What is a power bank and why do you need one?
A power bank is a portable battery that allows you to charge your phone, tablet, or other device without a power outlet. It is an essential item for camping, traveling, and emergency preparedness.
What does mAh mean in practice?
mAh (milliampere-hour) indicates the capacity of a power bank — the higher the number, the more charges you get. But how does that translate in practice?
- 10,000 mAh — charges a typical smartphone (3,500 mAh) about 2–2.5 times
- 20,000 mAh — charges a phone 4–5 times or a tablet 1–2 times
- 30,000 mAh — charges a phone up to 7–8 times, suitable for longer trips
Note: The actual capacity is always lower than stated because energy is lost as heat during charging (typically 20–30%).
Key features to consider when choosing a power bank
Charging power (watts)
Charging power determines how quickly a device charges. Look for a power bank with at least an 18W fast charger — it charges your phone significantly faster than basic chargers.
- 5–10 W: slow basic charging
- 18–22.5 W: fast charger, suitable for most phones
- 45–65 W: also suitable for laptops
Ports
Check that the power bank has enough ports. The ideal combination is USB-C + 2× USB-A, which allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Size and weight
- 10,000 mAh: fits in a pocket, weighs ~200 g
- 20,000 mAh: bag-sized, weighs ~400–500 g
- 30,000 mAh: backpack-sized, weighs ~600–700 g
Green Cell power banks — a reliable choice
Northlund's selection includes high-quality Green Cell power banks from 10,000 mAh to 30,000 mAh. All models feature a fast charger and multiple ports.
- Green Cell 10,000 mAh — compact and lightweight, USB-C + 2× USB-A
- Green Cell 20,000 mAh — 22.5 W fast charger, QuickCharge 3.0
- Green Cell PowerPlay 30 — 30,000 mAh, 22.5 W, 4 ports
Explore all power banks at Northlund and find the model that suits your needs.