose one that will be equipped with protective features. The already mentioned Deppa NRG Power has protection against deep discharge, short circuit and overcharge.
The most expensive external batteries get the most modern functionality. For example, you can find a power-bank with a built-in solar battery, so that it can be charged not only from the mains, but also in the sun. There are also models that do not require connection to a smartphone via cable. Their case has an induction module, due to which they support wireless charging mode.
Have you figured out the characteristics of portable batteries? Now it remains to choose the most suitable model. You can do this on the page of our catalog, which contains more than 50 gadgets for every taste and budget.
An external battery (or as it is also called Power Bank) is a small portable device that allows you to recharge smartphones, phones, tablets and other mobile equipment almost on the go, without using a power outlet or power adapter. The right external battery will allow you to extend the battery life of your device several times, which will significantly increase your mobility and allow you to worry less about battery charge and the likelihood of being left without a connection.
When choosing an external battery for a smartphone, first of all, you need to decide what capacity you need. In this matter, you need to build on the battery capacity of your smartphone and the mobility that you want to get. For example, if the battery of your device has a capacity of 3000 mAh and you want to extend its battery life by 3 times, then you need the power bank to be able to provide 2 full charges, that is, so that it can give the smartphone 6000 mAh.
In order for an external battery to be able to charge your smartphone at 6000 mAh, its capacity must be much larger. The fact is that the battery cannot give all 100% of the energy that is stored in it. Energy will be spent on voltage conversion, heating, etc. In total, all these losses will be about 30-40%. Therefore, in order to get 6000 mAh from an external battery, you need to choose a model whose capacity will be at least 8000 mAh, and preferably all 10,000 mAh.
After you have chosen the capacity of the external battery, you need to consider its dimensions and weight. Carefully study the characteristics of devices with the capacity you need and decide whether you are ready to carry a device with such dimensions and weight, or if you need to consider more compact devices. After all, if you purchase a device that is too bulky, then it will be inconvenient for you to use it. You will leave it at home more and more, and as a result, your mobility will not improve. In general, you should not chase the maximum capacity, it is important to catch the balance, otherwise the bank will not be mobile.
Connectors on an external battery
Connectors are another important point that must be taken into account when buying an external battery. Most models are equipped with a conventional USB connector. This option is suitable for most smartphones, but in some cases a different type of connector may be required.
For example, now more and more smartphones are equipped with a USB type C connector and are equipped with a cable on both sides of which the same USB type C is used. In order to charge such a smartphone from a regular Power Bank, you will need a USB to USB type C adapter. if you want to use adapters, you should look for a model with a USB type C connector. In this case, you can use the bundled cable.
If you do not want to carry a cable with you, then you can choose a power bank with a built-in cable. But, keep in mind that such built-in cables are usually very short (up to 10 centimeters), which will make it inconvenient to use a smartphone when it is charging.
You also need to consider the number of connectors. Most external batteries are equipped with only one output connector. Therefore, if you need to charge several devices at once, then you need to choose a model with the appropriate number of outputs.
Charging speed of a smartphone from an external battery
Like a conventional charging adapter, an external battery has such a characteristic as an output current, which is measured in Amperes. The higher the output current, .
Budget power banks usually give out about 1 ampere of current. If you need to charge a budget smartphone and a push-button phone, then this current strength will do. But, to charge more serious devices, you need to choose models that can provide 2 or even 3 Amperes of current.
In order to determine what current strength is needed specifically for your device, look at what is indicated on the charger that came with the kit. The charger should have something like this line “Output 5 V - 1 A”. 1 A - this is the current strength that your device needs. For the fastest charging, choose an external battery that can provide the same or higher current. Do not be afraid if the Power Bank can provide more current than regular charging. The charging process is controlled by the smartphone, and it will not consume more current than it needs.
If your smartphone supports some kind of fast charging technology, such as Quick Charge 3.0 or Quick Charge 4.0, then you should look for a power bank that supports this technology. With the support of these technologies, the speed of charging a smartphone from an external battery will increase significantly.
In general, the above is enough to choose the right external battery for your smartphone. But, there are a few more points that I would like to mention.
- Choose from well-known brands. Power Bank is a fairly simple device, so many companies make it. Many such companies disappear very quickly and do not monitor the quality. To purchase a device that will meet the declared characteristics, it is advisable to choose proven brands. For example, Asus, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Energizer.
- Buy from trusted stores. External batteries are often counterfeited, so you should not save and buy power banks on Aliexpress or somewhere on the market. It is better to choose a large and trusted store that will definitely not sell “singed” goods.
Manufacturers of various devices are trying more and more to please the user. Now a power supply without a wire is a very real and even necessary device in everyday life. How to choose a power bank for a phone or tablet? What characteristics does a good external battery have, which is enough for more than one or even two charges?
Watch the video how to choose the best power bank:
How to choose a power bank? Main criteria
So what characteristics should this device fulfill in order to satisfy the user's desire and charge devices quickly, and most importantly, several times? Indeed, the market is simply crammed with this product. Almost every electronics manufacturer boasts a large assortment of such a position as a power bank.
Here are the main criteria by which you need to choose a portable battery.
Battery capacity
The most important thing when choosing is the battery capacity. All manufacturers try to encourage the user to buy goods from them. Therefore, in the description they put 5000 mAh, 10000 mAh, 20000 mAh ...
But not all of them mention that the entire charge well, no way will not be able to be transmitted to the gadget. As a rule, only 50% -60% will go to recharging the device being charged. Everything else is a waste:
- from the power bank battery itself
- per USB cable transfer
- for transmission to the device itself
- plus everything, losses on the own power supply of microcircuits
It's all physics, I'm not strong in it, but a fact is a fact. First of all, when buying, pay attention to the capacity. From it we calculate 60% and get the exact number of charge without loss, which will go into the device itself.
You should not be fooled by buying at a low price and a large number of milliamp hours. Such gadgets are quite mediocre. Remember, a good power bank with 20000 mAh should not cost less than 2000-2500 thousand rubles.
Current strength
It depends on the strength of the current how long the wireless charger will charge your gadget. Typically, smartphones need 1 amp to charge, and tablets 2.
Weight and size
Why is this an important selection criterion? It's simple, portable charging should be:
- compact
- not too heavy
- and have a comfortable design (the thinner the better)
After all, why are you buying it? To take with you on a hike, on a trip, on a picnic, to the country house and so on. In general, in the place where there is no way to charge from the outlet.
Of course, the power bank should be small. Who wants to carry a stone weighing several hundred grams in their bag? But there are two sides of the coin here. The smaller the device you purchase, the less capacity it has.
We need to look for the golden mean. Moreover, manufacturers take into account such parameters and do everything possible to combine high performance and compactness in one device.
Number of USB connectors
Imagine that you went on a camping trip with your friend. So you sat down to eat, relax, go to the social. network or watch a video clip ... But bad luck, as luck would have it, the batteries on your smartphones are empty. And then you remember that you have a portable battery!
You take it out of your bag with a satisfied look and put your gadget on recharging. Your friend certainly feels left out. Well, right, you had to think in advance and buy yourself such a device ...
Of course, you are a kind person and don’t do that, but just share a second usb port with a friend. Not for nothing that many models are equipped with them. By the way, two manufacturers are not limited. You can often find more.
Battery type
The battery itself in the device may be ( click to open description):
lithium ion
In appearance, it is similar to conventional finger batteries and is the most optimal in terms of price and quality. The lithium-ion battery lasts for about 1000 charges, then the power starts to drop and the mAh disappear.
lithium polymer
May take on a flatter shape. A lithium-polymer battery will last much longer (up to about 5000 charges), which will make it more expensive. Such batteries in power banks are less common.
Removable battery
Some devices have a removable battery feature. That is, batteries that change as needed. Thus, you get yourself a case of a portable device, and you can always replace the battery yourself.
The advantage of such models is that they will last much longer. Over time, any power bank wears out and its charge becomes less and less. In the case of this version of the device, you can always replace the battery with a new one and, voila, you have a brand new device.
But there are also disadvantages. Such a power bank operates on a small current strength, and this increases the charge time.
Availability of the indicator
In addition, you can find a light indicator on the device. Which indicates how much charge is left. You can also find a device that has a display.
Buyers note that it is much more convenient to see the percentage charge on the display than the indicator lights. But there is also a minus. The screen also consumes some of the energy that could go into the gadget.
Automatic shutdown
One of the important features of the power bank is the automatic shutdown. It protects against short circuits as well as power surges that can damage devices being charged.
In addition, this feature prevents wasted energy. For example, you can charge your gadgets overnight and not worry about waking up after a while and disconnecting the battery.
Additional features and accessories
For example, for hiking, you can purchase a power bank with a flashlight and a hand warmer. Some models are even equipped with a Wi-Fi connection and an input for a flash drive. In short, what they just don’t come up with and as soon as manufacturers don’t decorate the device.
You can also pick up an adapter for charging it and a protective case for your external battery. Mostly silicone cases, they will protect the device from dirt, dust and possible water ingress. The adapter will help you charge the power bank 2 times faster.
Which brand to choose an external battery?
There are a LOT of companies producing these devices. Among them there are both popular brands and unknown ones. Basically, all devices are made in China. For this reason, I see the point in ordering the device there.
- Firstly, you do not overpay extra money
- Secondly, delivery to Russia and the CIS is mostly free
At the exit, we get a device from the same China, but much cheaper than in a city store. Of course, there is also a minus, since you will have to wait for a parcel for about a month. But, for example, it does not scare me at all. In any case, in terms of money, you remain in the black. And if, then the purchase will become even more profitable.
I picked up several power bank models from Chinese marketplaces such as GearBest and Aliexpress. I will also single out a couple of well-known companies whose devices are most popular around the world. Here are the brands that we will cover in this article:
- Samsung- Korean company known all over the world
- Xiaomi- popular Chinese brand
- Canyon is a Dutch electronics company.
- Baseus is a young Chinese company
- USAMS- another Chinese brand that produces electronics and accessories
- Yoobao– high-tech electronics from China
Canyon CNE-CPB130DG one of the best portable chargers
Please note that the model is equipped with a light indicator and two USB ports, which allows you to charge two devices at the same time.
VIEW FEATURES
- Capacity: 13000 mAh
- Current: 2.0 A
- Voltage: 5V
- Battery type: lithium-ion
- Weight: 259g
- Size (mm): 62 x 142 x 23
- Package contents: device, usb cable, user manual
- Additional features: LED indicator, 2 USB ports
- Country of origin: China
Samsung EB-P3000C external compact battery
A fairly compact and lightweight power bank, but at the same time it is not inferior in its power to charge a smartphone or tablet. Has one USB port. The warranty when buying in the original store will be 6 months.
SHOW FEATURES
- Capacity: 10000mAh
- Current: 2.0 A
- Voltage: 5V
- Battery type: lithium-ion
- Weight: 240 g
- Size (mm): 71 x 147.5 x 15
- Package contents: device, usb cable (with microUSB/Type-C), user manual
- Additional features: fast charging mode
Original Xiaomi PLM06ZM with good power
The original of the well-known and quite popular Chinese company XIAOMI. The power bank has two USB output ports and one micro USB input for charging the device itself. As well as indicator lights on the battery power status. Real power guaranteed at 14000mAh.
SHOW FEATURES
- Capacity: 20000 mAh
- Current: 2.4 A, 2 A, 1.5 A
- Voltage: 5.1V, 9V, 12V
- Battery type: lithium polymer
- Weight: 328 g
- Size (cm): 13.55 x 6.76 x 2.39
- Package contents: device, usb cable
- Additional functions: fast charging, supports small current, so it is easy to charge bluetooth headset, earphones, smart bracelet and other small things
USAMS mini compact portable battery
Small and compact, yet powerful. Able to charge two gadgets at the same time. For lovers of the classics, the device is available in both white and black. There is also a model with or without a display to choose from.
baseus super slim power bank
The thickness of the device is only 15 mm, which immediately indicates that the type of battery is polymer. This means that the performance of such a device is much greater, but the charging time is also increased. Black or white design to choose from. The actual charge capacity is approximately 7000-9000 mAh.
SHOW FEATURES
- Capacity: 10000mAh
- Current: 2.1 A
- Voltage: 5V
- Battery type: lithium polymer
- Weight: 181g
- Size (mm): 135 x 67 x 15
- Package contents: device, usb cable, instruction
- Optional: 2 USB ports, display
USAMS US-CD06 ultra thin external battery
Another polymer battery with an unusual mosaic design. It has two USB ports and one micro usb for recharging. The power indicator will tell you about the power status.
Romoss Sense 8+ powerful 30000 mAh power bank
A fairly large, universal power bank with a large number of different ports. Suitable for charging iPhone, iPad and various Android smartphones. And you can connect all this at the same time, because the charge will definitely be enough for everyone.
SHOW FEATURES
- Capacity: 30000 mAh
- Current: 2.1 A
- Voltage: 5V
- Battery type: lithium polymer
- Weight: 671 g
- Size (cm): 167 x 80 x 32.8
- Interfaces: input - lightning, micro-usb, usb Type C; weekends - usb x 2
- Package contents: device, usb cable, instruction
Yoobao A2 lithium polymer portable battery
Powerful portable battery with accurate up to 1% digital indicator, two ucb ports, one micro usb and one lightning port.
SHOW FEATURES
- Capacity: 20000 mAh
- Current: 2.1 A
- Voltage: 5V
- Battery type: lithium polymer
- Weight: 500 g
- Size (mm): 174 x 93 x 14.5
- Package contents: the device itself + micro usb + carrying bag
A year ago, I didn’t understand anything about gadgets at all and decided to buy myself a portable battery. Then no one told me how to choose a power bank for a smartphone. I spent 500 rubles on a battery, the capacity of which, as stated, is 8000 mAh. But in reality, the milliampere hours turned out to be only 3000.
Yes, it was my bad purchase... My iPhone 6S will never fully charge with this battery. Only 60%. Why am I writing this. If you want to buy a really high-performance device, then you should not spend less than 1000 or even 1500 rubles. Otherwise, you will have to pay twice and buy a second device with more power, as I had to do.
I hope this article was informative and helped answer the question of how to choose a portable charger for your phone, tablet and other gadgets.