Feel like your power banks never last as long as you expected? The device might not be the one at fault. Just like smartphone batteries, there are a few things to consider with mobile power banks and chargers to ensure they last longer. Many power banks noticeably lose power over time—often not so much because of technical defects, but due to incorrect handling. As such, many of the most common mistakes can be easily avoided with a bit of know-how.
We will show you which typical everyday mistakes will slowly ruin your power bank and how you can easily extend its lifespan.
1. Incorrect charging behavior: Too often or too empty
The next trip is coming up and of course it makes sense to charge the power bank properly beforehand. What actually sounds quite logical is unfortunately one of the most common mistakes, as many people charge their power bank when it’s still half full or almost full. Just like a smartphone battery, this leads to battery wear in the long term.
But the opposite—regularly letting the power bank run completely empty—is also problematic. Ideally, it should be recharged as soon as the capacity has dropped to around 20 to 30 percent.
2. Temperatures that are too high or too low
Batteries don’t like it too hot or too cold. If you leave your power bank in the car in summer or transport it outside in winter, you risk permanent damage. Temperatures above 95 degrees or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit cause the chemical processes in the battery to change, which reduces the capacity and charging ability in the long term. Therefore, always store your power bank at room temperature if possible and avoid direct sunlight.
3. Using cheap cables and chargers
A common and often underestimated mistake is charging with poor or non-certified cables and power supply units. These often do not provide the necessary current stability, which not only slows down charging, but also puts a strain on the battery in the long term. In the worst case, they can lead to overheating or short circuits. You should therefore only use high-quality accessories, ideally those recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Incorrect storage
Even if you rarely use your power bank, it still needs attention. If it’s stored unused for weeks or months—especially when empty—it can permanently lose capacity. For longer storage, the battery level should be around 50 to 60 per cent. Dry, cool places are ideal (i.e. not window sills, cars or near a radiator).
5. Overcharging or leaving it constantly connected
Modern power banks usually have protection mechanisms against overcharging. However, if you leave your device plugged in all the time, for example overnight or at work, it often remains at 100 percent, which stresses the battery in the long term. Lithium-ion batteries are particularly sensitive to permanent maximum voltage. It’s better to charge selectively and disconnect as soon as the battery is full.
6. Infrequent use or continuous idling
Powerbanks benefit from regular, but not excessive use. If you only use them once or twice a year, you risk damaging the battery completely through deep discharge. Even when switched off, a battery slowly discharges itself.
A short charging cycle every 2 to 3 months helps to keep the cells active and avoid total failure.
7. Using it with incompatible devices
Not every power bank is suitable for every device. For example, if you want to charge power-intensive laptops with a simple 5V/2A power bank, you are overloading the system. The same applies if charging protocols such as Quick Charge or Power Delivery are not supported, which can lead to inefficient or even harmful charging. So be sure to check in advance whether your power bank meets the requirements of your devices.
8. Poor quality housing and workmanship
Physical damage is not just visual. A power bank that is dropped, scratched, or exposed to moisture can be damaged internally—often without visible consequences. You should therefore look for solid housings, good workmanship and, if necessary, invest in a case or cover for transport.
You should pay particular attention to customer reviews, especially for inexpensive non-name products.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.