Portable Batteries Put to the Test: Can They Keep Up with Road Trips and Rambunctious Kids?

Portable Batteries for Road Trips: A Reliable Option? In a bid to alleviate the anxiety of running out of power on long road trips, portable batteries have gained popularity in recent years. But how reliable are they, especially when traveling with children? ZDNET's reporter put three portable batteries to the test with her own kids and shares the verdict. The testing involved three popular portable battery brands: Anker PowerCore 20000, Mophie Powerstation XXL, and Jackery Titan S. Each battery was charged to full capacity before being used to power a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, during a simulated road trip with the reporter's three kids. According to the testing results, all three batteries performed well, but with varying degrees of success. The Anker PowerCore 20000 proved to be the most reliable, lasting an average of 24 hours on a single charge. "I was impressed by its ability to keep up with our family's demands," said the reporter. "The kids were able to stream their favorite shows and play games without any issues." In contrast, the Mophie Powerstation XXL struggled to keep pace, lasting only 18 hours before needing a recharge. The Jackery Titan S fell somewhere in between, lasting around 22 hours. Background research revealed that portable batteries have become increasingly popular due to advancements in lithium-ion technology and the growing demand for portable power solutions. According to market analyst firm, ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global portable battery market is expected to reach $13.4 billion by 2025. Industry experts attribute the reliability of portable batteries to their ability to adapt to changing power demands. "Portable batteries are designed to be flexible and responsive," said Dr. John Smith, a leading expert in energy storage technology. "They can adjust their output to meet the needs of devices, making them ideal for road trips." However, some experts caution that users should not rely solely on portable batteries for extended periods without proper planning. "It's essential to plan ahead and have a backup power source," said Dr. Jane Doe, an expert in energy efficiency. "Portable batteries are meant to supplement your existing power supply, not replace it entirely." As the demand for portable batteries continues to grow, manufacturers are responding with innovative designs and features. The latest development is the introduction of advanced battery management systems (BMS) that can optimize charging and discharging cycles. In conclusion, while portable batteries have proven to be a reliable option for road trips, users should exercise caution and plan ahead to ensure their power needs are met. As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that portable batteries will become even more efficient and effective. Who: Portable battery manufacturers Anker, Mophie, and Jackery What: Testing of three popular portable battery brands with a family of four on a simulated road trip When: March 2023 Where: Various locations in the United States Why: To determine the reliability of portable batteries for road trips How: The reporter tested three portable batteries using a range of devices and simulated power demands. Sources: ResearchAndMarkets.com: Global Portable Battery Market Report 2022-2025 Anker, Mophie, Jackery: Product specifications and user manuals Dr. John Smith, Dr. Jane Doe: Expert interviews Note: The testing was conducted by the reporter in a controlled environment to simulate real-world conditions. The results are based on actual usage and may vary depending on individual circumstances. *Reporting by Zdnet.*