Power stations
How do portable power stations work?
Portable power stations are just big batteries. They work by storing large amounts of electrical energy, which can be used to recharge or power different gadgets and appliances — from your smartphone to the fridge.
What are some of the best uses for a portable power station?
The most common use for a portable power station is when there's a power outage. They provide home back power so that your refrigerated or frozen food can be saved from the bin! A lot of people also use portable power stations for outdoor activities like camping as well as long road trips and off-grid living. With so much time spent in the sunshine and away from mains power, it makes sense to choose a portable power station with solar charging capabilities. This means you can connect portable solar panels which provide a renewable source of energy for charging phones, tablets, and even power-hungry tech like laptops and Bluetooth speakers.
What size portable power station do I need?
That depends entirely on what you want to use it for. Some of the smaller portable power stations are perfect for spending a night or two away camping in the country. With one of these, you’ll be able to keep your [phone](/phones/mobile-phones/mobile-phones) and other gadgets topped up while you enjoy some fresh air!
The bigger and more expensive power stations are designed as emergency backup generators for your house. That’s because they have larger capacity batteries and higher power output. So, they can support appliances like your fridge, freezer, oven, or microwave until your main power supply is restored. If you’re planning on camping in the middle of nowhere for a few days, one of these would be a good shout too.
How long will a portable power station last?
This can vary from model to model. The more compact and affordable portable power stations won’t last as long as some of the more expensive, feature-packed options. That’s because their batteries will have a lower capacity, which means that they can’t store as much juice.
What else can portable power stations run?
Beyond your essential gadgets and kitchen appliances, portable power stations can keep other household tech running too. If you desperately need your internet connection for that all-important work call, then you can hook up your Wi-Fi router to your power station. Or if your favourite show was just about to start — connecting your TV or radio shouldn’t be a problem. Just make sure your portable power station has an AC socket to support mains-powered tech. Some people also rely on electricity to power essential medical machines. So having a backup power station could literally be a life saver!
- 29.9% APR
Representative (variable) - 29.9%
interest rate (variable) - £1,200
Assumed Credit Limit
*Representative example
Credit, offers and APR are subject to status and determined by the lender. 18+. Requires a Currys flexpay running credit account. Promotional interest rates may be offered on selected products from time to time. Minimum spend & exclusions apply. Missed payments may incur late fees/charges and impact your credit file.
Currys Group Limited is a credit broker under exclusive arrangements with the lender Creation Consumer Finance Ltd. Authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Buy now, pay later (BNPL): Pay full balance by the end of the BNPL promotion period to avoid interest. Any balance left to pay at the end of your BNPL promotion period will incur interest from the date of your purchase.