As someone who travels frequently across the country with a bag packed full of tech, I've faced the common dilemma of devices running out of power far from an outlet. Thankfully, the evolution of power banks has made this a non-issue for me. By ensuring my power bank is fully charged before I leave home, I can keep my devices powered up on the go, avoiding the frustration of a dead phone when I need it most.
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 AmazonNavigating the plethora of power banks available, particularly on platforms like Amazon, can be daunting, especially with the influx of lesser-known brands. While power banks are essentially large batteries, selecting a substandard one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. Established brands like Anker, Belkin, Mophie, and now Energizer, offer reliable options. The market has also seen an increase in power banks with Qi wireless charging, adding convenience for those who might forget a USB-C cable.
When choosing a power bank, capacity is crucial. A 20,000mAh battery can typically provide two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet. For laptops, especially gaming models, a power bank with at least 45W output is necessary. My extensive experience with various power banks has equipped me to help you find the ideal 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 AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output23WPorts1 x USB-C, 1 x LightningSize6.1" x 2.9" x 0.7"Weight0.5lbPROSIntegrated USB-C and Lightning cablesCan charge multiple devicesCONSNo additional ports for other devicesThe Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K simplifies charging with its built-in five-inch Lightning and USB-C cables, ensuring you never forget them. These cables neatly tuck away into slots on the sides of the charger, maintaining a compact and organized design. Despite its convenience, the power bank is limited to these two cables, which might require an adapter for less common devices. However, it's well-suited for most users, especially those with the latest iPhones that support USB-C charging.
With a 10,000mAh capacity, this power bank can charge smartphones and some tablets effectively. It offers a maximum output of 18W for single-device charging, which can bring an iPhone to 50% in under 30 minutes. It also supports simultaneous charging of two devices at a total output of 23W and features 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 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"Weight1.39lbPROSHigh wattage for fast chargingInformational displayCONSSizeable and heavyLaptops demand more power than smartphones or tablets, and the Anker 737 meets this need with a 140W output, suitable for most laptops and some gaming models. Its 24,000mAh capacity can fully charge a laptop one or two times. However, its size and weight—6.13 inches tall, 1.95 inches thick, and 1.39lbs—can be a drawback, especially when added to a bag already carrying a laptop.
Despite its bulk, the Anker 737 is invaluable for those working on the go, particularly at events like CES where power outlets are scarce. It's a reliable choice for ensuring your laptop remains powered during critical moments.
Charmast Portable Charger
Best Budget Power Bank
### Charmast Portable Charger
4This charger offers many features of premium models at half the cost, 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 powerCONSSlightly bulkyReliable power banks often come with a high price tag, but the Charmast Portable Charger offers a cost-effective alternative. With a 20,000mAh capacity, it can charge your phone multiple times, though its 20W output is slower than some premium options. Its design resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K but is thicker and heavier, weighing in at 0.8lbs. While it may take an hour and a half to charge your phone, the lower price makes it an attractive 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 15WCONSLimited to 10,000mAhWhile many power banks support wired charging, fewer offer wireless options, and even fewer do it well. The Anker MagGo supports Qi2, providing 15W wireless charging, close to the 20W fast charging standard. Its compact size—0.44lbs and 0.58 inches thick—makes it highly portable. However, its 10,000mAh capacity limits it to one or two full iPhone charges, though it compensates with quick charging via USB-C.
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 portable, fitting easily into a pocket with dimensions similar to a deck of cards. Despite its size, it boasts a 10,000mAh battery, capable of fully charging most smartphones. It features three ports—USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB—supporting fast charging up to 22.5W. Its durable plastic body and LED battery indicator enhance its appeal, especially at a budget-friendly price of around $25.
Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W
Best Power Bank for Steam Deck
### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0This charger provides 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 designThe Steam Deck's battery life can be a challenge, but the Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W offers a solution with its 20,000mAh capacity and 65W output, capable of fully charging the device in about three hours. Its built-in USB-C cable simplifies charging on the go, and additional ports allow for multi-device charging. Though bulkier, weighing around 1lb, it's manageable and can be attached to the Steam Deck with a ModCase for convenience.
Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
Best Power Bank for Nintendo Switch
### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
0This charger extends your Switch's playtime with a 10,000mAh battery that straps onto the device, featuring a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports. 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 additional portsCONSAdds bulk to SwitchThe Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limiting, but the Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank doubles your playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity. It straps onto the Switch, adding minimal bulk, and features a built-in USB-C cable for easy charging. With a 15W output, it's well-suited for the Switch and compatible with other devices, including the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is the most critical factor when choosing a power bank. Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), a 3,000mAh capacity can double the battery life of most smartphones. A 10,000mAh or higher capacity is standard and can provide multiple charges. Keep in mind that some power is lost during transfer, so you won't get the full capacity.
Ports and charging speeds
Power banks vary in charging capabilities, with some supporting standards like Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. For smartphones, aim for at least 20W, ideally 30W, to charge quickly. Tablets require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or more. Consider the power bank's input speed as well, as a slow-charging power bank can take longer 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 in your carry-on luggage, as long as they use lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. The TSA limits them to 100Wh or around 27,000mAh, so a standard 10,000mAh power bank is typically fine.
How long do power banks last?
Power banks from reputable brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years, depending on usage and capacity. To extend their lifespan, avoid overcharging, store them in a cool, dry place, and charge them fully every three months.
