Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks in 2025-2026

Last updated: December 13, 2025

In our always-connected world, a dead battery can derail your entire day. A quality portable charger keeps you powered up whether you're commuting, traveling, or just away from an outlet. We've tested power banks across all sizes and price points to find the best options for every use case, from pocket-sized MagSafe chargers to high-capacity laptop power banks that keep you productive on the go.

Table of Contents

• How We Test Portable Chargers
• Quick Comparison Table
• Portable Chargers vs Wall Chargers: What's the Difference?
• What to Look For in Portable Chargers
• How to Choose the Right Capacity
• Product Reviews
  • Anker 737 Power Bank - Best Overall
  • Anker 622 MagGo - Best for iPhone
  • Baseus 20,000mAh Power Bank - Best Value
  • Mophie Powerstation XL - Best for Travel
  • Nitecore NB10000 - Best Ultralight
• Understanding Charging Speeds
• Detailed Comparison Table
• Which Capacity Do You Need?
• Airline Regulations
• Care Tips for Portable Chargers
• Common Mistakes When Buying Portable Chargers
• FAQ
• Final Verdict

How We Test Portable Chargers

We evaluate portable chargers and power banks based on comprehensive testing across multiple criteria to ensure our recommendations are reliable and accurate. Our testing process includes:

• Capacity accuracy - We test actual capacity versus advertised capacity to ensure you get the power you pay for, accounting for efficiency losses
• Charging speed and output - We measure actual output wattage and charging speeds across different devices to verify performance claims
• Build quality and durability - We assess materials, construction, and long-term reliability through extended use and stress testing
• Portability and weight - We evaluate size, weight, and form factor to determine real-world portability for different use cases
• Safety features - We check for overcharge protection, temperature management, and safety certifications to ensure safe operation
• Display and user experience - We assess display accuracy, button responsiveness, and overall ease of use
• Multi-device charging - We test simultaneous charging of multiple devices to verify port functionality and power distribution

We compare against established benchmarks in the portable power category and test with various devices including phones, tablets, and laptops to ensure compatibility and performance consistency.

Quick Comparison Table

Portable Chargers vs Wall Chargers: What's the Difference?

Understanding the key differences between portable chargers and wall chargers helps you choose the right power solution for your needs. While wall chargers plug directly into outlets and provide unlimited power, portable chargers offer mobility and independence from power sources. Portable chargers store energy in internal batteries, allowing you to charge devices anywhere, while wall chargers require constant access to an electrical outlet.

Portable chargers are essential for travel, commuting, and situations where outlets aren't available. They provide backup power during outages, keep devices charged during long flights, and eliminate the need to hunt for outlets in public spaces. Wall chargers, on the other hand, offer faster charging speeds, unlimited capacity, and are more cost-effective for home or office use. The key trade-off is mobility versus speed and capacity. For most people, having both makes sense—a wall charger for daily use and a portable charger for on-the-go situations.

What to Look For in Portable Chargers

Here's what to consider when choosing a portable charger:

• Capacity (mAh) - Higher capacity means more charges for your devices; aim for at least 2x your phone's battery for a full day of backup
• Output power (W) - Higher wattage enables faster charging; 18W+ for phones, 30W+ for tablets, 65W+ for laptops
• Port types and quantity - Multiple ports allow charging several devices simultaneously; USB-C PD is essential for modern devices
• Size and weight - Balance capacity with portability; larger capacity means more weight and bulk
• Display or indicators - Shows remaining capacity so you know how much power is left
• Safety features - Overcharge protection, temperature management, and safety certifications ensure safe operation
• Build quality - Durable construction and materials ensure long-term reliability

How to Choose the Right Capacity

Power bank capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). Here's a rough guide:

Rule of thumb: Get at least 2x your phone's battery for a full day of backup power.

Detailed Product Reviews

1. Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K) - Best Overall

Anker's flagship delivers massive 24,000mAh capacity with 140W output—enough to fast-charge laptops. The smart digital display shows remaining power precisely, so you always know exactly how much juice you have left. This is the power bank to get if you need to charge multiple devices including laptops, tablets, and phones simultaneously without compromise.

Pros:

• 140W USB-C output charges laptops - Fast enough to power even demanding laptops while charging
• LED display shows capacity and wattage - Know exactly how much power remains and current output
• Premium build quality - Durable construction that feels solid and reliable
• Charges 3 devices simultaneously - USB-C, USB-A, and another USB-C port for maximum flexibility

Cons:

• Heavy (1.3 lbs) - Not ideal for daily carry, better for travel bags
• Premium price - One of the most expensive options on this list
• Large size - Takes up significant space in a bag

👉 View product details

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2. Anker 622 MagGo - Best for iPhone (MagSafe)

This slim magnetic power bank snaps onto iPhone 12 and newer for wireless charging on the go. The built-in kickstand makes it perfect for watching videos while charging, and the compact design slips easily into any pocket. If you're an iPhone user who wants the convenience of MagSafe charging without the bulk, this is your best option.

Pros:

• MagSafe compatible - Snaps securely to iPhone 12 and newer models
• Slim, pocketable design - Easy to carry everywhere without bulk
• Built-in kickstand - Perfect for watching videos while charging
• Available in multiple colors - Choose the style that matches your iPhone

Cons:

• Only 5,000mAh - Enough for about one full phone charge, not multiple devices
• Wireless charging is slower - Takes longer than wired charging
• iPhone only - Android users need to look elsewhere

👉 View product details

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3. Baseus 20,000mAh Power Bank - Best Value

This affordable powerhouse offers 65W output, digital display, and enough capacity for multiple phone charges—all at a budget price. The slim design belies its massive capacity, making it easy to carry while still providing days of power. For anyone who wants high capacity and fast charging without paying premium prices, this is the clear winner.

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-capacity ratio - More mAh per dollar than most competitors
• 65W fast charging - Fast enough to charge laptops and tablets quickly
• LED display - Shows remaining capacity and current output
• Slim design for capacity - Surprisingly compact for 20,000mAh

Cons:

• Build quality isn't premium - Feels less durable than Anker or Mophie options
• Generic brand - Less established than major brands, but still reliable

👉 View product details

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4. Mophie Powerstation XL - Best for Travel

TSA-friendly 26,000mAh capacity with fabric finish and premium build makes this the perfect travel companion. The elegant fabric exterior resists scratches and looks more sophisticated than typical plastic power banks. With 45W USB-C PD output, it can charge laptops while staying under the 100Wh airline limit, making it ideal for frequent travelers who need maximum capacity without airport hassles.

Pros:

• Airline approved (under 100Wh) - No issues at TSA checkpoints
• Premium fabric design - Looks and feels more premium than plastic options
• 45W USB-C output - Fast enough for most laptops and tablets
• Charges 3 devices - Multiple ports for charging everything at once

Cons:

• Expensive - One of the pricier options on this list
• Heavy for capacity - Weighs more than some competitors with similar capacity

👉 View product details

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5. Nitecore NB10000 - Best Ultralight

At just 150g, this carbon fiber power bank is perfect for hikers and ultralight packers who count every gram. The premium carbon fiber construction provides durability without weight, and the dual USB-C ports offer modern charging flexibility. If you're heading into the backcountry or traveling with strict weight limits, this is the power bank that won't weigh you down.

Pros:

• Incredibly light (5.3 oz) - Lighter than most phones, perfect for minimalists
• Carbon fiber shell - Premium material that's both light and durable
• Dual USB-C ports - Charge two devices simultaneously with modern ports
• 10,000mAh capacity - Enough for 2-3 phone charges despite the small size

Cons:

• Premium price for capacity - You pay more per mAh than larger options
• No display - Can't see remaining capacity, just LED indicators

👉 View product details

Understanding Charging Speeds

Look for "PD" (Power Delivery) or "PPS" for fastest charging speeds.

Airline Regulations

TSA Rules:

• Power banks must be in carry-on luggage (NOT checked bags)
• Maximum 100Wh per power bank (about 27,000mAh at 3.7V)
• No limit on quantity in carry-on, but be reasonable

To calculate Wh: mAh × V ÷ 1000 = Wh (Most power banks are 3.7V internally)

Care Tips for Portable Chargers

1. Store at 50% charge - Don't leave fully charged or empty for long periods to maintain battery health
2. Avoid extreme temperatures - Don't leave in hot cars or freezing conditions, which can damage battery cells
3. Use quality cables - Bad cables can cause slow charging and potential damage; invest in certified cables
4. Don't fully drain - Recharge when you hit 20% to prolong battery lifespan
5. Keep ports clean - Dust and debris can affect connections; clean ports regularly with compressed air
6. Charge regularly - Even if not using, charge every 3-6 months to prevent deep discharge

Pro tip: For long-term storage, charge to 50% and store in a cool, dry place. This prevents battery degradation and ensures your power bank is ready when you need it.

Which Capacity Do You Need?

Detailed Comparison Table

Common Mistakes When Buying Portable Chargers

Avoid these common pitfalls when shopping for portable chargers to ensure you get the best experience:

1. Ignoring actual capacity - Advertised capacity doesn't account for efficiency losses; expect 60-70% of rated capacity in real-world use
2. Choosing wrong capacity - Too small means frequent recharging; too large means unnecessary weight and bulk
3. Overlooking output power - Low wattage means slow charging; ensure your power bank can deliver the speed your devices need
4. Not checking port types - Ensure compatibility with your devices; USB-C PD is essential for modern phones and laptops
5. Skipping safety features - Look for overcharge protection, temperature management, and safety certifications
6. Ignoring weight and size - High capacity often means heavy and bulky; balance your needs with portability

FAQ

Q: How many times can a power bank charge my phone?

A: Divide the power bank's capacity (mAh) by your phone's battery capacity (mAh) and multiply by 0.6-0.7 to account for efficiency losses. For example, a 10,000mAh power bank can charge a 3,500mAh phone approximately 1.7-2 times.

Q: Can I charge a laptop with a portable charger?

A: Yes, but you need a power bank with sufficient output (65W+ for most laptops) and the right port (USB-C PD). Check your laptop's power requirements before purchasing.

Q: How long do portable chargers last?

A: With proper care, quality power banks last 2-3 years or 500-1000 charge cycles. Store at 50% charge and avoid extreme temperatures to maximize lifespan.

Q: Can I bring a power bank on a plane?

A: Yes, but power banks must be in carry-on luggage (never checked bags). The maximum capacity is 100Wh (about 27,000mAh at 3.7V) per power bank.

Q: Do power banks lose capacity over time?

A: Yes, all batteries degrade over time. Expect 20-30% capacity loss after 2-3 years of regular use. Higher quality batteries degrade more slowly.

Q: Is wireless charging slower than wired?

A: Yes, wireless charging is typically 30-50% slower than wired charging due to energy loss in the wireless transfer process.

Final Verdict

• Best Overall: Anker 737 (24K) - The ultimate power bank for anyone who needs to charge laptops and multiple devices with maximum speed and capacity. The 140W output and digital display make it the top choice for power users.

• Best for iPhone: Anker 622 MagGo - Perfect for iPhone users who want the convenience of MagSafe charging in a pocketable design. The built-in kickstand adds versatility for video watching.

• Best Value: Baseus 20,000mAh - Outstanding capacity and features at a budget-friendly price point. The 65W output and LED display provide premium features without the premium price.

• Best for Travel: Mophie Powerstation XL - TSA-approved capacity with premium build quality for frequent travelers. The fabric finish and 45W output make it ideal for business travel.

• Best Ultralight: Nitecore NB10000 - The lightest premium option for those who prioritize weight over capacity. Perfect for hikers and minimalists who count every gram.

For most people, we recommend the Anker 737 for its combination of capacity, speed, and features. If you're an iPhone user, the Anker 622 MagGo offers unmatched convenience. For budget-conscious buyers, the Baseus 20,000mAh delivers exceptional value. Travelers should consider the Mophie Powerstation XL for its TSA-friendly capacity, while hikers and minimalists will appreciate the Nitecore NB10000 for its ultralight design.

A good portable charger is insurance against battery anxiety. Choose based on your daily needs and you'll never be stranded with a dead phone again.

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