As a frequent traveler across the country, I've found that carrying a bag full of tech can be challenging, especially when devices start running out of power far from an outlet. Thankfully, the advent of high-quality, portable power banks has transformed this issue into a minor inconvenience. By ensuring my power bank is fully charged before I leave home, I can keep my devices powered up and avoid being stranded with a dead phone.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Power Banks:
Our Top Pick### Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K
1See it at Amazon### Anker 737
2See it at Amazon### Charmast Portable Charger
4See it at Amazon### Anker MagGo
2See it at Amazon### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0See it at Amazon### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0See it at Amazon### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
0See it at Amazon
A quick search on Amazon reveals hundreds of power banks from lesser-known brands. While these devices are essentially large batteries and not overly complex, choosing an unreliable one can lead to serious issues like overheating or battery swelling. Trusted brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie have established themselves as reliable power bank manufacturers, with Energizer also entering the market. The rise in power banks with Qi wireless charging support reflects the evolving ways we charge our phones, adding convenience for those who might forget a USB-C cable.
When selecting a power bank, it's crucial to consider its capacity. A 20,000mAh battery pack can typically provide about two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet. For laptops, which consume more power, a power bank with at least 45W of output is necessary, with gaming laptops requiring even higher wattage.
Having used numerous power banks, I understand the key features to look for and aim to guide you to the perfect portable charger for your next trip.
Contributions by Danielle Abraham
Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K
Best Power Bank
Our Top Pick### Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K
1This 10,000mAh power bank comes with built-in cables, eliminating the need to pack them separately. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Total output: 23W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x Lightning
- Size: 6.1" x 2.9" x 0.7"
- Weight: 0.5lb
PROS
- Has a USB-C and Lightning cable built-in
- Charges multiple devices
CONS
- Doesn't have additional ports for other devices
The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K simplifies life by including five-inch integrated Lightning and USB-C cables. Belkin ensures these cables are neatly stored in slots on the sides of the charger, maintaining a compact, smartphone-sized design weighing just half a pound. This power bank, however, is limited to charging via these two cables, which might require adapters for less common devices. Despite this, it's suitable for most electronics, including the latest iPhones. With a 10,000mAh capacity, it can easily charge smartphones and some tablets. It offers a maximum output of 18W for single-device charging and supports pass-through charging, allowing simultaneous recharging of the power bank and another device.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2This powerful charger keeps your laptop running all day. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 24,000mAh
- Total output: 140W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Size: 6.13" x 2.15" x 1.95"
- Weight: 1.39lb
PROS
- Tons of wattage for fast charging
- Informational display
CONS
- It's BIG
Laptops require robust charging solutions due to their higher power demands. The Anker 737, with its 140W total output and 24,000mAh capacity, is ideal for most laptops and even some gaming models, offering one to two full charges. Its size, however, is a notable drawback at 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, weighing 1.39lbs, which can add significant bulk to your bag. Despite its size, the Anker 737 is invaluable for those working on the go, especially in scenarios like CES where power outlets are scarce.
Charmast Portable Charger
Best Budget Power Bank
### Charmast Portable Charger
4This portable charger offers many features of the Mophie Powerstation Plus at half the price, though it's bulkier and charges slower. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Total output: 20W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C/Micro combo, 1 x Lightning, 1 x USB-A
- Size: 5.91" x 2.83" x 1.09"
- Weight: 368g
PROS
- 20W fast charging
- Digital display showing remaining power
CONS
- A little bulky
High-quality power banks can be pricey, often around $80. The Charmast power bank, however, provides a 20,000mAh capacity at half the cost, albeit with slower 20W output. Its design resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K but is thicker and heavier at about 1-inch thick and 0.8lbs. While it may take an hour and a half to charge a phone, it's a cost-effective choice for those on a budget.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2The Anker MagGo offers wireless charging on the go, despite its smaller 10,000mAh capacity. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Total output: 15W (Qi2), 30W (USB-C)
- Ports: 1 x USB-C
- Size: 4.09" x 2.78" x 0.58"
- Weight: 0.44lb
PROS
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Qi2 wireless charging at 15W
CONS
- Only 10,000mAh
While many power banks require a cable, the Anker MagGo supports Qi2 wireless charging at 15W, nearly as fast as typical 20W wired charging. Its compact design, weighing just 0.44lbs and 0.58 inches thick, makes it highly portable. However, its 10,000mAh capacity limits it to one or two full charges of an iPhone, though it charges quickly via both wireless and USB-C methods.
Veektomx Mini Power Bank
Best Compact Power Bank
### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0A tiny yet powerful power bank with a 10,000mAh capacity and three charging ports. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Total output: 22.5W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 1 x MicroUSB
- Size: 4.2" x 2.7" x 0.6"
- Weight: 0.36lb
PROS
- Ultra-compact dimensions
- LED battery indicator
CONS
- Includes older microUSB
The Veektomx Mini Power Bank stands out for its compact size, similar to a deck of cards but thinner, and weighs only 5.8oz. Despite its small size, it offers a 10,000mAh battery with fast charging capabilities across three ports: USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB. Its durable plastic body, ribbed for better grip, and LED battery level indicator enhance its usability. At around $25, it's an affordable and efficient choice.
Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W
Best Power Bank for Steam Deck
### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0This 65W charger is perfect for fast-charging the Steam Deck and other devices, featuring a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Total output: 65W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C (cable), 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A
- Size: 6.26" x 2.68" x 1"
- Weight: 1.1lb
PROS
- 65W PD support
- Built-in USB-C cable
CONS
- Bulkier design
The Steam Deck's battery life can be a challenge, but the Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W ensures uninterrupted gaming with its 20,000mAh capacity and 45W charging speed. It includes a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports for multi-device charging. Its bulkier design, weighing about 1lb, is offset by its compatibility with a ModCase that perfectly slots the power bank onto the Steam Deck. It's also suitable for other handheld gaming PCs.
Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
Best Power Bank for Nintendo Switch
### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
0This 10,000mAh portable battery straps onto the Nintendo Switch, offering a built-in USB-C and additional ports for other devices. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Total output: 15W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C (cable), 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Size: 5.3" x 2.8" x 0.7"
- Weight: 0.47lb
PROS
- Attaches directly to Switch
- Includes USB-C cable and additional ports for other accessories
CONS
- Adds bulk to Switch
The Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limiting, but the Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank extends playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity. Designed to strap directly onto the Switch, it adds minimal bulk while offering a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports for other devices. Its 15W output is sufficient for the Switch's charging needs, and it's compatible with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is crucial when selecting a power bank, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). Most flagship smartphones have around 3,000mAh batteries, so a power bank with at least this capacity can double your phone's life. A 10,000mAh or higher capacity is standard, providing multiple charges on the go. Remember, some power is lost during transfer, so you won't get the full capacity stated.
Ports and charging speeds
Different power banks offer varying charging capabilities, with some supporting high-speed charging standards like Power Delivery (PD). Compare the power bank's output with your device's charging speeds and check which ports support these speeds. For phones, a minimum of 20W is ideal, though 30W is better for larger batteries. iPads require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or 60W to charge efficiently. Also, consider the power bank's input speed, as slower input can prolong recharging times.
Power Bank FAQ
Should you drain your power bank before charging it again?
No, it's not necessary to fully drain lithium-based batteries found in most power banks. Doing so can damage the battery and reduce its capacity. Charge your power bank before it's fully depleted or every few months if unused.
Can you bring portable power banks on a plane?
Yes, you can bring power banks on planes as long as they use lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. They must be in carry-on luggage due to fire risk, with a limit of 100Wh or around 27,000mAh, making standard 10,000mAh chargers permissible.
How long do power banks last?
The lifespan of a power bank depends on usage, build quality, and capacity. High-quality brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years, while cheaper models may vary. Higher capacity batteries tend to last longer. To extend their life, avoid overcharging, store them in a cool, dry place, and charge them fully every three months.