As a frequent traveler across the country, I often find my bag packed to the brim with gadgets. The challenge of keeping everything powered up, especially when far from an outlet, has been mitigated by the evolution of power banks. These compact devices have become essential, ensuring I never get stranded with a dead phone as long as I remember to charge the power bank before departure.
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 AmazonWith a plethora of power banks available on Amazon, it's easy to encounter brands you've never heard of. Although power banks are essentially large batteries and not overly complex, choosing a substandard one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. Reputable brands such as Anker, Belkin, and Mophie have established themselves as reliable options, and even Energizer is now making strides in this space. The market's saturation has led to innovations like Qi wireless charging, adding convenience for those who might forget a USB-C cable.
The key is to select a power bank with sufficient capacity to meet your needs. A 20,000mAh battery pack can typically provide two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet. For laptops, especially gaming ones, a power bank with at least 45W of output is essential. Having tested numerous power banks, I'm well-versed in what to look for and aim to help you find the perfect portable charger for your travels.
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 remember them. 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 devicesSay goodbye to the hassle of carrying extra 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, maintaining a clutter-free and compact design that's roughly the size of a smartphone and weighs just half a pound.
While this power bank is limited to these two cables, the majority of modern devices, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging, making it a versatile choice. The 10,000mAh capacity can recharge smartphones and some tablets, with a maximum output of 18W for single-device charging. When charging two devices, the total output drops to 23W. Pass-through charging is supported, allowing you to recharge the power bank via the USB-C port while simultaneously charging a device.
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 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 BIGLaptops demand more robust charging solutions due to their higher power consumption, and the Anker 737 meets this need with a total output of 140W. This capacity is sufficient for most laptops and even some lower-end gaming laptops. Coupled with a 24,000mAh battery, it can fully charge most laptops one to two times.
The downside is its size; the Anker 737 is thicker and taller than most laptops it's meant to charge, and it weighs 1.39lbs. Despite its bulk, it's indispensable for those working on the go, especially at events like CES where I need constant power while writing on the move.
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 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 bulkyHigh-quality power banks can be pricey, but the Charmast Portable Charger offers a cost-effective alternative. With a 20,000mAh capacity, it can charge your phone multiple times, though its output is limited to 20W. It resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K but is thicker and heavier, weighing about 0.8lbs. While it takes longer to charge devices, the trade-off for its lower price makes it a worthwhile option.
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 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 10,000mAhWireless charging power banks are less common, and many use the slower first-generation Qi standard. The Anker MagGo, however, supports Qi2, offering 15W wireless charging, nearly matching the speed of 20W fast charging. Its compact and lightweight design, at just 0.44lbs and 0.58 inches thick, makes it highly portable. While its 10,000mAh capacity limits it to one or two iPhone charges, it compensates with fast charging capabilities via both wireless and USB-C ports.
Veektomx Mini Power Bank
Best Compact Power Bank
### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0This tiny yet powerful charger offers a 10,000mAh capacity and 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 microUSBThe Veektomx Mini Power Bank is exceptionally compact, about the size of a deck of cards but thinner, and weighs only 5.8oz. Despite its small size, it boasts a 10,000mAh battery, capable of fully charging most smartphones. It offers three charging ports: USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB, with outputs ranging from 18W to 22.5W. Its robust design includes a solid plastic body with ribbing for grip 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
0Charge your Steam Deck and other devices quickly with this 65W charger, which includes 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 designThe Steam Deck's battery life can be challenging, but the Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W offers a solution with its 20,000mAh capacity, capable of fully charging the handheld at least once. It supports 45W charging, allowing a full charge in about three hours. The integrated USB-C cable simplifies on-the-go charging, and additional ports enable multi-device charging, though at reduced speeds. Its bulkier design is offset by a ModCase that allows 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
0Enhance your Switch gameplay with this 10,000mAh portable battery that straps onto it, featuring a built-in USB-C and additional ports. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal 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 additional ports to charge other accessoriesCONSAdds bulk to SwitchThe Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limited, making a portable charger essential. The Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank is designed specifically for the Switch, adding minimal bulk while doubling playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity. It supports 15W charging, which is adequate for the Switch's 18W maximum. An integrated USB-C cable ensures convenience, and additional ports allow charging other devices. It's also compatible with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most crucial specification in a portable charger, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). A charger with at least 3,000mAh can double the battery life of most flagship smartphones. Most modern chargers offer 10,000mAh or more, providing multiple charges on the go. Remember, some power is lost during transfer, so you won't get the full stated capacity.
Ports and charging speeds
Chargers vary in their output capabilities, with some supporting standards like Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. For phones, aim for at least 20W, ideally 30W, to charge quickly. iPads require a minimum of 30W, while laptops need 45W or more. Consider the charger's input capacity as well; a high-capacity battery with slow input will take longer to recharge.
Power Bank FAQ
Should you drain your power bank before charging it again?
No, draining lithium-based batteries, commonly found in power banks, can damage them. Charge your power bank before it's completely depleted or every few months if unused.
Can you bring portable power banks on a plane?
Yes, you can bring lithium-ion or lithium metal battery 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 charger is fine.
How long do power banks last?
Power banks typically last 2 to 4 years, influenced by usage, build quality, and capacity. To extend their life, avoid overcharging, store in a cool, dry place, and charge fully every three months.