In many parts of the world, a powerbank is a nice-to-have convenience. In Kenya, it's closer to a necessity. Between scheduled and unscheduled power outages, long matatu commutes where your phone is your entertainment, and workdays that run longer than anticipated, running out of charge is a regular risk. A good powerbank removes that risk entirely.

What Capacity Do You Actually Need?

Powerbank capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). A modern smartphone battery typically holds between 4,000mAh and 5,000mAh. Here's a practical guide to what different capacities give you:

10,000mAh: Charges most smartphones 2 to 2.5 times. Slim and pocketable. Good for daily use, commuting, and one-day trips. The wireless magnetic powerbank at KSh 2,000 falls in this range and adds the convenience of wireless charging for MagSafe-compatible phones.

20,000mAh: Charges your phone 4 to 5 times. Can also charge tablets and laptops. Larger and heavier but the right choice for travel, camping, or working from locations with no reliable power.

30,000mAh: The Oraimo PowerBox 300 Lit at KSh 3,850 delivers this capacity, which can charge a phone 6 to 8 times. Ideal if you're frequently away from power outlets or charge multiple devices. Dual USB ports let you charge two devices simultaneously.

Key Features to Look For

Fast charging support: Look for 18W or higher Power Delivery (PD) if you want to charge your phone quickly. Standard 5W charging from older powerbanks is frustratingly slow on modern smartphones.

Pass-through charging: This lets the powerbank charge itself while simultaneously charging your device. Useful when you only have one available socket.

Number of ports: Multiple output ports let you charge a phone and earbuds or a friend's device at the same time.

LED indicators: A clear battery level indicator (percentage readout or at least 4 LED bars) lets you know when the powerbank itself needs charging.