In the summer, aside from lots of sunshine, we also leave the house more, making it a perfect combination for needing battery power on long days at the beach and pool. In turn, if we buy a power bank that is charged by solar panels, we would have the perfect combination. Or so we think.
Today we are going to see if these types of devices are really worth it or, on the contrary, we have much cheaper and more interesting options.
solar power bank
We have all seen them at some point, and they knew how to catch our attention. However, if you’re considering buying one, wait. They are not what you think and maybe all you get is throwing money away.
But to see how it really works, we are going to put some examples that we can find on Amazon.
Its price is around 30 $, which is standard in this type of device. It would have 20,000 mAh and its operation would be the same as any other powerbank with the difference that in addition to being able to recharge it by cable from the mains, we could also increase its battery with light alone, at least it is what they say.
If we perform a test, we can see how in about 1 hour in bright light on the range the autonomy of the external battery goes from 25% to 28% (600 mAh). That is, we will have to add the 8 more hours of sunshine on a clear day to be able to charge our mobile, which is probably not even fully charged.
In summary, as an emergency measure may be well, since it would work for us to be able to charge our device, even if it’s 5% if we stay somewhere on the planet, we don’t know how to get back and our phone has run out of battery. However, as a charging station if we go to the beach or to the swimming pool and want to recharge them while we bathe… This is not the solution. We will end up using it like any other, without taking advantage of the cost of having paid for a plate device.
Besides, heat and direct sunlight are not good for our battery. It is true that the solar panel part is prepared, but that does not mean that it does not affect the rest. It will always be at a very high temperature, which is not good for their preservation.
Our opinion? These types of gadgets are designed so that the user who buys them sees a use in them that they really do not have but that once acquired, as it works well in the general appearance of any other powerbank, well, you keep it. However, for the same price you pay for one like this, you can get a higher quality, better brand, and bigger size. Nevertheless, Don’t waste your money on these types of products. unless you need it for specific needs.
Here I leave you another piece of equipment that for the same price has much better characteristics than the previous one. It is true that it does not have plates, but I assure you that you will never use them.