Traveling across the country with a bag full of technology can be challenging, especially when your devices start to run out of power away from an outlet. Fortunately, modern power banks have become incredibly efficient and portable, making it easier to keep your gadgets charged on the go. By ensuring your power bank is fully charged before you leave, you can avoid the inconvenience of a dead phone during your travels.
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 various brands, many of which you might not recognize. While these devices are essentially large batteries and relatively simple, opting for an unreliable one can lead to serious issues like overheating or swelling. Trusted brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie are known for their reliable power banks, and now Energizer is also entering the market. The convenience of wireless charging, such as Qi technology, is becoming more common in these batteries, offering a great feature for those who might forget their USB-C cables.
When selecting a power bank, consider its capacity to ensure it meets your device's needs. A 20,000mAh battery pack can typically charge an iPhone twice and a tablet once. For laptops, especially gaming models, you'll need a power bank with at least 45W of output. Having tested numerous power banks, I can 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
1This 10,000mAh power bank features 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 inCan charge multiple devicesCONSNo additional ports for other devicesOpt for a power bank with built-in cables to simplify your travels. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K comes with integrated five-inch Lightning and USB-C cables, making charging easier and more convenient. Belkin ensures the cables are neatly stored in slots on either side of the charger, maintaining a compact size similar to a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.
This power bank is limited to charging via the two built-in cables, so you might need an adapter for less common devices. However, it supports most electronics, including the latest iPhones, through USB-C charging. The 10,000mAh capacity can power up smartphones and some tablets effectively, with a maximum output of 18W for single-device charging. It can charge two devices simultaneously, though this reduces the total output to 23W. Pass-through charging is also supported, allowing you to recharge the power bank while charging another device.
Anker 737 Laptop Charger
Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops
### Anker 737
2This powerful charger keeps your laptop running 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 chargingIncludes an informational displayCONSIt's bulkyLaptops demand more power than phones or tablets, and the Anker 737 meets this need with a total output of 140W, sufficient for most laptops and some gaming models. Its 24,000mAh capacity can fully charge most laptops once or twice.
The main drawback is its size, measuring 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, which is larger than many laptops it charges. Weighing 1.39lbs, it adds significant weight to your bag. Despite its bulk, it's invaluable for on-the-go work, especially during events like CES where power outlets are scarce.
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 powerCONSSlightly bulkyReliable power banks can be pricey, often around $80, but the Charmast power bank offers a 20,000mAh capacity at half that cost. It supports 20W fast charging, though this is less than many premium models. Its design resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K but is thicker and heavier at about 1 inch thick and 0.8lbs. While it may take longer to charge your phone, the trade-off for a budget-friendly option is worthwhile.
Anker MagGo Power Bank
Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging
### Anker MagGo
2The Anker MagGo may not have the largest battery capacity, but it excels in portable wireless charging. 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 10,000mAhWhile many power banks require a cable, fewer support wireless charging effectively. The Anker MagGo uses Qi2 technology for 15W wireless charging, nearing the speed of 20W fast charging. Its slim profile and light weight of 0.44lbs make it easy to carry, though its 10,000mAh capacity limits it to one or two full iPhone charges.
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 one of the smallest yet mightiest options available, fitting easily into a pocket. Despite its size, it holds a 10,000mAh battery, providing multiple smartphone charges. It offers three charging ports—USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB—with fast charging up to 22.5W. Its robust design and LED battery level indicator add to its appeal, and it's available for around $25.
Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W
Best Power Bank for Steam Deck
### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W
0This 65W charger is ideal for the Steam Deck, 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. It can charge the Steam Deck from 0% to 100% in about three hours, thanks to the integrated USB-C cable. Multiple ports allow for charging additional devices, though simultaneous charging may reduce speeds. Its bulkier design weighs around 1lb, but it's manageable and fits well with the Jsaux ModCase for the Steam Deck.
Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
Best Power Bank for Nintendo Switch
### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank
0This 10,000mAh portable battery is designed for the Nintendo Switch, with 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 ports for other devicesCONSAdds bulk to SwitchThe Nintendo Switch's battery life can be limiting, especially with demanding games. The Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank doubles your playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity and 15W output. It's designed to attach directly to the Switch, adding minimal bulk, and includes a built-in USB-C cable. It's versatile enough to charge other devices as well, making it a great accessory for Switch users.
What to Look for in a Power Bank
Capacity
Capacity is crucial when choosing a portable charger, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). A 3,000mAh battery in most flagship phones means you'll need at least that much capacity to double your phone's life. Most power banks offer 10,000mAh or more, providing multiple charges on the go, though some power is lost during transfer.
Ports and charging speeds
Chargers vary in their output capabilities, with some supporting standards like Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. For quick phone charging, aim for at least 20W, ideally 30W. Tablets require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or more to charge effectively. Consider the charger's input speed too; a 20,000mAh battery with only 5W input will 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 in power banks. In fact, doing so could damage them, reducing capacity. Charge your power bank before it's completely depleted or every few months when not in use.
Can you bring portable power banks on a plane?
Yes, you can bring power banks on a plane if they use lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries, but only in carry-on luggage due to fire risk. 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 bank longevity depends on usage, build quality, and capacity. Brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years, while cheaper models vary. Higher capacity batteries tend to last longer. To extend life, avoid overcharging, store in a cool, dry place, and charge fully every three months.