Cranking Up the Power: The 4 Best Hand Crank Chargers

Published on: April 17, 2023
Written by Jonas Frank / Fact-checked by Nova Scarlett

What’s the deal with hand crank chargers? You’ve probably heard a thing or two about these nifty little gadgets, but do you really know the ins and outs of these marvelous energy saviors?

best hand crank chargers

Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of the wonderful world of hand crank chargers. From how they work to their many uses, and even some frequently asked questions, we’ve got you covered!

A Crank Above the Rest: How Hand Crank Chargers Work

A Twist of Genius

At the heart of every hand crank charger is a simple yet ingenious mechanism. When you crank the handle, you’re actually turning a dynamo (a small electric generator), which in turn generates electricity. It’s all about turning your elbow grease into power! How cool is that?

Power Play

The electricity generated by the dynamo is then used to charge a built-in battery, which can store the energy for later use. This way, you can keep cranking away and build up a nice reserve of power that’s ready to go when you need it most.

Charge It Up: Uses for Hand Crank Chargers

You might be thinking, “That’s all well and good, but what exactly can I use a hand crank charger for?” Well, let us count the ways:

  1. Emergency power: When the going gets tough, and the power goes out, hand crank chargers can be real lifesavers. Whether it’s during a natural disaster or just a run-of-the-mill power outage, these little wonders can help keep your devices juiced up and ready for action.
  2. Off-grid adventures: Planning on hitting the great outdoors? Don’t leave home without a hand crank charger! They’re perfect for keeping your gadgets charged up while you’re exploring the wild unknown.
  3. Travel essentials: Don’t let a dead battery ruin your vacation. Hand crank chargers are perfect for those long layovers or unexpected delays when you need to keep your devices powered up and ready to go.
  4. Green energy: Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Hand crank chargers are an eco-friendly way to keep your devices charged without relying on non-renewable energy sources.

Crank and Learn: FAQs about Hand Crank Chargers

How long does it take to charge a device with a hand crank charger?

Well, that depends on a few factors, like the charger’s efficiency and the device’s battery capacity. In general, though, expect to put in some serious cranking time to get a decent charge. But hey, it’s better than being totally out of juice, right?

Are hand crank chargers compatible with all devices?

Most hand crank chargers come with a variety of connectors, so they can work with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to tablets and even some laptops. Just make sure to double-check the compatibility before you buy one.

How long can the stored energy in a hand crank charger last?

The energy stored in a hand crank charger’s built-in battery can typically last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the battery’s capacity and the power draw of the devices you’re charging. Keep in mind that some batteries may gradually lose charge over time if left unused.

Can I use a hand crank charger while my device is in use?

Absolutely! Just crank away and keep your device running without having to pause for a recharge.

A Crank for Every Need: Choosing the Right Hand Crank Charger

With so many hand crank chargers on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is perfect for your needs. Don’t worry; we’re here to help! Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a hand crank charger:

  1. Power output: More powerful hand crank chargers can charge devices faster, but they might also be larger and heavier. Think about what kind of balance between power and portability you’re looking for.
  2. Battery capacity: A charger with a larger built-in battery can store more energy, which means it can charge your devices more times before needing a recharge itself. However, larger batteries can also make the charger bulkier.
  3. Connectors and compatibility: Make sure the hand crank charger you choose has the right connectors to work with your devices. Some chargers also include additional features, like built-in flashlights or radios, which can come in handy in emergency situations.
  4. Durability and build quality: A sturdy, well-built hand crank charger can handle the rigors of outdoor adventures and emergency situations better than a flimsy, cheaply made one. It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it in the long run.

Reviews of Our Recommended Top 4 Hand Crank Chargers, Below-

1. AYTECH SOLUTIONS 10000 mAh Solar Power Hand Crank Charger 

  • Brand: AYTECH SOLUTIONS
  • Manufacturer: Shenzhen Workingda Technology Co., Ltd.
  • Color: Black

This solar charger is a great way to keep your devices charged while on the go. It has a hand-crank feature that makes it easy to use, and it also comes with a 10000 mAh solar power charger that will keep your devices charged for up to 8 hours.

Edges

  • Can be used as a flashlight with built-in LED light
  • Charges phones, tablets, and other USB devices
  • Built-in 10000 mAh battery for long-lasting power
  • Solar panels can recharge the battery in just a few hours of sunlight
  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability

This charger is great! I’ve used it on a few occasions now and it’s really come in handy. It charges quickly and has a long-lasting battery, which is perfect for when I’m out and about. The solar panel is also a nice feature, allowing me to recharge the device even if there’s no power outlet available.

Overall, this is an excellent product and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable solar charger.

Pros

  • Durability: well-designed and good quality build
  • Power capacity: charges phone multiple times
  • Emergency use: great for power outages and emergencies
  • Charging speed: charges phone quickly
  • Crank issues: crank is flimsy and difficult to use

2. Esky Hand Crank 2000mAh Power Bank Phone Charger

  • Brand: Esky
  • Manufacturer: Esky
  • Color: Red
  • Dimensions: Height: 2.5 Inches Width: 3.1 Inches Length: 5.9 Inches 
  • Weight: 0.471875 Pounds

This radio is amazing! It’s small and lightweight, yet still has a really clear sound. The hand crank is really easy to use and it charges the radio quickly. But, don’t let a battery charge overnight. The flashlight is also super bright and lasts a long time. This is essential for any emergency kit!

Edges

  • The radio can be used as an emergency power source for charging phones and other devices.
  • The flashlight is bright and can be used to signal for help or illuminate a dark area.
  • The radio has a variety of functions, including AM/FM/NOAA, which makes it a versatile tool in different situations.
  • The hand crank is easy to use and does not require batteries, making it a reliable power source in an emergency situation.
  • The radio is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you in case of an emergency.

Our Recommendations

This radio is incredible! In an emergency situation, it would be a lifesaver. It’s easy to use and very user-friendly. The best part is that it doesn’t require batteries – you can just hand-crank it to more battery power it up. Highly recommend!

Pros

  • Emergency pre: good for emergency situations, reliable
  • Functionality: solar-powered, hand-crank option
  • Versatility: multiple charging options, can charge phone
  • Portability: compact, lightweight, easy to carry

Cons

  • No noticeable cons

3. RunningSnail 4000mAh Solar Hand Crank Charger

  • Brand: DaringSnail
  • Manufacturer: DaringSnail
  • Color: Green
  • Dimensions: Height: 3.18897 Inches Width: 2.48031 Inches Length: 6.2992 Inches Weight: 0.8708259349 Pounds `

This emergency crank weather radio is a great way to be prepared for anything! It has a 4000mAh solar hand crank that can charge the radio, as well as an AM/FM/NOAA function so you can stay up-to-date on the latest weather conditions. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for anything!

Edges

  • The radio is easy to use and can be operated by anyone.
  • The radio is small and portable, making it easy to take with you anywhere.
  • The radio has a long battery life, so you don’t have to worry about it running out of power.
  • The radio is solar-powered, so you don’t have to worry about batteries or charging it up.
  • The radio has AM/FM/NOAA channels, so you can always find something to listen to.

Our Recommendations

This radio is a must-have for any household! It’s small and lightweight, so it’s easy to store and take with you on the go. The solar panel and hand crank make sure you’re never without power, even in an emergency.

The AM/FM/NOAA frequencies keep you informed of what’s going on around you, whether it’s weather updates or your favorite radio station.

Pros:

  • Emergency preparedness: great for power outages and camping trips
  • Versatility: compact and portable multiple ways to charge, flashlight, radio, and alarm
  • Emergency use: great for emergency situations, power outages, and survival kits
  • Cell phone charger: can charge cell phones

Cons: 

  • Radio tuning: difficult to tune to a station

4. FosPower 2000mAh Hand Crank Chargers & Battery Operated

  • Brand: FosPower
  • Manufacturer: FosPower
  • Color: Orange
  • Dimensions: Height: 2.1 Inches Width: 2.9 Inches Length: 6.2 Inches Weight: 0.6834330122 Pounds `

The FosPower Emergency Weather Radio is a great product for anyone who wants to be prepared for severe weather. It has a 2000mAh battery that can power the radio for up to 12 hours, and it also has a USB port so you can charge your phone or other devices.

The radio includes an AM/FM tuner, an NOAA weather band, and an LED flashlight. It’s also lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

Edges

  • The FosPower 2000mAh NOAA Emergency Weather Radio is a portable power source that can be used to charge phones, tablets, and other devices.
  • The radio has a built-in weather station that can be used to track storms and other weather conditions.
  • The radio can also be used as an emergency light source in case of power outages or other emergencies.
  • The radio is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go.
  • The radio is backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure it will last for years to come.

Our Recommendations

I am thoroughly impressed with the FosPower 2000mAh NOAA Emergency Weather Radio! It is very easy to use and it has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion. The radio reception is excellent, and I love the fact that it can be powered by either batteries or a USB port.

The flashlight is also very bright and has come in handy on more than one occasion. Overall, I would highly recommend this product to anyone in the market for an emergency weather radio.

Pros: 

  • Versatility: multiple charging options
  • Portability: compact and lightweight
  • Sound quality: clear audio and loud sound and good radio reception 
  • Multi-functionality: can be used as a radio, flashlight, phone charger, and reading light

Cons:

  • No noticeable cons

The Crank Chronicles: Caring for Your Hand Crank Charger

Crank Maintenance 101

To keep your hand crank charger in tip-top shape, follow these simple maintenance tips:

  • Regularly check the charger for any signs of wear and tear or damage. If you spot anything concerning, it’s best to address it sooner rather than later.
  • Keep the charger clean and free of debris, especially around the moving parts. A bit of compressed air or a soft brush can work wonders in this department.
  • Lubricate the moving parts as needed to ensure smooth operation. Consult your charger’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations on what type of lubricant to use.

Storing Your Charger with Care

When your hand crank charger isn’t in use, store it properly to prolong its life:

  • Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • If the charger has a built-in battery, it’s a good idea to give it a full charge before storing it for long periods. This can help maintain the battery’s health and capacity.

In Conclusion: Cranking Up Your Preparedness

There’s no doubt about it: Hand crank chargers are a versatile and essential tool for anyone who wants to stay connected and powered up, no matter what life throws at them. Whether you’re an avid outdoors enthusiast, a world traveler, or just someone who wants to be prepared for emergencies, a hand crank charger is an investment worth making.

So go on, give it a whirl, and see for yourself how these marvelous little gadgets can change the way you think about charging your devices. And remember, in the world of hand crank chargers, the power is quite literally in your hands!

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