As a Surface Pro user, you’re likely no stranger to the constant struggle of keeping your device charged, especially when you’re on-the-go. With the rise of power banks, it’s natural to wonder: can you charge a Surface Pro with a power bank? The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as just plugging it in. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of power banks and Surface Pros, exploring the possibilities and limitations of charging your device on the move.
Understanding Power Banks and Surface Pros
Before we delve into the specifics of charging your Surface Pro with a power bank, it’s essential to understand the basics of both devices.
What is a Power Bank?
A power bank is a portable battery charger designed to charge devices on the go. They come in various shapes, sizes, and capacities, but their primary function remains the same: to provide an emergency power boost to your devices when you need it most. Power banks typically feature one or more USB ports, allowing you to charge your devices using a standard USB cable.
What is a Surface Pro?
The Surface Pro is a line of 2-in-1 tablets developed by Microsoft, designed to give users the best of both worlds: the portability of a tablet and the productivity of a laptop. Surface Pros are known for their sleek designs, impressive performance, and long battery life, making them a popular choice for professionals and students alike.
The Challenges of Charging a Surface Pro with a Power Bank
While power banks are incredibly convenient, charging a Surface Pro with one can be a bit more complicated than charging other devices, like smartphones or wearables.
The Power Requirements of a Surface Pro
Surface Pros require a significant amount of power to function, especially when compared to smaller devices. The Surface Pro 7, for example, has a battery capacity of 50.4Wh. This means that a power bank needs to be capable of delivering a substantial amount of power to charge your device effectively.
The Limited Charging Capacity of Power Banks
Most power banks are designed to charge smaller devices, like smartphones, which have much smaller battery capacities. As a result, they may not be capable of delivering the necessary power to charge a Surface Pro. Even larger power banks, with capacities upwards of 20,000mAh, may struggle to charge a Surface Pro from 0 to 100%.
Can You Charge a Surface Pro with a Power Bank?
So, can you charge a Surface Pro with a power bank? The answer is yes, but with some caveats.
Using the Right Power Bank
To charge a Surface Pro with a power bank, you’ll need a high-capacity power bank that can deliver a significant amount of power. Look for power banks with the following specifications:
- A capacity of at least 20,000mAh
- A high-power output, such as QuickCharge 3.0 or USB-C Power Delivery
- Multiple USB ports, including a USB-C port
Using the Right Cable
In addition to the right power bank, you’ll also need the right cable. Surface Pros use a Surface Connect port for charging, which is not compatible with standard USB cables. You’ll need a USB-C to Surface Connect cable or a USB-C to USB-A cable with a Surface Connect adapter to charge your device.
Tips for Charging Your Surface Pro with a Power Bank
Charging your Surface Pro with a power bank requires some finesse, but with the right equipment and a few tips, you can keep your device charged on the go.
Charge Your Power Bank First
Before you try to charge your Surface Pro, make sure your power bank is fully charged. This will ensure that you have enough power to charge your device.
Use the Right Charging Mode
Some power banks come with different charging modes, such as fast charging or trickle charging. Make sure you’re using the right mode for your Surface Pro to ensure efficient charging.
Monitor Your Power Bank’s Capacity
Keep an eye on your power bank’s capacity and make sure you have enough power to charge your Surface Pro. A dead power bank won’t do you much good when you need it most.
Conclusion
Charging a Surface Pro with a power bank is possible, but it requires the right equipment and some knowledge. By understanding the power requirements of your Surface Pro, choosing the right power bank, and following our tips, you can keep your device charged and ready to go, no matter where you are. So, the next time you’re on the move, don’t worry about running out of power – just grab your power bank and keep on going!
Can I charge my Surface Pro with a power bank?
You can charge your Surface Pro with a power bank, but it’s essential to choose a power bank that is compatible with your device. Not all power banks can charge a Surface Pro, so make sure to check the power bank’s specifications before making a purchase. A power bank with a high capacity, high output voltage, and a USB-C or DC Output is recommended.
When selecting a power bank, consider the capacity and output voltage required by your Surface Pro. A higher capacity power bank will provide more charges, while a higher output voltage will ensure your device charges quickly and efficiently. Additionally, look for a power bank with multiple USB ports, so you can charge other devices simultaneously.
What is the recommended power bank capacity for a Surface Pro?
The recommended power bank capacity for a Surface Pro depends on the model and its battery size. Generally, a power bank with a capacity of at least 20,000mAh is recommended for a Surface Pro. However, if you have a larger model, such as the Surface Pro 7, you may need a power bank with a higher capacity, like 30,000mAh or more.
It’s also important to consider the power bank’s efficiency rate, as this will affect the actual capacity available to charge your device. Look for a power bank with a high efficiency rate, typically above 80%, to ensure you get the most out of your power bank.
Can I charge my Surface Pro 7 with a USB-C power bank?
Yes, you can charge your Surface Pro 7 with a USB-C power bank. The Surface Pro 7 supports USB-C charging, and a USB-C power bank can provide the necessary power to charge your device. However, ensure the power bank has a USB-C output that supports Power Delivery (PD) and can deliver at least 20V and 3.25A.
When choosing a USB-C power bank, look for one that has a high capacity, high output voltage, and multiple USB ports. This will ensure you can charge your Surface Pro 7 efficiently and have spare capacity to charge other devices.
How long does it take to charge a Surface Pro with a power bank?
The time it takes to charge a Surface Pro with a power bank depends on the power bank’s capacity, output voltage, and the device’s battery size. Generally, a power bank with a high capacity and high output voltage can charge a Surface Pro quickly, typically within 2-3 hours.
However, the actual charging time may vary depending on the power bank’s efficiency rate and the device’s battery health. Additionally, if you’re using the device while charging, the charging time will be longer. To get an accurate estimate, check the power bank’s specifications and your device’s battery size.
Can I use a power bank to charge my Surface Pro while in use?
Yes, you can use a power bank to charge your Surface Pro while in use, but it depends on the power bank’s capacity and output voltage. A power bank with a high capacity and high output voltage can provide enough power to charge your device while it’s in use. However, the charging speed may be slower than when your device is turned off or in sleep mode.
When using a power bank to charge your Surface Pro while in use, ensure the power bank has a high enough output voltage to meet the device’s power requirements. Additionally, be aware that using a power bank to charge your device while in use may cause the power bank to drain faster.
Is it safe to charge my Surface Pro with a power bank?
Yes, it is safe to charge your Surface Pro with a power bank, as long as you choose a high-quality power bank that is designed for charging devices like the Surface Pro. Look for a power bank with built-in safety features, such as overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and heat protection.
When using a power bank, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for charging your device. Avoid overcharging your device, as this can cause damage to the battery. Additionally, keep an eye on the power bank’s temperature and avoid leaving it in extreme temperatures.
What are some popular power banks for charging a Surface Pro?
There are several popular power banks for charging a Surface Pro, including the Anker PowerCore, Mophie Powerstation, and Jackery Titan. These power banks are known for their high capacity, high output voltage, and durability.
When choosing a power bank, consider the capacity, output voltage, and number of USB ports you need. Additionally, look for power banks with built-in safety features, compact designs, and high-quality construction. Read reviews and compare specifications to find the best power bank for your Surface Pro.