What actually is mAh? How Batteries Really Work.
Most people don't realise it, but the average person owns between 9 and 14 connected devices. From your phone, earbuds, laptop, smartwatch, and camera to your power bank, you have a lot of batteries quietly working in the background.
But how do batteries work? What does mAh mean, and how does it affect your charging speeds?
How do Batteries Really Work?
Inside each lithium-ion battery is a whole system designed to store and release energy for charging.
Each battery is made up of three main parts:
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Anode (–) – usually made from graphite and where lithium ions gather during charging.
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Cathode (+) – made from lithium compounds that release ions when you use the battery.
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Electrolyte – the medium that lets ions travel back and forth between the two.
What does "mAh" Actually Mean?
You have probably seen the words 5,000 mAh, 10,000 mAh, or 20,000 mAh on specifications before, but what difference does it actually make?
mAh or milliampere-hour, is a unit of measurement for a battery's electrical charge capacity. Indicating how long it can power a device before it needs recharging.
But it doesn't mean your phone will charge twice as fast. Instead, it means it can deliver power for longer before needing to be recharged.
If you’re unsure which size you need, here’s a quick guide:
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A 5,000 mAh Slim Pocket Pro Power Bank is perfect for quick top-ups and light daily use.
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A 10,000 mAh Pro Power Bank offers a great balance between portability and power.
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A 20,000 mAh High-Capacity Power Bank (Can source these for you), is ideal for heavy users or when travelling without easy access to power.
Why 10,000 mAh Doesn't Equal Two Full Phone Charges?
Power banks' internal cells store power at around 3.7 volts, while your phone typically charges at 5 volts (more if it supports fast charging). When your power bank converts the stored 3.7V into 5V, a small amount of energy is lost during the conversion (10%). Some power is also lost through your phone's circuitry charging system.
Therefore, a 10,000 mAh Deluxe power bank typically provides about 1.6-2 full phone charges, depending on your phone's battery capacity. This is normal and actually means that your power bank is working correctly and safely.
Does Quality Matter?
Not all batteries are built the same, with efficiency, safety and reliability all key factors.
- Premium Lithium-ion cells = Longer-lasting performance
- Smart Charging Circuits = Minimise energy loss throughout conversion
- Safety Systems = Protection against overcharging, short-circuits and overheating.
How to keep your Battery healthy!
- Store Properly: Keep in a cool, dry place (5-25°C) and avoid direct sunlight or moisture.
- Maintain Charge: Keep your power bank at around 30% charge, even when not in use, to prevent further battery degradation. Make sure to recharge the power bank at least once every 3 months.
- Use Safely: Always use approved, compatible chargers; avoid overcharging; and disconnect devices once charging is complete to prevent unnecessary stress.
- Avoid Extremes: Keep away from water and extreme temperatures (below 0°C or above 35°C).
Bonus Tip: Ready to upgrade your charge? Explore our latest power bank collection and find the power bank that suits you best!
For more tips, check out our full guide to power bank care and maintenance.
