New Nitecore 8,000mAh power bank works at very low temperatures

Nitecore has unveiled the Summit Air, a 4.8-oz power bank that is designed to deliver nearly its full output even at extremely low temperatures. Its 8,000mAh rating is difficult to interpret in terms of practical use. The same applies to watt-hours, with Nitecore listing a rated energy of 23.5Wh, equivalent to 4,700mAh at 5V with a 3A draw. The actual capacity is 28Wh, or 8,000mAh at 3.6V.

The power bank's performance claims in freezing are particularly noteworthy. At -4°F, 80 percent of its capacity is supposed to remain available, which would be equivalent to just over 19Wh. According to Nitecore, capacity drops to 60 percent at -40°F. This would still provide 14Wh of usable energy, assuming power is drawn at 3A and 5V. Moreover, the Summit Air can also be used at high temperatures of up to 140°F. However, Nitecore specifies a charging temperature range of 32°F to 122°F. This should make the power bank suitable for cold winters, even when it is carried in a backpack with only limited insulation from the cold. Nitecore also markets the Summit Air for mountaineering in particular.

As with the power pack introduced recently, Nitecore's specifications indicate that the Summit Air does not use an internal heater. It therefore consumes no additional energy to keep the battery at operating temperature. The power bank is designed to remain operable while wearing gloves. Nitecore has also added an illuminated ring around the USB ports to make them easier to locate in the dark. The device is rated IPX8.

The Summit Air can deliver up to 22.5W to a connected device and supports voltages of up to 12V. It is therefore primarily intended for charging smaller devices. Nitecore lists the Summit Air for $84.95 at its official online store.