As a frequent traveler across the country, I always carry a bag brimming with technology. The challenge is that my devices often run out of power when I'm far from an outlet. Thankfully, the evolution of power banks has made this issue nearly obsolete for me. By ensuring my power bank is fully charged before departure, I can confidently navigate my journeys without the fear of a dead phone.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Power Banks:
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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 a vast selection of power banks from lesser-known brands. While these devices are essentially large batteries and seem simple, choosing a substandard one can lead to serious issues, such as overheating or swelling. It's crucial to opt for reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie, which have established themselves as leaders in reliable power bank manufacturing. Energizer is also making strides in this market. Many modern power banks now support Qi wireless charging, adding convenience, especially if you forget your USB-C cable.
Capacity is key when choosing a power bank. A 20,000mAh battery pack typically offers two full charges for an iPhone and can power a tablet once before needing a recharge. For laptops, especially gaming models, look for a power bank with at least 45W output to ensure adequate power.
Having tested numerous power banks, I understand what features are essential 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 carry them separately. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output23WPorts1 x USB-C, 1 x LightningSize6.1" x 2.9" x 0.7"Weight0.5lbPROSHas a USB-C and Lightning cable built inCharges multiple devices CONSDoesn't have additional ports for other devices
Forget the hassle of packing cables by choosing a power bank with integrated options. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K includes five-inch Lightning and USB-C cables, simplifying your charging needs. Belkin smartly designed these cables to tuck away neatly into slots on either side of the charger, ensuring they stay organized and tangle-free. Despite including cables, the power bank remains compact, roughly the size of a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.
This power bank is limited to charging via the two built-in cables, which might require an adapter for less common devices. However, most modern electronics, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging, making this a minor concern for most users.
With a 10,000mAh capacity, the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K provides ample power for smartphones and some tablets. Its maximum output is 18W when charging a single device through either the Lightning or USB-C cable, making it less suitable for laptops or other high-power devices. Still, it can recharge an iPhone to 50% in under 30 minutes. The power bank supports charging two devices simultaneously, though this reduces the total output to 23W. Additionally, it supports pass-through charging, allowing you to recharge the power bank via the USB-C port while charging another device through the USB-C or Lightning cable.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2This robust charger ensures your laptop stays powered throughout the day. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity24,000mAhTotal output140WPorts1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-ASize6.13" x 2.15" x 1.95"Weight1.39lbPROSTons of wattage for fast chargingInformational display CONSIt's BIG
Laptops demand more power than phones or tablets, necessitating robust charging solutions like the Anker 737. With a 140W output, this power bank can handle most laptops and some gaming models, coupled with a 24,000mAh capacity that can fully charge a laptop once or twice.
The main drawback is its size. The Anker 737 measures 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, which is larger than many laptops it's meant to charge. It weighs 1.39lbs, adding significant weight to your travel bag.
Despite its bulk, the Anker 737 is invaluable for on-the-go work, especially at events like CES where access to power outlets is scarce. It's a reliable companion when you need uninterrupted power during critical projects.
Charmast Portable Charger
Best Budget Power Bank
### Charmast Portable Charger
4This affordable charger offers many features similar to the Mophie Powerstation Plus but at half the cost, though it's bulkier and slower. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity20,000mAhTotal output20WPorts1 x USB-C/Micro combo, 1 x Lightning, 1 x USB-A Size5.91" x 2.83" x 1.09"Weight368gPROS20W fast chargingDigital display showing remaining powerCONSA little bulky
High-quality power banks often come with a hefty price tag, typically around $80. The Charmast Portable Charger, however, offers a 20,000mAh capacity at half the price, though it sacrifices some premium features. Its 20W output still supports fast charging, though it's less powerful than top-tier models.
This charger resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K in design but is thicker at about one inch and weighs 0.8lbs. While it's bulkier and charges slower, it's a cost-effective option, offering a full phone charge in about an hour and a half instead of one hour.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2The Anker MagGo may have a smaller battery capacity, but it excels in offering efficient wireless charging on the go. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output15W (Qi2), 30W (USB-C)Ports1 x USB-CSize4.09" x 2.78" x 0.58"Weight0.44lbPROSExtremely portable and lightweightQi2 wireless charging at 15WCONSOnly 10,000mAH
While many power banks support wired charging, fewer offer reliable wireless charging. Most use the older Qi standard, limited to 7.5W, which charges slowly. The Anker MagGo, however, supports the newer Qi2 standard, providing up to 15W, nearing the speed of 20W fast charging.
The MagGo is exceptionally portable, weighing just 0.44lbs and only 0.58 inches thick, making it easy to carry. However, its capacity is limited to 10,000mAh, offering one or two full iPhone charges. Yet, 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 provides a 10,000mAh capacity with three charging ports. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output22.5WPorts1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 1 x MicroUSBSize4.2" x 2.7" x 0.6"Weight0.36lbPROSUltra-compact dimensionsLED battery indicatorCONSIncludes older microUSB
Though most power banks are already portable, the Veektomx Mini Power Bank stands out with its compact size, similar to a deck of cards but thinner, and weighing just 5.8oz. Despite its small size, it boasts a 10,000mAh battery, sufficient for a full smartphone charge and more.
This power bank offers versatility with three ports: USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB, each supporting fast charging up to 22.5W. It also features pass-through charging 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 ensures fast charging for the Steam Deck and other devices, featuring a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity20,000mAhTotal output65WPorts1 x USB-C (cable), 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-ASize6.26" x 2.68" x 1"Weight1.1lbPROS65W PD supportBuilt-in USB-C cableCONSBulkier 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 essential accessory, offering a 20,000mAh capacity to ensure uninterrupted gameplay. With a 45W output, it can fully charge the Steam Deck in about three hours. It includes a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports for multi-device charging, though this may slightly reduce charging speeds.
Despite its bulkier design, weighing around 1lb and an inch thick, it's manageable and comes with a ModCase for easy attachment to the Steam Deck. 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 attaches to your Switch, offering a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports for charging other devices. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000 mAhTotal output15WPorts1 x USB-C (cable), 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-ASize5.3" x 2.8" x 0.7"Weight0.47lbPROSAttaches directly to SwitchIncludes USB-C cable and an additional USB-A and USB-C ports to charge other accessoriesCONSAdds bulk to Switch
With a maximum battery life of about nine hours, the Nintendo Switch benefits greatly from a portable charger. The Emperor of Gadgets power bank is designed to attach directly to the Switch, doubling playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity while adding minimal bulk. It supports 15W charging, suitable for the Switch's 18W max, and includes a built-in USB-C cable. It also features additional ports for charging other devices and is compatible with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most critical factor when selecting a portable charger. Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), it determines how many times you can charge your device. For smartphones with 3,000mAh batteries, a charger with at least this capacity can double your phone's battery life. Most modern portable chargers have a 10,000mAh capacity or higher, providing multiple charges on the go. Keep in mind that some power is lost during transfer, so you might not get the full capacity stated.
Ports and charging speeds
Different chargers have varying output capabilities, often using standards like Power Delivery (PD) for maximum energy transfer. When choosing a charger, match its output to your device's supported charging speeds. For phones, aim for at least 20W, ideally 30W for faster charging. iPads require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or 60W to outpace their power consumption. Also, consider the charger's input speed, as a large capacity with slow recharge times can be inconvenient.
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. Instead, charge your power bank before it's completely depleted or every few months if it's not in use.
Can you bring portable power banks on a plane?
Yes, you can bring power banks on a plane, but they must be in your carry-on luggage. The TSA restricts them to lithium-ion or lithium-metal batteries and limits them to 100Wh or around 27,000mAh, so standard 10,000mAh chargers are usually fine.
How long do power banks last?
The lifespan of a power bank varies based on usage, build quality, and capacity. Reputable brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years. Cheaper models may have similar longevity, but it's less predictable. Higher-capacity batteries often last longer. To extend the life of your charger, avoid overcharging, store it in a cool, dry place, and charge it fully every three months.