Best Power Banks for Long-Lasting Use

That feeling of your phone battery hitting 10% with no plug in sight? In South Africa, that’s a daily reality, thanks to load shedding or just being on the move. A reliable power bank isn't a luxury anymore; it's an essential piece of gear. But with so many options, how do you pick one that won't let you down? This Q&A guide is for anyone who needs to keep their devices charged and ready for action, no matter what Eskom throws at us. ⚡

Your Power Bank Questions Answered

Choosing the right portable charger can be confusing. From capacity to charging speeds, we've answered the most common questions to help you find the best power bank for your needs and budget.

Q: What does "mAh" actually mean, and how much capacity do I need? A: mAh stands for milliamp-hour, and it measures a power bank's energy storage capacity. For a quick guide, a 10,000mAh unit can typically charge a modern smartphone 2-3 times, making it perfect for daily use. If you need to power multiple devices or survive longer outages, a 20,000mAh or larger model is a better bet. You can explore a wide variety of power banks to match your needs.

Q: What's the deal with "fast charging"? Is it worth it? A: Absolutely. Standard USB ports charge at 5 watts, which is slow for modern devices. Fast charging technologies like Power Delivery (PD) and Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) can deliver 18W or more, charging your phone up to 50% in just 30 minutes. If your phone supports it, a fast-charging power bank is a must-have.

Q: I see the Promate brand everywhere. Are their power banks any good? A: Promate has become very popular in South Africa, and for good reason. They offer a great balance of features, reliable performance, and competitive pricing. Many models come with features like PD fast charging and multiple ports, making Promate power banks a solid and dependable choice for most users.

Promate PowerPod-30 30000mAh Ultra-Compact 35W Power Bank with Built-In USB-C & Lightning Cable - White / 35W Power Delivery / Built in USB-C and Lightning Cables / USB-C In/Out / LED Battery Screen / POWERPOD-30.WHITE

R899.00In Stock

Promate PowerPack-20 Pro 20000mAh Power Bank with AC Charger / 20000mAh Power Bank / 27W Power Delivery / USB-C and Lightning Cables / AC/DC Dual Mode Charging Input / POWERPACK-20PRO

R999.00In Stock

Promate Mavrix-20 20000mAh Transparent Smartphone and Apple Watch Power Bank - Black / USB-C & Lightning Cable / 65W PD USB-C Cable / 12W Lightning Cable / 27W QC 3.0 / USB-C In/Out / Mavrix-20.Black

R899.00In Stock

Promate Titan-130 20000mAh Power Bank / 60W & 100W Power Delivery / 30W QC 3.0 Port / Smart TFT LCD Screen / TITAN-130

R999.00In Stock

Winx Go Far 50000mah Power Bank PD 20W / Charge all your mobile devices while on-the-go / Built-in compass / Built-in LED display & flashlight / WX-PB105

R1119.00In Stock

Q: Can a power bank charge my laptop during load shedding? A: Yes, but not just any power bank will do. To charge a laptop, you need a model with a high capacity (at least 20,000mAh) and a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port that can output 45W or more. These are more of an investment, but for remote workers and students, these powerful high-capacity power banks over R600 are lifesavers.

Q: How important are the number and type of ports? A: Very important. Look for a mix of ports to match your devices. Most power banks have at least one standard USB-A port. A USB-C port is crucial, as it's often used for both fast charging your devices and recharging the power bank itself. Multiple ports let you charge your phone and another gadget, like headphones, simultaneously.

Q: Are more expensive power banks safer? A: Price isn't always an indicator of safety, but reputable brands invest in better internal components and safety features. Look for models that advertise protections like overcharge, short-circuit, and temperature control. These features protect both the power bank and your valuable devices from damage.

Key Takeaways

Before you buy, remember these key points:

• Capacity is King: Choose 10,000mAh for daily top-ups or 20,000mAh+ for heavy use and load shedding.
• Speed Matters: Look for Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC) for rapid refueling.
• Laptop Charging: If you need to charge a laptop, ensure the power bank has a high-wattage (45W+) USB-C PD port.
• Trustworthy Brands: Stick with reputable brands that include essential safety features.

A good power bank is your ticket to staying connected and productive.