As a frequent traveler across the country, I've learned the importance of reliable power sources for my tech-heavy bag. Power banks have become essential, ensuring my devices stay charged even when I'm far from an outlet. By simply charging the power bank before I leave, I can avoid the inconvenience of a dead phone or other device during my travels.
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
The market is flooded with power banks from countless brands, some of which you may not recognize. While these devices are essentially large batteries and seem simple, choosing a substandard one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. It's crucial to opt for reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, Mophie, and now even Energizer, which have proven track records in producing safe and effective power banks. Many of these now support Qi wireless charging, adding convenience, especially if you forget a USB-C cable.
When selecting a power bank, capacity is key. A 20,000mAh battery can provide about two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet, while higher output models can even power laptops, especially if they support at least 45W for standard laptops or more for gaming ones. Having tested numerous power banks, I'm here to guide you in choosing 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
1
This 10,000mAh power bank comes with built-in cables, eliminating the worry of forgetting them. 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
Forget the hassle of packing cables with this power bank that includes them built-in. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K comes with five-inch integrated Lightning and USB-C cables for added convenience. These cables neatly tuck away into slots on either side of the charger, maintaining a compact size akin to a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.
While limited to the built-in cables, this power bank suits most users as the latest iPhones and many other devices support USB-C charging. Its 10,000mAh capacity is sufficient for smartphones and some tablets, offering up to 18W of output per device or 23W when charging two devices simultaneously. Pass-through charging is also supported, allowing you to recharge the power bank while using it to charge another device.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2
This powerful charger ensures your laptop stays powered throughout the 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 demand more power than phones or tablets, necessitating robust charging solutions like the Anker 737. With a 140W total output and 24,000mAh capacity, it's capable of charging most laptops fully once or twice, including some lower-end gaming models.
However, its size can be a drawback. At 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, it's larger than many laptops, and at 1.39lbs, it adds significant weight to your bag. Despite its bulk, it's invaluable for events like CES, where power outlets are scarce, and you need continuous power for work.
Charmast Portable Charger
Best Budget Power Bank
### Charmast Portable Charger
4
This portable charger offers many features of the Mophie Powerstation Plus at half the price, though it's bulkier and 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
Reliable power banks often come with a high price tag, but you can find good alternatives at a lower cost by compromising on some features. The Charmast Portable Charger offers a 20,000mAh capacity for multiple phone charges, though its 20W output is slower than premium models.
Resembling the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, this charger is thicker at about 1 inch and weighs 0.8lbs. It's a trade-off for the price, offering slower charging times but still providing significant value for budget-conscious buyers.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2
The Anker MagGo might not have the largest battery, but it excels in wireless charging on the go. 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 offer wired charging, few support wireless charging effectively. The Anker MagGo supports Qi2, offering 15W wireless charging, nearly as fast as typical 20W wired charging.
Weighing just 0.44lbs and only 0.58 inches thick, it's highly portable. Its 10,000mAh capacity is sufficient for one or two iPhone charges, with fast charging options via USB-C or wirelessly.
Veektomx Mini Power Bank
Best Compact Power Bank
### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0
This tiny but powerful power bank provides a 10,000mAh capacity with 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
Compactness is key for some, and the Veektomx Mini Power Bank is one of the smallest yet powerful options. It's as thin as a deck of cards and weighs only 5.8oz, yet it offers a 10,000mAh battery for multiple smartphone charges.
Despite its size, it features three charging ports (USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB) with up to 22.5W output for fast charging. Its solid plastic body and LED battery indicator add to its appeal, all for around $25.
Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W
Best Power Bank for Steam Deck
### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0
Enjoy fast charging for the Steam Deck and other devices with this 65W charger that includes 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 offers a solution. With a 20,000mAh capacity, it can charge the Steam Deck fully at least once, supporting up to 45W for quick charging.
A built-in USB-C cable simplifies charging on the go, and additional ports allow for multi-device charging. Though it's bulkier at around 1lb and 1 inch thick, it's manageable and even comes with a ModCase for easy attachment to the Steam Deck.
Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
Best Power Bank for Nintendo Switch
### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
0
Top off your Switch with this 10,000mAh portable battery that straps onto it while offering a built-in USB-C 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 to charge other accessories
CONS
- Adds bulk to Switch
The Nintendo Switch's battery life can be short, making a portable charger like the Emperor of Gadgets essential. This 10,000mAh power bank straps onto the Switch, doubling playtime with minimal added bulk.
With a 15W output, it charges the Switch efficiently, and the built-in USB-C cable reaches the handheld's port perfectly. It's versatile enough for other devices and compatible with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most crucial aspect of a power bank, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). For a significant boost, choose a power bank with at least 3,000mAh, matching the typical capacity of flagship phones. Most power banks today have at least 10,000mAh, offering multiple charges on the go. Keep in mind that some energy is lost during transfer, so you won't get the full capacity stated.
Ports and charging speeds
Charging capabilities vary, with some power banks supporting standards like Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. For quick phone charging, aim for at least 20W, with 30W being ideal for larger phone batteries. Tablets require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or more. Consider the power bank's input speed as well, as a slow-charging battery 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 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, but only in carry-on luggage. The TSA limits them to 100Wh or about 27,000mAh, so a standard 10,000mAh power bank is typically fine.
How long do power banks last?
Power bank longevity varies based on usage, build quality, and capacity. Reputable brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years. Higher-capacity batteries often last longer. To extend their life, avoid overcharging, store in a cool, dry place, and charge fully every three months.
