What is a power bank & how does it work?

This standard classifies the degree of protection provided against intrusion, dust, accidental contact and water. As well as being impact and water-resistant, power banks specifically designed for the great outdoors often have LED lights, so they can be used as torches.

How does a solar power bank work?

The power bank also supports pass-through charging and is supplied with an array of cables to fit various devices. The solar panel is compact and lightweight. It unfolds to 210 degrees and will charge in low light conditions. A flashing LED light shows green for optimum charging, red for lower-quality conditions.

What is the smallest power bank?

The smallest power bank on test, the Biolite Charge 20 weighs under 200g and slides easily into a pocket. It has a 5,200mAh capacity – enough for about two smartphone charges. It is easy to operate. There’s just a single button that lights up a four-LED indicator telling you how much juice is left.

Do you need a waterproof power bank?

In damp, humid conditions or on expeditions you might need a waterproof and rugged power bank, which can cope with moisture or even complete immersion as well as bumps and knocks. If so, look for a product with a certified IP (International Protection) rating, which is usually expressed as two letters or numerals, e.g. IPX6 or IP67.

How long can a power bank be submerged in water?

Thanks to its IPX7 rating, this power bank by Outdoor Tech can be submerged in 3ft of water for up to 30 minutes. That makes it well-suited to the most demanding conditions. It also has a built-in 100-lumen torch with three light settings – another useful feature for the great outdoors.

Should you buy a battery charger or a power bank?

Put simply, the larger the rated capacity (in mAh), the more juice the power bank can store – though the trade-off is increased size and weight. So if you’re only carrying a smartphone on a day walk and just want a back-up power source, look for a pocket-sized battery charger.