As a frequent traveler across the country, I always carry a bag packed with technology. One of the biggest challenges I face is keeping my devices charged, especially when I'm far from an outlet. Thankfully, modern power banks have become incredibly efficient and portable, making this issue a thing of the past. All I need to do is ensure my power bank is fully charged before I leave home, and I can avoid the frustration of a dead phone while on the move.
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 a substandard one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. It's crucial to opt for reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie, which are known for their reliable power banks. Energizer is also entering the market, adding to the competition. Many of these power banks now support Qi wireless charging, a convenient feature if you forget your USB-C cable.
When selecting a power bank, capacity is key. 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, you'll need a power bank with at least 45W of output, and even more for gaming laptops.
Having tested numerous power banks, I know what to look for and am here to help you find 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 carry extra ones. 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
- Can charge multiple devices simultaneously
Cons
- Lacks additional ports for other devices
Forget the hassle of remembering cables with the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, which features integrated five-inch Lightning and USB-C cables. These cables tuck neatly into slots on either side of the charger for organized storage. Despite the cables, the power bank remains compact, similar in size to a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.
This power bank is limited to charging via the two built-in cables, so you might need an adapter for less common devices. However, most modern electronics, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging, making this a non-issue for most users.
With a 10,000mAh capacity, this power pack can easily recharge smartphones and some tablets. It offers a maximum output of 18W when charging one device via either cable, making it unsuitable for laptops or other high-power devices. iPhones can reach 50% charge in under 30 minutes, and two devices can be charged at once, though the total output drops to 23W. Pass-through charging is also supported, allowing you to recharge the power bank via the USB-C port while charging a device with either the USB-C or Lightning cable.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2This powerful charger can keep 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
- High wattage for fast charging
- Informational display
Cons
- Bulky size
Laptops require more robust charging solutions than phones or tablets, and the Anker 737 delivers with a total output of 140W, suitable for most laptops and some gaming models. It boasts a 24,000mAh capacity, capable of fully charging most laptops once or twice.
The downside is its size; at 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, it's larger than many laptops. Weighing 1.39lbs, it can add significant weight to your bag. Despite its bulk, it's invaluable for working on the go, especially at events like CES where power outlets are scarce.
Charmast Portable Charger
Best Budget Power Bank
### Charmast Portable Charger
4This 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
- Slightly bulky
Reliable power banks can be expensive, often around $80, but the Charmast Portable Charger offers a 20,000mAh capacity at half the price. It supports 20W output, sufficient for fast charging but less than premium models. While it resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, it's thicker and heavier, weighing 0.8lbs. At this price, it's a good trade-off, even if it takes an hour and a half to charge your phone instead of one hour.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2The Anker MagGo offers efficient wireless charging on the go, despite its smaller battery 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 capacity
While many power banks require a cable, few offer wireless charging, and even fewer do it well. Most use the first generation of Qi, limited to 7.5W, but the Anker MagGo supports Qi2, providing 15W output, close to the 20W fast charging standard.
The MagGo is highly portable, weighing just 0.44lbs and only 0.58 inches thick, making it easy to carry. However, its 10,000mAh capacity means it can only provide one or two full charges for an iPhone. It charges quickly, whether wirelessly or via the USB-C port, which supports up to 30W.
Veektomx Mini Power Bank
Best Compact Power Bank
### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0This tiny yet powerful power bank offers 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 is one of the smallest yet most powerful options available. It's pocket-sized, similar to a deck of cards but thinner, and weighs only 5.8oz. Despite its size, it packs a 10,000mAh battery, capable of fully charging most smartphones.
It offers three charging ports: USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB, with fast charging support up to 22.5W for a single device. It also supports pass-through charging. The power bank is built tough with a solid plastic body and an LED battery level indicator, all for around $25.
Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W
Best Power Bank for Steam Deck
### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0This 65W charger is perfect for 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 challenging, even with the improved Steam Deck OLED. The Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W is an excellent accessory, offering a 20,000mAh capacity to provide at least one full charge. It supports 45W charging for the Steam Deck, achieving a full charge in about three hours. A built-in USB-C cable simplifies charging on the go, and additional ports allow for multi-device charging, though speeds may decrease slightly.
Despite its bulk, weighing around 1lb and an inch thick, it's manageable and fits easily into a bag. Jsaux also offers a ModCase for the Steam Deck with a strap to attach the power bank, ensuring the integrated cable reaches the device's port. This power bank is also compatible with 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 your Switch, offering a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports. 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
Cons
- Adds bulk to Switch
The Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limited, especially with demanding games. The Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank is designed specifically for the Switch, attaching directly to it and adding minimal bulk. Its 10,000mAh capacity can double your playtime.
The Switch supports up to 18W charging, but this power bank offers 15W, which is sufficient for quick charging. It includes an integrated USB-C cable that reaches the Switch's port when mounted. It's also compatible with other devices, including the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most crucial specification when choosing a portable charger. Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), a power bank should ideally have at least 3,000mAh to double the battery life of most flagship phones. Most modern power banks offer 10,000mAh or more, providing multiple charges on the go. Keep in mind that some power is lost during transfer, so you won't get the full capacity.
Ports and charging speeds
Chargers vary in their output capabilities, with some supporting standards like Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. For quick phone charging, aim for at least 20W, though 30W is preferable for larger batteries. For iPads, a minimum of 30W is recommended, and for laptops, 45W or 60W is necessary to keep them running. Consider the charger's input speed as well; a 20,000mAh battery with only 5W input will take a long time to recharge.
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 power banks. Doing so can damage the battery and reduce its capacity. Charge your power bank before it's completely depleted or every few months if not in use.
Can you bring portable power banks on a plane?
Yes, you can bring power banks on a plane if they use lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. The TSA allows them only in carry-on luggage, not in checked bags, due to fire risk. The size limit is typically 100Wh or around 27,000mAh, so a standard 10,000mAh power bank is usually fine.
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. Cheaper models may vary. Higher capacity batteries tend to last longer. To extend the life of your power bank, avoid overcharging, store it in a cool, dry place, and charge it fully every three months.
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