As someone who travels frequently across the country, I often find myself carrying a bag packed with technology. The challenge arises when my devices start to run out of power far from an outlet. Fortunately, the evolution of power banks has made this issue a thing of the past for me. By ensuring I charge my power bank before leaving home, I can confidently avoid the inconvenience of a dead phone 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 AmazonWhile a simple Amazon search will reveal hundreds of power banks from lesser-known brands, it's crucial to choose wisely. Although these devices are essentially large batteries and not overly complex, opting for a substandard one can lead to issues like swelling and overheating. Trusted brands like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie have established themselves as reliable manufacturers, with Energizer now also entering the market. The widespread availability of power banks has led to innovations such as Qi wireless charging on the go, a convenient feature especially if you forget to pack a USB-C cable.

Above all, selecting a power bank with sufficient capacity is essential to keep your devices running. A 20,000mAh battery pack typically offers about two full charges for an iPhone and can power a tablet once before needing a recharge. For laptops, which require more power, a power bank with at least 45W of output is recommended, with gaming laptops needing even higher.

Having tested numerous power banks, I've gained a clear understanding of what to look for, and my aim is to help you find 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 carry extra ones. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output23WPorts1 x USB-C, 1 x LightningSize6.1" x 2.9" x 0.7"Weight0.5lbPROSComes with built-in USB-C and Lightning cablesCapable of charging multiple devicesCONSNo additional ports for other devicesSay goodbye to the hassle of remembering to pack cables with the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K. This power bank features five-inch integrated Lightning and USB-C cables for convenience. Worried about tangled wires? Belkin has you covered, with each cable neatly tucking away into a slot on either side of the charger. Despite the built-in cables, the power bank remains compact, roughly the size of a smartphone and weighing just half a pound.

While this power bank is limited to charging via the two built-in cables, this isn't a concern for most users since many modern devices, including the latest iPhones, support USB-C charging.

With a 10,000mAh capacity, this power pack provides ample power to recharge smartphones and even some tablets. However, its maximum output of 18W per cable makes it unsuitable for charging laptops or other high-power devices. iPhones can reach 50% charge in under 30 minutes, and it supports simultaneous charging of two devices at a total output of 23W. Additionally, it supports pass-through charging, allowing you to recharge the power bank via the USB-C port while charging another device using either the USB-C or Lightning cable.

2. Anker 737 Laptop Charger

Best Power Bank for Charging Laptops

### Anker 737

2This powerful charger ensures your laptop remains 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"Weight1.39lbPROSOffers substantial wattage for fast chargingFeatures an informational displayCONSSizeable and heavyLaptops demand more power than smartphones and tablets, necessitating robust charging solutions like the Anker 737. With a total output of 140W, this power bank can easily charge most laptops and even some gaming models. It boasts a 24,000mAh capacity, capable of providing one to two full charges for most laptops.

The main drawback is its size. The Anker 737 measures 6.13 inches tall and 1.95 inches thick, which is larger than many laptops it's meant to charge. At 1.39 pounds, it adds significant weight to an already heavy bag.

Despite its bulk, this power bank is invaluable for working on the go, especially during events like CES, where I need constant power for writing while navigating the show floor or traveling in cabs.

3. Charmast Portable Charger

Best Budget Power Bank

### Charmast Portable Charger

4This charger offers similar features to the Mophie Powerstation Plus but at a more affordable price. It's bulkier and charges slower, though. 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"Weight368gPROSProvides 20W fast chargingComes with a digital display showing remaining powerCONSMore bulky than other optionsReliable power banks can be expensive, often around $80. However, you can find budget-friendly alternatives if you're willing to compromise on some features. The Charmast Portable Charger is a great example, offering a 20,000mAh capacity at a lower price point, although with a 20W output, it charges slower than premium options.

Visually similar to the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K, the Charmast is thicker at about 1 inch and heavier at 0.8 pounds. While it provides more capacity for less money, it charges devices in about an hour and a half rather than an hour.

4. Anker MagGo Power Bank

Best Power Bank with Wireless Charging

### Anker MagGo

2The Anker MagGo may not have the highest capacity, but it excels in providing fast wireless charging on the go. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity10,000mAhTotal output15W (Qi2), 30W (USB-C)Ports1 x USB-CSize4.09" x 2.78" x 0.58"Weight0.44lbPROSHighly portable and lightweightSupports Qi2 wireless charging at 15WCONSOnly 10,000mAh capacityWhile many power banks require a cable, few offer wireless charging, and even fewer do it well. Most use the first generation of Qi, limited to 7.5W. However, the Anker MagGo supports Qi2, providing up to 15W, nearly matching the speed of 20W fast charging.

The MagGo is incredibly portable, weighing just 0.44 pounds and only 0.58 inches thick, making it easy to carry. However, its 10,000mAh capacity limits it to one or two full iPhone charges. On the bright side, it charges quickly, whether wirelessly or via the USB-C port, which offers 30W output.

5. 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"Weight0.36lbPROSExceptionally compact with LED battery indicatorCONSIncludes older microUSB portWhile most power banks are already portable, some stand out for their compactness. The Veektomx Mini Power Bank is one of the smallest yet powerful options available. It's pocket-sized, similar to a deck of cards but thinner, and weighs only 5.8 ounces. Despite its size, it delivers a 10,000mAh capacity, providing a full charge and more for most smartphones.

The Veektomx Mini offers versatility with three ports: USB-A, USB-C, and microUSB, all supporting fast charging at 18W to 22.5W for a single device, and it supports pass-through charging.

Built tough with a solid plastic body and ribbed for grip, it also features a convenient LED battery level indicator. Best of all, it's available for around $25, making it a budget-friendly option.

6. Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W

Best Power Bank for Steam Deck

### JSAUX Power Bank 20000mAh 65W

0This 65W charger is perfect for quickly charging your 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"Weight1.1lbPROSSupports 65W Power DeliveryComes with a built-in USB-C cableCONSSomewhat bulkier designThe Steam Deck is known for its short battery life, and even the Steam Deck OLED struggles with demanding games like Baldur's Gate 3. The Jsaux Power Bank 20,000mAh 65W is an excellent accessory, offering a 20,000mAh capacity to provide at least one full charge to the gaming handheld.

With a maximum output of 45W, it matches the Steam Deck's charging speed, taking about three hours to charge from 0% to 100%. The built-in USB-C cable eliminates the need to carry an additional one. It also features a single USB-C port and two USB-A ports for additional devices, supporting multi-device charging at slightly reduced speeds.

Though somewhat bulky at around 1 pound and 1 inch thick, it's manageable and fits easily into a bag. Jsaux offers a ModCase for the Steam Deck that allows you to attach the power bank securely, with the built-in USB-C cable reaching the handheld's port perfectly.

This power bank is also compatible with other handheld gaming PCs.

6. 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 to attach to your Switch, offering a built-in USB-C cable and additional ports to charge other devices. 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 a USB-C cable and additional ports for other accessoriesCONSAdds some bulk to the SwitchThe Nintendo Switch's battery life can be a limiting factor, particularly with power-intensive games. A portable charger is essential, and the Emperor of Gadgets power bank is designed specifically for the Switch. It straps onto the device, adding minimal bulk while doubling your playtime with its 10,000mAh capacity.

The Switch supports up to 18W charging, making the 15W output of this power bank sufficient for quick charging. The built-in USB-C cable is the perfect length to reach the Switch's port when the power bank is mounted.

This power bank is versatile enough to charge other devices, including the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Additional USB-C and USB-A ports are available, and if you're looking for alternatives, consider other Switch battery cases.

What to Look for in a Power Bank

Capacity

Capacity is the key specification to consider when choosing a portable charger. Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), a higher capacity means more charges for your devices. For a smartphone with a 3,000mAh battery, a 10,000mAh power bank should provide at least three full charges. Remember, some power is lost during transfer, so actual capacity may be slightly less than advertised.

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, a minimum of 20W is recommended, but 30W is ideal for larger batteries. For iPads, 30W is the minimum, while laptops may require 45W or 60W to keep up with their power consumption. Ensure the power bank's input capacity is also high enough for quick recharging.

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. Doing so could 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, but they must be in your carry-on luggage due to the risk of fire. The TSA allows lithium ion or lithium metal batteries up to 100Wh or 27,000mAh, so a standard 10,000mAh charger should be fine.

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. To extend the life of your power bank, avoid overcharging, store it in a cool, dry place, and charge it fully every three months.