Can A Power Bank Charge a Laptop?

We usually use power banks to keep our smartphones, earphones, cameras, and a myriad of other small electronic gadgets juiced up while we're on the move. But when it comes to laptops – the workhorses of the digital age – can power banks charge them? The answer is yes, they can, but not all power banks can do that. Read on to learn how to choose a power bank that’s up to the task of charging your laptop.

Understanding Laptop Charging Needs

Laptops demand significantly more power to recharge compared to your typical smartphone or digital camera. While a smartphone may require around 2,500 to 3,000 milliampere-hours (mAh) for a full charge, laptops need a much heftier power source because of their larger batteries and higher operating voltage.

The Power Bank's Capacity and Power Output

The first step in selecting a power bank for your laptop is to look at capacity and power output. Capacity is indicated in mAh and gives you a theoretical idea of the power bank's ability to hold energy. For a laptop, you would need, at a minimum, a 20,000mAh power bank.

Power output, on the other hand, is measured in watts (W). To be effective, a power bank must have an output that equals or surpasses what your laptop typically requires to charge. Check your laptop's charger to determine the required wattage, which should be reliably matched by the power bank. Most modern laptops require between 65-100W for charging, so opt for a power bank that can deliver at least 65W to ensure compatibility and efficiency.

Port Considerations

Nowadays, most laptops are equipped with a USB-C charging port, which has made it much simpler for power bank manufacturers to cater to laptop charging. If your laptop charges via USB-C, you'll need a power bank that offers USB-C PD (Power Delivery) with a high output. For laptops without USB-C charging, you'll need to find a power bank that includes a compatible tip or invest in an adaptor.

The Rule of Efficiency

It's important to note that no power transfer is 100% efficient. Losses can occur due to heat generation and voltage conversion, among others. Therefore, a power bank's actual usable capacity is typically around 60-70% of its advertised capability. Factor this in when considering how many charges you'll get for your laptop.

Wrap up!

Therefore, a power bank can indeed charge a laptop, but not just any power bank will do. It must have the right capacity, power output, connectors, and efficiency to meet the needs of your portable workstation. Make sure to do your research, check your laptop's requirements, and read the specifications of the power bank carefully before purchasing. With the correct choice, you’ll expand your workspace to virtually anywhere, free from the tyranny of the charging cable and power outlet.