Can A Cheap Power Bank Damage Your Phone?
If you're shopping for a power bank, you may have noticed there's a wide range of prices. On the upper end, these devices can run over $100, whereas the cheaper ones might cost just a few bucks. While you might be inclined to assume all power banks are basically the same thing no matter the price, that isn't necessarily true. Yes, premium options — like the Sharge Icemag 2, which can both charge and cool your phone — promise efficiency and safety, while cheaper models can offer impressive charging potential at a fraction of the price of reputable brands. However, it's important to note that many inexpensive power banks' listed capacity can be inaccurate. Plus, some are built with recycled, low-quality batteries.
That said, if you're browsing the less pricey end of the power bank market, before you hit "add to cart," you should be aware that a cheap power bank could actually do more harm than good to your phone. Of course, there are some more affordable options that are decent. But some cut-rate models usually lack crucial features like voltage regulation and surge protection that work to protect your phone from short-circuit and overheating. Over time, that can result in battery wear, slow charging, or even serious damage to your phone's internal parts.
But that doesn't mean you've to break the bank to stay charged while engaging on a camping trip. If you're wondering which power bank is worth purchasing, this ranking of every major power bank brand from worst to best is a solid start, as it offers some of the best power banks for every budget and need.
Cheap power banks can damage the internal components of your phone
As tempting as it may be to buy a power bank that doesn't cost much, it may eventually take a toll on your phone's longevity. While some power banks might perform equally well as pricier models, others might damage your smartphone's battery.
Every phone is designed to receive power within a specific voltage range. However, to hit that low price point, cheaper models tend to cut corners when it comes to proper voltage regulation. So if you leave your phone plugged into a less expensive power bank overnight, it will keep charging your phone even after it's fully charged. Of course, you might not notice the damage immediately. However, that constant heat and overcharging will shrink your battery capacity, leading to premature failure.
Leaving aside the possibility of damaging your battery, charging your phone with a cheap power bank might create a safety hazard. Low-quality power banks can eventually lead to explosions or fires, especially if they are built with recycled batteries, flimsy circuit boards, or poor insulation. That said, it's normal for power banks to feel warm while in use; however, overheating is a major red flag that you should not ignore, as it can easily result in a fire.
Key features to look for when buying a safe but affordable power bank (and what to avoid)
When shopping for a power bank, there few things to keep in mind if you want to avoid low-quality models. Checking out this list of the best power banks and wireless chargers is a solid start, especially if you want a model that can handle your next camping trip. However, if you are interested in something more budget-friendly, first ensure that it's certified. To confirm a power bank meets agency standards, check for RoHS, CE, and FCC branding on the back of your power bank. For many, of course, that certification might seem insignificant. However, it does indicate that the power bank has undergone rigorous testing for overheating, short-circuiting, and other potential hazards.
You should also check the output specifications. That 5V/2A label plays a crucial role in protecting your phone against improper charging. A quality power bank will maintain steady voltage, while a cheaper model might deliver fluctuating surges that reduce the functionality of your device's battery. It's also good to research the power bank to see if it has convenient add-ons like overcharge prevention, short circuit detection, and temperature regulation as standard features. Not only will these features protect your smartphone from potential damage, but they will also ensure the longevity of the power bank itself and your devices.