As someone who travels frequently across the country with a bag packed full of gadgets, the challenge of keeping my devices charged is ever-present. Thankfully, the evolution of power banks has transformed this challenge into a manageable task. By ensuring my power bank is fully charged before I set off, I can confidently avoid the inconvenience of a dead phone or tablet while on the move.

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 vast selection of power banks on Amazon can be daunting, especially with the myriad of lesser-known brands available. While power banks are essentially large batteries and relatively simple, choosing a substandard product can lead to issues like overheating or swelling. For peace of mind, sticking to reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie is advisable. Additionally, the emergence of Energizer in this space adds more reliable options. A notable trend is the integration of Qi wireless charging into these devices, enhancing their utility, particularly when you forget your USB-C cable at home.

The key to selecting the right power bank is ensuring it has sufficient capacity to keep your devices powered. A 20,000mAh battery can typically provide two full charges for an iPhone and one for a tablet. For laptops, which consume more power, a power bank with at least 45W output is essential, with gaming laptops needing even more. From my extensive experience with various power banks, I aim to guide you in choosing the perfect portable charger for your next trip.

Contributions by Danielle Abraham

1. 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 devicesOpt for the convenience of a power bank with built-in cables like the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, which includes five-inch integrated Lightning and USB-C cables. These cables cleverly tuck away into slots on either side of the charger, ensuring organized storage. Despite the cables, the power bank remains compact, roughly the size of a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.

While this model is limited to the two built-in cables, it's suitable for most users as many modern devices, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging. The 10,000mAh capacity is ample for smartphones and some tablets, delivering up to 50% charge to an iPhone in under 30 minutes. 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 battery bank and another device at the same time.

2. 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 BULaptops require robust charging solutions due to their high power demands. The Anker 737 meets this need with a total output of 140W, suitable for most laptops and even some lower-end gaming laptops. Coupled with a 24,000mAh capacity, it can charge most laptops fully once or twice.

The only drawback is its size, measuring 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, and weighing 1.39lbs. While this can add significant weight to your bag, it's indispensable for working on the go, especially in situations like CES events where power outlets are scarce.

3. Charmast Portable Charger

Best Budget Power Bank

### Charmast Portable Charger

4This charger offers similar features to the Mophie Powerstation Plus at half the price, though with more bulk and slower charging. 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 bulkyQuality power banks can be pricey, often costing around $80. However, the Charmast Portable Charger offers a 20,000mAh capacity at half the price, albeit with a 20W output that's slower than premium models. Its design resembles the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K but is thicker and heavier, weighing in at 0.8lbs. While it may charge your phone in an hour and a half instead of an hour, the trade-off for the price is well worth it.

4. 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 those that support it often use the slower first-generation Qi standard. The Anker MagGo, however, supports Qi2, delivering 15W output for nearly fast charging. It's extremely portable, weighing just 0.44lbs and only 0.58 inches thick, though it has a capacity of 10,000mAh, sufficient for one or two full iPhone charges.

5. 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 remarkably small and lightweight, akin to a deck of cards, yet still packs a 10,000mAh battery. It features three charging ports for versatility, including USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB, with outputs ranging from 18W to 22.5W. Its solid plastic body with ribbing for grip and an LED battery level indicator make it a practical and durable choice, all for around $25.

6. Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W

Best Power Bank for Steam Deck

### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W

0Charge your Steam Deck quickly with this 65W power bank that 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 a challenge, but the Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W offers a solution with its 20,000mAh capacity and 65W output. It can fully charge the Steam Deck in about three hours and includes a built-in USB-C cable for convenience. While it's bulkier, weighing around 1lb, it's easy to handle and can attach to the Steam Deck with Jsaux's ModCase, making it ideal for gaming on the go.

6. Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank

Best Power Bank for Nintendo Switch

### Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank

0This 10,000mAh power bank can extend your Switch gameplay and charge 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 extended with the Emperor of Gadgets Portable Power Bank, which straps onto the Switch, adding minimal bulk. With a 10,000mAh capacity and 15W output, it can double your playtime. The integrated USB-C cable is perfectly sized for the Switch, and additional ports allow for charging other devices, making it versatile for gamers.

What to Look for in a Power Bank

Capacity

The most crucial specification when choosing a power bank is its capacity, measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). For most smartphones with a 3,000mAh battery, a 10,000mAh power bank should provide at least three full charges. Remember, there's always some power loss during transfer, so you won't get the full capacity stated.

Ports and Charging Speeds

Power banks vary in their charging capabilities, with some offering higher outputs using standards like Power Delivery (PD). For quick phone charging, aim for at least 20W, though 30W is preferable for larger batteries. iPads require at least 30W, while laptops need 45W or 60W to charge effectively. Consider the charger's input speed too, 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, draining lithium-based batteries fully can damage them. It's best to recharge 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, making standard 10,000mAh chargers permissible.

How long do power banks last?

The lifespan of a power bank varies based on usage, build quality, and capacity. High-quality brands like Anker and Belkin typically last 2 to 4 years. To extend their life, avoid overcharging, store them in a cool, dry place, and charge them fully every three months.