Not necessarily. Higher mAh means more capacity but also larger size and weight.
Choose based on your specific needs and portability requirements.

Rated capacity is the theoretical maximum, while actual capacity is typically about
60-70% of this due to energy loss during voltage conversion and transfer.

Temperature plays a crucial role in the performance of power banks, with both extremes of the thermometer posing significant challenges. When exposed to either intense cold or scorching heat, these portable energy sources experience a trifecta of issues: diminished battery capacity, prolonged charging periods, and potential harm to their internal cells. Consequently, your power bank's output may falter in very hot or frigid conditions, delivering less power than expected. To ensure optimal functionality and longevity, most perform best between 0°C to 35°C (32°F to 95°F).

The milliamp-hour (mAh) rating of a battery indicates its energy storage capacity.

To determine this value:

1. Identify the current output (in milliamperes)
2. Determine how long the battery sustains this output (in hours)
3. Multiply these two figures

Formula: mAh = Current (mA) × Time (hours)

Practical Example:
A battery delivering 100 mA for 5 hours has a capacity of:
100 mA × 5 hours = 500 mAh

This 500 mAh rating signifies that the battery can theoretically provide:

• 500 mA for 1 hour
• 250 mA for 2 hours
• Or any combination yielding the same total energy output

External elements which can influence the battery's real-world energy delivery, such as temperature and battery age potentially result in variations from the calculated mAh rating.

Also consider power loss through the process of transfer. See question "What’s the difference between rated capacity and actual capacity in power banks?" for more information.

Divide the power bank’s mAh by your device’s battery capacity, then multiply by 0.7 to account for energy loss during transfer.

Not necessarily. Higher mAh means more capacity but also larger size and weight.
Choose based on your specific needs and portability requirements.

Rated capacity is the theoretical maximum, while actual capacity is typically about
60-70% of this due to energy loss during voltage conversion and transfer.

Temperature plays a crucial role in the performance of power banks, with both extremes of the thermometer posing significant challenges. When exposed to either intense cold or scorching heat, these portable energy sources experience a trifecta of issues: diminished battery capacity, prolonged charging periods, and potential harm to their internal cells. Consequently, your power bank's output may falter in very hot or frigid conditions, delivering less power than expected. To ensure optimal functionality and longevity, most perform best between 0°C to 35°C (32°F to 95°F).

Input refers to how fast the power bank itself can be recharged, while output
indicates how quickly it can charge your devices.

Quick Charge is a fast-charging technology developed by Qualcomm that allows compatible devices to charge much faster than standard charging.

USB PD is a universal fast-charging standard that can deliver higher power levels (up to 100W) and is compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops.

Most power banks are universally compatible, but it’s best to check if the output voltage and amperage match your device’s requirements.

While most power banks work with both, some are optimised for specific devices. Look for MFi certification for guaranteed iPhone compatibility.

Yes, some advanced power banks support pass-through charging, allowing them to charge devices while being recharged themselves.

Some high-capacity power banks with USB-C PD output can charge laptops, but you need to ensure voltage compatibility and sufficient wattage.

USB-A is the standard rectangular port, USB-C is the newer, reversible oval port capable of faster charging, and Micro-USB is a smaller port often used for input charging on older power banks.

Overcharge protection automatically stops charging when your device or the power bank reaches full capacity, preventing battery damage from excessive charging.

Most power banks under 100Wh (about 26,800mAh) are allowed in carry-on luggage. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

Smart power banks have digital displays or app connectivity, providing real-time
information about battery level, charging speed, and device health.

These power banks support Qi wireless charging, allowing you to charge compatible devices by simply placing them on top of the power bank.

GaN technology allows for more efficient power conversion, resulting in smaller,
lighter power banks that generate less heat.

Solar power banks have built-in solar panels for recharging. They’re eco-friendly but typically charge slowly via solar energy and are best as backup options.

With proper care, a good quality power bank can last 2-3 years or 300-500 charge
cycles before noticeable capacity loss.

Avoid extreme temperatures, keep it partially charged when storing long-term, and use it regularly to maintain battery health.

Modern power banks have built-in protection against overcharging. However, it’s still good practice to unplug them once fully charged.

Slower charging at 0.5C to 1C (where C is the battery’s capacity) is generally better
for longevity, though modern power banks are designed to handle faster charging
rates.