Have you ever bought a high-capacity power bank, hoping it could charge your phone multiple times, only to find out it didn't live up to your expectations? Why does your power bank seem to lose charge even when you're not using it? How can you make it last longer and charge your devices more effectively?
Today, we’ll explore the real meaning behind mAh, why your power bank may not perform as expected, and tips to maximize its efficiency!
What is mAh and does the mAh on a battery matter?
mAh, or milliamp-hours, is a measure of battery capacity — essentially, it indicates how much energy a power bank can store. The higher the mAh, the more energy it holds, which translates to more potential charges for your devices.
Here's an overview of how many times the INIU Cougar P63-E1 (25,000mAh) could theoretically charge common devices:
| Device | Potential Charges (Ideal) |
| iPhone 16 | 4.1 Times |
| Samsung S24 Ultra | 3 Times |
| Macbook Pro 13" | 1.3 Times |
| iPad Pro | 1.5 Times |
| Steam Deck | 1.8 Times |
While these numbers seem impressive, real-world experience often falls short. So, why doesn’t your power bank meet these expectations?
Why doesn’t my power bank deliver the promised number of charges?
1. Conversion Efficiency Loss:
No power bank can achieve 100% efficiency. Typically, there is a 10%–20% loss during the conversion from the power bank's stored energy to your device's battery. The INIU Cougar P63-E1 uses premium cells and intelligent charging systems to minimize this loss, but it's still unavoidable.
2. Voltage Differences:
Most power banks output at 5V, while your device's battery usually operates at 3.7V. This voltage difference causes additional energy loss during charging.
3. Usage During Charging:
If you're gaming, streaming, or using GPS while charging, your device consumes power faster, reducing the total effective charges.
Does a powerbank drain when not in use?
Yes! Even if left untouched, power banks experience a slow self-discharge, typically losing 1% to 5% of their power each month. This is a characteristic of lithium-ion batteries.
Why is my power bank draining so fast?
1. Fast Charging Protocols:
Quick charging consumes more power in a shorter time, leading to a faster drain. If your devices support fast charging, they may draw more current than expected.
2. Temperature Sensitivity:
Extreme heat or cold increases internal resistance, causing power loss. Avoid using your power bank in temperatures outside the 10°C - 35°C (50°F - 95°F) range.
3. Multiple Devices Charging:
The INIU Cougar P63-E1 supports multi-device charging. However, when charging multiple devices simultaneously, the output power is divided, leading to quicker drainage.
How to prolong the life of a power bank?
1. Regular Use and Charging:
Even if not used frequently, charge and discharge your power bank every three months to maintain its health.
2. Avoid Overcharging and Over-discharging:
While the INIU Cougar P63-E1 has overcharge protection, it’s still best to unplug it when fully charged. Similarly, avoid depleting its battery to 0% frequently.
3. Store Properly:
Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
How to check your power bank’s health?
1. Power Indicator Lights:
The INIU Cougar P63-E1 is equipped with intelligent power indicators to help you monitor the remaining charge. If the indicator shows a significant drop in capacity over time, it might be time to consider a replacement.
2. Practical Charging Test:
Occasionally, test how many charges it can still provide. If it's far below expectations, your power bank may be aging or damaged.
Understanding the concept of mAh goes beyond just looking at the numbers. It affects your power bank's performance and the way you use it. By understanding its limitations, applying proper maintenance, and making informed choices, you can make the most of your INIU Cougar P63-E1 and keep your devices powered up whenever you need them!
