PORTABLE POWER BANKS: SPOTLIGHT

Most modern power banks have overcharge protection, making it generally safe. However, it’s best practice to unplug electronics once fully charged to avoid potential (though rare) overheating and prolong battery health. Avoid charging on flammable surfaces like beds.

Yes, but with restrictions. They must be in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags. There’s usually a limit on capacity (often 100Wh, which is around 27,000mAh, but check specific airline rules). Power banks over 100Wh but under 160Wh may require airline approval.

Yes, this is generally safe and works like charging from a wall outlet.

Yes, if the power bank has sufficient capacity (usually 20,000mAh+) and a high enough power output (typically via USB-C Power Delivery, matching or exceeding the laptop’s charger wattage, e.g., 45W, 65W, 100W). Check compatibility carefully.

Capacity (mAh), output ports (USB-A, USB-C, power delivery wattage), input charging speed, size/weight, safety features (overcharge/short-circuit protection), and brand reputation.

Like phone batteries, they degrade over time. Most last for several hundred charge cycles (typically 300-500) before their capacity noticeably decreases. With moderate use, this could be several years.

These terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to portable batteries used to charge devices on the go. “Power bank” is arguably the more common term.

Both are types of lithium batteries. Li-Polymer allows for thinner/flexible shapes and is slightly safer regarding leakage, but can be more expensive. Li-Ion is very common, offers good energy density for its size/weight, but comes in fixed cylindrical/prismatic shapes. Performance is often comparable for typical users.