You quickly get used to good things, and therefore it is not surprising that the modern generation can no longer imagine itself without tablets, mobile phones and other modern gadgets, especially without a solar-powered Power Bank - an external battery that will help recharge them at any time, so as not to remain without contact.
Description
For everyone who practically never parts with mobile gadgets, this is an extremely useful thing. This solar-powered design reliably stores accumulated energy until the moment it is needed.
It is clear that solar Power Banks Solar, produced by many manufacturers, differ in characteristics and prices, which directly depend on the quality of the energy-saving elements.
It is important that the self-charging device can be replenished with energy not only from sunlight, but also from a regular household network. LED indicators indicate the remaining charge.
Myths and reality
By considering the parameters and technical characteristics of solar-powered devices declared by manufacturers, we can draw certain conclusions about their plausibility in practical use. Most of them should be considered as successful advertising moves, the sole purpose of which is to attract the attention of large masses of consumers.
In this regard, it is recommended to carefully analyze several indicators and find out the extent to which they correspond to reality.
Many manufacturers advertise the small weight of these devices, which they claim is approximately 200 grams. This weight accounts for a battery capacity of 20-30 thousand mAh. If one battery weighing 30 grams has a capacity of 2000 mAh, then for 20,000 mAh you will need 10 such batteries with a total weight of 300 grams. To this indicator should be added the mass of the case, microcircuits and other elements located inside. As a result, the estimated weight of a 20 thousand mAh device will be approximately 500 grams. For 50,000 mAh this figure will be higher than 1 kg. Thus, the mass declared by the manufacturers is nothing more than a marketing ploy.
What is most touted is the efficiency of solar charging. However, manufacturers do not provide any exact figures regarding charging time. This is quite natural, since the maximum efficiency of devices with thin-film solar batteries is only 4% or lower. To achieve a power of 200 mAh, a panel area of 1 m2 is required, and in a power bank with a panel of photocells you can get no more than 8 mAh. Thus, the battery charging time will be: 50000/8 = 6250 hours = 260 days. Since there is not always normal sunlight, following the logic, the external battery will never be charged. As practice shows, the real power of a solar battery can only ensure that the LED indicator lights up.
Choice
When going shopping, it is important to remember the main criteria that must be taken into account when choosing:
- maximum accumulated energy (written on the body of the power bank);
Important: Very often the manufacturer overestimates this indicator for no apparent reason: either for advertising purposes, or based on other indicators. Therefore, it is necessary to make allowances for this and understand that in reality this value will be 80 percent of the indicated value.
- manufacturer. Chargers made in China will please you with their price, but you can expect all sorts of surprises from them.
- price. Models are available in budget versions and more expensive ones, so this is important to consider when choosing a goal. To recharge a mobile phone, for example, at a party, it is enough to purchase a small-capacity model, which is inexpensive. To maintain the functionality of the tablet or use it on a long trip, it is advisable to choose a more serious model.
Capacity
This indicator is not as important as the energy stored in the power bank batteries. The latter is calculated as follows: 1 Amp-hour * 1 Volt = 1 Watt-hour. There is a direct correlation between the output voltage and the effectiveness of the power bank. Conclusion: it is worth focusing on Watt-hour in order to select a device that will have maximum capacity.
Minuses
- A solar power bank is essentially the same battery, but uses solar radiation. The disadvantage lies in the fact that if it was not possible to charge the battery during daylight hours, when darkness falls, nothing will shine, literally or figuratively;
- Next is the capacity. It is so small that there is no way to charge powerful devices. On the one hand, it’s good when the external charger has a flashlight, but you need to take into account that it will take some of the energy;
- Non-replaceable battery - the lithium-ion battery is no different from those that are equipped with mobile phones, but if it fails, it is impossible to replace it;
- Solar Power Bank models with a solar battery are inexpensive and have 18650 cells that can be installed and replaced without problems;
- The advantage of the former is the rapid release of accumulated energy and its long-term storage, i.e. they cannot discharge spontaneously;
- Despite the existing shortcomings, for those who like to travel and go on hikes, such chargers are a godsend. Even in a highly discharged state, they will allow you to send an SOS signal.
Why can the cost vary significantly with the same power?
In this situation, a lot depends on the manufacturer. Power banks with a solar battery produced by well-known brands will definitely cost much more. At the same time we should not forget that lesser-known companies often overestimate these parameters, which is why it seems that their power bank will have an advantage over competitors, but in fact it is significantly inferior to them.
Therefore, when purchasing, you should not immediately decide in favor of the cheapest model. Studying reviews from trusted sources will help you understand whether such a power bank is worth the money.
TOP 8: ROBITON Power Bank LP-8-Solar
Short review
The universal charger, powered by the sun, is equipped with an intelligent controller and 32 bright LEDs, allowing the gadget to act as a lamp. The power bank is compatible with most of the abundant electronic gadgets.
Technical indicators
- Lithium polymer battery – 8000 mAh;
- LED power – 0.06 W;
- Indicator;
- Carbine (included);
- Protected against undercharging, overcharging, short circuit;
- Weight – 235 g;
- LEDs – 32 pcs., 0.06 W;
- Size – 165x15x74 mm;
- Storage temperature – minus 10 – plus 45 degrees;
- Humidity recommended for storage – 65%;
- The recommended operating temperature is 0ºС~40ºС.
Price
It is profitable to buy this model of solar Power Bank on the Internet:
All modern mobile devices – computers, tablets, smartphones and phones – can be recharged from a solar-powered Power Bank.
TOP 7: Solar EK-5
Review
A portable charging device with an LED flashlight will become an indispensable companion for those who are not used to sitting still. It will extend the operation of your favorite devices and help out in any situation in places where there is no electricity.
At the ends there are indicators that notify in time when the battery is low. The solar-powered Power Bank design combines the advantages of external batteries and solar panels.
Frame
It is made of durable plastic, shock-resistant, equipped with protection against excessive charge levels, short circuits, spontaneous discharge and overheating.
The help of the device is invaluable for fishermen, tourists, and business travelers.
You can recharge any gadget anywhere with the falling rays of the sun.
You can also accumulate charge from a 220-volt network in backup battery mode. Cables and adapters for this are included in the kit.
Technical indicators
- Capacity – 16800 mAh;
- Types of devices that can be charged - digital cameras and MP3, MP-4 players, phones, tablets, etc.;
- LED indicator, mini UMS - UMS cable - yes;
- Charging - sunlight and network;
- Input and output voltage – 5V;
- Battery – lithium polymer;
- Dimensions – 160x23x76 mm.
First charge
It is carried out from a PC or network overnight. By morning, the solar power bank indicator is already working.
Price
Operating principle and features
The technology is advanced, but simple. The operating principle is as follows:
- Direct rays of the sun fall on the photocells.
- Charging takes place between one and five days.
- Charge the batteries of gadgets.
It is important that the weather conditions are favorable. The area of the panels is already small, and a cloudy sky will delay charging the power bank for an indefinite period of time. Yes, it still takes a long time to charge, but over time the technology will improve.
Based on these points, such a device is used as follows:
- Waiting for clear weather.
- The power bank is positioned so that the rays fall directly on the photocells.
- They wait for one hundred percent charging, because, like other energy storage devices, this battery needs a full charge to maintain capacity.
It doesn’t sound very convenient, but it’s better than being left without means of communication in the middle of a forest. Well, if a gadget has a built-in navigator, without which a person cannot find his way, then the issue of recharging sometimes becomes critically important.
TOP 6: G-Power STX6000II+Solar Panel 12000 mAh
Description
A solar power bank is designed to charge devices where there is no electricity.
A very compact and truly lightweight solar-powered Power Bank that will not take up much space and will not become an additional burden. Available in several versions - capacity 18000 mAh, 24000, 30000 and more.
A nice bonus is the ability to charge two devices simultaneously. You can charge any portable device with it, for which there are two USB connectors and one micro USB.
The LED indicator helps to judge the remaining charge of the Power Bank on solar batteries.
Price
What are the output connectors?
Recently, more portable chargers have appeared that have a whole set of connectors designed to connect several gadgets. The development of DC-DC converters has made it possible to significantly increase the voltage. you can find power banks capable of accelerated charging, delivering a current of 2-3 A at a voltage of 9-12 V.
Another function appreciated by motorists is the “cigarette lighter” mode. Voltage reaching 12-14V with high current is supplied to special terminals. This is enough to start a car with a completely discharged battery. One charge is enough for 10-15 attempts with a short break between them.
TOP 5: SITITEK Sun-Battery SC-10
Review
The unique charger ranks fifth in the TOP-8. The solar power bank differs from its analogues in the increased impact resistance of the case, protection from water and dust. It is equipped with a high-quality monocrystalline panel designed to convert solar rays into electricity.
The battery design is rated at 5000 mAh. It is capable of charging a wide range of portable devices - from phones and players to tablets, etc.
In addition to solar radiation, the device itself can be charged from a 220V household network and a computer.
We recommend:
- The best models of solar panels for charging your phone, equipment, cost and where to buy - TOP 6
- Advantages of solar panels and how to calculate power: examples of calculations for home and garden, basic provisions
- Solar panels: features, technical characteristics, price - TOP 10
For clarity, there is a light indicator showing the charge level. When fully charged, it goes out.
Back panel
The developer gave it an anti-slip structure that will not allow it to slip even on a smooth surface.
Color spectrum
The solar power bank is available to consumers in green, blue and yellow colors.
Even with a strong discharge, making an urgent call with such equipment is not a problem, since it is always possible to recharge the phone, and for free. For this, neither sockets nor wires are needed, because environmentally friendly and affordable solar energy is always available.
All you need to use it is a power bank.
Weight and dimensions
This model has them no more than the devices it can recharge, i.e. The charger fits not only in a woman’s purse, but also in a pocket.
Since the device is capable of accumulating the energy of the Sun, you can recharge the device at any time - even at night. Despite the insignificant thickness of the solar power bank, the capacity of the built-in battery is sufficient.
Charger
If the weather is not sunny, it doesn’t matter, because in addition to the sun, you can charge the device from a PC and the network (via an AC adapter).
Technical indicators
- Battery type – lithium polymer;
- Capacity – 5000 mAh;
- Output voltage - 5V;
- Output current – 1A;
- Dimensions - 142 x 13.6 x 75 mm.
- The housings are made of ABS plastic.
USB port protection
To protect them from dust and moisture, they are reliably protected by a special cover.
Price
TOP 4: SITITEK Sun-Battery SC-09
Review
Solar-powered power banks are inexpensive. Despite this, it is capable of charging any portable device anywhere. It allows you to be independent from the power grid.
A small, inexpensive and energy-intensive power bank will help out in any extreme situation, be it a long trip, a camping trip, fishing, etc.
Advantages
- Decent functionality at an affordable price;
- Robust, small-sized housing;
- Three charging options;
- Anti-slip back panel.
Job
Before use, the built-in battery must be fully charged using any of these methods, then connected to the device that needs charging and press the power key.
A corresponding icon should appear on the screen of the gadget being recharged.
To control charging, press the power button and see how many lights are on:
- one corresponds to 25% charge;
- two – 50%, etc.
The solar panel is located on the front side of the solar power bank, indicators and connectors are on the end. Even in cloudy weather, albeit slower, charging will continue. As a last resort, you can use other options.
Technical indicators
- Built-in battery – lithium-polymer;
- Solar panel – mono;
- Output voltage – 5V;
- Output current – 1A;
- Dimensions – 132x15x70 mm;
- Housing – ABS plastic.
Buy
TOP – 3: Battery KS-is KS-225
Review
The external battery runs on solar radiation, is equipped with an LED flashlight and 2 USB ports. Charges all popular gadgets - navigators, tablets, mobile devices, etc.
Characteristics
- Plastics and metal were used to make the case;
- Output current – 1A;
- Keys – activation and indication;
- Size – 80x132x18 mm;
- Input voltage - 5.5 V;
- Maximum panel power – 1.5 W;
- Weight – 210 grams.
Price
How to choose a device for beginners?
In order not to make a mistake when choosing a Power Bank, it is advisable to decide on the device parameters in advance. If you plan to charge only smartphones or tablets, purchase “banks” whose power is 3–5 W. To charge laptops, it is better to buy a sophisticated power bank with an output voltage of at least 20 V and a charging current of 3 A. And most importantly, always pay attention to the cost of the device.
Chinese devices attract users with their original design and low cost, but in practice they are of little use. This is due to non-compliance with assembly technology and poor quality of materials. Skimping on quality is throwing money away. It is better to give preference to proven global brands that are trustworthy and value their own reputation.
Comments
TOP 2: Solar EK-1 battery
Portable external charging on a solar panel with two USB outputs and an LED flashlight. Its capacity is increased and reaches 20 thousand mAh.
Technical specifications
- Output current max – 2A;
- Output voltage – 5V;
- Power indicator – LED;
- Size – 120 /75/ 22;
- Battery type – lithium-ion;
- Protection – from overheating, overload, short circuit;
- Operating temperature – 0-45 degrees;
- Weight – 272 grams.
Completeness
- Branded packaging;
- Gadget;
- USB micro cable;
- Solar built-in panel;
- USB connector, LED flashlight - yes.
Buy
With such a device, even in camping conditions where there is no electrical energy, it is possible to recharge any mobile gadget with energy. An easy-to-use device powered by solar energy will bring maximum benefit in any conditions, because it is protected from the penetration of moisture and dust.
It will also prepare a pleasant surprise for the user, allowing you to charge two gadgets at the same time.
TOP 1: Coosen Power Bank 20000 mAh Solar
Review
The first place in the TOP-8 was taken by a model with a solar battery with a capacity of 10,000 mAh, which is relevant for people who actively use mobile devices. Their charger will activate, releasing the accumulated solar energy or electricity to a regular household network.
For those who do not want to waste precious minutes lying on the couch, but try to learn more while going on long journeys, a high-tech, lightweight and compact device will help out more than once.
Modern electronics have quite a large reserve of their own energy, however, it is discharged at the most inopportune moments. This is where an external battery comes in handy, which will quickly return them to working condition.
No wonder they have gained such wide popularity. With them, you don’t need to frantically search for an outlet to replenish energy on an almost extinguished screen.
pros
The model under consideration compares favorably with its analogues in the following advantages:
- small in size, allowing the gadget to be carried in a handbag or pocket;
- attractive modern design, which is understandable: to recharge an expensive phone it is absurd to use a bulky device. But with an elegant new product, harmony is not disturbed;
- multivariate, i.e. the ability to charge from the sun and 220 V network;
- LED flashlight;
- significant battery capacity. You can charge your gadget several times using this device.
With an autonomous charger, you can stay longer at a party or go overnight into nature without fear of remaining isolated. Absolutely all models of gadgets (even two at the same time) can be powered by a solar-powered Powerbank.
Characteristics
They are no less interesting:
- energy capacity – 20000 mAh;
- battery type – lithium, designed for 600 full charging cycles;
- connectors – micro USB and regular USB (two);
- dimensions – 125x22x75 mm;
- weight – 250 g;
- output voltage – 5V;
- flashlight and adapters – yes;
- temperature range – minus 20-plus 40.
Preparing for work
Before turning on for the first time, the battery must be completely discharged, and then charged to 100%. When the 4 LEDs on the panel light up, this will mean that the battery is ready for use.
The model is compact and very convenient. On the opposite side of the solar battery there is a powerful LED flashlight, the other is located at the end, next to the USB connectors and the battery full energy indicator.
To activate the large flashlight, you need to hold the button at the end; to light up the small one, press it twice. When you press it three times, the flashlight starts working in strobe mode, and when you press it a fourth time, the big one turns off.
In addition to solar radiation, a gadget with a solar panel can use artificial light and daylight for charging.
Price
Solar panels really exist
The possibility of obtaining solar energy has been talked about for a long time. External batteries are also popular among ordinary users. However, the symbiosis of the two technologies still often brings only disappointment. A power bank with special solar batteries is designed only for illiterate buyers who do not understand the operation of solar storage devices at all.
Small equipment can indeed be charged using a solar panel, but now in stores you can only find camping devices - with large, folding panels.
The main element that distinguishes a solar power bank from similar devices is the same special panel. Sunlight hitting it is converted into electricity, which the drive can share with other devices via a microUSB cable. It is believed that due to operation from the Sun, the power bank can boast of reduced dimensions and weight (if there are plates, then a built-in lithium battery is not needed), as well as operating time.
