Choosing a power bank: capacity, charging speed, and weight compared
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by Verpakkingdeals.nl
2 min reading time
Choosing a Power Bank: Capacity, Charging Speed, and Weight Compared
Your phone dies when you're out and about. The classic emergency solution is a power bank. But what capacity do you really need, how fast does such a device charge, and how much does it weigh if you have to carry it around for an entire weekend? This article will help you choose.
How many mAh: from 5,000 to 50,000 and more
A power bank's capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). The higher the number, the more you can charge your phone. A modern smartphone has around 5,000 mAh (iPhone 15) to 6,500 mAh (Samsung Galaxy S25). That means:
3,000 to 5,000 mAh: One full charge for an average phone. Compact choice for your pocket. A 3000 mAh power bank is perfect for half a day out.
10,000 mAh: Two charges. Standard size, only slightly heavier than your phone itself.
20,000 mAh: Four to five charges, also for tablets. Starts to feel noticeable in your bag.
30,000+ mAh: For weekend trips or many gadgets. Honestly, it already weighs quite a bit.
Honestly: many people choose larger than necessary and then carry something around all week. A 5,000 mAh power bank is perfectly fine for daily use.
Charging speed: 5W, 10W, 18W and Fast Charge
The wattage indicates how much power your power bank provides. More watts = faster charging.
5W: Slow. Your phone won't be in a hurry to fully charge.
10W: Normal. Reasonably fast.
18W or more (Quick Charge, Power Delivery): Really fast. Your phone will be fully charged in about an hour.
Check your phone to see what speed it supports. A fast power bank only helps if your phone can handle it. With a 3000 mAh power bank, you'll charge at standard speed, so no overkill is needed.
Weight and practical considerations
A 3000 mAh power bank weighs around 100 grams. Small and light. A 10,000 mAh one quickly weighs 300 grams. A 20,000 mAh can go up to 500 grams. If you want it to fit in your pocket, keep it under 200 grams.
For your backpack on the go? Then weight matters less. For daily backup in your jacket pocket? Good that you don't always think about it.
One or two ports?
With two USB ports, you can charge your phone and your earbuds simultaneously. Handy. Check if your power bank has USB-A or USB-C (or both). USB-C is faster and future-proof.
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