Working while you travel? For many, a reliable power source has become essential to stay connected and productive on the go. Whether you’re a digital nomad, business traveler, or simply someone who loves the convenience of working from anywhere, a portable laptop charger power bank can be a lifesaver. But, with so many options available, how can you choose the best one?

In this guide, we will look into everything you need to know about purchasing the best laptop power bank, including battery size, ports, and compatibility. Plus, we’ll also give tips on how to use a power bank for laptops easily. In the end, you can choose the best option for your power needs, travel, and budget!

Inside this Article:

• Portable Laptop Charger Power Bank: What It Is and Why You Need One
• Laptop Power Bank: Key Features to Look For
• How to Use Power Bank for Laptop: First-Time Charging Tips
• Boost Your Power Bank’s Lifespan: Essential Tips to Keep It Going

Portable Laptop Charger Power Bank: What It Is and Why You Need One

A power bank for laptop is a small, rechargeable battery pack that you can use to charge your laptop without needing a wall outlet. It stores power and can be connected to your laptop with a charging cable, acting as an on-the-go power source. 

Unlike standard phone power banks, laptop chargers typically offer higher power output to match the demands of laptops. They come in various sizes and capacities so that you can charge your laptop once or even several times, depending on the model.

So, Why Do You Need a Power Bank?

Having a portable charger to charge laptop is very useful, especially if you often work outside or travel a lot. It gives you the freedom to work from anywhere—whether it’s a café, airport, or park—without being tied to a power outlet. Plus, it can be a lifesaver during power outages when you need extra power to finish essential tasks or stay connected.

Laptop Power Bank: Key Features to Look For

When picking a laptop power bank, it helps to know the main features to look for. This way, you can choose one that fits your needs, keeps your laptop powered up, and suits your daily routine. So, here are some things to consider:

1. Battery Capacity

Battery capacity shows how much power a power bank can store and give to your laptop. Usually measured in mAh (milliampere-hours) or Wh (watt-hours), this indicates how long do power banks last. For laptops, you’ll need a power bank with a high capacity, often over 20,000mAh or around 50Wh, since laptops need more power than phones or tablets.

To compute how long a power bank can power your laptop, follow these steps:

Step 1: Find Your Laptop’s Power Requirement: Check your laptop charger for its wattage (W), typically between 45W and 65W for most laptops. See the sample picture below.

Image Source: tpstech

Step 2: Get the Power Bank’s Capacity: Look at the power bank’s capacity in watt-hours (Wh) or milliampere-hours (mAh). If it’s in mAh, you can convert it to Wh for easier comparison.

Step 3: Convert mAh to Wh (if needed): Use this formula:
Wh = mAh x Voltage (usually 3.7V for power banks) divide by 1000

For example, if your power bank is 20,000mAh:
20,000 x 3.7 / 1000 = 74Wh

Step 4: Calculate Usage Time: Divide the power bank’s Wh by your laptop’s wattage to estimate usage time.

Usage Time (hours)=Power Bank Capacity (Wh) / Laptop Power (W)

Example: For a 74Wh power bank and a 60W laptop:
74 / 60 = 1.23 hours

This calculation gives you an idea of how long the power bank can keep your laptop running. So, choose a higher-capacity power bank that can power your laptop longer before it needs to be recharged.

2. Port Options

Image Source: Amazon

A portable laptop charger power bank, including those for MacBooks, usually has USB-C or DC ports. USB-C ports are popular for newer laptops and MacBooks because they allow fast charging with higher power. DC ports are often found on older laptops or models that need a specific connector. 

These ports make it easy to connect and charge your laptop or MacBook. Before buying, check the ports on your laptop and the power bank to ensure they’re compatible.

3. Charging Speeds

Charging speed is how quickly a power bank can charge your laptop. Higher speeds are measured in watts (W), with more watts meaning faster charging. Many power banks have fast charging through USB-C ports, providing strong power to charge quickly. Look for power banks labeled “fast charging” or “PD” (Power Delivery) to make sure your laptop charges fast.

4. Size and Weight

When choosing a portable MacBook charger or power bank, consider its size and weight. A lightweight and compact design makes it easier to carry around, especially if you’re often on the go. Large power banks may offer more charging capacity but can be bulkier. Find a balance that suits your needs and fits comfortably in your bag.

5. Cost vs. Quality

When it comes to power banks, you often get what you pay for. While budget-friendly options may seem attractive, investing in a reputable brand can offer better performance, durability, and safety features. So, balance your budget with quality to find the best value.

How to Use Power Bank for Laptop: First-Time Charging Tips

Using a power bank to charge your laptop for the first time? Here’s a quick, easy guide to help you get started. From checking compatibility to understanding the correct way to connect, a little preparation goes a long way. 

So, here are some simple steps for using a power bank with your laptop:

Step 1: Check Compatibility: Ensure your power bank is compatible with your laptop’s charging port (USB-C or DC).

Step 2: Charge the Power Bank First: Fully charge your power bank before using it with your laptop to ensure it has enough power.

Step 3: Use the Right Cable: Connect your laptop to the power bank using the correct charging cable.

Step 4: Turn on the Power Bank (if needed): Press the power button on the power bank if it has one to start charging your laptop.

Step 5: Monitor the Battery Level: Keep an eye on the charging progress and avoid letting your laptop’s battery overcharge.

Step 6: Disconnect When Full: Once your laptop is charged, unplug the power bank to save its power for next time.

Boost Your Power Bank’s Lifespan: Essential Tips to Keep It Going

To make the most of your power bank and keep it working for longer, a few simple care tips can significantly boost your power bank lifespan. By following these tips, you can ensure it’s always ready when needed.

• Avoid Full Drains: Avoid letting the battery go down to 0%. Instead, recharge it when it reaches 20-30%.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Extreme heat or cold can damage the battery, so keep it in a stable environment.
• Use the Right Cables and Ports: Use cables and ports that match the power bank’s requirements to maintain charging efficiency and prevent damage.
• Protect from Drops and Water: Avoid dropping or exposing your power bank to water to prevent permanent damage.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it! Choosing the right portable laptop charger power bank can make all the difference in staying productive on the go. By considering factors like capacity, compatibility, and charging speed, you can pick the perfect laptop power bank to suit your needs. Have peace of mind knowing your laptop is always powered up wherever you are!

Key takeaways:

• A power bank is a portable battery designed to charge laptops on the go. It’s essential for anyone who needs to stay productive while traveling, in places without power outlets, or during power outages.
• Before buying, consider factors like capacity, port compatibility, charging speed, size, and quality to ensure the power bank meets your laptop’s needs.
• Proper care, like avoiding full drains and extreme temperatures, can help extend your power bank’s lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I charge my phone with a laptop power bank? 

Yes, you can charge your phone with a laptop power bank. Most laptop power banks have USB ports that work with phones, too. Just plug in your phone’s charging cable, and it will start charging.

2. How long does it take to charge a laptop with a power bank?

Charging a laptop with a power bank usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on your laptop and power bank’s capacity. Higher-capacity power banks may charge faster, while smaller ones take longer. Check your power bank's output to get a better idea of charging time.

3. Does using a power bank harm my laptop's battery? 

No, using a power bank generally won’t harm your laptop’s battery as long as it’s compatible and meets its power requirements. Most modern power banks are designed with safety features to prevent overcharging or overheating. Just ensure you’re using a portable battery charger for laptop with the correct voltage and output.

Related Articles:

Power Bank Lifespan: How to Maximize Performance & Longevity

How Long Do Power Banks Last: The Truth About mAh

Power Bank in Airplane Travel: What’s Allowed and What’s Not