Elecom just dropped what it claims is the world’s first consumer-grade sodium-ion power bank, a potential game-changer for portable batteries. Dubbed the Na+ Sodium-Ion Mobile Battery, this 9,000mAh pack ditches lithium in favor of sodium, a cheaper, more abundant alternative that’s also safer and better for the environment.

A Greener Alternative to Lithium-Ion Batteries

Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, which depend on scarce metals like lithium and cobalt, sodium-ion batteries use sodium, an element that’s way easier to source. That means less destructive mining, fewer ethical concerns, and a cleaner disposal process. If sodium-ion tech catches on, it could ease supply chain pressures and make battery production less of an environmental nightmare.

One of the biggest perks of Elecom’s new power bank? It works in extreme temperatures. While lithium-ion cells tend to shut down in the cold, this one can function at a bone-chilling -35°C (-31°F) or in heat up to 50°C (122°F). That makes it a solid pick for anyone spending time outdoors in harsh climates, whether you’re hiking in the snow or sweating through a desert trek.

Sodium-ion tech also brings major safety benefits. Lithium-ion batteries are prone to overheating and, in worst-case scenarios, catching fire. Sodium-ion cells? Much more stable, meaning a lower risk of thermal runaway. Plus, Elecom claims this power bank is rated for 5,000 charge cycles, about ten times what a typical lithium-ion battery can handle before degrading.

Despite its next-gen chemistry, Elecom isn’t skimping on modern charging features. The power bank comes with USB-C PD support, delivering up to 45W, which is enough to power smartphones, tablets, and even some laptops. There’s also an 18W USB-A port for added flexibility. The trade-off? It’s heavier than your average power bank at 350g because sodium-ion batteries aren’t as energy-dense as lithium. But at 87×31×106mm, it’s still compact enough to carry around.

As for real-world usage, a fully charged 9,000mAh battery can juice up a 1,800mAh smartphone approximately 2.9 times or a 3,000mAh smartphone about 1.7 times.

Pricing and Availability

Elecom is launching the Na+ Sodium-Ion Mobile Battery in black (DE-C55L-9000BK) and light grey (DE-C55L-9000LGY) for 9,980 yen (~$68). It’s up for preorder on Elecom’s Direct Shop now, with a limit of three per customer. No word yet on when (or if) it’ll be available internationally.

In related news, Baseus has recently introduced a 100W power bank featuring a retractable cable, digital display, and smart cooling.

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