Testing the Anker A1383: Is This 87W Power Bank Your Next Travel Essential?

Updated on

To really put the Anker A1383 to the test, you need to look beyond the flashy numbers on the box and understand what it truly delivers in real-world scenarios. We’ve all seen those power banks that promise the moon but barely charge your phone twice, right? This one, often called the Anker Power Bank (20K, 87W, Built-In USB-C Cable), is designed to be a heavy-hitter, perfect for anyone who needs serious power on the go—think laptops, tablets, and multiple phones. But does it really live up to the hype? That’s what we’re going to figure out together.

Amazon

In this deep dive, we’ll uncover the Anker A1383’s true capacity, how fast it actually charges your gadgets (and itself!), and whether it’s the right fit for your daily adventures or extended trips. You might be wondering, « Why bother testing it myself when Anker already gives specs? » Well, there’s always a bit of a difference between advertised numbers and what you experience day-to-day, especially with power banks due to energy loss. We’ll also cover some crucial tips to make your power bank last as long as possible. So, if you’re looking for a reliable portable charger that can keep up with a demanding digital life, stick around. You might just find your new favorite gadget right here, alongside some recommendations for power bank accessories that make all the difference.

Why Really Testing Your Power Bank Matters

You know that feeling when your phone or laptop battery starts to dip, and you’re miles from an outlet? That’s where a trusty power bank comes in. But here’s the thing: not all power banks are created equal, and their advertised specs don’t always tell the whole story. Performing a real-world test on something like the Anker A1383 isn’t just about satisfying curiosity; it’s about making sure you can actually rely on it when it counts.

What you see on the packaging – like « 20,000mAh » – is the raw capacity of the battery cells inside. But when that power moves from the power bank to your device, there’s always some energy lost as heat, thanks to conversion inefficiencies. This means the actual usable capacity you get is often lower than the headline number. Knowing the real capacity helps you accurately estimate how many times you can charge your devices, saving you from that frustrating moment when your power bank runs dry sooner than expected.

0,0
0,0 étoiles sur 5 (selon 0 avis)
Excellent0%
Très bon0%
Moyen0%
Passable0%
Décevant0%

Aucun avis n’a été donné pour le moment. Soyez le premier à en écrire un.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Testing the Anker
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Beyond capacity, testing helps you understand charging speeds for different devices, especially those power-hungry laptops that need higher wattage. It also lets you see if features like trickle-charging for smaller gadgets actually work as promised. Think of it like kicking the tires on a car before you buy it; you want to make sure it performs where it matters most to you. Plus, understanding how to test helps you keep an eye on your power bank’s health over time, so you can spot any degradation and make it last longer.

Anker A1383: The Specs You Need to Know

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty details of the Anker A1383. This power bank is officially known as the « Anker Power Bank (20K, 87W, Built-In USB-C Cable) », and it’s designed with some pretty impressive numbers on paper.

First off, the capacity is a substantial 20,000mAh, which translates to about 72 Watt-hours (Wh). For most people, that’s enough juice to get through a day or two of heavy device use, or even keep a laptop running for a while. Bizay.fr Avis

When it comes to output, this power bank is quite versatile. You’ll find:

  • One USB-C port: Capable of delivering up to 65W (Power Delivery). This is your go-to for charging laptops and other high-power USB-C devices.
  • A built-in USB-C cable: Super convenient, this cable also provides up to 65W (Power Delivery). No more hunting for a separate cable when you’re on the move! Anker even says it’s designed to withstand over 10,000 bends, which is a nice touch for durability.
  • One USB-A port: This one puts out up to 22.5W, supporting Quick Charge and Huawei Super Charge protocols. Perfect for older phones, accessories, or if you need to charge a non-USB-C device.

Now, here’s a crucial point that can sometimes be a bit confusing: the total output is 87W Max. This isn’t from a single port, but rather the combined output when you’re using multiple ports simultaneously. For instance, you could be getting 65W from one USB-C port (or the built-in cable) and an additional 22W from the USB-A port. If you plug in two USB-C devices, the power gets split, but you’ll still get substantial power to both.

For recharging the power bank itself, speed is key. The A1383 can take in up to 65W via its USB-C port or the built-in cable. If you use a compatible 65W wall charger (and I highly recommend getting a good USB-C PD wall charger for this), you can fully recharge this beast in about 1.5 hours. That’s really fast, especially for a 20,000mAh unit! If you’re using a slower 30W charger, expect it to take around 4.5 hours.

Amazon

In terms of physical characteristics, the A1383 weighs around 430-440 grams (or about 15.5 ounces / 1.3 pounds). Yes, it’s a bit substantial, but for the power it packs, that’s pretty standard, and many users find it acceptable for its build quality. Its dimensions are roughly 15.75 x 7.35 x 2.6 cm (or 6.2″L x 2.89″W x 1.02″Th), making it fairly compact for its capacity. It has a simple plastic casing with an easy-to-read LED display that shows your remaining battery life. resumaker.fr FAQ

Other neat features include trickle-charging mode for low-power devices like Bluetooth headphones or smartwatches (just double-tap the power button for the USB-A port; the USB-C ports adjust automatically). It also supports PPS (Programmable Power Supply), which is great for fast-charging compatible devices like many Samsung phones. And for all you travelers out there, its 20,000mAh / 72Wh capacity is generally approved for airline carry-on, so you can take it with you on your next adventure.

Real-World Capacity: The Truth About 20,000mAh

Okay, let’s talk about something that often trips people up when they buy a power bank: the advertised capacity versus what you actually get. The Anker A1383 proudly boasts a 20,000mAh (milliamp-hour) capacity, and that’s technically true for the cells inside. However, when you’re charging your phone, tablet, or laptop, you’re never going to get a full 20,000mAh out of it. Why? It all comes down to something called energy conversion loss.

Think of it like this: when the power leaves the power bank and goes into your device, it has to go through a conversion process. The power bank’s internal battery typically operates at a lower voltage (around 3.7V), which then gets boosted to the 5V, 9V, 12V, or even 20V that your devices need. This conversion isn’t 100% efficient; some energy is always lost as heat. Sources indicate that this loss can be anywhere from 30% to 45%.

So, what does this mean for the Anker A1383’s 20,000mAh? It means the actual usable capacity you can expect to transfer to your devices typically falls between 11,000mAh and 14,000mAh. That’s a pretty significant difference, right? It’s not a flaw in the Anker A1383 specifically; it’s just a reality of how all power banks work. Every manufacturer faces these same inefficiencies.

To put this into perspective, let’s use a simple formula:
(Power Bank Capacity × 0.65) ÷ Device Battery Capacity ≈ Number of Charges resumaker.fr Prix

For example, if you have a phone with a 3,000mAh battery:
(20,000mAh × 0.65) ÷ 3,000mAh = (13,000mAh) ÷ 3,000mAh ≈ 4.33 charges.

So, instead of expecting to charge your 3,000mAh phone 6-7 times (if you divided 20,000 by 3,000), you’re looking at a more realistic 4-5 charges. This is a crucial piece of information, especially when you’re planning for extended trips without access to wall outlets. Understanding this helps manage your expectations and confirms that even with the losses, the Anker A1383 still offers a substantial amount of usable power for your gadgets.

Putting the Anker A1383 to the Test

Now, let’s talk about the real reason we’re here: how does the Anker A1383 perform when you actually use it? I’ve seen countless reviews, and the general consensus points to a solid performer, especially for its price point. It’s definitely a strong contender for the best power banks for travel.

Amazon

Charging Performance: How Fast Can You Go?

One of the big selling points of the A1383 is its 87W total output, with up to 65W from a single USB-C port or the built-in cable. This isn’t just for show; it genuinely translates to fast charging for compatible devices. resumaker.fr Avantages et Inconvénients

  • Laptops: This is where the 65W USB-C output truly shines. You can expect to charge a 14-inch MacBook Pro to about 50% in under 40 minutes. Users have reported being able to keep their MacBook Pros running for hours, even during demanding tasks like video editing or Photoshop, without needing a wall outlet. It’s a game-changer if you’re working on the go or find yourself in a café with no available plugs.
  • Tablets & Phones: For devices like an iPad, you’re looking at about 1.5 full charges. Newer iPhones, like the iPhone 15 Pro, can get up to 58% battery in just 30 minutes using the built-in cable or the USB-C port. Your average smartphone can be charged anywhere from three to four times, possibly more for smaller battery phones. The PPS support also ensures optimal charging for many Android devices, like Samsung phones, often hitting their maximum supported fast-charging speeds.
  • Low-Current Devices: Got earbuds, a smartwatch, or a small Bluetooth speaker? The A1383 has a « trickle-charging » mode. For the USB-A port, you double-tap the power button to activate it, indicated by a green light. The USB-C ports are smart enough to automatically adjust their output for these smaller devices, which is super handy. No worries about overcharging your tiny gadgets!
  • Multi-Device Charging: While it advertises 87W, remember that’s the total output. You can charge a laptop at 65W from one USB-C port while simultaneously charging a phone or other accessory at up to 22.5W from the USB-A port. This is incredibly useful when you’re juggling multiple gadgets and need to keep them all topped up.

Recharging the Anker A1383 Itself

A powerful power bank is only as good as how quickly it recharges, right? Nobody wants to wait half a day for their backup power source to be ready. The Anker A1383 shines here, too. With a 65W USB-C PD charger, you can bring this 20,000mAh power bank from empty to full in about 1.5 hours. That’s seriously quick for its capacity, meaning you can top it up during a short layover or while grabbing a quick meal. If you only have a 30W charger handy, it’ll still recharge in a reasonable 4.5 hours. This fast input charging is definitely one of its standout features and a big improvement over older, slower-recharging power banks.

Discharge Efficiency: What You Really Get

As we discussed earlier, the actual usable capacity will be less than the advertised 20,000mAh due to conversion losses. During my research, one reviewer mentioned pulling about 53Wh from the 72Wh advertised capacity, which points to a discharge efficiency of around 73%. This aligns perfectly with the 30-45% energy loss figures mentioned by Anker itself for the A1383, which results in about 11,000mAh to 14,000mAh of usable power. While some power banks might perform slightly better or worse, the A1383’s efficiency is generally considered good for its class.

Portability & Design: Practicality on the Go

At around 430-440 grams (15.5 oz / 1.3 lbs), the Anker A1383 is certainly not feather-light. It’s a solid piece of kit, which many users appreciate for its perceived durability. While it might add noticeable weight to a small bag, it’s still compact enough (around 6.2 x 2.89 x 1.02 inches) to slip into a backpack, laptop bag, or even a larger coat pocket.

The built-in USB-C cable is a huge win for convenience. It neatly tucks away into the side of the power bank, eliminating the need to carry an extra cable for your USB-C devices. This small detail significantly enhances its « grab-and-go » appeal, especially for frequent travelers or those who often forget their cables. The robust design of the cable, rated for over 10,000 bends, means it’s built to last through daily use.

Overall, the Anker A1383 truly performs well across the board. It’s fast, versatile, and thoughtfully designed for people who need reliable power for a range of devices, including more demanding gadgets like laptops. resumaker.fr Fonctionnalités

Tools for Testing Your Power Bank

If you’re curious to run your own tests on your Anker A1383 or any other power bank, you don’t necessarily need a lab full of expensive equipment. There are a few accessible tools that can give you a pretty good idea of its actual performance.

1. USB Power Meter

This is probably the easiest and most practical tool for most people. A USB power meter plugs directly into your power bank’s output port, and then your device (like your phone or tablet) plugs into the meter. As your device charges, the meter will show you real-time readings for:

Amazon

  • Voltage (V): How much electrical potential difference there is.
  • Current (A): How much electrical current is flowing.
  • Capacity (mAh/Wh): This is the magic number! It cumulatively measures how many milliamp-hours (or watt-hours) are delivered from the power bank to your device.

Some popular models, like the UM25C or similar, are readily available online. By noting the total mAh delivered once your device is fully charged or the power bank runs out, you get a solid estimate of the real-world usable capacity. Just remember that this measures the output capacity, not the raw cell capacity.

2. Battery Capacity Tester (or Electronic Load Tester)

For those who want a more precise measurement of a power bank’s actual capacity, a dedicated battery capacity tester (often combined with an electronic load) is the way to go. These devices are designed to systematically discharge a power bank and measure the exact amount of energy it delivers. Que Peut-on Attendre de mustang-online.fr ?

Here’s how it generally works:

  1. Fully charge your power bank. This is a critical first step for any accurate test.
  2. Connect the power bank to the tester.
  3. Set a controlled load. The tester will discharge the power bank at a steady rate (e.g., 1A or 2A), mimicking consistent usage.
  4. Run the test. The device will automatically discharge the power bank and measure the energy delivered until it’s depleted.
  5. Review results. The tester will typically display the power bank’s capacity in mAh or Wh, giving you a very accurate reading.

These testers eliminate variables from charging different devices and give you a clearer picture of the power bank’s health and true capacity.

3. Multimeter (More Advanced)

A multimeter is a versatile tool for electrical measurements, and it can be used to check a power bank, though it’s a bit more involved for capacity testing.

  • Voltage Check: You can set a multimeter to measure DC voltage and check the output. A fully charged power bank’s individual cells might read around 4.2V-4.4V, but the output ports are usually regulated to 5V (or higher for PD).
  • Current & Capacity: To measure current and then calculate capacity, you’d need to connect the multimeter in series with a load (like a resistor or a dummy load device) and track how long it maintains a steady current. This requires some calculation (Capacity (mAh) = Current (A) × Time (hours)) and is generally less convenient than a dedicated USB power meter for capacity measurement.

4. Smartphone Apps (Less Accurate)

Some smartphone apps claim to monitor battery performance and can give you some data when your power bank is connected. However, these are generally less accurate for detailed power bank testing, as they usually report what the phone is receiving rather than what the power bank is actually outputting under various loads. Use these for rough estimates or general monitoring, but don’t rely on them for precise capacity measurements.

When testing, always ensure you start with a fully charged power bank after it has been completely drained at least once. This helps ensure the battery management system is calibrated for a more accurate reading. Environmental stability is also a factor; testing in a controlled environment (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F) helps prevent temperature fluctuations from affecting results. gritchen.fr : Ce que les Utilisateurs Disent (Analyse des Avis)

Maximizing Your Anker A1383’s Lifespan

You’ve invested in a quality power bank like the Anker A1383, and naturally, you want it to last as long as possible. Good news! There are some straightforward habits you can adopt to significantly extend its life. Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries, and they have their quirks when it comes to longevity.

1. Don’t Fully Discharge (To 0%) Regularly

This is a big one for lithium-ion batteries. While it won’t instantly kill your power bank, consistently draining it down to 0% before recharging can stress the battery cells and shorten their overall lifespan. Think of it like a muscle; constant strenuous exercise without recovery leads to injury. Instead, try to recharge your Anker A1383 before it completely dies, ideally when it hits around 20-30% charge.

2. Avoid Constant 100% Charging (and « Topping Off »)

On the flip side, keeping your power bank perpetually at 100% can also be detrimental. While modern power banks have protection circuits to prevent overcharging, holding a battery at maximum voltage for extended periods can still cause subtle degradation over time. If you’re not going to use your power bank immediately, or if you’re storing it for a bit, aiming for around a 60-80% charge is often recommended for long-term health.

3. Understand Charge Cycles (and How to Conserve Them)

A « charge cycle » isn’t just one full charge and discharge; it’s a cumulative measure of battery usage equal to 100% of the battery’s capacity. So, if you use 50% of your A1383’s capacity today and another 50% tomorrow, that counts as one full cycle. Most quality power banks like Anker are rated for 300 to 500 charge cycles before their capacity starts to noticeably degrade (typically to about 80% of original capacity). Some high-quality ones might even reach 1,000 cycles.

To conserve charge cycles, consider using a higher-capacity power bank like the A1383. Since it can store more energy, you won’t need to fully discharge and recharge it as often compared to smaller power banks, effectively extending its lifespan. Que Faut-il Attendre de gritchen.fr ?

4. Keep it Cool (and Away from Extreme Temperatures)

Lithium-ion batteries really don’t like extreme temperatures, especially heat. Exposing your power bank to direct sunlight, leaving it in a hot car, or using it in very hot environments can permanently reduce its capacity. Heat accelerates the chemical degradation inside the battery. Always try to store and use your Anker A1383 in a cool, dry place, ideally between 20-25°C (68-77°F).

5. Use It Consistently, But Not Excessively

It might sound counterintuitive, but letting your power bank sit unused for very long periods isn’t ideal either. Batteries perform best when they’re used regularly, maintaining a healthy chemical balance. So, if you don’t use it often, try to cycle it (discharge and recharge it partially) at least once a month or every couple of months to keep it active. Conversely, if you’re a super heavy user constantly cycling it every single day, you’ll naturally hit those 300-500 charge cycles faster. Finding a balance is key.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your Anker A1383 remains a reliable companion for a good long time, delivering consistent power whenever you need it.

Is the Anker A1383 Right for You?

After digging into all the specs, real-world performance, and even how to make it last, the big question remains: Is the Anker A1383 the right power bank for you? I think it boils down to your specific needs and how you typically use your devices.

This power bank is a phenomenal choice for a few key groups of people: Avantages de l’Utilisation de Takumiya.fr

  • The Laptop Warrior: If you frequently work or study on a laptop (especially USB-C powered ones like a MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, or Microsoft Surface) away from wall outlets, the A1383 is a lifesaver. Its 65W USB-C output is powerful enough to keep many laptops charged, letting you extend your productivity for hours. Users rave about its ability to sustain heavy tasks like video editing on a MacBook Pro.
  • The Multi-Device Manager: Do you carry a phone, a tablet, wireless earbuds, and perhaps another gadget or two? The Anker A1383’s combination of 20,000mAh capacity, multiple output ports (including that super handy built-in USB-C cable), and its total 87W output means you can keep several devices topped up simultaneously. No more prioritizing which device gets juice first!
  • The Frequent Traveler: For anyone constantly on the move, whether for work or leisure, the A1383’s airline-approved capacity (72Wh) and rapid recharging capabilities are huge advantages. Being able to fully charge the power bank in 1.5 hours means you can quickly grab power during a layover or short stop, ensuring you’re ready for the next leg of your journey. The built-in cable also reduces clutter in your bag.
  • The Tech Enthusiast: If you appreciate fast charging technologies like Power Delivery and PPS, and you want a robust, reliable power solution from a reputable brand like Anker, this model ticks a lot of boxes. It’s built to last and delivers consistent performance.

Who might find it a bit overkill?
If your primary need is just to charge a smartphone once or twice a day, and you don’t own a laptop or high-power tablet, the A1383’s 20,000mAh capacity and higher price point (around $60-80) might be more than you need. A smaller, less powerful (and lighter) 10,000mAh power bank might be a more practical and portable choice for lighter users.

Amazon

Ultimately, the Anker A1383 is a high-performance, versatile power bank that delivers on its promises. It’s built for those who demand significant, fast power for their essential devices, making it a stellar investment for heavy users and travelers alike. If you resonate with the needs of the « laptop warrior » or « multi-device manager, » then this power bank is definitely worth considering for your everyday carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the actual usable capacity of the Anker A1383?

While the Anker A1383 is advertised with a 20,000mAh capacity, the actual usable capacity you’ll get for your devices is typically between 11,000mAh and 14,000mAh. This difference is due to energy conversion losses (30-45%) that naturally occur when power is transferred from the power bank’s internal battery cells to your devices.

How long does it take to fully recharge the Anker A1383?

The Anker A1383 can be fully recharged in about 1.5 hours if you use a compatible 65W USB-C Power Delivery wall charger. If you’re using a slower 30W PD charger, it will take approximately 4.5 hours. Takumiya.fr est-il Sûr à Utiliser ?

Can the Anker A1383 charge a laptop at 87W?

No, the Anker A1383 provides a maximum of 65W from a single USB-C port or the built-in USB-C cable. The « 87W Max » refers to the total combined output when you are charging multiple devices simultaneously (e.g., 65W from USB-C and 22.5W from USB-A).

Is the Anker A1383 approved for airline travel?

Yes, the Anker A1383 has a capacity of 20,000mAh (72Wh), which falls well within the typical limit of 100Wh (or sometimes up to 160Wh with airline approval) for carry-on luggage on most airlines. This means it’s generally approved for airline travel. Always double-check your specific airline’s regulations just to be safe.

How many devices can I charge at once with the Anker A1383?

You can charge up to three devices simultaneously using the Anker A1383: one via the built-in USB-C cable, one via the USB-C port, and one via the USB-A port. Keep in mind that the total power output is 87W, and this power will be distributed among the connected devices.

What is the trickle-charging mode for, and how do I activate it?

Trickle-charging mode is designed to safely charge low-current devices like wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or Bluetooth headphones without overcharging them. For the USB-A port on the Anker A1383, you can activate this mode by double-tapping the power button, and a green indicator light will typically appear. The USB-C ports on the A1383 are smart enough to automatically adjust their output for low-current devices, so you don’t need to manually activate this mode for them.

How can I make my Anker A1383 power bank last longer?

To extend the lifespan of your Anker A1383, try to avoid regularly draining it completely to 0% and also avoid keeping it constantly at 100% charge. Ideally, keep its charge level between 20% and 80%. Store and use it in moderate temperatures, away from extreme heat or cold. Additionally, using it consistently (but not excessively) is better than leaving it idle for very long periods. Takumiya.fr est-il une Arnaque ?

Laisser un commentaire

Votre adresse e-mail ne sera pas publiée. Les champs obligatoires sont indiqués avec *

Anker Power Bank (20K, 87W, Built-In USB-C Cable)
Skip / Close