Due to their widespread use, wireless communication devices like smartphones and tablets are used in our daily activities. Having a smartphone battery die while working, going outside, or traveling is inconvenient. This is where the usefulness of charging convenience comes in. There is often confusion regarding the terms “portable charger” and “power bank”. These two somehow interchangeable phrases, however, have differences.
In this article, we aim to explain what a power bank is, analyze it against a portable charger, guide you to make an informed decision, and suggest some of the best available options.
What Is a Power Bank?
A power bank allows you to recharge your handheld devices such as cell phones, tablets, and laptops by storing energy. Every modern power bank serves as a portable battery pack that is able to provide energy for your devices during crucial hours of need when they are not accessible for direct charging. While on long flights or road trips, or while working from remote locations, a power bank provides convenience.
Power banks are differentiated in capacity, shape, weight, and even the ports attached to them. Capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), and indicates how much charge can be stored by a power bank. Power banks of (5,000 mAh) are best for a single phone charge whereas (20,000 mAh or more) power banks can charge multiple devices multiple times.
Portable Charger vs Power Bank: What Is the Difference?
People often use the words portable charger and power bank interchangeably, but there's a difference.
• A power bank is a specific type of charger which is portable and stores electric energy in a battery. It is capable of transferring this stored energy to other devices when needed.
• A portable charger is any charger that is easy to carry and includes a power bank, solar powered charger, charging case, or even a wired or wireless charging pad.
While comparing power bank vs portable charger we can say that all power banks are portable chargers but not all portable chargers are power banks. For example, solar panel chargers. They are portable but operate differently from battery-based power banks.
What to Look for When Buying a Power Bank
Your unique requirements will determine which power bank suits you best. However, following these features are important to consider:
Battery Capacity (mAh)
Regarding mAh, greater numbers equal more charging cycles. For daily use, a power bank with 5,000-10,000 mAh should suffice. For a traveler or more devices, consider getting one with 20000+ mAh.
Size and Weight
Compact power banks are easier to carry however they have less capacity. If charging on the go is frequent, a slim and lightweight power bank should be preferred.
Charging Speed
Make sure to look for fast charging features such as USB Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge that reduce charging time by a significant amount.
Number of Ports
If you have more than one device, there are power banks with multiple USB and USB-C ports. Some allow 2-3 devices to charge simultaneously.
Wireless Charging Support
Most modern power banks support wireless charging, which is a hands-free way to charge the devices eliminating cable requirements.
Build Quality and Safety
Look for devices that protect against short-circuits, overcharging, and overheating. A good power bank shouldn’t pose risks to your gadgets.
Brand Trust
Always select well-known brands that provide exemplary customer support and approved warranties.
Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks
If you’re looking for a good offer in the market, TORRAS has some truly excellent power banks offering grace, smart features, and multi function capabilities. Here are the three that stand out the most.
1.MiniMag Ultimate Slim Wireless Power Bank 5,000 mAh
The TORRAS MiniMag Power Bank is ultra-portable and lightweight, weighing only 4.06 oz with a 5,000 mAh battery. Its slim profile enhances its portability, making it easy to fit into pockets. Its support wireless charging, 18W USB-C wired charging (7.5W wireless charging), as well as a USB-C to USB-C cable. Moreover, it has a USB-C input (15W) for faster recharge capabilities. This is a great everyday power bank for users of devices that support MagSafe and USB-C.
Key Features
• 5,000 mAh capacity
• 18W wired & 7.5W wireless output
• USB-C input/output
• Size: 4.01 × 2.5 × 0.3 inches
• Includes C-to-C cable
2. Ostand Wireless Power Bank with 360° Stand
The TORRAS Ostand Wireless Power Bank is stylish and smart alongside being compact with a 5,000mAh capacity. It offers a foldable 360° stand for hands-free viewing, offers 7.5W wireless and 15W wired charging, and has a quick 18W max input. The soft nano silicone skin makes it very lightweight and compact (4.02 × 2.76 × 0.46 inches) making it easy to carry. It is also powered by CoCell battery cells, which makes it very reliable and great for daily use.
Key Features
• 5,000 mAh capacity
• 7.5W wireless & 15W wired charging
• 360° rotating stand
• 18W input for fast charging
• Lightweight & slim design
3. PebbleLink Power Bank
The PebbleLink Power Bank is the solution to effortless charging with sleek aesthetics. This slim and lightweight power bank has a 10,000 mAh capacity and offers 22.5W PD fast charging along with the ability to charge two devices simultaneously. It is ideal for daily commutes or travel. The type C cable is integrated into the strap of the power bank which is cleverly designed using climbing rope fabric. While the power bank does not support wireless charging, it utilizes graphene cooling paired with an aviation-grade shell to keep the device cool and safe during operation.
Key Features
• 10,000 mAh capacity
• 22.5W output, 20W input
• Dual-device charging
• Lightweight (6.4 oz), only 0.6" thick
• UL & FCC certified
Common FAQs About Power Bank vs Portable Charger
1. How long does a power bank last?
Quality power banks will typically last for 2–3 years or around 300–500 charge cycles depending on the usage and the quality of the device.
2. Can I charge my phone while the power bank itself is charging?
Yes, this is known as passthrough charging. However, check the specifications of your power bank prior because not all of them support it.
3. What devices can I charge with a power bank?
Phones, tablets, Bluetooth headphones, cameras, smartwatches, and even certain laptops can all be charged with power banks.
4. Do all power banks support fast charging?
No. If it is important to you, make sure to look for fast charge options such as Quick Charge or USB Power Delivery (PD).
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between power bank vs portable charger can save you money and time when shopping. While people tend to use these two terms interchangeably, a charger allows energy transfer and a power bank is designed to store energy that can be used to charge your gadgets for later use.
When selecting power banks, consider your set of requirements such as charging capacity, number of devices to be charged, and preference for charging cable or wireless options. TORRAS is one of the brands that offers stylish portable power banks of high quality that are suitable for people who travel a lot and need fast and portable power all the time.
