The Perfect Cell Phone Charger for the Outdoors

All of us have a Cell Phone Charger lying around the house and probably don’t ever think about it. Chargers are so common place these days as we use them for cell phones, ipods, computer accessories, etc., but have you ever thought of using a charger for a cell phone while camping? Of course you could hook up a charger to a car, but is there really such a thing as a charger that does not need to be hooked up to external power to charge a phone?

There is definitely a USB Power Adapter that can power your phone without needing to be plugged into a car jack. The name of this Travel Plug Adapter is called the sidewinder. It is powered by man power and can be used virtually anywhere where there is a person.

How does the sidewinder work? Unlike conventional chargers the sidewinder is very unique as it has a turn system that powers your cell phone. There is a winding tab that simple has to be winded to start charging the cell phone.

Have you ever been on a camping trip and something bad happened? Every year many people get caught in a situation where they need help but don’t have a charged cell phone to call for rescue. This type of charger is ideal for any avid camper to make sure that help can be contacted.

By cranking the the winder two revolution per second, the USB Power Adapter will generate enough power to charge your cell phone. This charger produces 5 volts which is enough to give your cell phone another six minutes of precious talk time. It takes about 45 minutes of winding to completely charge a cell phone.

It may sound like a strange device but that will not matter if a true emergency arises. Be prepared and get the charger that works in the dark, in the rain, and virtually any type of situation. You want to get things the right way when marketing with products especially with high-end promotional items. You want to make sure the Cell Phone Charger is of quality and built with good materials. You also want to make sure that it is not a total waste of money. Despite of the product being revolutionary, it may not be worth it when you spend so much. This is why you should consider the price as well. And when we are talking about prices, we all know that we have to focus on the promotional items suppliers that get you the best item quality and the best prices.

The trouble with cheap chargers

Have you ever noticed that your smartphone loses charge over a long car journey, even when you’ve had it plugged in to the cigarette lighter? Or that your phone charges way slower than it should? This happens when you’re using the wrong charger – one that provides too little power to your device.

In this article, we’ll reveal how you can find the right charger for your device, and two more things you can do to ensure that your device charges as quickly as possible.

Let’s explain some terms

An amp is a measure of how much electrical charge is passing through a point in a given time. The higher the number, the faster your device can charge.

Amps are appreviated as ‘A’, while milliamps are ‘mA’. 1A = 1000 mA.

The amount of amps supported by a given device is called its amperage.

Got it? Right, on we go.

Make sure you’re using the right charger

A charger* is a device that re-energises your mobile device’s battery. For simplicity’s sake, at Mobile Fun we use the term to encompass both the charging cable and the charger itself (which sits between the cable and the power source), as these are typically sold as a one piece item.

Chargers usually come with one of three standard connectors – USB-C, Micro USB or Lightning. Other connectors, like Mini USB and Apple 30 Pin, are only seen on older devices.

common-connectors

USB-C is also called USB Type-C. This ovaloid connector can be inserted either way up, and is found on Android and Windows mobile devices made after 2015. You can also find USB-C on some modern Mac and Windows computers.

Micro USB was the most popular connector for non-Apple mobile devices and accessories made between 2008 and 2016. One side is wider than the other, making it look like a squashed semicircle.

Lightning is a connector used by Apple’s mobile devices. It sports prominent gold lines on either side of its slim plug, and it can be inserted either way up.

Mini USB was found on older devices like sat navs, cameras and phones produced before 2008. Its connector is shaped a bit like a trapezoid.

Apple 30 Pin was used for Apple’s mobile devices between 2003 and 2012. Its shape is a thin rectangle, about seven times wider than it is tall.

When you’re buying a charger, it’s important to get the right kind of connector for your device.

Charging Rates

Charge rate of common gadgets

The important thing to realise is that different chargers can charge at very different rates, despite having the same connector. Bigger and more powerful devices will require chargers that operate at a higher amount of milliamps.

For example, an iPhone will require 1.1A, while an iPad will require 2.1A. If you try to charge an iPad using an iPhone charger, you will find that it charges much more slowly or doesn’t charge at all!

The other way around isn’t as much of a problem. If you try to charge an iPhone (1.1A) using an iPad charger (2.1A), then the iPhone will just charge at 1.1A, although it might get a little hotter than normal. Even if you charge an iPod Nano (0.5A) with an iPad charger (2.1A), nothing bad will happen.

If you buy a new charger, it’s important to ensure that you get one that provides at least as much amperage as your device needs. On Mobile Fun, this information should be in the title of each product.

Fast Charging

002_quickcharge_4xSome devices use proprietary ‘fast charging’ standards in order to charge your phone faster when using certain accessories. The most common is Qualcomm’s Quick Charge, which has multiple versions and is used by many Android phone makers including Samsung, Sony and Huawei. For more information about this, check out our guide to Quick Charge. In general though, if your phone has Quick Charge support, you can get a matching Quick Charge charger and get much faster recharge times.

Power Sources

Maximum power available from each source

Once you’ve got the right charger for your gadget, the next consideration is the power source. While most outputs provide enough power, some — like a USB 2.0 port on a computer — won’t provide enough, even if you’re using the perfect charger.

If you’re using a wall socket, there’s more than enough power on tap to charge any mobile device – up to 13A. It’s a similar situation in a car’s cigarette lighter socket, which typically provides up to 12A.

USB ports that you’d find on a computer are a little more complicated. Standard USB ports will only provide 500 mA, but there are also special high power USB ports that provide up to 1500 mA. However, it’s difficult to know which is which at a glance.

Generally, the most important thing to remember is to use wall outlets and cigarette sockets when you can, and USB as a last resort.

Cables

There’s one last little thing that can put a hamper on full power charging is using a dodgy or cheap cable. While the USB cables that come with modern smartphones are good enough, some cheap cables can’t tell the difference between a wall socket (AC power) and a USB port. If you’re plugging in your smartphone to the wall or a car charger and it still reads as USB, you’ll be limited to just 500 mAh – about half of the power that you should be getting. If this happens, you need to replace your cable or charger with a better one.

Summary

To ensure that your device charges at the fastest possible rate, there are two things you should do:

Use a charger that provides at least the maximum amperage your device supports
If your device supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 and other standards, get a compatible charger for the fastest charging speeds
Use mains and car cigarette outlets over computer USB ports

Best iPhone Car Chargers

Looking for the best iPhone car chargers? Most probably, yes! Car chargers for the iPhone that feature the lightning cable are going to be compatible with iPhone.

Having a good car charger can help you keep your iPhone charged up and ready no matter where you go. This is even more helpful if you’re someone who spends a lot of time in commute. Here’s a list of best iPhone car chargers to pick from:

 

How to Choose the Best iPhone Portable Charger

Portable power banks are a lifesaver & are one of the best phone accessories in which you can invest. If you’re a traveler and have had your phone battery die amidst a great adventure, you know the struggle. After a few hours of emailing, picture taking, and navigating, your phone’s battery plummets into single digit territory with no outlet in sight. Luckily, you can now power your phone from your pocket. In this guide, we’ll help you pick the perfect portable charger that’s right for you.

Key Features

Here are some key features to consider:

• Physical Size: Portable chargers come in all shapes, dimensions, and weight. Physical size and battery capacity go hand in hand. If you are looking for an ultra portable charger, you will have to sacrifice battery size.
• Battery Capacity: You’ll want to determine how much power you need and how often you’ll want to charge your power bank. If you’re just looking for a power bank to keep your bag in case of emergencies, a power bank under 5,000 mAh will suffice. If you want to be able to use your power bank multiple times before having to recharge it, aim for one with more than 10,00 mAh.
• USB Ports: The more ports the power bank has, the more devices you can charge. Many chargers come with 2 ports: one 1A port and one 2.1A port.
• Charging Output: Most portable chargers will come with either a 1A or 2.1A output port or both. These numbers denote the maximum rate of charging in amps. So the higher the amperage, the faster the device will charge assuming it’s compatible. A 1A output port is suitable for most smartphones whereas older phones (such as feature phones and flip phones) require a 0.5A port. Tablets, iPads require a 2.1A outport for optimal charging. Power banks capable of charging laptops will likely come with a 3A port.
• Casing and Material: If you plan on using your external battery pack outdoors, you’ll want to choose one made of durable materials like aluminum or silicone.

Recommendations

Below are some recommendations based on different needs and lifestyles.

Size Matters

If you’re used to carrying around your keys, wallet, and phone in your pockets, you probably don’t want to add a bulky power bank to the mix. However, if you could literally fit it in your wallet, you just might be onboard. At 0.17 inches thin and weighing in at only 2 ounces, the Slimger ultra portable charger for mobile devices is perfect for those concerned about bulk. It features a built-in cable and a 1,400 mAh battery. Keep it tucked away in your purse or wallet until a phone emergency arises.

Lots of Power for Multiple Devices

If you’re headed into the wilderness with all your electronic devices in tow, you’re going to need a beast of a power bank. You’re also going to want the external battery to support charging multiple devices at once and be compatible with most laptops (a feature not standard for most portable power banks). The Maxoak Ultra High Capacity external battery packs 50,000 milliamp hours of power. But with great power comes great size (still smaller than most laptops). This would make a great option for those traveling internationally who don’t want to deal with power converters.

Rugged & Durable

If you’re looking for an outdoor companion to tote along at the beach or when you’re hitting the trails, you’re going to want something rugged that can withstand shock, dust, and water. This Kodiac 6000 by Outdoor Tech features a silicone exterior to protect against unexpected drops and water. For something a little more portable, consider the EasyAcc® Power Bank PB9000TP which is equipped with a carabiner–just clip to your backpack and go.

Additional Functionality

Depending on your travel habits, these portable chargers with multiple features or functions may be just for you:

• Bluetooth enabled power bank: Braven BRV-Bank
• Portable charger with built-in cable: Tylt Energi
• Portable charger with flashlight: Winbest BK11904
• Portable power bank with car jumper: Junopower Junojumper
• Portable charger and compact mirror: Pearl 3000 mAh Compact Mirror

Built-in Cases

You’ll never worry about leaving your portable charger at home if it is directly built into your phone case. These cases are ideal for power users who can drain a phone battery before it’s even lunchtime. Mophie’s Juice Packs can double your phone’s battery life depending on which model you choose.

Solar Power

Want to completely ditch the outlet altogether? Now you can, with solar-powered power banks (try saying that five times fast). These would make a great addition for travelers who spend a lot of time outdoors–just clip it to your day pack and start converting sunlight into valuable battery time. Those interested in solar battery chargers can find them on Poweradd and several other online retailers.

Just Plain Fun

Are you one of those people who uses their desk to showcase their awesome collection of figurines or desk toys? Or, maybe you appreciate gadgetry that doesn’t sacrifice quirkiness. There are plenty of portable battery chargers that offer both power and novelty. Are you a Star Wars fan? May the force be with you and your phone with this Darth Vader Lightsaber charger. Show your love for all things Marvel with these Avengers power banks. Charge your phone in true neo-Victorian fashion with this Steampunk portable charger.

Indicated charger type

A device being charged can detect what type of charger is being used through specific voltages on the USB data pins. Because of this, some devices only work with their own special chargers. For instance, an "incorrect" charger may be rejected by an iPhone 3GS or later with the message "Charging is not supported with this accessory".

There are many different charger types, but only a few are used in the chargers I examined. A USB charger that follows the standard is known as a "dedicated USB charger". However, some manufacturers (such as Apple, Sony, and HP) don't follow the USB standard but implement their own proprietary charger types. Apple has separate charger types for 1 amp (iPhone) and 2 amp (iPad) chargers. HP has a special type for the HP TouchPad.

The point is that USB chargers are not interchangeable, and devices may not work if the charger type doesn't match what the device expects. The table below shows the type of charger, the current that the label claims the charger provides, the current it actually provides, and the charger type it indicates to the device.

The types of the counterfeit chargers are a mess, as they advertise one power level, actually supply a different power level, and have the charger type for a third level. For example, the counterfeit iPhone charger is advertised as supplying 1 amp, but has the 2A charger type, so an iPad will expect 2 amps but not obtain enough power. On the other hand, the counterfeit iPad charger claims to supply 2 amps, but really only supplies 1 amp and has a 1A type.

Efficiency

People often wonder how much power their charger is wasting while it's idle, and if they should unplug their charger when not in use. I measured this "vampire" power usage and found the chargers varied by more than a factor of 20 in their idle power usage. The Samsung oblong charger came in best, using just 19 mW; this was so low compared to the other chargers that I measured it again a different way to make sure I hadn't made an error. On the other extreme, the fake iPhone charger used 375 mW. The Apple iPhone charger performed surprisingly badly at 195 mW. If plugged in for a year, this would cost you about 21 cents in electricity, so it's probably not worth worrying about. In the following table, I use the official charger Star Rating System (yes, there actually is such a thing).

I also measured efficiency of the chargers under load.One of the benefits of switching power supplies over simpler linear supplies is they are much more efficient at converting the input power to output. The chargers I measured all did pretty well, with 63% to 80% efficiency. The HP charger was the winner here.