As someone who travels frequently across the country with bags brimming with tech gadgets, I've encountered the common issue of devices running out of power far from an outlet. Thankfully, modern power banks have become so advanced and portable that this problem is largely a thing of the past. I just make sure to charge my power bank before leaving home, and I rarely find myself 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 brands you might not recognize. While these devices are essentially large batteries and not overly complex, using a subpar one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. It's crucial to choose a reliable power bank to avoid such risks.
Leading the pack in terms of reliability are brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie. Even Energizer has entered the market, offering quality options. The variety of power banks available means many now support Qi wireless charging, adding convenience, especially if you forget your USB-C cable.
When selecting a power bank, it's vital to consider its capacity. A 20,000mAh battery can typically provide two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet. For laptop charging, look for a power bank with at least 45W output, as gaming laptops require even more power.
Having tested numerous power banks over the years, I understand what makes a great portable charger. My aim is to guide you in choosing the perfect one 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 remember to pack 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 devicesOpt for a power bank with integrated cables to simplify your charging needs. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K includes five-inch Lightning and USB-C cables, which can be neatly tucked away into slots on the device. Despite the cables, it 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 may need an adapter for less common devices. However, most modern electronics, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging, making this less of an issue.
With a 10,000mAh capacity, this power pack can fully charge smartphones and some tablets. It offers a maximum output of 18W per device on either cable, suitable for quick charging of iPhones, reaching 50% in under 30 minutes. It supports charging two devices simultaneously at a total of 23W and includes pass-through charging, allowing you to recharge the power bank and a device at the same time.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2This robust charger can keep your laptop 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 BIGLaptops 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 fully charging most laptops once or twice, including some lower-end gaming laptops.
The main drawback is its size; it's 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, which can be cumbersome, especially when added to a bag already carrying a laptop. Weighing 1.39lbs, it adds noticeable weight, but its utility in keeping your laptop charged during extended work sessions, such as at events like CES, makes it indispensable.
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 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 bulkyReliable power banks can be pricey, often around $80. The Charmast power bank, however, offers a 20,000mAh capacity at half the price, though with a 20W output, it charges slower than premium models.
Resembling the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, this charger is slightly thicker and heavier at about 1-inch thick and 0.8lbs. While it may take an hour and a half to charge your phone, the trade-off for a more affordable price is worth considering.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2The Anker MagGo offers excellent wireless charging on the go, despite its smaller 10,000mAh 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 at 7.5W. The Anker MagGo, however, supports Qi2 at 15W, offering near-fast charging speeds of around 20W.
Its portability is unmatched, weighing just 0.44lbs and only 0.58 inches thick, making it an easy addition to any bag. The downside is its 10,000mAh capacity, providing one to two full iPhone charges, but it compensates with quick charging via both wireless and USB-C ports.
Veektomx Mini Power Bank
Best Compact Power Bank
### Veektomx Mini Power Bank
0This tiny yet powerful power bank boasts 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 one of the smallest yet mightiest options available. It's pocket-sized, measuring about the size of a deck of cards but thinner, and weighs only 5.8oz. Despite its small size, it delivers a full charge and more to most smartphones.
With three ports—USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB—it offers versatile charging options with fast charging capabilities of 18W to 22.5W per device. It also supports pass-through charging, making it convenient for recharging on the go.
Built tough with a solid plastic body and ribbed for grip, this power bank is durable and practical. An LED battery level indicator keeps you informed of the remaining charge, and all these features are available for around $25, making it a great value.
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, with 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, even with improvements in the Steam Deck OLED. The Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W is an essential accessory, providing at least one full charge with its 20,000mAh capacity.
With a max charging wattage of 45W, it can quickly charge the Steam Deck, reaching full charge in about three hours. Its built-in USB-C cable eliminates the need for extra cables, and additional USB-C and USB-A ports allow for multi-device charging, though this may slightly reduce charging speeds.
While it's a bit bulky at 1lb and an inch thick, it's manageable and comes with a ModCase that straps the power bank to the Steam Deck, ensuring the built-in cable reaches the device's port perfectly.
This power bank is also compatible with other handheld gaming PCs, making it versatile for gaming enthusiasts.
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 for 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 SwitchThe Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limiting, particularly with demanding games. The Emperor of Gadgets power bank, designed specifically for the Switch, doubles your playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity while adding minimal bulk.
Capable of 15W charging, it's well-suited for the Switch's 18W max charging speed. The integrated USB-C cable reaches the Switch's port when mounted, eliminating the need for an additional cable.
This versatile power bank also works with other devices, including the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, and offers additional USB-C and USB-A ports for charging other accessories.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most crucial spec to consider in a portable charger, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). Most flagship phones have about 3,000mAh batteries, so a power bank with at least this capacity can double your phone's battery life. Standard portable chargers often have a 10,000mAh or higher capacity, offering multiple charges on the go. Keep in mind that some power is lost during transfer, so you might not get the full capacity.
Ports and charging speeds
Chargers vary in their capabilities, with some supporting higher charging speeds via standards like Power Delivery (PD). Compare the charger's output with your device's supported charging speeds and check which ports offer these speeds. For phones, aim for at least 20W, ideally 30W, to charge quickly. Tablets require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or 60W to outpace their power consumption.
Consider the charger's own recharging speed as well. A 20,000mAh battery with only 5W input will take longer to recharge than one with higher input.
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. In fact, fully draining them can damage the battery, reducing 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 or as a personal item. They must use lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries, and there are size limits—typically 100Wh or around 27,000mAh. A standard 10,000mAh charger is usually within these limits.
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 vary in longevity. Higher capacity batteries often last longer. To extend lifespan, avoid overcharging, store in a cool, dry place, and charge fully every three months.
