What characteristic do devices that use DC instead of AC power often have in common?

Devices that run on DC power frequently share the characteristic of being battery-powered and mobile. This is primarily due to the nature of direct current (DC) power, which is commonly used in applications where portability is necessary or where batteries serve as the power source. Devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles utilize batteries to provide the necessary DC voltage for operation. Since these devices are designed for mobility, they must be lightweight and compact, making battery power an ideal solution.

In contrast, other options highlight characteristics more typical of alternating current (AC) applications or specific use cases that don't apply to the majority of DC-powered devices. For example, stationary high-power devices generally operate on AC power due to its efficiency in long-distance power transmission and its ability to drive larger motors. Similarly, devices requiring constant voltage adjustments or those used primarily in industrial settings do not align with the standard mobile nature of most battery-operated DC devices.