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The 14 Best Portable Chargers of 2024

We appreciate a good balance of speed and power while on the go.

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Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

There’s nothing worse than grabbing your phone or laptop while traveling and realizing your battery is completely drained. A portable charger is one of the most useful travel items, especially when you find yourself in a tricky situation with no access to an outlet. Whether you’re exploring in a campervan and need a hefty charger to handle your laptop, or boarding a plane and in need of something super compact to charge your smartphone, there’s a portable charger for all types of travelers’ needs so you don’t find yourself in a powerless pickle. 

With so many choices on the market, we’ve narrowed down your search by prioritizing features like weight and size for portability, functionality, power, and battery capacity. These are the 14 best portable chargers of 2024 to make sure you stay connected wherever you go.

Best Overall

Nimble champ portable charger.

It’s lightweight and pocket-sized.

If you need more capacity, consider upgrading to the Pro version which provides 20,000 mAh.

The Nimble Champ is “smaller than a deck of cards” and incredibly lightweight, making it an ideal travel companion. This tiny but mighty backup charger comes in a spectrum of colors, allowing you to match it to your personality. It’s also extremely functional, with the ability to charge two devices at once and compatibility with a wide array of phones, tablets, Apple MacBooks, and fitness trackers. The dual USB-C power delivery offers high-speed charging to almost any device and the capacity to charge most smartphones up to three times. In fact, with this charger, you can get your smartphone back up to an 80 percent charge in just half an hour. The included lanyard makes it easy to tote around, whether on your wrist or attached to your bag. We also love that it’s crafted out of 90 percent certified recycled plastics with a free e-waste recycling option for your old, unused devices.

The Details: 3.38 x 2.28 x 0.98 inches  | 6.2 ounces | 10,000 mAh | 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A

Best With Built-in Cords

Charmast portable charger.

It can charge up to six devices at the same time.

The attached cords are short.

The slim and travel-friendly Portable Charger with Built-in Cables on Amazon is our top choice for those who need a variety of included cords for multiple devices. With six outputs and three inputs, this charging device is ideal for people with an array of different types of electronics, from smartphones to tablets, and micro devices. Its lightweight and slim profile make it easy to throw in your bag without taking up too much space. Each included cable can be tucked into the back of the device, keeping things organized so you don’t have to spend time untangling a mess of wires. Check the digital display screen to keep track of how much battery is left on your backup charger so you can plan appropriately (and it will take between four and a half to six hours to fully recharge). When at full capacity, this backup charger can power up your smartphone twice, your tablet up to 1.5 times, and much more.

The Details: 5.71 x 2.68 x 0.51 inches | 0.63 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C, Micro USB, built-in charging USB-A cable (input); 2 USB-A and 1 USB-C and built-in Micro USB, USB-C, and Lightning cables (output)

Most Compact

Tntor portable charger for iphone.

It has a built-in lightning cable for charging iPhones.

Phones with USB-C ports (like Androids and newer iPhones) will need to supply their own C to C cable to charge.

The ultra slim Tntor Portable Charger for iPhone wins the award for “most compact” with a 6-millimeter thickness and credit card size. Specifically designed for iPhone users, the built-in cord means it’s ready to charge and you don’t have to tote around a separate cord. At 5,000 mAh, this charger is carry-on compatible and can charge not just your iPhone, but other lightning-equipped devices including an iPad, iPad mini, and AirPods. This is an ideal charger for those who don’t need to charge multiple devices and only need to top off their iPhone en route to their next destination. It offers one full charge when at 100 percent capacity and requires a three-hour charging time. The Intelligent Control Circuit feature protects your devices from overcharging, as well as other problematic issues such as over-voltage, short circuiting, temperature protection, and over-current.

The Details: 4.84 x 2.6 x .24 inches | 4 ounces | 5,000 mAh | USB-C (input); built-in Lightning cable (output)

Best Wireless

Podoru wireless portable charger.

Paired with a magnetic case, it can charge right on the back of your phone without a cord.

It will only work with a magnetic case (purchased separately) and is compatible with iPhone 12 series and higher.

Indulge in the luxury of leaving your cords behind with the Podoru Wireless Portable Charger that can power up to three devices with its magnetic charging capability. Compact with an impressive capacity to recharge your phone up to two and a half times, it’s an ideal option for travelers or those on the go for long stretches of time. The LED display shows how much battery is left in your charger — and, if you need to top off other devices in addition to your phone, two extra input and output ports allow you to do so. There are eight built-in low temperature ice cores and a protective safety system not just for temperature control, but also short circuit and overcharging protection as well. Thanks to its silicone shell, it’s easy to grip and with a soft exterior that won’t scrape your device when connected magnetically. 

The Details: 5.67 x 3.43 x 0.94 inches | 6.5 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-A (output); USB-C (input/output)

Best With Stand

Aoguerbe magnetic power bank.

The stand is foldable and compact.

It’s a little bulkier than other models we’ve seen.

We love the folding stand that’s built into the design of the Aoguerbe Magnetic Power Bank. It allows you to charge your iPhone without the hassle of a bunch of cords when paired with a magnetic phone case. Charge up to three devices at a time, with the capacity to bring your iPhone to 100 percent up to two times per fully charged power bank. The included stand folds down to keep the compact profile of the power bank and can be used to keep your phone upright in either a vertical or horizontal orientation. The charger also won’t block your camera lens, so you can easily continue to use your phone while it’s being charged. Built-in temperature control and other safety protection helps ensure this device won’t damage your phone or overheat. 

The Details: 4.09 x 2.68 x 0.86 inches | 6.7 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C and Lighting (input); USB-C and USB-A (output)

Best for Tablets

Eggtronic laptop power bank.

It can charge your tablet up to four times.

  Due to its powerful capacity, it’s larger and heavier than comparable power bank models.

We love the powerhouse Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank for so many reasons: it has the capacity to charge multiple devices twice as fast as standard models, and boasts a relatively compact size and sleek design. This universally compatible power bank can refuel the battery on not just your smartphone or tablet, but also laptops, cameras, bluetooth devices, and more. The LCD display shows the current battery life so you can stay up to date on its capacity. This durable device is a great travel companion for anyone; from professionals that need to stay in touch on the road and want the freedom to work from anywhere , to those exploring the great outdoors on a multi-day camping trip. When it’s time to recharge the power bank itself, it’ll only take about three hours which is impressive for such a powerful device. 

The Details: 6.75 x 4 x 0.63 inches | 1.34 lbs | 20,000 mAh | 2 USB-A (output); USB-C (input/output)

Best for Laptops

Anker 747 power bank.

It can fully charge an entire MacBook Air.

It’s rather heavy — and expensive — if not using it to charge laptops often.

For travelers who are working en route to their destination and need to keep their laptop consistently charged, the Anker 747 Power Bank is our top choice. Compatible with a wide range of brands including Dell and Apple, this power bank can refuel computer batteries in anywhere from two to three hours. Charge up to four devices at once, and enjoy the long-lasting capacity that can power an iPhone 13 Pro up to five times before needing to be charged itself. Paired with the included Anker 65W 515 wall charger, this power bank can reach 100 percent in two and a half hours versus more than 17 hours without. Built-in sensors offer advanced temperature control to make sure the device doesn’t overheat while the battery management system prevents overcharging. 

The Details: 7.2 x 3.23 x 0.95 in | 1.34 pounds | 25,600 mAh | 2 USB-C, 2 USB-A

Best Multi-device Charging

Anker prime 27,650mah power bank.

It charges three devices at once.

This charger is over the mAh limit for traveling on some airplanes, so it’s best to check with the airline before bringing it with you on board.

For those who need a power bank that can charge multiple devices (and fast), the Anker Prime 27,650 mAH Power Bank is a fantastic choice. While not necessary to use, the accompanying app shows you up-to-date stats, and can also help to locate your power bank with sound alerts should you misplace it. This exceptionally functional power bank can recharge a smartphone more than four times and a MacBook Air more than once before needing to be reloaded. Using the dual USB-C ports, the power bank itself can be recharged in less than 40 minutes. As a bonus, this soda-can-sized charging bank comes with its own travel pouch. The built-in active shield prevents the charger from overheating and other safety issues. 

The Details: 6.37 x 1.96 x 2.24 inches | 1.47 lbs | 27,650 mAh |  USB-C, Lightning (input); USB-C, USB-A (output)

Best Fast Charging

Ugreen 145w power bank.

It can charge a MacBook Air in 90 minutes.

While compact, it’s a bit heavier than other models.

Not only does the Ugreen 145W Power Bank charge devices quickly, but it also can be charged back to 100 percent in under two hours using the two-way fast charging. This requires an additional purchase of a 65W charger . Because it has 145 watts in output, it can recharge a laptop more than once and a smartphone more than five times all at a rapid speed. The smart digital display keeps you in the loop with how much battery is left in the power bank. It’s also compatible with so many devices, from smartphones to drones, that you won’t be limited with what you can charge as you travel. With three ports, you can charge a few devices at a time as well. 

The Details: 6.3 x 3.18 x 1.05 inches | 1.11 lbs | 25,000 mAh | 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A (output); 1 USB-C (input/output)

Best LED Display

Vnbbt magnetic wireless power bank.

The display shows both the available charge left on the device and the progress of the item it’s charging.

It’s not compatible with non-magnetic phone cases.

Take the guesswork out of charging when using the Vnbbt Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, thanks to its incredibly accurate LED display feature. It can be fully charged for your travels within two and a half to four hours. Its ultra compact, lightweight design makes it easy to bring along with you. The material is non-slip so you don’t have to worry about grip being an issue while using the magnetic charger paired with a magnetic phone case. The display is simple, quickly informing you of how much charge is left to go and how much is on the power bank itself so you can plan accordingly. Charge your iPhone in less than 45 minutes and power up two other devices at the same time. 

The Details: 7.87 x 3.94 x 0.79 inches | 8.1 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C (input/output), USB-A (output), and magnetic wireless charging

Best for Android

Iwalk small usb c portable charger.

It’s lipstick-sized and very portable.

The battery life isn’t that impressive compared to other power banks.

Specifically designed for Android users, this tiny portable charger easily fits in a bag or even your pocket. The iWalk charger is cordless as well, so you don’t need to provide a cord or untangle wires when you want to use it; simply plug it directly into the USB-C port. Although there isn’t an LED display to show the percentage of battery left, there are indicator lights to track the power level. It’s designed to prevent over-charging, short circuiting, and temperature control while using as well, so you can have peace of mind if you need to step away. In general, it takes approximately two and a half hours to recharge this portable device. 

The Details: 3 x 1.8 x 1 inches | 0.071 ounces | 4,500 mAh | USB-C (input), USB-C (output)

Best With A/C Outlet

Sinkeu portable laptop phone charger.

It includes an actual plug as well as a cord for charging via a car cigarette lighter.

There are no slots for a USB-C.

For a power bank with an actual built-in plug, the SinKeu 65 Watt Portable Laptop Phone Charger is our top pick because of its portability and versatility. This power bank is fantastic for charging laptops, tablets, and other compatible devices like certain camera batteries (65 watts and under) that need a typical plug port. The 12V port is great for recharging speakers and other devices that require that output, while the 5V port is perfect for refueling your cell phone up to eight times before needing to be recharged itself. For compatible laptop models, it can provide a full charge twice, making this a great option for travelers with a wide array of devices. The included cigarette lighter plug makes it possible to recharge this power bank in your car as well. To fully recharge, it takes approximately four hours. 

The Details: 6.8 x 3.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.1 lbs | 24,000 mAh | 2 USB-A, 110V AC outlet, 15V (input), 12V (output)

Best Colors

Charmast small portable charger.

It’s small and comes in a fun spectrum of colors.

It’s difficult to plug your phone into the charger if you have a case.

We love the colors and size of the Charmast Small Portable Charger that can easily fit in your pocket or purse. This charger has the ability to be fully recharged within an hour and a half when using a 9V-2A fast charger (or three hours with a standard one). Although it doesn’t have the capacity to fully power your smartphone back to 100 percent, it can provide up to 65 percent charge which is a great option for most travelers who just need to top up a device throughout their journey. It can, however, recharge AirPods up to six times. With no additional cords needed, plug it directly into your phone’s lightning port (and it’s also offered with a USB-C instead for Google, Samsung or iPhone 15 devices). With colors like pink, green, blue, orange, black, and white, you can match this portable charger to your phone’s case (or whatever suits your mood!)

The Details: 1.38 x 3.03 x 0.97 inches | 4.7 ounces | 5,000 mAh | USB-C (input), Lightning port (output)

Best With Wall Plug

Brand q ultra slim portable charger.

It’s ultra slim and offers 5-in-1 types of charging.

The built-in cords are stiff and not easy to manipulate.

We love that the built-in wall plug on the Q Slim Portable Charger folds into the power bank to keep a slim profile for transport and that this option comes with its own case. With three included cords, this universal charger is ideal for all types of phones, and you won’t have to bring additional cords along on your adventures. Most phones can be charged between two and a half to four times before needing to recharge the power bank. The included “Intelligent Power Management IC” makes sure your devices will be protected from short circuit, overheating, and overcurrent issues while in use. Another great feature is that you can charge your phone from the power bank while also charging the power bank from the wall plug.

The Details: 6.29 x 2.95 x 0.6 inches | 12.1 ounces |  10,000 mAh | Micro USB, AC (input); Lightning, USB-C, Micro USB (output)

Tips for Buying Portable Chargers

Consider charge potential and timing.

When shopping for a portable power bank, one of the main features to look out for is the capacity for fully charging your devices, especially your smartphone. If you have long travel days with little opportunity to plug your phone in and your backup charger can only offer half a charge to top it off, that may not work for you. Another thing to consider is how long it will take to recharge each of your important devices, as well as the length of time it will take to recharge the power bank itself. Most people can recharge a power bank overnight if it takes more than a couple of hours, but you need to look at your precise needs while on the go.

Decide how much capacity you need

All of the numbers referring to capacity in mAh and watt hours can be a little tricky to understand when deciding what you’ll need. The term mAh means “milliampere-hour” and measures the units of electric charge, or how much power it can hold. This will be the difference between being able to charge just one device at a time versus multiple, and/or charging your phone multiple times or even a laptop at all. If you just need to top off your phone and keep it from getting to zero percent, something below 5,000mAh should do the trick. If you need to charge your phone constantly or have more than one device, something more than 10,000mAh might be for you.

Since the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have rules for rechargeable batteries and power banks measured in the max watt hours allowed, you’ll need to know how to convert the mAh listed for the power bank or charger into watt hours to see if your device can come along with you. To do this, you’ll need to multiply milliamp hours by volts then divide by 1,000. So, if you take the Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank listed above, it’s 20,000mAh at 5V, making it equivalent to 100 watt hours. 

The FAA and TSA state that any spare battery with more than 100 watt hours or 27,000mAh needs to have approval from the airline.

Look at the types and numbers of ports

One of the most important aspects of choosing a power bank is to make sure it will be compatible with your devices. The last thing you want is to purchase a back-up charger that’s only suitable for an iPhone when you have an Android. There are numerous options that offer more than one type of port. The most common inputs and outputs are USB-A and USB-C, as well as lightning ports (for Apple devices). Some models offer a wall plug or cigarette lighter adapter as well, perfect for those who need to charge a device from the car or have to charge something with a physical plug. 

It’s important to note that regulations will have lightning ports outdated for future iPhones due to the European Union’s ruling that all smartphones need to have the USB-C charging port in common.

A portable charger or power bank is a great back-up solution to ensure you don’t run out of battery on your devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They provide an extra lithium-ion battery-powered source — or another source like the sun — that can connect to a wide array of devices, depending on their ports or magnetic charging capabilities. When connected, they transfer their stored energy to the electronic device plugged in. Typically, they are small enough to fit in your bag without taking up too much space, and some are even compact enough to fit in your pocket.

Yes, it’s possible to bring most portable chargers on an airplane, though there are restrictions to abide by: it’ll have to stay in your carry-on luggage that you’ll have with you in the cabin, as it can’t be in a checked bag. It also can’t possess more than 100Wh (watt-hours) or 27,000 mAh capacity. If your power bank has a larger capacity than this, you’ll need approval from the airline.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove used her first-hand experience as a travel writer and photographer on-the-go who often needs to keep her devices charged for all of her adventures. She tapped into her knowledge of using different power banks and backup charger brands to curate this list for every need, big and small.

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Simon Hill Scott Gilbertson

The 19 Best Portable Chargers for All of Your Devices

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Best Overall Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

The Upgrade Pick Anker 737 Power Bank Read more

Best for Phones Anker Nano Power Bank Read more

Best for Tablets Einova Eggtronic Ultra Fast Power Bank (63W) Read more

Portable devices have a Murphy’s law–like ability to run out of power at the least convenient moment: as you step on the bus, right in the middle of an important meeting, or just as you get comfortable on the couch and press Play. But if you keep a battery-powered portable charger handy, all those situations are a thing of the past.

There are hundreds of portable battery packs, and picking one can be confusing. To help, we've spent years working our way through all of them. This obsession started when Scott Gilbertson lived off-grid in a vintage RV , powered primarily by solar panels. But even if you're not living in an off-grid solar setup, good power banks will come in handy. These are our favorites. Be sure to check out our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide for Apple-specific portable chargers, and our Best Portable Power Stations guide if you need more power.

Updated June 2024: We added portable chargers from Gomi, Anker, and FansDreams and updated prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Overall

The Nimble Champ topped this list for years, and now its successor is taking over by combining everything that made the original so good and bringing some welcome improvements. At 6.2 ounces, it's one of the lightest on the market. It's smaller than a deck of cards and can deliver 20 watts to charge two devices at once via a USB-C port on either end. While Scott used the original for years, the new version has only been out for a few months, but so far, so good. It feels durable, comes in a snazzy new range of speckled color finishes, and has a bright lanyard loop that makes for easy carrying and helps you pick it out of your backpack. The Pro version is bigger but doubles the capacity (to 20,000 mAh) and has a similar design with two USB-C ports that go up to 65 watts. There's also a smaller version with a 5,200-mAh capacity that tops out at 15 watts.

The other reason we like Nimble best is because of its environmental efforts . Batteries are not environmentally benign. They use lithium, cobalt, and other rare metals whose supply chains are environmentally and socially questionable at best. But Nimble's use of bioplastics and plastic-free minimal packaging at least reduces the environmental impact where it can be reduced. This new version uses 90 percent recycled plastic (up 25 percent from the original) and comes in smaller plastic-free packaging. Nimble includes a 3.3-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

Two USB-C ports (20 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

The Upgrade Pick

For folks who don’t mind paying for quality, the Anker 737 is a versatile and reliable beast with a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity. With power delivery 3.1 support, this power bank can send or receive up to 140 watts to charge phones, tablets, and even laptops. You can charge it from zero to full within an hour. It’s relatively compact for its capacity, but it weighs almost 1.4 pounds. Tap the circular power button on the side once and the snazzy digital display shows the remaining battery percentage; tap it again and you get stats, including the temperature, total output, cycles, and more. The screen also displays watts in or out when you plug something in and a remaining time estimate based on the current rate. It fast-charged everything I tested it with, and you can charge three devices at once without a problem.

Two USB-C ports (140 W) and one USB-A (18 W). Can charge most phones at least four times (24,000 mAh).

Best for Phones

If you want a compact charger that comes in fun colors and simply slots into the bottom of your phone for a top-up, Anker’s dinky charger is tough to beat. This power bank has a built-in rotating USB-C or Lightning connector (MFi certified), so you don’t need to worry about cables. It packs 5,000 mAh of energy (enough to fully charge most phones). I tested the USB-C version with several Android phones and found it stayed in place, enabling me to use my phone more or less as normal. There’s a USB-C port for recharging the power bank, and it comes with a short cable. It might not be a good pick if you use a thick case.

One USB-C (22.5 W) or Lightning (12 W) connector and one USB-C port for charging only. Can charge most phones once (5,000 mAh).

Best for Tablets

WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu has been enjoying his time toting around this 20,000-mAh charger. It's slim, fits easily into the padded sleeve of most backpacks, and has enough capacity to recharge an 11-inch tablet twice from zero percent. It's capable of dishing out 45 watts of power for fast charging via the USB-C port, and 18 watts from the middle USB-A port. In a pinch, you can use it to recharge a laptop (as long as it's not a power-sucking machine like a MacBook Pro). It has a lovely fabric material on the exterior, and there's an LED that shows how much juice is left in the tank.

Two USB-A ports (18 W and 10.5 W) and one USB-C (45 W). Can charge most tablets two times (20,000 mAh).

Best for Laptops

Goal Zero updated its Sherpa line of portable chargers with better wireless charging capabilities: 15 watts, up from 5 watts in the previous model. I tested the Sherpa AC, which features two USB-C ports (60-watt and 100-watt), two USB-A ports, and a 100-watt AC port for those devices that need a pronged plug. It strikes a good balance between power storage (93 watt-hours in my drain test) and weight (2 pounds). It’s enough to charge up my Dell XPS 13 almost twice.

You get a nice color LCD display that shows how much power you've got left, how many watts are coming in and how many are going out, and a rough guess as to how much longer the battery will last (if conditions remain the same). Recharge times vary depending on whether or not you have the Sherpa wall charger (sold separately), but I was able to get it to recharge in under three hours no matter what power source I used. There's also an 8-mm port on the back for attaching a solar panel if you have one. The Sherpa is not cheap, but if you don't need the AC out and can live with a single USB-C (100-watt out, 60-watt in), the Sherpa PD is otherwise the same thing for $200.

Two USB-C ports (60 W and 100 W), two USB-A (12 W), and one AC (100 W). Qi wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most laptops one to two times (25,600 mAh).

Best for Fast Charging

Ugreen's charger is, as the name suggests, a 145-watt charger with a 25,000-mAh battery. It's surprisingly compact for the power it provides, although at 1.1 pounds, it's definitely not ultralight. There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. What sets the Ugreen apart is that you can actually draw 145 watts while charging. That works out to one USB-C port at 100 W and the other at 45 W. Very few other batteries we've tested are capable of that feat, and none that I know of at this size. If you want to charge fast, this is the power bank for you (although it's worth noting that reviews around the web suggest it doesn't support Samsung's fast-charging tech). There's a small LED readout on the side of the battery with the current charge state of the battery. I'd have liked to see some charging info on that screen as well, but that's a small quibble with what's an otherwise outstanding option if you need to keep your laptop charged up wherever you are.

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 45 W) and one USB-A. Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (25,000 mAh).

Best-Looking Power Bank

I am a sucker for Sharge’s transparent designs and cyberpunk aesthetic, but this prism-shaped power bank is more than just a pretty face. With a maximum output of 170 watts, a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity, and an IP66 rating for water resistance (fine in the rain, but best not to submerge), the Sharge 170 has form and function. The smart display shows battery life as a percentage, time remaining, and the input or output in watts. It supports many standards, including power delivery 3.1, Quick Charge 4.0, and PPS, and it fast-charged most of the devices I tested, including the iPhone 15 Pro, Pixel 8, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and MacBook Air. You can simultaneously charge three devices at fast speeds, and the box includes a braided USB-C cable and a wee velvety bag. It can also recharge completely in an hour via USB-C at up to 140 watts (with the right cable and charger). The only thing I don’t like is the relatively high price.

Two USB-C ports (165 W) and one USB-A (30 W). Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (24,000 mAh).

A Repairable Power Bank

While I love the swirly designs, solid metal bottom, and compact size, it is Gomi’s ethos that really sells these power banks. Handmade by a small indie business in Brighton, UK, from recycled plastic, with power generated by repurposed ebike batteries, Gomi claims at least 50 percent less CO 2 emissions than comparable power banks. It looks and feels good, with curved sides, and Gomi promises up to 6-foot drop protection. There’s a power button on the side to light up the four LEDs and show how much of the 10,000-mAh capacity remains.

Both ports can deliver up to 18 watts, and you can charge two devices at once. It takes around four hours to fully charge from dead. There is a two-year warranty with this power bank offering free repairs. Gomi has designed it to be easily repairable, so even out of warranty you can get it fixed for a maximum cost of £20 ($25) plus shipping. If it should get damaged beyond repair somehow, Gomi will recycle it properly. You also get a braided USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

One USB-C port (18 W) and one USB-A (18 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

Folding Wireless Charging

With an unusual design that features a fold-up wireless charging stand for phones and a charging spot behind it for your wireless earbuds case (if it supports Qi wireless charging), plus a USB-C port to plug in a third device, the Satechi Duo is a handy power bank to have in your bag. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity with LEDs to show how much juice is left. The downside is that it is slow, offering up to 10 watts of wireless charging power for phones (7.5 watts for iPhones), 5 watts for earbuds, and 10 watts from the USB-C port. It takes three hours to refill the battery with an 18-watt charger.

One USB-C (10 W) and two Qi wireless charging spots (up to 10 W). Can charge most phones one to two times (10,000 mAh).

Best Qi2 Portable Charger

The latest entry in Anker’s MagGo range is the first Qi2 power bank we've tested. The Qi2 wireless charging standard borrows elements of Apple’s MagSafe, enabling supported phones to connect with perfect alignment using a ring of magnets. Qi2 brings faster wireless charging rates of up to 15 watts, but it is also backward compatible, so older Qi devices can still charge, albeit more slowly. This compact portable charger has a handy kickstand, a two-way USB-C port on the left edge, and a power button with an LED display showing remaining power as a percentage of charge time on the right. It can accommodate Qi2 or MagSafe phones in portrait or landscape orientation (it works with Apple’s StandBy mode ). I tested with an iPhone 14 Pro and got 25 percent in around 20 minutes. Despite a large capacity, it falls short of two full charges for your iPhone when charging wirelessly. You might squeeze out a little more if you plug in the short USB-C cable provided.

One USB-C port (27 W) and Qi2 wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most smartphones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Best MagSafe

Anker's slim MagSafe power bank comes in a few fun colors and stays stuck to the back of any MagSafe iPhone (and Android phones using MagSafe cases ) to charge it wirelessly. You can also recharge the power bank or charge another device with it via the USB-C port, and it has a wee foldable stand built in. Just know that Anker has an older version of this that has the USB-C port on the bottom edge of the power bank. The new model (A1614) has it on the side, and you can turn off the power bank so it doesn’t charge the device (when you only want to use the kickstand). We recommend some alternatives in our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide .

One USB-C (12 W) and Qi wireless charging (7.5 W). Can charge most phones to between 50 and 80 percent (5,000 mAh).

Best for Apple Watch

Remembering to take a power bank with you for a night away is a real achievement, but what about your Apple Watch ? It may be one of the best smartwatches , but the battery rarely lasts beyond a full day. This compact, black power bank from Belkin has a soft-touch finish and an Apple Watch charger built in at one end. Even better, it can fast-charge your Apple Watch, and there’s enough capacity to charge your iPhone or AirPods via USB-C at the same time, making this the perfect portable charger to stow away in your bag or pocket. You get a 1-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

One USB-C port (20 W) and one Apple Watch fast charger (7.5 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

Best for Outdoors

If you are hiking, camping, cycling, or running, the BioLite is a handy companion. This durable power bank is lightweight, a good size to slip into a pocket, and has a nice grippy textured finish. The yellow plastic makes it easy to spot in a bag or crowded tent, and it indicates the port end, making it easier to plug in when the light is fading. The smallest size is enough to fully charge most phones, and the USB-C handles 18 watts in or out. Two additional USB-A out ports let you simultaneously charge up multiple devices, though you will probably want to size up to the 10,000-mAh Charge 40 ($60) or the 20,000-mAh Charge 80 ($80) if you plan on doing that.

Two USB-A ports (18 W) and one USB-C (18 W). Can charge most phones at least once (6,000 mAh).

Best Wall Charger Power Bank

Hybrid devices are great when space is limited. This wall charger and power bank in one is a solid hybrid option. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft raved about it , and after testing, I have to agree. The display shows you what percentage of the 10,000-mAh capacity remains, there's a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and two built-in cables (USB-C and Lightning). But that’s not all. Turn it on its side, and you have a magnetic wireless charger. There’s even a wee slide-out phone stand and a strap for easy carrying. While you can technically charge five devices at once, it’s awkward, and the battery will die quickly. Still, this is a handy multipurpose power bank to have in your bag. You can refill it by plugging it straight into the wall or via the USB-C port, but it takes a few hours to fully charge from empty.

One USB-C port (20 W), one USB-A port (22.5 W), one USB-C cable (15 W), one Lightning cable (12 W), and Qi wireless charging (up to 15 W, only 7.5 W for MagSafe iPhones). Can charge most phones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Most Portable

The svelte Clutch, available in black, white, or pink, is about the same size as a stack of credit cards and weighs around 2 ounces. It’s designed to slide easily into pockets and bags and offers a modest top-up for your phone’s flagging battery. The third version of the super-slim portable charger packs a larger battery than its predecessors, at 3,300 mAh. You charge it via the USB-C port, and there's a built-in charging cable (there's a different Lightning model). It’s slow, it gets quite warm when plugged in, and a full Clutch added only around 40 percent to my iPhone 14 Pro’s battery. It also scuffs quite easily in a bag. You can get higher capacities and more efficient chargers for less, but portability is the point of the Clutch V3, and it’s a handy size to tuck away in your bag for emergencies.

One USB-C port and a built-in Lightning or USB-C cable. Can top up your phone (3,300 mAh).

Cyberpunk Style

If you loved the clear craze that gave us a wave of translucent electronics in the 1990s, then you will immediately see the appeal of Shargeek’s power banks. A see-through case provides a clear view of the ports, chips, and bundled rechargeable Samsung Li-ion batteries inside this portable charger. The color display gives you a detailed readout of the voltage, current, and power flowing in or out of each port. If you dig into the menu, you can find stats showing temperature, cycles, and more.

The DC barrel port is unusual, and you can specify the voltage and current you want to suit different devices; it can deliver up to 75 watts. The first USB-C supports PD PPS and can go up to 100 watts (enough to charge a laptop), the second USB-C goes to 30 watts and supports PD 3.0 and Quick Charge 4 standards, and the USB-A port is QC 3.0 and puts out 18 watts. In short, this power bank will fast-charge most devices. It comes with a yellow 100-watt USB-C to USB-C cable and a wee bag.

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 30 W), one USB-A (18 W), and a DC barrel port. Can charge most laptops once (25,600 mAh).

Best for the Rest

Got devices that don't charge via USB? Yes, they're still around. I have an old, but still great, GPS device that runs on AA batteries, headlamps that take AAA batteries, and countless other odds and ends that need batteries. After running through several brands, I've found Eneloop rechargeable batteries to be the longest-lasting and most reliable. The fast Panasonic charger can recharge any combination of AA and AAA batteries in less than four hours, and you can sometimes get it bundled in a pack that includes four AA Eneloop rechargeable batteries.

The standard AA Eneloop batteries hold around 2,000 mAh each, with AAA batteries holding 800 mAh, but you can upgrade to Eneloop Pro (2,500 mAh and 930 mAh, respectively) for more demanding gadgets, or go for Eneloop Lite (950 mAh and 550 mAh) for low-power devices. They come precharged with solar energy, and Eneloop recently switched to plastic-free cardboard packaging.

Rechargeable batteries are a smart idea, and Eneloop are the best , but if you need alkaline batteries for some reason and you are in Europe, check out the Itson range . They are made in the EU from recycled materials, and they are very affordable.

Best for the Car

It’s a horrible feeling when your car refuses to start because the battery is dead, but if you have a portable battery pack like this one in your trunk, you can give yourself a jump-start. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft  called it a roadside lifesaver after it jump-started his car several times on a long trip home from out of state. The Noco Boost Plus is a 1,000-amp, 12-volt battery pack with jump leads. It also has a USB-A port to charge your phone and a built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight. It’s a good thing to have in your trunk, but you must remember to charge it every six months. It’s also IP65-rated and good for temperatures from -4 degrees Fahrenheit up to 122 degrees.

One USB-A port. Can jump-start a car up to 20 times.

A Portable Power Station

Folks seeking more power for camping or a long road trip should pick up the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus. This cute and compact battery has a fold-out handle, packs a 288-Wh capacity, and weighs 8.3 pounds. It has two USB-C ports (18 W and 100 W), one USB-A (15 W), a car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W, 600 W surge). There is plenty of power to keep your small gadgets going for a few days. There’s also an AC input, or you can charge it via USB-C. The fan kicks in sometimes, but the Silent Charging Mode keeps it below 45 decibels. You can manage it with Jackery’s app via Bluetooth, and it also has a handy flashlight. We have found Jackery gear reliable and durable, and you can expect to get at least a decade out of this battery. Go any bigger than this and portability gets debatable. We have a separate Best Portable Power Stations guide with recommendations for folks who need a lot of power.

If you want charging options for going off-grid, you can get the 300 Plus with a 40-W book-sized solar panel ($300) . It took me around eight hours to charge the battery with this panel in blue sky sunshine. If you want a faster charge and have the space for a larger panel, consider the 300 Plus with 100-W solar panels ($500) .

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 18 W), one USB-A (1 5W), one car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W). Can charge most phones more than 10 times or a laptop three times (288 Wh).

Honorable Mentions

There are so many portable chargers out there. Here are a few more we like that just missed out on a place above for one reason or another.

• FansDreams MChaos for $59 : I love the idea of a wearable power bank, and this one comes in lime green with a carabiner that makes it easy to attach to a bag. It also has a built-in, retractable, 28-inch USB-C cable to charge your phone at up to 20 watts. Recharging the power bank is a little slower at 18 watts. The colored LED gives you a sense of remaining juice as it goes from green to orange to red, but the 5,000-mAh capacity means you’ll be lucky to get one full charge for your phone, and even the discounted price feels a little high. We also tested the 10,000-mAh model ($89) , which has a nicer design. Pull the 2.3-foot retractable USB-C cable out and the percentage remaining pops up visible through the shiny plastic of the case. There’s a USB-C port on the bottom for charging, and it goes up to 22.5 watts either way.
• Sharge Flow Mini for $20 : With a similar design to Anker’s Nano Power Bank above and the same 5,000-mAh capacity, you might be tempted to go for this instead. It comes with interchangeable USB-C to USB-C or Lightning connectors (which I worry will be easy to lose) and has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a strap, though it’s tricky to pull out. There’s a power button with four LEDs to show the remaining power, and it only takes an hour and a half to refill, but the charging rate maxes out at 12 watts either way.
• Infinacore Pandora Portable Power Global Wireless Charger for $60 : This was our pick for the best wall charger power bank, but the Raycon that replaced it packs more power and charges faster. This is still a decent charger that plugs directly into the wall, and it has the advantage of optional EU and UK plug adapters for an extra $10, making it a handy travel companion. It offers 8,000 mAh via one USB-C port, two USB-A ports (18 W total), and Qi wireless charging (5 W).
• Baseus Blade 2 for $100 : With an extremely thin design, this 12,000-mAh-capacity power bank is easy to slip into a backpack and can charge most phones a couple of times or top up a laptop at up to 65 watts. It has a display showing battery life as a percentage or time remaining and the input or output for both USB-C ports. We've tried many products from up and down the Baseus product line. While they are generally reliable, we do think there are better options.
• Iniu Power Bank BI-B64 for $80 : Offering relatively low prices, Iniu is a power bank brand on the rise. This portable charger packs a 27,000-mAh capacity, can put out up to 140 W, and charges three devices at once via the two USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. We also tested the very similar BI-B63 ($60) , which has a slightly lower capacity at 25,000 mAh but seems like a better value. Unfortunately, both fell slightly short of the stated capacity when tested. We also like the color options available in the company's slimmest version .
• Anker Prime Power Bank for $130 : With a total combined output of 200 W and a hefty 20,000-mAh capacity, this is a solid choice for charging any device; you could even use it to charge two laptops at once via the two USB-C ports. There is a USB-A port, too, and a digital screen like the 737 listed above. You can also buy a Power Base ($70) for this, which enables you to stick the power bank on top and charge it via pogo pins. The base makes it easy to keep the power bank topped up and is handy for desktop charging with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port (combined max output 100 W). I tried the UK version (£130) , which worked great, but WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu had issues with the US base failing to charge the power bank.
• Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000 for $40 : Another solid option from Anker (also available for £30 from Amazon UK ), this power bank has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a loop for easy carrying and a further one USB-C and one USB-A port. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity, good for just shy of two full charges for most phones. It maxes out at 30 watts each way and can be fully charged in around two hours.
• Acefast Fast Charge Power Bank M1 for $45 : The see-through design and fun colors (we got purple) make this worth a look. It has a 10,000-mAh battery inside, supports power delivery, and can go up to 30 watts. The display shows the remaining power as a percentage, and you can recharge it in less than two hours.
• OtterBox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch Charger for $50 : Finished in durable aluminum, this clever OtterBox power bank has a built-in Apple Watch charger. The rubberized bottom helps it stick to surfaces, and Nightstand mode makes it a handy bedside clock. But the limited 3,000-mAh battery means it runs out fast if you use the USB-C to top up your iPhone.
• Juice 3 Portable Charger for £20: An environmentally conscious alternative for folks in the UK, Juice power banks come in lots of colors, are made from 90 percent recycled plastic, and come in 100 percent recycled packaging. The series is numbered based on roughly how many charges you can expect to get out of it for the average smartphone, so the Juice 3 holds three full charges.
• Rugd Power Brick for $60 : This shock- and water-resistant (IP67 certified) charger doubles as a bright 16-LED with an SOS mode, and has a hefty 10,050-mAh capacity (one USB-C at 18 W and a USB-A that supports QC). It’s also bright orange, weighs just 280 grams, and comes with a carabiner for easy attachment, all of which make it an excellent camping buddy.
• Mpowered Luci Pro Lux for $37 : This solar-powered inflatable lantern boasts 10 LEDs and emits a lovely warm glow that’s perfect for camping or walking at night. It is IP67-rated and packs down flat for easy carrying. While it’s not primarily a power bank, the 2,000-mAh battery in the Luci Pro can charge your phone in an emergency. A nearly full Luci Pro boosted my Pixel 6 Pro by around 25 percent. It takes at least 14 hours to charge back up using the solar panels, or you can plug into an outlet and recharge in three.
• Mophie Powerstation , Powerstation XL , and Powerstation Pro AC for $35+ : Mophie's 2023 update to its Powerstation line has three devices in 10,000-, 20,000-, and 27,000-mAh capacities. They're bulky, nondescript devices with USB-C and USB-A ports, but the latter has an AC port and is great for travel. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the XL during his trip to Japan and had no trouble keeping his Switch Lite and Pixel 7 Pro topped up. There are LEDs to indicate remaining battery life, but there's otherwise nothing special about 'em.
• Excitrus Magnetic Wireless Power Bank for $120 : Power banks can be dull, so I like the unusual green fabric skin here, and a display embedded in the black plastic frame shows the remaining power percentage. This 20,800-mAh-capacity power bank has two USB-C ports (100 W and 45 W), a USB-A (18 W), and a wireless charging top (10 W) that works with Apple’s MagSafe. On the downside, it’s big, and it seems to drain slowly, even when not in use.
• iWalk Portable Charger for $30 : WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the Lightning version of this power bank while covering the Apple event and it reliably topped up his iPhone. The 4,800-mAh capacity won't fully refill your device, but it's tiny enough to keep in a bag at all times. There's an LED that shows the remaining percentage of power left. The company also has a MagSafe power bank ($30) .

What to Consider

There are a few things worth thinking about when you’re shopping for a portable charger.

Capacity : The capacity of a power bank is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), but this can be a little misleading because the amount of power you get out depends on the cable you use , the device you're charging, and the charging method (Qi wireless charging is less efficient). You will never get the maximum capacity. We try to provide an estimate of what you’ll get in terms of charges for devices.

Charging speeds and standards : The charging rate for devices like smartphones is measured in watts (W), but most power banks list the voltage (V) and the amperage (A). Thankfully, you can calculate the wattage yourself simply by multiplying the voltage and amperage. Unfortunately, getting that maximum rate also depends on your device, the standards it supports, and the charging cable you use. Many smartphones, including Apple’s iPhones , support the power delivery standard, meaning you can use higher-power power banks to recharge the device with no issues. A few phones, such as Samsung’s Galaxy S range, support a supplementary PD protocol called PPS (Programmable Power Supply) that goes up to 45 W. Many phones also support Qualcomm’s proprietary Quick Charge (QC) standard. There are also other proprietary fast-charging standards, but you won’t generally find power banks that support them unless they come from the smartphone manufacturer.

Pass-through : If you want to charge your power bank and use it to charge another device simultaneously, it will need pass-through support. The Nimble, GoalZero, Biolite, Mophie, Zendure, and Sharge portable chargers listed support pass-through charging. Anker discontinued support for pass-through in some of its products because it found that differences between the output of the wall charger and the input of the device charging can cause the power bank to cycle on and off rapidly and shorten its lifespan. Monoprice does not support pass-through charging, either. We would advise caution when using pass-through, as it can also cause portable chargers to heat up.

Travel : It’s safe to travel with a power bank, but there are two restrictions to keep in mind when you board a flight: You must have the portable charger in your carry-on luggage (it cannot be checked), and it must not exceed 100 Wh (watt-hours). If your power bank has a larger capacity than 27,000 mAh, you should check with the airline. Below that should not be a problem.

Why You Should Avoid Cheap Stuff

Many years ago, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 gained notoriety when its batteries caught fire in a series of incidents. There's been a steady stream of similar, though isolated, incidents ever since. However, despite the high-profile coverage of batteries gone wrong, the vast majority of Li-ion batteries are safe.

The chemical reaction that occurs inside a lithium-ion cell is complex, but as in any battery, there's a negative and a positive electrode. In lithium batteries, the negative is a lithium-carbon compound, and the positive is cobalt oxide (though many battery makers are moving away from cobalt). These two compounds cause a reaction that is safe when controlled and delivers energy to your devices. When the reaction gets out of control though, you end up with earbuds melting in your ears. What changes a safe reaction to an uncontrolled reaction can be any number of things: excess heat, physical damage during use, physical damage during manufacture, or using the wrong charger.

The three basic rules that have kept me safe (thus far) through testing dozens and dozens of batteries are:

• Avoid cheap cords, chargers, and outlet adapters.
• Make sure batteries aren't exposed to excessive heat (over 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage.

Avoiding cheap wall-outlet adapters, cords, and chargers is the most important. These are your most likely source of problems. Those chargers you see on Amazon for $20 cheaper than the competition? Not worth it. They probably got the price down by skimping on insulation, leaving out power-management tools, and ignoring the basics of electrical safety. Price alone is no guarantee of safety, either. Buy from reputable companies and brands.

Then there's heat. Too much of it can cause all manner of problems, both in terms of discharge and in terms of safety. Avoid heat, and pay attention to your batteries when they're charging. If your device gets overly hot when charging, this can be a sign of problems. Similarly, beware of any swollen, bulging, or otherwise misshapen batteries.

Eric Ravenscraft

Louryn Strampe

Julian Chokkattu

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The 11 Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel [2024]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

805 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

36 Published Articles 3303 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to look for in a power bank, the 11 best portable power banks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When you’re miles from anywhere, a portable power bank can quickly become your very best friend.

Giving an extra burst of battery life to your cell phone or iPad can keep you amused for longer, or more importantly, ensure that you’re always able to get in touch with the rest of the world.

Size and Weight

Your power bank is designed to be portable, otherwise, what’s the point?! With this in mind, the physical size and weight of it will be major factors in considering which one is right for you.

The charger should be able to fit neatly in the same space as your cell phone; otherwise, you’ll have one in your pocket while carrying the other in your hand — not cool!

Bottom Line: Look for one that will fit neatly in your pocket, purse, or backpack . While power banks should have a sturdy feel about them, they shouldn’t be uncomfortably heavy, so opt for one that’s light enough not to weigh you (or your pockets) down.

Milliamp (mAh)

The power capacity that your power bank kicks out is measured in milliamp-hours or “mAh.” The amount of mAh available will define how much charge you can expect to get out of your power bank.

Common capacity ratings range from 2,000mAh to 20,000mAh and in some cases, even as high as 40,000mAh. To give you a rough idea of how the amount of mAh juice in the bank affects what you can charge and how often, consider the following:

• An iPhone 7 can be charged approximately 6 times with a 20,000mAh power bank
• A Samsung Galaxy S8 can be charged approximately 4.5 times with a 20,000mAh power bank
• An iPad mini can be charged approximately 4 times with a 20,000mAh power bank

Think about what devices you need a power bank for and how long you’ll be away from a power outlet. If you just need something to keep your phone topped up a couple of times a day, a 5,000mAh or 10,000mAh will do the job just fine and it will be physically smaller, too.

Hot Tip: Most airlines will cap power banks at 20,000mAh while some will allow larger. Always check with your airline as to what the maximum capacity requirements are.

Inputs (1A, 2A, or 2.4A)

At some point, your power bank will need charging up to ensure it can provide the backup charge power you need. What you want is a nice, quick recharge speed that means you can get back out there without having to be attached to a wall socket for hours on end.

The input charging speed is dependent on the type of wall charger used. A standard wall charger with a 2A output would recharge the power bank twice as fast as one with only a 1A output. For this to happen, your power bank would need to offer a 2A input.

While some do offer this, many still rely on a 1A input which will take longer to reach a full charge.

Hot Tip: Newer power banks can be charged even more quickly with the addition of a 2.4A input option. Look out for these if you want the fastest charge on the market. 

1. Pint-sized Perfection for Single-use Charging

Anker PowerCore, 5000 mAh Ultra-Compact Portable Charger

Capacity: 5,000mAh

Lightweight and super useful, this tiny, compact charger is enough to provide 2 full charges for your iPhone 8 or 1 charge for your iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S9.

Measuring 4.5 x 1.3 x 1.3 inches and weighing 4.8 ounces, you’ll have no problem fitting this handy charger in your pocket or purse on the go.

With a fairly impressive battery capacity of 5,000mAh, this product is well-made and is an excellent example of an established brand squeezing good-quality components into small packages.

The charger features PowerIQ technology that identifies the type of device it’s charging to optimize efficiency, as well as a VoltageBoost to overcome cable resistance for top-speed charging.

With both a USB and micro USB port and the ability to be fully recharged in as little as 3 to 4 hours, this small battery pack will be with you on every adventure.

As a one-off, emergency charger, this is one of the best in the business. When you need that little bit extra, you can retrieve this from your handbag to allow you to stay charged on the go.

There’s no real downside to this particular power bank, but if you want more power, you’ll need to invest in a model with more capacity. As with all Anker chargers, this model also comes with an 18-month warranty.

What We Like

• Comes with a travel pouch

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t include a USB-C cable

2. Superstar Power Bank Offering Dual Charging

• Lanluk Portable Charger Power Bank

Capacity: 25,800mAh

This is a popular and very impressive power bank from Lanluk. With 2 incredibly fast USB ports, powerful and efficient lithium-ion batteries, and a highly portable design, this is a great option for anyone who needs to boost their power on the go.

Measuring just 5.9 x 3 x 0.6 inches and weighing 12.3 ounces, the slightly heavy feeling in your pocket is more than made up for by the superfast charging capability it offers.

This power bank has 2 USB ports that can be used to charge multiple devices at the same time — 1 2.1A outport and 1 1A outport. The unit also offers Auto IC technology that very cleverly identifies your device for maximum charge efficiency .

Different devices will vary on how many times they can be charged, but to give you an idea, your iPhone 8 could be charged a whopping 7 times when this power bank is fully charged.

• Charges 2 devices at once
• Recharge of the power bank could be quicker

3. A Great Little Charger That Packs a Punch

• TG90 6000 mAh Portable Charger

Capacity: 6,000mAh

Compact and lightweight, this small power bank is incredibly portable. Weighing in at just 4.3 ounces and measuring only 4.1 x 0.5 x 2.6 inches, complete with cables, it’s one of the smallest 6,000mAh chargers available .

This TG90 power bank can easily fit in your pocket, purse, or day bag for easy charging on the go and its tiny size belies its powerful charging capabilities. Built-in iPhone and Android cables mean you don’t need to remember to bring your cables, and there are 2 additional 2A outputs (USB and Type-C) for charging multiple devices.

When it comes to charging your power bank back up, this can be done in as little as 3 hours without other connections, or you can charge up while charging your portable devices at the same time. If you happen to be short of light, this power bank also has a handy built-in LED flashlight.

This is a great power pack for the price, and should you run into any problems, you can relax knowing that it comes with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty.

• Small and lightweight to fit in any bag
• Only holds a charge for 1 or 2 phones

4. A Great All-around Charger for Days Out and Long Journeys

• Anker 321 Power Bank

Capacity: 5,200mAh

The Anker 321 Power Bank   offers a handy amount of extra capacity for keeping your iPhone, Android phone, iPad, or tablet topped up while you’re away from home.

Measuring just 3.78 x 1.78 x 0.91 inches and weighing 4.5 ounces, you’ll easily be able to take this everywhere with you.

Using Anker’s PowerIQ device-detection technology, charging times will be adjusted to help reduce charging time and increase efficiency, depending on what device you have plugged in.

With a USB-A and USB-C port, you can charge 2 devices at the same time and this compact portable charger has enough power to charge your iPhone 13 once. The bright LED indicators show the power level at a glance.

This is a great portable charger from one of the best brands on the market. Affordable and efficient, this won’t last you for weeks on end, but it will provide you with more than enough power for an extra charge or 2 when you need it the most.

• Comes with an 18-month warranty
• Doesn’t come with an iPhone charging cable

5. A Firm Favorite for Those Who Need Power

• Anker PowerCore II 10000 Ultra Slim Power Bank

Capacity: 10,000mAh

The upgraded PowerCore II is an impressive power bank that features Anker’s new charging chip.

Being able to squeeze the power into a single chip makes for a lighter and more powerful charger that’s more portable than ever before. Measuring 5.39 x 2.6 x 0.59 inches and weighing just 7.52 ounces, you can easily pop this in your handbag, backpack, or pocket.

Kicking out 10,000mAh of power, you’ll be able to charge your iPhone 8/X/XS/XS Max/XR, Android smartphones, tablets, USB-C MacBook, or your iPad anywhere you go. When it comes to recharging the device itself, it can take between 4 and 10 hours, depending on the type of input you’re using.

The super-high-speed capacity means you can quickly and efficiently charge an iPhone X over 2.4 times, a Galaxy S9 2.2 times or an iPhone 8 over 3.6 times before the power bank’s battery is empty.

The PowerCore II looks as good as it functions, too, with a soft silicone surface that cushions your smartphone and helps to prevent scuffs and scratches, as well as a slim design that can rest perfectly next to your cell phone.

• Super thin to fit easily into your carry-on or laptop bag
• Only has 1 USB port

6. One of the Best-loved Power Banks Ever Made

Anker powercore 13000.

Capacity: 13,000mAh

This ultra-portable, 2-point power bank is robust enough to go anywhere with you while offering the capacity to keep your cell phone or devices topped up on the go.

Measuring 3.8 x 3.1 x 0.9 inches and weighing just 8.47 ounces, this lightweight charger is small enough to fit in your pocket, purse, or wallet alongside your cell phone.

With enough oomph to charge an iPhone 8 almost 5 times, an iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S8 3 times, or an iPad Air 2 1 time, this is useful for anyone on the move.

The patented PowerIQ technology ensures intelligent high-speed charging for all your devices, while the VoltageBoost prevents cable resistance from slowing your charging speeds.

With simultaneous dual-port charging, you can be off on your adventures again in no time. As some of the most popular and best-selling portable chargers in the world, the PowerCore range is fast to charge up. You can have a fully charged power bank in 4 to 10 hours, depending on the cable speed.

30% lighter than other comparable power banks and just the right size to take anywhere, this is a solid option for anyone looking for more power away from home.

• Has 2 high-speed USB ports
• No wall charger included

7. A Great Choice for Charging Small Laptops on the Go

• Sikon AC Outlet Portable Laptop Power Bank

Capacity : 31,200mAh

This is a veritable beast of a power bank that provides a whopping 31,200mAh, an AC outlet, and 3 additional USB outputs (5V/2A, and Type-C output and input 5V/3A,) all wrapped up in a thin, highly portable power bank.

Weighing in at 2.4 pounds and measuring 2.8 x 2.8 x 8.6 inches, it’s too big to fit in your pocket but should fit just fine in a large purse or laptop case. If you want to work on your laptop on the go and keep it powered up, this is a reasonably compact choice, given the amount of power it can provide you with.

While the Sikon Power Bank is compatible with numerous devices, its primary function is to keep your laptop operational no matter where you are .

It works best in association with smaller laptops such as MacBooks, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Microsoft Surface Pro, Dell XPS, HP TPN-C116, and THINKPAD E430, as well as some others that operate at no more than 85 watts.

It provides fast and effective charging capabilities, although 1.8 full charges of your laptop will drain the power bank entirely, meaning you’ll need to plug it into a wall socket somewhere before you head out again.

It will also charge your phone, GoPro, iPad, and even gaming gadgets, so while it works well with laptops, it’s not limited to just their use.

• The display shows the percentage of charge remaining
• The cooling fan is quite loud

8. Best Value Power Bank for Outdoor Adventures

BLAVOR Solar Power Bank

Great for outdoor explorers, this 10,000mAh portable power bank comes complete with carabiner, compass, and a built-in flashlight to help you stay connected and on track wherever you are.

Measuring 5.9 x 2.9 x 0.9 inches and weighing 9.3 ounces, this is a great choice for anyone needing extra power on the go.

This power bank also doubles as a Qi wireless charging device.

This power bank has a choice of micro USB, USB-A and USB-C connections. It can efficiently charge 3 devices simultaneously and most cell phones between 2 and 2.5 times on 1 full charge.

While it does offer solar power capabilities, it’s advised that this function is used as backup and that the power bank be fully charged before you set off on your next adventure.

Designed to last, this sturdy charger is IPX5 waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof and covered in flameproof material, making it a durable outdoor addition to your camping, hiking, or trekking equipment to ensure that you can reliably keep in touch with the rest of the world when you head off the grid.

The only downside to this particular model is that the solar panel seems like a bit of a gimmick, but if that doesn’t worry you, it’s still a useful little charger for using away from home.

• Great for camping or other outdoor adventures
• The solar panel isn’t something to rely on

9. 2 Power Banks for all Your Charging Needs

2-Pack Miady 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Charger

Capacity: 10,000mAh each

This 2-pack of Miady power banks will ensure that your devices never run out of juice. While not in the same leagues as the more expensive, bigger brand power bars and banks on the market, the Miady portable charger is a nifty bank that will see you right for an extra charge when you need it most.

Keep both chargers for yourself or gift the second to your partner or friend. You can choose between a set of black and white power banks or a couple of other brightly colored combinations.

This power bank can charge cell phones and small devices quickly and offers 10,000mAh capability. There are 2 USB outputs on both devices, both rated at 2.4A, and a micro USB port rated at 2A.

4 LEDs light up to indicate the percentage of power remaining (each light represents 25%) and the power bank automatically powers off if no device has been connected for 30 seconds.

• Available in a few different color combinations
• Doesn’t always start charging automatically when plugged in

10. Great for Gamers on the Go

• Antank Power Bank For Nintendo Switch

With enough power to charge up your Nintendo Switch even while you play it, this is a medium-sized charger that measures 6.1 x 3.2 x 1.9 inches and weighs 8.8 ounces. It was the first power bank to neatly attach directly to the back of a Switch , so there’s no need to hold it awkwardly while you play.

This nifty power bank will give you between 8.5 and 12 hours of total charge playing some of your favorite Nintendo Switch games.

While this power bank has a built-in Type-C cable to connect to your Switch, there’s also a Type-C port and a USB (3A) to charge up your iPhone and other devices.

• Can be used and charged simultaneously
• Can feel quite weighty on the back of the Switch

11. Great for Vacations and Overnight Stays

• VimPower Portable Charger 22000mAh Battery Pack

Capacity: 22,000mAh

Made from 2 high-density, lithium polymer batteries, this multi-device charging power bank is an effective and affordable way to keep your cell phone, iPhone, or iPad fully charged on the go.

Weighing just 1.1 pounds and measuring 7.5 x 4 x 1.3 inches, this clever pack will easily fit in your purse, backpack, or laptop bag.

This power bank features 2 USB A ports, 1 Type-C port, and 2 micro USB ports, which can charge multiple devices at the same time, and it comes with a couple of charging cables, too. The highly efficient 22,000mAh capacity battery can charge most phones over 5 times, and most tablets over 4 times, meaning you can keep entertained and in touch wherever you go.

The 15W and 30W ports supply super-quick charge times that are 2 to 3 times faster than traditional power banks , and to give you an idea of this speed — an iPhone XS Max can be charged to 50% in just 30 minutes.

For its size and capability, this power bank is to back to full charge in as little as 7 hours, and should you experience problems, it does come with a full 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.

• 30W ports can charge some laptops
• Different ports aren’t clearly marked with charging capabilities

There are plenty of reasons why you should invest in a portable power bank and there are just as many types and variations for you to choose from.

Before you commit, look for a model that can charge your devices quickly and efficiently and that doesn’t take days on end to charge itself.

An efficient power bank will completely transform the way you use our portable devices when you’re away from home. Choose wisely, and you will be able to extend the battery life of your cell phone, tablet, laptop, and even small gaming consoles, literally anywhere in the world.

Love streamlining your travel tech? Don’t miss out on these other product reviews:

• The Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel
• The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers for Travel
• The Best Travel Electronic Organizers for Your Cables and Cords
• Best Travel Products – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring a power bank on a plane.

Power banks can only be transported on a plane in a carry-on and cannot be in your checked luggage.

Airlines usually allow a 100Wh power bank with a 5V output, which equates to 20,000mAh.

Some airlines will allow 160Wh power banks if you declare it beforehand. Always check with your airline before you fly.

What is the best portable power bank?

Some of the best portable power banks that we recommend are:

• Anker PowerCore 1300
• Anker PowerCore 5000 mAh Ultra-Compact Portable Charger
• Qi Solar Power Bank

Is 20,000mAh good for a portable charger?

20,000mAh is a fairly common capacity for many portable chargers, which equates to around 6 full charges of an iPhone 7.

How many mAh is good for a portable charger?

How do i choose a portable charger.

The important things to consider when choosing a portable charger are:

• The size and weight, so it’s not too bulky for your needs
• The power capacity that the power bank kicks out (measured in milliamp-hours or “mAh”)
• The input charging speed

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The best portable chargers and power banks in 2024

Here are the best portable chargers to keep your devices juiced up while you're on the go

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best for iPhone
• Best Travel
• Best for Apple Watch
• How to choose
• How we test

The best portable chargers keep your electronics powered while you're out and about. These handy peripherals can charge a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, wireless earbuds, and even some laptops. Because you'll inevitably find yourself with low battery life when outdoors, you'll need a reliable portable charger to keep your electronics going. Not having one could prove to be extremely inconvenient.

We've done a battery (pun intended) of tests on some of the most highly-rated portable chargers on the market. To that end, we've pulled from both big brands and popular competitors. While these specific portable chargers regularly appear on bestseller lists, they're all different in several important ways.

We've got these best portable chargers ranked in order of what we would buy, with shoutouts for the best portable charger, our favorite budget charger, and the best portable charger for iPhone.

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best portable chargers you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.

The Anker Prime 20,000 mAh power bank  is one of the best portable chargers around to power all of your devices. If you're looking for the best power efficiency for your on-the-go lifestyle, this is it because you'll spend very little time charging your phone to get back a lot of battery. 

Read more below

The INIU 10000 mAh Portable Charger won’t cost you a fortune, yet it’s still beefy enough to charge phones extremely fast. This budget portable charger often fetches for around $20 when it’s on sale, but its regular $30 cost still undercuts many of the other options out there. Best of all, it’s also incredibly compact. 

With its MagSafe connection, the mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini is an excellent portable charger for the iPhone. Even if you don’t have an iPhone that supports MagSafe, or simply have an Android phone, you can still charge them with its USB-C port. 

With its svelte size, the Scosche PowerUp 600 is the ideal portable charger for travel because it packages a 5,400 mAh battery. What makes it unique is that it can also help to jumpstart a car if it has a dead battery.

If you own an Apple Watch, there's a built-in charger for that with the Satechi Quatro. This versatile charger features a 10,000 mAh battery and a separate wireless charger for phones.

The Anker Power Bank Fusion 10K is an all-in-one portable charger that includes an integrated USB-C cable to charge your gadgets, along with flip out prongs to directly charge it in an outlet without the need for a separate power adapter.

John is a senior editor for mobile covering phones, accessories, chargers, smart home devices, and EVs. During his off-hours, John enjoys using smart telescopes for astrophotography, doing lawn work on the weekends, and trying to get his two cats Instagram famous. He's also been on YouTube for 15+ years doing hosting duties and his work has appeared in publications such as PhoneArena, Digital Trends, SPY, and Android Authority.

The best portable chargers you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The best portable charger overall

1. Anker Prime 20,000 mAh

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Anker’s well known for its lineup of power solutions, so it comes at no surprise that the Anker Prime 20,000 mAh power bank tops our list of best portable chargers. With its generous battery capacity, it’s more than capable of charging small stuff like your phones and wearables — but it’s also powerful enough to charge laptops too.

What makes it better is that it features a maximum charging speed of 200W, which is ridiculously fast if your device can support it. For fast charging phones, it could take 30 minutes or less to get it back up to 100% capacity. Meanwhile, the unit itself charges at a speedy rate of 100W. There’s also a handy display that shows its charging capacity and the actual speeds it’s charging with its USB ports.

The best budget portable charger

2. INIU 10,000 mAh Portable Charger

Although it might not be as familiar a brand, the INIU 10000 mAh charger is the best budget portable charger with its affordable cost. You won’t spend a whole lot picking it up either, since it frequently gets discounted to get it down to around $20, which is super cheap compared to the other options.

This INIU charger stood up in 15-minute and 1-hour timed charging (at 22%, 78%), with times that were within 1-2 percentage points ahead of what we got out of comparable Anker PowerCore Slim's times. Even with its ultra affordable cost, we’re glad that INIU offers a 3-year limited warranty — which is more than the usual 1-year that other battery bank makers offer.

The best portable charger for iPhone

3. mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini

There’s something to say about MagSafe. It lends a helping hand with the mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini in keeping it fastened snugly on the back of a compatible iPhone with MagSafe for on-the-go charging. That way, you can always have it on hand — even when you need to top it off while waiting for your coffee in the morning.

With its 5,000 mAh battery, it’s able to provide nearly a full charge to most iPhones, but there’s also a USB-C port on hand to charge other phones and gadgets.

The best portable charger for travel

4. Scosche PowerUp 600

You just neve know what can arise when you’re vacationing or traveling, which is why the Scosche PowerUp 600 is the perfect companion to keep your gadgets charged. There’s a 5,400 mAh battery capable of speedily charging phones with its 10W charging speed.

However, its value in being a portable charger for travel is its unique ability to jumpstart a dead car battery. The last thing you need to worry about while traveling is a disabled vehicle, but you can save yourself time and heartache by bringing it back to life with the Scosche PowerUp 600.

The best portable charger for Apple Watch

5. Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank

One of the most versatile portable chargers out there, the Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank, doesn’t just have enough fuel in the tank to charge all of your gadgets wired or wirelessly with its beefy 10,000 mAh battery, but it also packs an Apple Watch charger that lets you conveniently charge on the go.

This means you won’t have to remember to bring along your Apple Watch charger since it integrates one, which helps to save you space in your bag — and it also means less clutter when you have to charge. With its 18W charging speeds, it’s fast enough to give you a decent charge in a short amount of time.

The best Anker portable charger

6. Anker Power Bank Fusion 10K

Versatility is what the Anker Power Bank Fusion 10K is all about. That’s because this portable charger from Anker doesn’t force you to bring along other cables and adapters to use it. With its integrated USB-C cable, it packs 30W wired speeds that’s fast enough to power some laptops in addition to phones. You can also lean on its other USB-C port to charge another device simultaneously with its 10,000 mAh battery cell.

Recharging the Anker Power Bank Fusion 10K is also a cinch because it features a built-in foldable charger when the battery itself needs to be recharged. With this setup, you might not even have to worry about bringing any of your chargers and cables because it conveniently packages everything into its design.

How to choose the best portable charger

Finding the right charger capacity: You'll often see a four to five-digit number, with the letters mAh following it, and that's your first big indicator of how much this charger is right for you. If you're constantly refueling your phone and other gadgets, go for at least 10,000mAh. For each extra device you charge, add at least 5,000 to the mAh rating you're looking for. Just need to prevent your device from hitting 0 on late nights out? You'll be good with something in the under 5,000 mAh rating, provided you remember to charge it often.

Be a ports authority: If you hold onto your devices forever, and don't already know what a USB-C port is, you can probably just get whatever fits your price. But if you're the kind who wants faster charging, look for a brick that has PD in its name. The best portable chargers, at least for my money, charge devices the fastest and use the Power Delivery (PD) standard. Also, their USB-C ports mean you can refuel these power banks with the same cords used to charge modern laptops.

How we test the best portable chargers

You want a charger that was put through the rigors of refueling, so we did just that. With timers in hand, we kept draining an iPhone 15 Pro and then timed how much time it took for each power bank to refuel those phones. Along the way, we checked out how much of said iPhone 15 Pro (the same one) were refueled after 15 and 60 minutes. We kept that iPhone at 100% brightness the whole time.

Our ranking also factored in the portability and designs of each model, as especially small and pocket-friendly chargers can't physically store as many mAh of battery power as their larger brethren. Similarly, the smaller a charger is, the less likely it has more than two ports (one for gaining a charge, the other for giving power).

Those looking to keep their tech protected throughout each and every charge should check out our guide to the best surge protectors .

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Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on X/Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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• Codeape Anker has 2 usb a output ports (even says so in your description)... -ve for that device says just one usb a output port... Reply
• Marcel Bro Best power banks and chargers of 2023? And most of them only output USB A?! This article is heavily outdated. Reply
• Arctic Strix This article was either done by a bad Ai, written within 5min by someone who searched for the most bought battery banks on Amazon, or reused from several years ago. The "best portable charger" is not a 10,000mAh USB-A 15W charger for $20, that's just one of the most purchased on Amazon. One of the best portable power banks is going to be the Anker 737 or the Ugreen 145w. They both feature two type C outputs and one type A output, the Anker 737 being able to output up to 140W compared to Ugreen maxing at 100W. Anker has a 24000mAh battery and PD3.1 complaint and Ugreen is 25000mAh with PD3.0; they both are compatible with all charging standards. These might be a bit overkill for the general user, but they are among the best, if not the best portable power banks. Reply
• View All 3 Comments

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The best power banks and portable chargers for 2024

Never run out of juice again, no matter where you are with these best portable battery chargers..

Finding yourself far from an outlet when your phone hits five percent can make you feel a little shaky — which is why stashing a portable charger in your bag is never a bad idea. People who travel or are simply forgetful will appreciate the benefit of having a little extra juice on hand, but picking out a good portable charger from among the thousands out there can quickly get overwhelming. I’ve spent the past year and a half testing more than two dozen units to help you find the best portable power banks for all kinds of different scenarios, from a partial recharge for an iPhone to a massive laptop battery for working out in the field.

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K)

Best magsafe-compatible power bank, anker nano battery (foldable usb-c), best battery for a partial charge on an android, biolite charge 40 pd, best low capacity power bank, otterbox fast charge 15,000mah, best medium capacity power bank, nimble champ pro, best medium-high capacity power bank, lion energy eclipse mag, best high capacity power bank, mophie powerstation pro ac (2023) 27,000mah battery, best mobile command center power bank, anker prime, best premium power bank, nestout 15000mah outdoor battery power bank, best power bank for outdoors, mophie juice pack iphone 15 battery case, honorable mention: battery pack case, baseus magnetic 30w, honorable mention: magsafe option, table of contents, best power banks for 2024, how we test best power banks, what to look for in a portable battery pack, other power banks we tested.

Capacity : 10,000mAh, 15W | Ports : One USB-C in/out | Included cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 15 : 1.64 | Charge time iPhone : 4 to 100% in 2h 26m and 0 to 70% in 1h 8m

Anker’s MagGo Power Bank was one of the first Qi2-certified products to come on the market, and the new standard has made the brand’s popular MagSafe/kickstand model much faster. It brought an iPhone 15 from near-dead to half-full in about 45 minutes. For reference, it took our former top pick in this category an hour and a half to do the same. It’s similarly faster than Anker’s previous generation of this model, the 633, as well. After that initial refill, the MagGo 10K had enough left over to get the phone up to 70 percent on a subsequent charge.

In addition to faster charging speeds, this Anker power bank adds a small display to indicate the battery percentage left in the bank, plus the approximate amount of time before it’s full (when it’s refilling) or empty (when it's doing the charging). A strong MagSafe connection makes it easy to use the phone while it charges and the small kickstand creates a surprisingly sturdy base for watching videos and the like. If you twist the phone to landscape, StandBy mode kicks in.

The power bank did a fine job of charging our Galaxy S23 Ultra, but the lack of support for Qi2, even on the newest Galaxies and Pixels, means the most popular Android will simply charge at a slower rate — and won't benefit from the zero-effort magnetic alignment. There’s also a single USB-C port for recharging, so if you need to fill up something without wireless capabilities, you can.

• Qi2 tech enables extra fast wireless charging
• Sturdy kickstand props up iPhones as it charges
• LED display for battery percentage
• More expensive than other MagSafe packs

Capacity: 5,000 mAh, 22.5W max | Ports : One USB-C and one USB-C connector | Cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges Galaxy S23 Ultra : 0.65 | Charge time : 0 to 65% in 1h 2m

The Anker Nano power bank is impressive for how much charge it delivers in such a small package. It’s the exact size and shape of the lipstick case my grandma used to carry and has a built-in USB-C connector that folds down when you’re not using it. That means that, in addition to being ultra-portable, you also don’t need to remember to grab a charging cable when you toss it in your bag. There’s also a built-in USB-C port that can refill the battery or be used to fill up a different device with an adapter cable. You also get four indicator lights that let you know how much charge remains in the battery.

In my testing, the 5,000mAh battery provided enough charge to get a depleted Galaxy S23 Ultra back up to 65 percent in about an hour. That’s relatively quick, but the Nano is also small enough that, with an adequately sturdy connection, you can use your phone while it’s charging without feeling too awkward. The charger’s small size also makes it a good pick for recharging earbuds.

For a little more juice and an equally clever design, Anker’s 30W Nano Power Bank is a good option. It’s bigger in size and capacity (10,000mAh) and includes a display indicating the remaining charge percentage. The attached USB-C cable doubles as a carry handle, which is a nice touch. That cable is in/out and there’s another USB-C in-out port in addition to an out-only USB-A port.

• Very portable
• Small enough to get misplaced

Capacity : 10,000mAh, 18W max | Ports : One in/out USB-C, two USB-A out only | Cable : USB-C to USB-A | Number of charges iPhone 14 Plus : 1.36 | Charge time iPhone : 0 to 100% in 1h 50m, 0 to 50% in 36m | Number of charges Galaxy S22 Ultra : 1.33 | Charge time Galaxy : 0 to 100% in 1h 33m, 0 to 50% in 45m

BioLite is probably better known in the outdoor community than the tech world, and it’s fair to say that the Charge 40 PD is geared more towards camping trips than urban commutes. But this battery simply outperformed the others in its category. The rugged, yellow-accented exterior is a refreshing change from the standard shiny black of many tech accessories. It also has a rubberized finish and feels solid enough to handle the bumps and jolts of riding around in a purse or messenger bag all day. It gave both the iPhone and the Galaxy one and a half charges, which means it’s plenty capable of reviving a dead phone a couple of times when you’re out and about.

The Nimble Champ gets an honorary mention here because it’ll also deliver a few reliable fill-ups and comes in a rugged package. It delivered a full charge to the iPhone in two hours plus 22 percent more in 16 minutes. It gave the Galaxy a full charge in an hour and 37 minutes, then got the phone from dead to 41 percent in 50 minutes. At the same $60 price point as the BioLite, Nimble gets extra points for being one of the few B-Corp-certified personal tech manufacturers out there, meaning they’ve committed themselves to higher environmental and social standards, and took the time to prove it through B Lab’s certification process.

• Rugged build
• Plenty of charge in a compact size
• Just one USB-C port

Capacity : 15,000mAh, 18W max | Ports : One in/out USB-C, one in/out USB-A | Cable : USB-C to USB-A | Number of charges iPhone 14 Plus : 2.33 | Charge time iPhone : 0 to 100% in 2h 2m average, and 0% to 33% in 27m | Number of charges Galaxy S22 Ultra : 2.33 | Charge time Galaxy : 0 to 100% in 1h 35m and 0 to 37% in 33m | Number of charges iPad Air : 1.31 | Charge time iPad : 0 to 100% in 2h 23m and 0% to 31% in 38m

At the medium-capacity level, you can charge multiple devices at once or power up something larger than a phone. The Otterbox Fast Charge power bank only lists 15,000mAh of capacity, but it performed nearly as well as the 20,000mAh batteries while costing about $30 less. Over the month and a half I spent testing battery packs, this was the unit I grabbed the most when my own devices dropped to empty. It has a stylish exterior with a gray faux leather finish and copper detailing. A little bigger than a deck of cards and weighing just over 11 ounces, it’s a nice looking accessory that feels solid.

It filled up both smartphones twice, then replenished each an additional third. I introduced the iPad to the mix here and got a full charge plus an extra third. The Otterbox also lost very little battery power while sitting dormant, which means if you carry it around on the off chance that you’ll need it, it should have plenty of power when the time comes.

• Attractive design
• Solid build
• Great capacity for the price
• Doesn't charge as quickly as others in its range

Capacity : 20,000mAh, 65W | Ports : Two USB-C in/out | Cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 11 : 2.95 | Charge time iPhone : 5 to 100% in 1h 39m average | Number of charges Galaxy S22 Ultra : 2.99 | Charge time Galaxy : 5 to 100% in 59m average | Number of charges iPad Air : 1.83 | Charge time iPad : 5 to 100% in 1h 55m and 83% in 1h 21m

Nimble’s Champ Pro battery delivers a screaming fast charge and got a Galaxy S23 Ultra from five percent to full in under an hour. That’s faster than every other battery I tested except for Anker’s 737, our high capacity pick — and that model costs $30 more. It lent nearly three full charges to both an iPhone and Galaxy device and has enough juice to refill an iPad more than once. The battery pack itself also re-ups from the wall noticeably faster than other models, so it’ll get you out the door quicker.

The company, Nimble, is a certified B-Corp, meaning they aim for higher environmental and social standards and verify their efforts through independent testing. The Champ Pro uses 90 percent post-consumer plastic and comes in packaging made from paper scrap with a bag for shipping back your old battery (or other tech) for recycling.

The unit itself feels sturdy and has a compact shape that’s a little narrower than a smartphone and about as long. The attached adjustable lanyard is cute, if a little superfluous, and the marbled effect from the recycled plastics give it a nice aesthetic. You can charge devices from both USB-C ports simultaneously, and both are input/output plugs.

My only qualm was with the four indicator lights. On a second testing round, it dropped down to just one remaining pip, yet went on to deliver a full fill-up plus an additional top off after that. That said, I’m glad the indicator lights under-estimated the remaining charge rather than the other way around, and the accuracy seemed to improve after subsequent depletions and refills.

• Super fast charging
• Made from recycled materials
• Sturdy and compact design
• Indicator lights underestimate charge

Capacity : 27,000mAh, 85W max | Ports : One in/out USB-C, two out only USB-A, three wireless pads | Cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 15 : 5.67 | Charge time iPhone : 5 to 100% in 2h 22m average and 5 to 68% in 35m | Number of charges Galaxy S23 Ultra : 4.46 | Charge time Galaxy : 5 to 100% in 1h 21m average 5 to 46% in 25m | Number of charges iPad Air : 2.78 | Charge time iPad : 5 to 100% in 1h 55m average and 5 to 78% in 1h 11m | Number of charges MacBook Pro : 0.79 | Charge time MacBook Pro : 10-89% 1h 18m

The selling point for Lion Energy’s Eclipse Mag is supposed to be the three wireless charging pads on its topside, but I found its wired performance to be even more impressive. The 27,000mAh battery translates to about 100 watt hours, aka the TSA’s largest approved capacity for travel. It’s more compact than other 27K batteries, though at two pounds and 8.5 inches long, it’s hardly small. The soft-touch plastic on the exterior is thicker at the angled-off corners, which makes it feel like it could handle a tumble — Lion Energy doesn’t list any sort of mil spec or other ratings for drop endurance so I didn’t subject the tester unit to any rough handling.

Measuring the recharge time of the batteries from the wall isn’t one of the metrics I usually test, but Lion Energy claims a 90 minute refill and my experience lines up with that. It refilled our iPhone 15 five and a half times and the Galaxy S23 Ultra nearly five times. It revived a 16-inch MacBook Pro from 10 percent to 89 percent while it was in use. That works out to about 14 percentage points more than our current command center battery recommendation. The previous pick in this category, Anker’s 737 , charged up a Galaxy S22 Ultra slightly faster than the Eclipse Mag refilled a Galaxy S23 Ultra (which have the same battery capacity) but the Eclipse had more charge to give every device.

A double-press of the status button enables wireless charging and more than one device can be charged at once. Magnets align with an iPhone’s MagSafe circle to position the phone quickly. Finding the sweet spot for the Galaxy phone takes a little adjustment, but was easy enough. It took nearly three hours to fully charge the iPhone 15 from five to 100 percent, but getting it to 87 percent only took two hours. With any portable battery, the charge rate slows significantly as the device approaches 100 percent — and that’s even more noticeable with a wireless portable charger.

Lion Energy told me the Eclipse Mag is designed for Apple Watches only. Not surprising given the Pixel Watch 2 doesn’t support wireless charging and Samsung recommends you only use its chargers to refill a Galaxy Watch. My Apple Watch snapped into place easily and started charging right away (after I remembered to double press the button to fire up the wireless pads).

At $149, it’s relatively affordable for a 27,000mAh battery, particularly given the wireless charging feature. I wish it had more than one USB-C port, but I suppose the wireless pads make up for the lack. Overall, it’s a solid choice for long trips or for working away from an outlet for a day or two.

• Massive 27,000mAh capacity
• Quick charge wired charging times
• Wireless charging works well for a portable battery
• Large and heavy

Capacity : 27,000mAh, 140W max | Ports : One USB-C in/out, one USB-C out, USB-A, 100W AC | Cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 11 : 3.75 | Charge time iPhone : 0 to 100% in 1h 40m average and 75% in 46m | Number of charges iPad Air : 2.15 | Charge time iPad : 0 to 100% in 1h 56m and 15% in 19m | Number of charges 16” MacBook Pro : 0.65 | Charge time MBP : 10% to 75% in 1h 29m

The TSA’s 100-watt-hour battery limit translates to around 27,000mAh for lithium ion batteries. Mophie’s Powerstation Pro AC is so massive it necessitates a grab handle and get close to the edge of that max carry-on size. You probably won’t find a larger, acceptable portable power bank — after all, an on-the-go charging brick is pointless if you can’t travel with it. I took this one through security at two airports and no one gave it a second glance.

To power your mobile work setup, the Powerstation has four ports. Three of them are the usual USBs, but there’s also a three-prong AC outlet. Most current devices charge via USB (and doing so is more efficient than using a power adapter between the cable and power bank), but older devices and certain mobile workstation accessories — speakers, lights and printers come to mind — might only power up through a basic wall plug. Just be sure to hold down the status button until the light turns red to turn on the AC port.

The AC plug powered most small appliances I plugged into it, including a small speaker, an HP printer and various LED lights. The 100 available watts isn’t enough to continuously push a charge through the 140W power adapter that ships with the 16-inch MacBook Pro, but via the USB-C port, it was able to charge that laptop from 10 percent to 75 percent in under 90 minutes.

The four lighted LED indicators will tell you when the battery is full. Unfortunately, it’s not the best indicator of when the bank will run out of juice. It charges for quite a while with four and three pips lit up, but then quickly cycles through the last two dots before it dies. So it might be better to just remember how much you’ve used the brick rather than relying too heavily on its indicators.

Smaller devices like a smartphone will get numerous charges; I got nearly five refills on an iPhone 11, and two charges and some change on an iPad. The Powerstation Pro AC was even a little faster at both tasks than our previous pick for a mobile command center. That said, this bank is overkill for a simple mobile device fill-up. At 2.6 pounds, it makes the most sense as a power source when you’re working in the field with multiple components.

The Lion Energy Trek power bank is pretty similar to the Powerstation Pro AC. It has the same 27,000mAh capacity and three USB ports plus an AC plug. The exterior has a more rugged feel and there’s an LED screen indicating outgoing wattage and remaining charge. Charging times and number of refills was on par with what the Powerstation delivered and the Trek is currently about $30 cheaper too. However, just one of the USB ports is Type-C and the display inaccurately indicated the power bank’s remaining charge, repeatedly saying it had 25 to 35 percent remaining just moments before dying completely. But if those two caveats don’t bother you, this could make a reliable travel companion.

• Massive capacity
• Unique AC outlet

Capacity : 20,000mAh, 200W max | Ports : Two USB-C in/out, one USB-A, charging pins | Cable : USB-C to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 11 : 3.75 | Charge time iPhone : 0 to 100% in 1h 48m average and 75% in 47m | Number of charges iPad Air : 1.54 | Charge time iPad : 0 to 100% in 2h 11m and 54% in 47m

Not only does Anker’s new 20,000mAh Prime power bank look pretty slick, it’s also easier to recharge — as long as you pony up for the companion base . Magnets help align the pins so you can just plonk the battery down and move on with your life. The set will run you $200, which is pretty spendy for a battery bank, but if you consider that the base offers extra ports (one USB-A and two USB-C), you can also use it as a power hub for other devices, which takes some of the sting out of the price.

The battery itself has the same three ports as the base and a blocky, upright design. The case is a textured metallic plastic with a high-polish, built-in screen and rounded corners. It tells you how many watts are flowing out to each device and displays the overall remaining charge within the battery. When you press the power button, it takes a moment to wake. But the extra processes that run the screen don’t seem to slow the battery down or diminish the power it has to give. Its charge times and capacity was on par with the other 20K batteries I’ve tested.

I’ve been pretty careful with my review unit, but I’d be worried that the sleek and shiny finish will get wrecked with regular use. It does come with a faux-suede pouch to carry it in, but I doubt anyone will use that regularly — after all, the whole appeal of the Prime’s base and battery set is the low-hassle efficiency.

• Convenient charging with the base
• Sleek, attractive design
• Has a charge indicator display
• Expensive, especially with the base
• Shiny screen seems easily scratched

Capacity : 15,000mAh, 32W max | Ports : One USB-C in/out, one USB-C in, one USB-A | Cable : USB-A to USB-C | Number of charges iPhone 11 : 2.99 | Charge time iPhone 11 : 0 to 100% 2h average and 0 to 99% in 1h 45m | Number of charges iPad Air : 1.17 | Charge time iPad : 0 to 100% 2h 23m and 0 to 17% 15m

Plenty of battery packs are built to withstand drops and other abuse, but very few are waterproof or even water resistance. It makes sense; water and electrical charges aren’t good companions. The Nestout Portable Charger battery has an IP67 rating, which means it can handle being submerged in water for a number of minutes, and Nestout claims a 30-minute dunk in a meter of water shouldn’t interfere with the battery’s operation. I couldn’t think of a likely scenario where a power bank would spend a half hour in three feet of water, but I could see a backpacker traversing a river and submerging their pack for a few minutes, or a sudden downpour drenching all of their gear. So I tested by dropping the battery in a five gallon bucket of water for five minutes. After drying it off, the unit performed as if it had never been wet.

The water resistance comes courtesy of screw-on caps with silicone gaskets that physically keep the water out, so you’ll need to make sure you tighten (but don’t over tighten) the caps whenever you think wetness is in your future. The company also claims the battery lives up to a military-standard shock/drop specification which sounds impressive, but it’s hard to pin down what exactly that means. I figured it should at minimum survive repeated drops from chest height onto a hard surface, and it did.

As for charging speeds, it wasn’t quite as quick as our recommendation for a mid-capacity bank. The Otterbox charged an iPhone 14 Plus to 80 percent in about an hour and the Nestout got the smaller iPhone 11 to 80 percent in the same amount of time. Another thing to note is that the supplied cable is short , just seven inches total, so you’ll likely want to use your own cord.

Nestout also makes accessories for its batteries, which I found delightful. A dimmable LED worklight snaps on to the top of the battery while a small tripod holds them both up. The portable solar panel reminded me of a baby version of Biolite’s camping panels . Nestout’s version refilled the 15,000mAh bank to 40 percent in under three hours, which sounds slow, but is actually fairly impressive considering the compact size of the panels. This is also a blazingly hot summer, so I’d expect better performance in more reasonable weather.

• Waterproof with the caps secured
• Clever accessories (sold separately)
• Survived drop tests
• Not the fastest charge times
• Included cable is short

A few companies now make phone cases that double as batteries. The Juice Pack from Mophie is the first one I’ve tested, so it’s hard to call it the best in its category, but I found a lot of reasons to recommend it. The case splits in two, making it easy to put on, but once installed, the phone feels secure in its protective sheath. I was surprised by how little bulk it adds; it’s a little longer at the bottom and a little thicker at the back, but I doubt anyone would even guess the case was also a battery.

When my tester iPhone 15 started to die, I long pressed the back button (a short press indicates battery level) and the charging bolt symbol immediately kicked on. It took about an hour and 45 minutes to get the phone from ten percent to 65 percent before the battery depleted. Compared to other batteries capable of delivering a partial charge, that’s not terribly fast. But it provides a few extra hours of life and it’s always there when you need it.

The Juice Pack presents a couple drawbacks, though, with the biggest being that it prevents wireless charging. When it is time to recharge from the wall, a USB-C cable goes into the Juice Pack at the bottom edge, right where the phone’s port is. Power is directed first to the phone then switches to refilling the case battery.

The other downside is the fact that it’s a case. It only works with an iPhone 15, 15 Pro or 15 Max, depending on which version you buy, and it won’t lend a charge to any other device that may need it. Also, like the Model T, the Juice Pack comes in any color you want, as long as that color is black. Some people won’t care, but others will probably lament the lack of personal expression. Still, if you often find yourself forgetting to charge your phone and you also forget to bring an extra battery, this is a good lifeline.

This impressive little external battery pack from Baseus is a strong contender for knocking Anker’s MagSafe battery off its pedestal in this guide. Baseus’ bank is about half the price and has a built-in USB-C cord so you can recharge non-iPhones without needing to have a cable on hand. The cable can also be used to recharge the bank itself. Even though it doesn’t use Qi2 wireless charging technology, it managed to charge an iPhone 15 just as fast as the Anker unit. It lacks Anker’s status display and kickstand, though, but if those features aren’t essential for you, this is a great buy.

Battery type

Nearly every rechargeable power bank you can buy (and most portable devices) contain a lithium-ion battery. These beat other current battery types in terms of size-to-charge capacity, and have even increased in energy density by eight fold in the past 14 years. They also don’t suffer from a memory effect (where battery life deteriorates due to partial charges).

One drawback you may have heard is the possibility of lithium ion batteries catching fire . To limit the danger, battery packs require internal mechanisms to limit things like voltage and pressure. While you should still make sure a battery isn’t exposed to unnecessary stress like excessive heat, damage from drops or operating in freezing weather, battery packs are considered safe enough to bring on an airplane. According to the TSA , external batteries rated at 100Wh or less (which all of our recommendations are) can fly with you – just make sure you stash them in your carryon as they aren’t allowed in checked baggage.

Power bank manufacturers almost always list a battery’s capacity in milliamp hours, or mAh. Smaller batteries, say those that can charge a smartphone to between 50 and 75 percent, tend to have a 5,000mAh capacity. Larger batteries that can recharge laptops and tablets, or give phones multiple charges, can exceed 25,000mAh. Unsurprisingly, the prices on most batteries goes up as mAh capacity increases, and since batteries are physical storage units, size and weight go up with capacity as well. If you want more power, be prepared to spend more and carry around a heavier brick.

You might think that a 10,000mAh power bank could charge a 5,000mAh phone to 100 percent twice, but that’s not the case. In addition to simple energy loss through heat dissipation, factors like voltage conversion also bring down the amount of juice that makes it into your phone. Most manufacturers list how many charges a battery can give a certain smartphone. In our tests, 10,000mAh of battery pack capacity translated to roughly 5,800mAh of device charge. 20,000mAh chargers delivered around 11,250mAh to a device, and 25,000mAh banks translated to about 16,200mAh of charge. That’s an average efficiency rate of around 60 percent.

More manufacturers are making power banks with wireless charging. Not hassling with cables is nice, but it’s important to note that wireless charging is less efficient than plugging in your phone. Outside of MagSafe options, wireless portable chargers historically didn’t make the cut for our top picks for this guide for that reason. The Qi2 wireless charging standard arrived last year and improves performance for wireless charging, including for portable banks. Currently, iPhones are the only handsets that support the new tech, but as it’s an open standard, expect Google, Samsung and others to adopt it for future phones. In my testing, I’ve noticed an uptick in the performance of non-Qi2-enabled batteries as well, so you'll now see wireless options on this list.

Since Apple ditched the Lightning cable and adopted USB-C, we’re getting closer to a standard for charging connections — and all of our picks have at least one such port. But plenty of other devices use older interfaces, like USB-A and microUSB ports, plus Lightning for older iPhones. You can find cables with just about any combination of those connections, so when you’re picking out a battery, just check that one end of your preferred cord will fit.

Most battery packs have more than one port, which gives you different charging options. You’ll typically see at least one port labeled “in/out,” which means you can use it to both charge the bank and charge your device. While USB-A output ports can power up smartphones and other small devices, they can’t charge larger devices. Plus, they aren’t as fast as USB-C ports overall. That’s something to keep in mind when you’re deciding which ports and charging cables to use to connect your phone to the pack.

There’s even more variation among USB-C ports themselves, with different ports on the same device supporting different power transfer rates. What that means in practical terms is an iPhone will charge just fine plugged into a power bank’s 18W port. But to properly charge, say, a MacBook or similar laptop, it’ll need the extra juice supplied by a 100W port (which larger power banks can offer). Power banks with more than one port can also charge multiple devices at the same time, but speeds and the overall charge delivered will be lower.

You’ll also want to consider your charging cable. For anything larger than a smartphone (and to access fast-charging capabilities) you’ll want to use USB-C ports and cables. But not all cables are created equal, even when they have the same USB-C plugs on the end. If you want power delivery from a 100W USB-C power bank port, you’ll need a 100W-rated USB-C cable. Luckily, power banks capable of delivering 100W tend to include a compatible cable. For any devices that don’t, we’ve tried and liked Anker’s 100W USB-C cable . For smaller devices, we used this 60W cable from Nimble and we don’t recommend bothering with cables under 60W. For around $20, higher-capacity charging cables will make sure you’re not wasting time with connections that limit your potential power transfer.

For the most part, these rechargeable batteries have a squared-off, brick-like design, though many nod towards aesthetics with attractive finishes and detailing. While that doesn’t affect how they perform, it’s a consideration for something you’ll interact with regularly. Some portable power stations include extra features like MagSafe compatibility, a built-in wall plug or even a kickstand. Nearly all have some sort of indicator to let you know how much available charge your power bank has left, usually expressed with lighted pips near the power button. Some of the newer banks take that a step further with an LED display indicating remaining battery percentage.

Before we even put our hands on a battery pack, we did extensive research. We considered brands Engadget reviewers and staff have tried over the years and we checked out customer ratings on retail sites like Amazon and Best Buy. Then we get our hanHere’s the full list of power banks we've tested, which range from small wireless banks to large, multi-device batteries.

MagSafe-compatible

Apple MagSafe Battery Pack (5,000 mAh)

Spigen ArcHybrid Mag (5,000mAh)

Anker 521 Magnetic Battery (5,000 mAh)

Baseus Magnetic (10,000mAh)

Anker MagGo Power Bank (6.6K) (6,600 mAh)

Anker 633 Magnetic Battery (10,000mAh)

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) (10,000 mAh)

Low capacity (≤10,000mAh)

Mophie Juice Pack (2,400mAh)

Anker 511 Power Bank (5,000 mAh)

Anker 313 Power Bank (10,000mAh)

Nimble Champ (10,000mAh)

Biolite Charge 40 PD (10,000mAh)

Anker Nano (5,000mAh)

Mid capacity (10,001 - 20,000mAh)

Baseus Blade 2 (12,000 mAh)

Otterbox Fast Charge (15,000mAh)

Mophie Powerstation Pro (20,000mAh)

Anker Prime (20,000mAh)

Nestout Portable Charger (15,000mAh)

Nimble Champ Pro (20,000mAh)

High capacity (20,001mAh+)

Mophie Powerstation Pro XL (25,000mAh)

Anker 737 Power Bank (25,600 mAh)

Zendure Supertank Pro (26,800mAh)

Mophie Powerstation Pro AC (27,000mAh)

Lion Energy Eclipse Mag (27,000mAh)

Lion Energy Trek (27,000mAh)

We're continuously updating this guide as companies release new products and we test them. We remove some products as we find picks that are more worthy of the best portable charger designation. We also add updated specs and prices where necessary. For testing, I used each battery with some combination of an iPhone 15, an iPhone 14 Plus, an iPhone 11, a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, a Galaxy S23 Ultra, a 5th-gen iPad Air and an M1 Pro 16-inch MacBook Pro. I charged one phone battery at a time, even though some packs are capable of multiple-device charging. I charged the phones and tablets from between zero and five percent until they were 100 percent full (or until the power bank was dead), and didn’t use the phones or tablets while they charged other than to power them on and enter the unlock code. In the case of the MacBook, I used it while it was charging (it’s my work computer).

I used the charging cable included with each power bank to charge the Galaxy S22 Ultra, MacBook Pro and the iPad Air. For the iPhones, I used the USB-C to Lighting cable that Apple provides. In the case of the lower-capacity power banks that didn’t include a cord or included one with USB-C to USB-A connectors, I used this 60W-rated USB-C to USB-C cable .

For reference, here are the battery capacities of each device we used for testing:

iPhone 11: 3,110 mAh

iPhone 14 Plus: 4,325 mAh

iPhone 15 : 3,349 mAh

Galaxy S22 Ultra : 4,855mAh

iPad Air : 7,729mAh

16-inch M1 Pro MacBook Pro: 27,027mAh

I noted the times for each charge and the number of charges each bank provided. I also paid attention to things like ease of use and overall design.

Baseus Blade 2

The Blade 2 from Baseus has a unique, flat shape that’s just a little wider than an ereader — which may make it easier to slip into a low profile laptop bag. It charged a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra considerably faster than any other battery bank we tried, getting it from four percent to full in just over an hour. It then filled the phone back to 62 percent from dead on a second charge in about a half an hour. But $100 is a lot for a standard power bank that holds fewer than two full charges. But if you can find the Blade 2 on sale, snap it up.

Anker MagGo (6.6K)

Anker’s 6.6k MagGo is pretty similar to our top pick for a MagSafe-compatible battery pack. It supports the Qi2 charging standard and props up your iPhone so you can use it or enable StandBy mode while powering up. This one even lets you set the viewing angle from 30 to 65 degrees. It was speedy in getting an iPhone 15 up to 50 percent in about 40 minutes. But for the added bulk, it doesn’t have as much capacity as the 10K MagGo, holding just enough juice for a single full charge plus about 5 percent. But it is $20 cheaper, which may be key for some.

Portable charger FAQs

What's the difference between a portable power bank and a portable charger.

A slew of terms are used to describe power banks, including portable batteries, portable chargers, external battery packs and even, somewhat confusingly, USB chargers, which is what wall chargers are often called. They all mean the same thing: a lithium ion battery that stores a charge so you can refill a smartphone, tablet, earbuds, console controller, ereader, laptop, or just about any other device with its own built-in, rechargeable battery.

There’s little difference between the terms, so the specs you’ll want to pay attention to are capacity (expressed in mAh), size and weight so you can find the right balance between recharging what you need and portability.

Power stations, on the other hand, are distinct. These are bigger units (often around the size of a car battery) that can be used to charge multiple devices multiple times, but notably, they can’t be taken on airplanes.

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Travel Power Bank Recommendations: Avoid the Dire Travel Consequences of a Dead Phone Battery!

Mose Hayward

Juiced Vagabond

Running out of battery on the road is, frankly, a crisis. I’m not exaggerating. As travelers, our phones provide lots of conveniences that we’ve come to depend on—in particular, they have our maps to get to that weird little street we’re staying on and also, often, even access codes to get in. Some AirBnBs even use keyless mobile phone links to unlock the door.

Yes, I have been locked out.

And yes, since then, I always travel with a backup battery.

I have been carrying the same Anker backup battery for years now and it is holding up exceptionally well. My particular model is no longer available and is supplanted by newer, faster ones, which is what I’ll recommend for you below, because this brand tends to last not just for myself but for many other travelers, testers, and reviewers. Anker also has a long history of good follow-up on its warranties.

There are also a few other travel batteries below worth considering for specific use cases.

This article was first published in a very different form on August 22, 2016. It has had a number of major updates in the years since, as battery tech and connections change. The last major rewrite with new recommendations was on October 16, 2023.

Why We Must Travel with a Power Bank!

The advantages to carrying a spare battery, aside from the intro problem I mentioned about not running out of juice and getting locked out or lost without our phones:

• Often we carry our train, bus and plane tickets in digital-only versions in our phones, so we can’t continue our journey without a charge.
• Public USB charge points are a potential hacking risk ; it’s safer to protect our data by charging from our own batteries.
• In many AirBnbs in places like Latin America, and in hostels anywhere in the world, there are not enough outlets to charge devices or they are not conveniently located, and so charging from a large-capacity battery for a night or two is much more convenient.
• We can be a life-saver for friends and other travelers who are less well-prepared.

Going Minimalist with a Combo Laptop/Phone Charger and Battery

You have to carry a wall charger in any case so why not have a device that serves as both a charging plug and a backup battery while traveling? The one option I’ve found that does this well is the Anker 45W Wall Charger/Battery , which is also sold directly from Anker as the Anker 521 PowerCore Fusion Power Bank .

While plugged into the wall, it has 45W charging, which is fine for fast-charging most USB-C laptops as well as phones and tablets. It also recharges its internal battery when plugged in.

If the power goes out, there’s a lack of easily accessible outlets (happens a lot in Mexico, where I’m staying as I write this), or you’re in a train or overnight bus or otherwise away from outlets, this Anker charger doubles as a power bank and recharges two USB-C devices at 20W (fast charging is still possible but it is not as quick in this mode).

The battery capacity is 5,000 mAh, enough to fully recharge many phones, such as an iPhone 14 or Samsung Galaxy S22. (There are certainly good options with bigger capacities as discussed below, but this is more than enough for most emergency uses on the road.)

Crucially for travelers, it plugs into the various voltages you will meet in the USA, Europe, and elsewhere, accepting inputs of 110-240V. The plug is USA style with two flat prongs, so you will simply need a plug adapter for the local plugs: a universal travel plug adapter like these we reviewed is always a good idea.

It’s .44 pounds / 200 grams and fits in the palm, so it’s likely not larger or heavier than most laptop charger bricks/cables you’d otherwise have to carry anyway.

Anker says that its battery capacity only goes up to 90% after 500 cycles; this reduced capacity at that point helps the battery last for longer. It’s an admirable way to help the product last and not so quickly become electronic waste.

A Large-Capacity Backup Battery for Travel

To truly be ready for days away from power, be prepared with the Anker 40K 30W USB-C Power Bank . It’ll recharge a whole laptop a couple of times and a modern mobile phone 7-9 times.

It can charge four devices at once (two via USB-A and two via USB-C). The 30W USB-C charging is very fast; plenty for most devices.

Your mileage will vary, but I’ve used an older model of this battery for years now and it continues to work great and keep me juiced on those long day-and-a-half adventures switching continents or on arriving at a spot without a convenient place to plug into the wall.

This new model comes with an 18-month warranty.

There are higher- and lower-capacity options (also more expensive to much, much cheaper) available directly from Anker here .

The Smallest USB-C Batteries with Built-In Cables

Your extra-battery-on-the-go solution won’t be worth much if you’re not also carrying the cable to connect it to your phone or other device. Credit-card-sized (though a bit thicker and heavier) solutions are available that have built-in cables to ensure you never have this problem.

The super lightweight option is the TravelCard Plus at 2.1 ounces or 59.5 grams—but its 3000 mAh capacity will only charge up most modern phones about halfway before giving out.

At about double the weight and double the capacity—enough to fully recharge most phones—is the Miisso 6000 mAh Card-Sized Power Bank . It can charge up three devices at once including one via USB-C.

Understanding USB Connection Types

Modern USB-C connectors can be plugged in upside-down or right-side-up. USB-C now connects nearly all modern phones and frequently laptops; it’s also becoming standard for things like headphones and portable Bluetooth speakers .

But you may have some devices that still charge via micro-USB and other standards. Here’s a photo of the main USB connections to know. Batteries, wall chargers, and computers often have USB-A  out puts.

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The 11 Best Portable Travel Chargers

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Travelers use their phones for just about everything—from navigating and translating to snapping photos and looking up the nearest place for great sushi—and sometimes there just isn’t enough battery life to get it all done. That’s why a good portable charger is a must-pack. The best portable chargers are lightweight and effective, and many even do double duty to truly earn their spot in your suitcase.

INIU Portable Charger

If you’ve got more than one device to charge on the road, consider this offering from INIU . It features two USB ports so you can power up both your phone and something else (such as a tablet or e-reader, or your companion’s phone). It charges quickly, is compatible with most devices, and weighs less than half a pound. It’s also got a handy LED flashlight.

Smartphone Charging Wristlet

To power up your phone discreetly, tuck it into this wristlet from Uncommon Goods . Made of vegan leather, the bag has a hidden USB power cord inside that will charge most iPhones and micro USB-compatible phones up to 1.5 times. It will automatically power on once connected.

Anker PowerCore 10000

The Anker PowerCore 10000 is one of the most popular portable chargers on Amazon, compatible with both Android phones and iPhones as well as most tablets and laptops. It weighs less than seven ounces and is about the size of a deck of cards, making it easy to pack even if you’re traveling with only a carry-on.

PhoneSoap Go

Calling all germaphobes: You can charge and sanitize your phone at the same time with the PhoneSoap Go . The device uses UV light to kill more than 99 percent of bacteria and is compatible with just about any phone, even larger ones. Though the PhoneSoap Go was designed for phones, it will also sanitize any smaller items that fit into it, such as glasses, keys, or watches.

Auzev Charging Cable Bracelet

Wear charging tech right on your wrist with this innovative bracelet from Auzev . It’s a charging cable for Apple devices that looks like a braided leather bracelet and weighs less than an ounce. See this page for all available sizes.

Metecsmart Power Bank

With a built-in lightning cable, the Metecsmart Power Bank is designed to charge iPhones twice as fast as your phone’s original charging cable. It also has a built-in micro USB port for powering up Android and other devices. Thanks to pass-through technology, it can charge your devices while it’s also charging itself.

BigBlue 28W Solar Charger

Campers and hikers will appreciate this charger from BigBlue , which has multiple solar panels that stretch out nearly three feet to absorb the energy of the sun but then fold up to a relatively compact size when not in use. The included micro USB cable is compatible with most Android phones, some DSLR cameras, and most iPhones and iPads. The charger weighs 1.35 pounds and is waterproof.

Courant Carry Wireless Charger

Sick of traveling with a snarl of cables? It’s not cheap, but the Qi-certified Carry charger from Courant will power up your phone wirelessly. (It does come with a USB-C cable as well, just in case.) Encased in Italian leather, this sleek portable charger comes with a carrying bag and is compatible with a wide range of phones.

Pocket Power 5K Power Bank

This ultra-portable charger from Belkin weighs less than five ounces and measures just 4.86 x 2.49 x 0.51 inches, making it easy to slip into your pocket or purse. Its universal USB port is compatible with a variety of devices, including iPhones and iPads, Galaxy and Google phones, and Apple Watches. One nice feature: a warranty worth up to $2,500 if your device is damaged while connected to the charger.

Mophie Juice Pack

Mophie’s Juice Pack will not only protect your phone but also provide up to 38 hours’ worth of extra power, thanks to a battery built into the case. You can power up the case without cables using any Qi-compatible wireless charger (not included). Cases are available for a variety of iPhones and Galaxy devices.

RapidX X5 Car Charger

The X5 Car Charger is one of the best travel chargers for road trips because it plugs into both cigarette lighters and 12v-24v outlets and can power up to five devices at once. It has an extended USB hub so everyone in the back seat can plug in as well. The charger is compatible with iOS, Android, and other devices.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 8 Genius Ways to Preserve Your Phone’s Battery Life While Traveling
• 8 Innovative Phone Cases and Accessories for Travel
• 5 Smartphone Essentials You Should Never Travel Without

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Best power banks 2024: The top portable chargers for devices

Traveling often involves taking along multiple devices—smartphone, tablet, laptop, and the like. But you won’t always have access to a wall outlet to charge all, or even any, of them. That’s why it’s important to add a power bank to your pack. But with so many options available, how do you know which power bank best suits your needs? Everything from various charging specs, to different ports, to the included cables need to be considered before making a purchase.

That’s where we come in. We’ve tested a ton of power banks from different manufacturers spanning the range of available price points and specs. We’ve curated a list of our favorites to help you find the best value. You can rest assured that our recommendations are all great picks as the PCWorld staff puts each power bank through a battery—pun intended—of tests. You can learn more about our evaluation process below our picks.

While our recommendations reflect a range of needs, if you need something more substantial to power your appliances while off-grid or during an emergency, check out our roundup of best power stations .

Updated 11/22/2023: Looking for a hybrid power bank capable of recharging a laptop? We loved the Anker 521 PowerCore Fusion 45W , a 5,000mAh power bank that can also charge MacBooks and other thin-and-light laptops as well as USB devices like phones, tablets, and earbuds. You can read more about it in our review.

Anker 511 PowerCore Fusion 5K – Best budget USB-C power bank

• Slim, compact size
• Both a battery and a wall charger
• Charging a device at the wall takes up the whole outlet

The Anker 511 FusionCore 5K is a great travel companion, particularly when out and about in a city. Its hybrid design makes it ideal if you don’t like to carry much but always want an adequate charge for your phone—though it does take up an entire wall outlet when used as a charger.

PowerCore Fusion 5000 2-in-1 Portable Charger and Wall Charger – Best budget USB-A power bank

• Built-in wall adapter
• Two USB ports
• Not the most efficient battery pack we’ve tested

This older Anker model may not be as svelte as the newer 511 variation, but the PowerCore Fusion 5000 is still an extremely convenient combo wall charger and portable power bank—especially if you have devices that still use USB Type-A cables. The bank itself can be recharged via either method—power outlet or MicroUSB port. It’s limited to two USB-A ports for device charging, but that doesn’t diminish its great handiness-to-cost ratio.

Einova Laptop Power Bank – Most stylish power bank

• The display is actually useful
• Fabric covering is a nice touch
• Above-average efficiency
• Both USB ports should have the same charging speeds

With its stylish fabric-clad body, its discreet yet useful battery-status display, and its three USB ports (one of which is USB-C), Einova’s power bank adds flair and above-average battery efficiency to your everyday carry.

RAVPower Portable Power Station 252.7Wh Power House – Best small power station

• Small form factor
• Plenty of ports
• Comes with a case and built-in flashlight
• Built for quick trips, not for extended use

There are times when a mere power bank isn’t enough—the circumstances call for a power station.  Say you’re spending the weekend off the grid. Or you want to be prepared for a future emergency. The RAVPower Portable Power Station 252.7Wh Power House will get the job done. With a capacity near 252.7Wh, a nice complement of ports, a built-in flashlight, and an included carrying case, this highly portable power station makes a great travel companion for road trips. (For more options, see our roundup of the best portable power stations .)

How we test

Determining whether a power bank lives up to a company’s promise entails more than simply connecting it to a phone and charging. Testing battery packs is done over weeks, not days, and requires extra equipment in order to ensure the batteries work as expected.

1. Upon receiving each battery pack, it’s fully charged, using indicator lights as a means to track charge level.

2. Then to track efficiency, we use an  AVHzY USB Power Meter  in tandem with a  DROK Micro Load Tester .

As we use the DROK load tester to drain the pack of power, we are able to test against a battery’s stated maximum current, and verify that proper shutdown mechanisms are in place should something go wrong during a charging session (such as a device drawing over the maximum amps).

By using the AVHzY USB Power Meter, we are able to monitor volts and amps, total power throughput, and total amount of time to deplete a battery from full to empty. The meter can create an Excel spreadsheet of the entire process for future reference.

3. Next, we recharged the battery, this time using the AVHzY to track it and chart the amount of time it takes to reach full charge.

The AVHzY meter solves a shortcoming we had with our previous method with the PortaPow. Previously we had to use a GoPro camera to track each battery through its charge cycle, as the PortaPow monitor would continue to collect data after the battery was fully charged (trickle charging is normal, and unfortunately interferes with our testing).

If a battery was capable of charging through USB-C, we use that instead of Micro-USB.

4. The AVHzY also has a feature built in that checks a charging port for all of its supported charging standards. We are able to run that test and get an instant readout to confirm support for QC 3.0, for example, without needing to have compatible phones or devices on hand.

Power source and cables All of our tests were conducted using the same wall adapter and, when possible, USB-C or Micro-USB cable. This was done to eliminate any discrepancies with wall adapters and cable throughput.

What to look for in a portable power bank

Without fancy testing equipment, you never truly know if you’re getting what you paid for with a battery pack. Vendors, especially in Amazon listings, like to throw around a lot of terms and certifications.

Here are a few tips to help you make a decision:

• For those with a compatible device, make sure the battery pack is Quick Charge 2.0, 3.0, or PD certified. Depending on your smartphone, this can make a big difference in performance. If you own a QC 2.0 device, however, ask yourself if paying extra for a QC 3.0 capable pack is worth it.
• Don’t put 100 percent confidence in a company’s claims of a pack being able to charge, say, a Galaxy S8 or iPhone X six times over. Battery capacity and efficiency varies based on a number of factors. Read this Macworld report on USB-C packs  to learn more about batteries and capacity.
• Look at the specs of the battery, and ensure that its input isn’t limited to slow charging such as 5V/1A. The faster the input, the faster your battery pack rechargers, the faster you’re ready to hit the road.

What devices can a power bank charge?

Power banks are most commonly intended to charge mobile devices such as cellphones, tablets, cameras, and portable speakers. They can also be used to charge laptops provided the ports allow for it and the power charging rate is compatible.

Power banks are generally not suited to charging larger electronic devices in your home. If you’re looking for a backup power source during an emergency or while camping, you should instead opt for a power station .

What is mAh capacity?

The mAh (milliampere per hour) capacity rating refers to the available storage capacity for a battery. A higher number means that the battery can store more energy and has a longer battery life when charging a device. So for example, an iPhone 13 Pro Max’s battery is rated at 4,352 mAh. This means that a power bank with 10,000 mAh can fully recharge that phone a little over twice before running out of power.

What battery capacity should you look for?

For a portable power bank that you can easily travel with, you should look for a minimum of 10,000 mAh. Most models nowadays even offer 20,000 mAh for reasonable prices. The more mAh, the better, just be sure to weigh your capacity needs against the physical size of the power bank.

Generally, the more mAh a power bank has, the larger its physical size and the heavier it is as well. Therefore, it is recommended when looking at a power bank, that you first consider the amount of power you need to charge your devices and then adjust your expectations based on the size and weight you are willing to carry around with you.

How fast can a power bank charge my devices?

How fast your power bank can charge a device is dependent upon the available output of the power bank and the available input of the device. Without getting too much into the electrical details, a standard 3,000mAh device such as a smartphone can be expected to charge in about 90 minutes by most power banks. However, many power banks nowadays come with quick charge technology, which helps speed up the process even more. Larger devices such as tablets and laptops may take much longer to charge as they require much higher inputs than smartphones.

Always double-check that the power bank you want has an output that matches or exceeds the input of your device to ensure the fastest possible charging.

What is the lifespan of a power bank?

Power bank lifespan is determined by a few factors such as how often you charge the power bank, the quality of the power bank itself, and the conditions in which the power bank is kept. That being said, you should expect a high-quality power bank that is charged every few days and kept in a cool dry place to last several years or more.

Table of contents

Best Backpacking Power Banks & Portable Chargers of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Electronics are essential items in many hikers’ backpacks, so getting the best power bank to keep them going on trail is really important. Whatever your electronics setup looks like, we know it can be a real drag when something runs out of juice in the backcountry.

We’ve researched more than 40 power banks over the last four years, and tested 25 of the most promising battery packs on trail to bring you this guide. Whether your charging needs are extensive or you just need a simple battery to top up your phone every once in a while, our expertise will help you find the best power bank for your adventures.

Most hikers carry a smartphone, but you may also have things like wireless headphones, a rechargeable headlamp , and a fitness or GPS watch that need to be charged up on trail. We like carrying our tech gadgets in a fanny pack so they’re close at hand when we need them.

Quick Picks for Power Banks

Check out this quick list of our favorites if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best power bank overall:  INIU 20000 PD ($30)

Best ultralight power bank:  Nitecore NB 10000 Gen 2 ($60)

Best budget 10,000 mAh power bank:  INIU Megapower 10000 ($27)

Best large-capacity power bank: Charmast 26800 ($43)

Budget power bank with an excellent weight-to-power ratio: OKZU 10000 ($28)

Most compact power bank: Charmast 10000 Mini ($30)

Best single-charge power bank: Goal Zero Flip 24 ($30)

After logging more miles with our top power bank picks and testing some new ones, we’ve made some updates to our list:

• The Iniu 20000 PD power bank remains our number one pick and is now even more affordable.
• The Nitecore NB 10000 Gen. 2 battery bank moves into our number two spot due to its low weight, durability, and quick charging.

Iniu 20000 PD

Best power bank overall

Weight: 12.2 oz.

mAh: 20,000

Time to full charge: 6 hrs. (USB-C)

• Very affordable
• Quick charge output
• Recharges quickly
• Large charging capacity
• Large digital battery display
• Can charge multiple devices at once
• Pass-through charging
• A bit heavy/bulky

The convenience of the Iniu 20000 PD makes it one of our go-tos for times when we need to power multiple devices or when we’ll be away from wall power for an extended period. It charges pretty dang fast for how large it is (about six hours with a USB-C cable and a quick charge block ), and it can charge a smartphone to 50% in just 30 minutes. The large digital display also makes it easy to see exactly how much juice you have left instead of having to guess at what indicator dots might mean. The Iniu 20000 is a bit bulkier and heavier than many other batteries, but we think it’s worth the carry if you tend to need a lot of power for things like mapping apps and photography.

Nitecore NB 10000 Gen 2

Best ultralight power bank

Weight: 5.3 oz.

mAh: 10,000

Time to full charge: 3.5 hrs. (USB-C)

• Can charge two devices at once
• Battery life indicator isn’t very clear

The Nitecore NB 10000 (Gen 2) is a great choice for those whose priority is keeping weight and bulk to a minimum. It’s smaller than most other 10,000 mAh batteries and it’s the lightest medium-capacity power bank on our list. The sleek carbon fiber housing makes this battery both lightweight and durable – two attributes hikers will surely appreciate. The one gripe we have with the NB 10000 is that the battery life indicator isn’t very clear, but this isn’t a huge deal once you get a feel for how this battery works with your devices. The NB 10000 is a little on the pricey side, but the short recharge time, low weight, and compact size make this an ideal battery for longer backpacking trips.

Iniu Megapower 10000

Best budget 10,000 mAh power bank

Price: $27 (often on sale for less)

Weight: 7 oz.

Time to full charge: 4 hrs. (USB-C) / 7 hrs. (micro USB)

• Lightweight
• Not as efficient as some
• A little slower to charge than other 10,000 mAh batteries

The Iniu Megapower 10000 is an affordable power bank that will provide the average smartphone with 2-2.5 charges. This mid-capacity power bank is lightweight, compact, and it can charge multiple devices at once. It takes slightly longer to charge than other batteries with the same capacity, so it may not be the most efficient choice for thru-hikers who need a quick turnaround in town. But if you’re looking for an affordable battery with a good balance of weight to power, the Megapower 10,000 is hard to beat.

Charmast 26800 Ultra Slim QC

Best large-capacity power bank

Weight: 15 oz.

mAh: 26,800

Time to full charge: 9 hrs. (USB-C) /11 hrs. (micro USB)

• Excellent value (usually on sale)
• high charging capacity
• quick charge output
• charges multiple devices at once
• Heavier/bulkier than others
• takes longer to charge than some

The Charmast 26800 is the largest capacity battery on our list, and at its typical sale price of around $40, it’s also one of the best deals. This massive power bank can charge a modern smartphone around six times, and it also has an output high enough to power larger devices such as a tablet or laptop. Oh, and did we mention it can charge an impressive four devices at once? While the Charmast 26800 is a bit heavier and bulkier than the batteries we typically like to backpack with, it’s perfect for travel or for hiking trips where photography is a focus and you’ll need a way to power camera batteries or other larger electronics.

Budget power bank with an excellent weight-to-power ratio

Weight: 6.8 oz.

Time to full charge: 3 hrs.

• recharges quickly
• pass-through charging
• Only charges one device at a time

The OKZU 10000 is a killer deal – it’s the most affordable power bank on our list, yet its specs are on par with more expensive batteries. It’s lightweight, it recharges quickly, and it has quick charge output, but it can only charge one device at a time. This may not matter if your charging needs are simple, but you may want to consider paying a little more for a power bank with dual charging if you want the ability to charge multiple electronics simultaneously. That said, the OKZU 10000 is an awesome value, and you could even carry two of them for less money and weight than most 20000 mAh chargers.

• Charmast 10000 Mini

Most compact power bank

Weight: 6.7 oz.

Time to full charge: 3.5 hrs. (USB-C) / 10 (micro USB)

• excellent value
• can charge multiple devices
• Not as efficient as others
• no pass-through charging

If keeping your battery as compact as possible is your main priority, the Charmast 10000 Mini is your guy. This battery is smaller than a standard deck of cards – that’s nearly half the size of other batteries with the same charging capacity. Despite the tiny package, the Charmast 10000 still has the features of full-size batteries – like quick charge compatibility and multiple device charging. In our testing, we did find this bank to be slightly less efficient than some others – meaning a bit more of the 10,000 mAh capacity is lost between the bank itself and the device being charged. That said, this pocket-size battery will still give around two full charges for a modern smartphone.

• Goal Zero Flip 24

Best single-charge power bank

Weight: 4.6 oz.

Time to full charge: 6 hrs.

• Small charging capacity (charges the avg. phone once)
• No quick charge output
• Power input can be hard to use

We’ve been using Goal Zero power banks for many years now, and we love them for their low weight and compact size. The Flip 24 is a tiny power bank that will fit in any pocket, and it’s perfect for outings close to home when you only need a little extra power. This battery will only charge a smartphone once or twice, so we typically use it for day hikes or as an emergency charger. If you need more juice, the Flip charger also comes in a 36 (about three charges) size. But we would recommend going with a different power bank for longer trips since this one can be a little difficult to charge on the go.

What’s Most Important to You in a Power Bank?

Power banks are getting more and more affordable, and it’s possible to get a super efficient and compact battery for very little money nowadays. Cost starts to ramp up if you’re looking for an ultralight bank, but most of the inexpensive batteries on this list are still reasonably lightweight.

Best value power banks

• Charmast 26800

Best budget power banks

• INIU 20000 PD
• INIU Megapower 10000

Best high-end power bank

• Nitecore NB 10000

Since weight adds up quickly in a backpack, finding the best balance between weight and charging capacity is key. If you have multiple electronics to charge (or devices with large batteries), you may want to go with a slightly heavier power bank with more milliamp hours. If you don’t have many electronics or you don’t use them much on trail, you can save some ounces by choosing a smaller-capacity battery.

Lightest power banks

Battery banks with the best balance of weight to charging capacity

NUMBER OF CHARGES

Milliamp hours (mAH) tell you how much juice a power bank provides.

A 20,000+ mAH power bank will charge an average smartphone about 4 times. This size is great for powering large electronics (like a camera) or multiple devices on long trips. We recommend going with a large-capacity bank in this range if you frequently head out for 4-5 day trips, carry a large amount of rechargeable electronics, or you’re sharing with a hiking partner.

Many hikers with more modest power needs find that a 10,000 mAH battery does the trick. Smaller banks will recharge faster, often cost less, and are usually smaller and lighter. Go with this size (or smaller) if you’re looking for a power bank for daily use around town, you’re usually not on trail for more than a couple days at a time, or if you’re the type that likes to truly disconnect when out in the backcountry.

Best 20,000+ mAh power banks

Best 10,000 mAh power banks

Best power bank under 10000 mAh

CHARGE TIME

It’s becoming more common for power banks to have quick charge (or power delivery [PD]) compatibility. Not only does this charge your devices much quicker, but the power bank itself can reach full charge a lot faster. We find this especially important on longer trips and thru-hikes that include stops for resupply, because quick charge allows you to get in and out of town much faster. Be sure to use a quick charge block to take advantage of this feature.

Best quick charge power banks

OKZU 10000 – Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)

Nitecore NB 10000 – Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)

INIU 20000 PD – Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)

Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)

Critical Battery Bank Considerations

HOW MANY CHARGES WILL I GET?

A lot of factors go into how many charges you’ll get out of your power bank, like how large your phone battery is, how many devices you’re powering, and the outside temperature. On average a 20,000 mAh battery will charge a standard smartphone about four times, a 10,000 mAh battery will provide about two charges, and smaller capacity power banks typically provide one to one and half charges.

CHARGING CABLES / BLOCK

To get your power bank to full as quickly as possible, make sure you’re using a  quick charge block and charging through the quick charge port (usually indicated by a little lightning bolt). Some power banks have multiple quick charge ports – typically a USB-C port and a USB-A port. You probably won’t notice much of an efficiency difference between using a short cable, a long cable, or a cable with multiple dongles. But we can tell you that it’s often worth it to pay a little more for a quality cable that will be durable on the trail or for travel.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Most power banks are decently waterproof and dustproof – look for the IP rating in the manufacturer specs to determine how much moisture/dust it can tolerate. Just like with your smartphone, very cold temperatures can drain the life of your power bank. When we expect temperatures to dip below freezing, we take precautions to protect our electronics. We recommend keeping battery-powered devices in your pocket or wrapped in a sock during the day and in your sleeping bag at night when the temperatures drop.

PASS-THROUGH CHARGING

Pass-through charging is an especially convenient feature for long hikes that include a resupply. It allows you to charge devices off of your power bank while the bank itself is charging. This is an efficient way to juice up all your electronics at once and it can get you out of town a little quicker after a resupply.

Honorable Mentions

The following power bank didn’t make our final list, but it’s still got a lot of good things going for them. You never know, one of them might be perfect for you:

Anker PowerCore 26800 PD Bundle

This is a very large-capacity battery bundled with a quick charge cable and charging block for powering larger electronics like laptops and tablets. It’s fairly expensive, but it’s a convenient choice for folks looking for a battery bank for traveling.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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The 7 Best Power Banks to Keep Your Gadgets Going

Keep your gadgets powered up, wherever you go.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

The good news is you can prepare for (and avoid) these stressful scenarios by investing in a portable power bank. Also known as mobile chargers or battery packs, these nifty gadgets serve as a lifeline to your dying electronics by recharging battery power when needed. Even if they’re not a daily necessity, power banks are a handy tool to have on standby when traveling , adventuring outdoors, or on busy days when you’re running around. They’re also beneficial during emergencies , blackouts, or natural disasters.

Deciding to buy a power bank is simple. The challenge comes with choosing which one to buy. Power bank models differ in charging speed, battery capacity, connectivity type, and shape and size. Some also come with features like the ability to solar charge, connect to a wall outlet, or charge larger electronics like tablets and computers. Read on for our breakdown of what to consider before shopping followed by the best power banks we recommend.

Best Power Banks

• Best Overall: INIU Portable Charger
• Budget Choice: Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger
• Large Battery Capacity: Mophie Power Boost XL Portable Charger
• Best for Emergencies: BioLite Charge 40 PD Power Bank
• Wall Charger Compatible: Anker 521 Power Bank

What to Consider

Before buying a portable power bank, think about how much battery capacity you’ll need, how fast you want your gadgets to charge, and the electronics you’ll be charging. At a baseline, consider each for its connectivity, capacity, power output, and added features. Doing so points you in the right direction to find a power bank that aligns with your lifestyle and ensures you’re able to charge your gear wherever and whenever you need to.

Connectivity

Connectivity determines exactly how your electronics interface with or connect to various power banks to recharge. This typically involves input ports for charging your gadgets, such as USB (or USB-A), USB-C, micro-USB, or Lightning ports, as well as output ports on the power bank itself, such as USB-A or USB-C ports. Connection types vary across all portable power banks, cell phones, computers, headphones, tablets, and electronics brands. It’s vital to determine the type of connection your devices have to make sure the power bank you buy can support that specific connection.

Most battery packs come with at least one standard USB port for power output and are compatible with USB-C, micro-USB, and Lightning connectors. Always double-check which type of connector your electronics are compatible with for charging before buying a portable power bank. You can also buy an inexpensive set of USB adapters to avoid any connection issues.

Battery Capacity

The best battery capacity depends on what type of gadgets you want to charge, how long you need power for, and how often you want to recharge your power bank. Typically, the higher the battery capacity, the more expensive the power bank. It’s key to opt for a power bank with sufficient capacity to meet your charging needs, especially if you frequently rely on fast charging, recharge large devices, or need to charge several devices at once.

Power bank battery capacity is most often measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Low capacity power banks—best for small devices like smartphones and Bluetooth headphones—range from 1000mAh to 5000mAh. Medium capacity power banks—best for multiple smartphone recharges or tablets—range from 6000mAh to 15000mAh. High-capacity power banks—best for extended travel or computers—range from 16000mAh to 30000mAh and above.

Charging Time

Power output determines the overall power of your portable battery pack. In other words, the stronger the power output, the faster your devices will charge. We recommend looking for power banks with higher wattage (W) or a USB PD designation, which means the power bank is fast-charging certified.

Most portable power banks on the market range from 10W to 100W. It’s also important to make note if your devices are compatible with fast-charging power banks (USB PD) so you can take advantage of faster charge times for your electronics. These types of portable power banks are most often associated with USB-C ports and connectors.

Features and Size

All portable power banks come in different shapes and sizes, and with different features. For example, some folks may care more about the size of the power bank they’ll need to lug around versus battery capacity. Others may want features like kickstands, solar charging capabilities, and adaptors and connectors included with purchase.

How We Selected

In narrowing down our list of the best portable power banks, we relied on our own testing in the field as well as extensive research of products currently on the market. To best inform our selections, we looked to trusted brands such as Anker, Mophie, and BioLite and considered overall price points, product specifications—particularly battery capacity, power output, connectivity options, and weight. We also took into account special features like stands and extra accessories that come included and add value.

INIU Portable Charger

With 10,000mAh of battery power, a lightweight design, and a price tag around $45, the INIU portable charge ranks at the top. This power bank features lightning-fast charging with one USB-C and two USB ports, meaning you can charge up to three devices at once.

This portable power bank is best for charging small electronics like smartphones, tablets, and Bluetooth devices. An LED display also makes it easy to see exactly how much battery capacity is left—that way you can make sure your power bank doesn’t run out of juice to recharge your devices.

Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Charger

A total steal: You can snag this powerful and sleek portable charger for under $30. Anker is known for its high-performance battery packs at an affordable price point. That includes its PowerCore Slim charger, which boasts 10,000 mAh battery capacity and weighs just half a pound. Equipped with a fast-charge USB-C output port, this battery pack promises enough power to recharge newer iPhone models several times and Samsung devices over 1.5 times.

INIU 25,000 mAh Power Bank

For those times you need heavy-duty power—from long road trips to prolonged outages to charging a computer back to full power—a high-capacity battery pack is a must. The INIU 25,000 mAH can charge just about any device for several days. This charger is also ideal for powering up your computer on long-haul flights, airport delays, or times you won’t have access to a standard AC power outlet.

The INIU 25,000 mAH power bank will also recharge your devices quickly thanks to its 65W power output. If you’re open to spending a little more for rapid charging time, we also recommend the UGREEN 145W Power Bank .

Mophie Power Boost XL Portable Charger

Recognized as an industry-leading power bank brand, Mophie has established the benchmark for excellence—including the Power Boost XL. Also known as the Powerstation XL, this portable charger packs a punch for its large capacity (20,000 mAh) and versatility.

While it may not be the most budget-friendly option among power banks, its slightly higher price tag is justified by a quality build, impressive capacity, and lightning-fast charging capability. Plus, this portable power bank is designed with 50 percent post-consumer recycled plastics.

BioLite Charge 40 PD Power Bank

You don’t want to be stuck without power in an emergency, like an unexpected storm or natural disaster. For this reason, BioLite stands out among the pack for its durable design, notable power output, and solar charging compatibility.

This battery pack is loved by outdoor enthusiasts for its non-slip rubber shell that protects from wear and tear in nature. Best for repowering small electronics, the BioLite 40D power bank can charge smartphones up to two times to full battery. You can also recharge the BioLite charger using an 18W solar panel.

Anker 521 Power Bank

Want to cut down on the number of power cords you have to carry around? The 2-in-1 Anker 521 comes with a fold-out AC plug so you can use it both as a regular wall charger and portable power bank. Equipped with an internal 5,000 mAh battery, this charger is powerful enough to juice up small gadgets on the go and serve as a regular charger in your home or office.

It’s extremely powerful and compact too. This charger fits in the palm of your hand but boasts a power output of 45W—which means faster charging without unnecessary weight.

When it comes to weight-to-power ratio, the INIU Portable Charger gives you all the power you need without dragging you down. At a mere seven ounces, this portable charger is the lightest and slimmest of the lineup. With only 15W of power output, you may have to wait a bit longer for your devices to charge, especially if they have dwindling battery life.

However, the $30 price point and lightweight design make this a competitive power bank for days you want to bring along a little extra power in your pocket.

Erica Zazo (she/they) is a Chicago-based freelance writer covering outdoor news, gear, and guides for Backpacker Magazine , Outside, and more. She’s a big fan of urban nature, exploring lesser-known trails and towns, and the Midwest. Follow her adventures on Instagram: @onecurioustrvlr .

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The 9 Best Portable Chargers for Travelers

By Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s nothing worse than getting through the hustle and bustle of airport security only to finally make it to your gate and realize that your phone is out of battery. Searching for an outlet can be a pain and more often than not leaves you stuck hovering over one awaiting your turn. A portable charger offers peace of mind and freedom that airport outlets, hotel lobbies, and coffee shops just can’t supply. Even when you're not traveling, they're useful to have on hand for days when you forget to charge your phone at night or notice it’s running low midday after too much time on Google Maps (or TikTok).

The best portable chargers are compact, portable, and have a battery life that can last you more than one charge (an especially helpful feature for group travel). Read on for full reviews of our editors’ longtime favorites, as well as more recently tested chargers we recommend.

How we tested:

Each new charger was tested for at least three weeks. While testing, we kept these key questions in mind: how long it took to charge devices, how many devices it could charge at one time (and which devices it’s compatible with), and how long it took to charge the charger itself. We also brought them on the road to see how they fared while traveling, and included reviews for chargers we've used long-term.

Can you travel with them?

Yes, portable chargers are safe to travel with, as long as you pack them in your carry-on. They range in size, but even the largest power banks will fit into a carry-on bag or tote.

What are the qualities to look for in a portable charger?

When looking for a portable charger, it’s important to keep in mind the mAh, size, and the devices you plan to charge with it. Some portable chargers have multiple cables that can be plugged directly into your device while others come with built-in ports for USB or USB-C cords. Consider whether you want something specifically for your phone, or a multipurpose power bank that can charge your computer, smartwatch, or earphones, too.

What does mAh stand for?

It stands for milliampere hours which is a unit of measurement that’s used to describe the capacity of a battery. The higher the number, the more battery power you have. Chargers can range from as low as 1,000 mAh to as high as 50,000. For everyday use, it’s fine to get something in the 3,000 to 4,000 range, but we recommend upping the capacity when you’d like to charge more than one device at a time or if you’re looking to use it on a device of five volts or higher.

Editor favorites

Battery capacity: 20,000 mAh Dimensions: 11" x 5" x 2"

I never leave the house without my portable charger. I’m very meticulous about my phone battery and my portable charger is super easy to carry around all day. I’ve had it for five years and have had no use for anything else. It has two ports so I can charge multiple devices at once and it’s small enough to fit in my purse or my fanny pack while traveling. It’s quite thick so you don’t feel like it will break on you. Charging it is easy. There is a small cord that you plug into its side and then plug the charger into the wall, but any type of similar cord will work. It does take a while to charge, about a day if you want it to be full. However, the battery will last you at least three or four charges to your phone. — Kayla Brock , associate social media manager

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: 6" x 3" x 0.7"

I’ve had this BioLite charger for a year, and while there are smaller versions I prefer for day-to-day use (this one’s less than a pound, but about the same dimensions as my iPhone 13 Pro Max, which is to say a bit bigger than I’d like when carrying it in a purse), it’s a reliable option for trips when you know access to outlets may be infrequent, and can toss it in a backpack or tote. It has two USB slots and one USB-C slot, so I’ve used it to power up other devices like my Kindle, FitBit, and AirPods. You can get two to three full phone charges before needing to plug in the battery park; for more charge time—up to five hours—upgrade to the Charge 80 . — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: 5" x 2" x 1"

I’ve had this portable charger for about nine months now. I was intrigued to find one that didn’t need a separate charger—it has a fold-down plug that you can stick directly into the wall when it’s running low. I’ve charged my laptop, phone, and even camera with it. It has three built-in fast-charging cables that are compatible with Android and Apple devices, and three different cable ports along the bottom. It usually takes about two to three hours to fully charge and when I’m using it passively that can get me through two charges. It’s on the larger side, about the size of a long bifold wallet. I’ve been able to charge my Apple watch, phone, and camera with it. This is always tucked away in my backpack or tote , especially on longer flights. — Paris Wilson , commerce producer

Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh Dimensions: 5" x 2" x 3"

This charger is one of the first things I put in my bag when I’m on my way out the door, especially if I’m traveling. I’ve used it for about a year now and love it. It's slim which means it fits in all of my purses, even the smallest one, and is very lightweight and easy to carry around. It holds a pretty good charge so you can use it a few times before you need to recharge it. I like that the side shows four little lights which show how much battery life the power bank has left. I also appreciate the design which is pretty cute and much more stylish than any of the other phone banks I’ve used before. — Jamie Spain , travel bookings editor

Battery capacity: 4,500 mAh Dimensions: 3" x 2" x 1"

I never go anywhere—to work, to dinner, to travel—without this tiny portable charger. It’s about the size of my AirPods case or my favorite lipstick, meaning I can pack it in nearly any fanny pack, sling bag, or tote I’m carrying. And while I love it most for its compact size, it also really works—giving my phone a full charge on the go. I’ve been using mine to charge my iPhone for years and have even gifted it to several family members and friends. — Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

Newly tested chargers

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: ‎5" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: Two full phone charges

Until being asked to test one for this story, I never really used a portable charger. This was not for lack of need—my phone’s battery is perennially in the orange, and no lifestyle changes or memory tricks have availed in fixing who I am as a forgetful person. Keeping this INIU power bank in my messenger bag has, quite simply, made my life a whole lot easier. The charge comes lightning-fast, and its charging port is the same as required for my Macbook, plus there are two USB out ports so you can charge two devices (even three, if you want to use the charging port as well!) at once. The little paw tracks how charged up it is at any given time, with little toes blinking blue from left to right, which is just icing on the cake. — Charlie Hobbs , editorial assistant, destinations

Pros : Can charge up to three devices at once, slim, charges devices quickly Cons : A bit heavy

Battery capacity: 6,000 mAh Dimensions: 4" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

I was very impressed with this ultra-slim power bank. It’s about the size of a credit card and lightweight, easily fitting in my jacket pocket or purse. Conveniently, it features two built-in cables and a USB to charge an iPhone or other devices directly. These small built-in cables can be neatly tucked into the device when you’re not using them, so there’s no need to worry about tangled cords in your tech case. It gives my iPhone a full charge quickly, and can even charge multiple devices at one time. Another feature I love: There’s a small LED light on the device that lets you see how much charge the power bank has left. — M.K.

Pros : Small, built-in fast-charging cables  Cons : Power bank drains quickly

Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh Dimensions: 4" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

For weeks, this foldable charger kept popping up on TikTok and Instagram—when I finally got my hands on one, it didn’t disappoint. The credit card-sized portable charger is probably the most compact one I own, and is magnetic, which means you don’t have to pull out a cord or deal with a tangle of wires in your bag or lap when using it. At first, I was doubtful of how strong the magnet would be, and found myself being delicate with my phone when moving through an airport while charging, but over time I’ve gotten used to the durability. I’ve taken it with me on a few recent flights, and have been using the kickstand when watching videos or shows on my phone—though of note, the kickstand angle is better for viewing your phone vertically rather than horizontally. — M.F.

Pros : Compact, good for in-flight or daily use, charges via a USB-C cable Cons : Can only charge a single device at once; requires MagSafe case; gets warm with extended use

Battery capacity: 2,500 mAh power Dimensions: 5" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

Calpak is a Traveler team favorite, but I hadn’t had a chance to branch out to more of their travel accessories . Voila, the portable charger that not only charges your devices but is in a beautiful leather luggage tag that you can personalize. I’ve taken it on flights to Barcelona and Cleveland where I was met with different scenarios for each trip. Traveling to a different country, I was concerned that I would run into issues with trying to use an adapter, but that was not the case. It was my saving grace while in the airport, and was an everyday necessity when I was on walking tours. It’s smaller than an iPhone but just as thin, so it can fit into a jacket pocket or crossbody bag. You can only charge one device at a time and while it is helpful, it is not a charger you should rely on for more than a few hours or so. Also if you do decide to use it more as a luggage tag, you'll need to take the charger off before checking in your luggage at the airport. — P.W.

Pros : Small, thin, lightweight Cons : Only charges one device at a time

What’s the Best Portable Charger for Travel? 12 Compact Picks

Packing , Packing Tips

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Need to charge on the go? Take a look at the best portable power bank options to make sure your device stays charged as you travel and explore new places!

Best Portable Battery Charger for Travelers

Table of contents.

Whether you’re using your device to look at maps, find the best place to eat, stay in touch with your travel buddies, or snap photos of the sights around you, having it charged and ready to go at all times is a must! With these handy little gadgets, you’ll be able to keep your battery upped wherever and whenever, so you’ll never stress again about being on a flight or out in an unfamiliar place with a dying phone! 

Without further ado, here are the top picks for the best portable phone charger and/or general charger for other devices, like tablets. Take a look!

Best Portable Chargers for Your Devices

Shop Anker Portable Battery Pack: Amazon | Anker

Top Selling Portable Cell Phone Charger : Anker Portable Charger

Anker is far and away our readers’ top pick, and this Anker PowerCore Slim portable battery charger for phone was the blog’s biggest and best seller during Prime Day! Use it with any phone via a USB cord, and get anywhere from 2.25 – 1.2 charges depending on your device (iPads and tablets included)! It’s super light for how much battery it holds, weighing under half a pound, and it’s skinny enough to slip into the pocket of your bag as you head out on your travels.  

A reader gives a review, “Anker makes the best portable power bank hands down. I have several but this size is my favorite because it’s not too big but it will charge my phone several times. It’s nice because I can charge it before I leave and use it for all my devices on the plane etc. then it usually still has enough to last a few days of traveling before I need to charge it again!”

You can shop directly through the Anker website .

Power Juice Portable Charger

Power Juice Slim Portable Charger iPhone and Android Compatible

The Power Juice por table phone battery charger is slim and compact, super easy to throw in your purse without taking up much room. It has a built-in wall plug and 2 USB ports so it’s compatible with any phone. And you can charge 6 times depending on your battery capacity!

I had a similar portable power chargers that was a must for weekend camping at BlogStock and six days at Glastonbury. Aside from camping, it’s also perfect for long travel days when I’m on planes, trains, or buses and my phone is my main form of entertainment (including taking photos to amuse myself). A 14-hour flight? No problem.

A user says, “Took on 5 day cruise, it was still halfway full! Incredibly long lasting for phones. It is larger than the smaller Pocket Juice Endurance we usually get but man it’s worth it if you don’t mind a slightly heavier larger box. ”

Before you head out on your next trip, refer to this  electronics checklist !

Anker PowerCore Mini Lightweight Travel Power Bank

Anker PowerCore Mini Portable Charger for iPhone and Android

The Anker Powercore portable USB charger quickly and easily charges your electronics without adding a bunch of extra weight to your travel bags. It’s about 4” tall and just under 5oz, so you’ll barely feel it in your bag. Despite its mini size, it’s a really good portable charger that works super fast, and, depending on your phone, give it 1-2 full charges! 

One reader says, “I LOVE this portable charger mini and have used it for many trips. So small, not heavy to tote around, and easy to keep in your pocket or bag all the time. And it recharges easily overnight so you can always carry it freshly charged each morning.”

Anker PowerCore 10000 Mobile Power Bank

Anker PowerCore Android and iPhone Portable Charger

Continually, our readers have voiced Anker as their favorite portable charger power bank brand. This small portable charger is ultra compact yet powerful, holding 3 full phone charges! Having this little guy with you during your travels will definitely give you peace of mind and allow you to use your phone to your heart’s content! 

One reader shares her experience, saying, “I really like this one! It holds a few charges. I took this one and my bigger Anker one on a five-day trip since it was new and I hadn’t really tested it out, but I could’ve just taken the smaller one!” 

  Truly, Anker is voted by TFGs as the best portable bank charger.

iWALK Travel Mobile Power

iWalk Portable Charger for iPhones

If you have an iPhone, this one’s for you! The iWalk portable wireless charger is said to be one of the best portable iPhone charger options, as it’ll plug straight into your iPhone, no extra cords needed. It’s SO small and lightweight (size of a lipstick!), sleek in design, and holds about 1-1.2 full charges depending on which model you have. 

This wireless portable charger comes very highly rated, and so many readers love it, too! One review says, “This charger is easy to carry around in a small bag and easy to attach to your phone so you can continue to use it while charging. It also recharges quickly. Absolutely saved me many times on vacation when using GPS totally drained my phone. Best travel purchase I made this trip. Highly recommend!”

Another popular power bank from iWalk is this one , with 9000mAh and a size of a credit card!

A new variant of the iWalk portable charger , equipped with a USB-C port compatible with current iPhones, is now available!

Our readers share the  best portable carbon monoxide detector  to take with you so you can relax and enjoy your trip without worry!

Apple MagSafe Travel Power Bank

Magsafe Apple Portable Charger

This Apple iPhone portable charger might just be the most compact and easy-to-use charger around! If you have any version of the iPhone 12 or 13, it’ll simply snap to the back of your phone with magnets, ensuring it stays on and in place, even if loose in your bag. 

This portable battery charger for iPhone is just under 4” tall and super light, and while they are definitely pricey, many users say the convenience outweighs the cost. One user says, “Holds a charge for a considerable time. Perfect for all day travel and flights. A must-have when traveling!”  

Shop INIU Mini Portable Charger: Amazon | Walmart

INIU Portable Charger

This INIU portable charger is a powerhouse! that has 3 USB ports which can all be used at once, and users confirm that it charges incredibly fast (it can charge your phone up to 58% in only 30 minutes)! It can quickly charge iPads and tablets, too, and has universal compatibility, so you can share it with your travel buddies as well. 

A traveler reports, “Exceeded expectations. Super fast charge-up and charges devices simultaneously, so iPhone and iPad or both phones could be recharged while out and about all day and evening. Weighs 12 oz, fits right into the slot in my tech-savvy travel backpack, and connects to a built-in USB. Saved our trip to Italy !” 

We’re sharing our pick for the  best adapter for travel . Keep reading to find out!

Shop Miisso Ultra Slim Built-in Cables Power Bank: Amazon | Walmart

Miisso Power Bank Portable Charger

Miisso’s portable battery chargers are light, slim, and just about the size of a credit card, so they’re beyond easy to carry! Depending on your phone, this fast portable charger can hold 1-2 full charges, and with 2 attached cables and one USB port, you can charge up to three devices at the same time! It’s universally compatible and will have your back as you set out on your next travel adventure. 

A traveler shares, “Exactly what I needed on my recent trip to Europe . Perfect for when you’re out all day and need a top up on a phone or two. LOVE the convenience of built-in cables; connections are secure and solid, well made and well designed.”

Durecopow Solar Charger Power Bank

Durecopow Portable Solar Charger

Heading somewhere more remote? If you have a hiking or camping trip planned, or won’t have access to an outlet, this Durecopow solar portable charger will get the job done! When charged via USB, it has a super large capacity to support thousands of charge cycles (wow!) and high-speed charging. 

This solar portable phone charger is super durable, waterproof, dust-proof, and drop-proof, and as a cool added bonus, it comes with a built-in LED flashlight and compass! 

One happy user reports, “Love this lightweight charger! Perfect for traveling. Lasted me three whole days of charging my phone twice each day for a camping trip. Love the flashlight on it as well.”

UUGEE Portable Solar Power Chargers

UUGEE Portable Charger Solar Power  

This Errbbic solar powered portable charger is another great option for remote travel or travel with limited electricity. You can take it with you as you adventure around the globe without worrying about finding an outlet, and it’s universally compatible so will work with any device. Plus, it’s waterproof and easy to carry! 

Our readers weigh in on these portable solar phone chargers , with one saying, “It has some weight to it, but two phones can charge at the same time, it holds a charge forever and has a solar as backup (slow to charge that way, but it’s still cool).”

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country!

Shop Mophie Battery Case Portable Charger: Amazon | Walmart

Mophie Portable iPhone Charger Case

How about protecting your phone and charging it at the same time?! Major win-win. This portable fast charger iPhone case will give your phone 160% more power and has a simple power switch to turn the battery on and off with the LED status indicator button or press to display battery levels and charge status.

Users say it’s heavy duty and will also protect your phone from scratches, drops, and daily wear and tear. Note that it’s only compatible with iPhones — find all of the sizes here !

One user says, “I love it since iPhone originally started to support it. I’ve always had a Morphie case. It makes charging on the go very very easy and convenient. ” 

We’ve asked our readers to choose the  best portable Bluetooth speaker  for travel, and their picks speak volumes!

innotech Portable Battery Charger Built-in Cable

Innotech Portable Charger for Android and iOS

Readers love that this Innotech portable charger with outlet comes with built-in cords (along with a USB input) to keep things simple. With a sleek, compact, and lightweight design, this portable power charger is convenient to carry around, and it’ll charge your devices fast. 

One reader shares, “I love the convenience of having four cables built into this power bank. No more tangled cables or searching for the right one. It’s a neat solution that simplifies my charging needs, whether I’m using an iPhone, Android, or other devices. Shipping time was also excellent!! ”

Best Portable Charger for iPhone /Android Comparison Chart

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NEWVANGA International Universal All in One Travel Adapter

Universal Travel Adapter with Two Type C and One USB Ports

Hair tools such as blow dryers, wands, curling irons, and straighteners use up a large amount of electricity so it’s particularly important that they are used with the correct voltage. 

For example, in the US we use 110-120V whereas in Europe they use 220-240V. If we plug our electronics into each other’s outlets, they can blow a fuse and stop working. In some cases, they can even fry your hair. The video below can also shed light on adapters, converters, and the right voltage.

 Watch the video above or read this post to learn about the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

Is  a portable charger bank  a must for your travels? Let us know in the comments!

For more ideas on other travel electronics, please read:

• Best Travel Cord Organizers to Stop Tangled Electronic Cables
• What’s the Best Travel Power Strip? Readers Share 8 Picks
• Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter: How do They Work?
• What are the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel?

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Hope you found this post on the  best portable cell phone charger  useful. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Thanks for the suggestion, this will be my must have power bank for camping. I should order this now for my next camping trip!

This was just the article for me! Have been in the market for a portable charger that will actually work and won’t require a Sherpa to carry it! Have ordered one as a gift and one to keep. Thanks for doing the research and should I run out of battery on my next adventure, it will be my own darn fault!

Thanks TFG! This article helped me pick a new, lighter weight charger to carry during my 3 week Italy trip this last summer. It came in handy so many days! Just the right size to fully recharge my phone once, which covered me for all the navigating and picture taking. And I didn’t have to carry around my giant, heavy brick. It was so great to have a functional, light weight battery!

The iwalk portable charger is a gamechanger for me. Since it attached directly to the phone, it eliminates the need to carry a cord – which I always seem to forget when I’m out sightseeing for the whole day. This battery pack has given me at least two full charges before needing to be recharged. Love it!

I just preordered the new iPhone 15, wondering which would be the best portable charger for me?

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• Electronics
• Accessories

The Best Wireless Portable Chargers and Power Banks

By Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a writer focused on batteries and charging accessories. She has spent countless hours charging, discharging, and recharging batteries.

Most wireless power banks, including both Qi and MagSafe options, are finicky to use while on the go, and none of them will charge an iPhone or other fast-charging device at top speed. But the ESR HaloLock Kickstand MagSafe Battery Pack (2G505) comes closest to nailing both tasks, offering plenty of power and capacity to keep your phone charged throughout the day, while adding a strong magnet to lock it firmly in place while it’s charging and a kickstand to prop it up for easy viewing.

Everything we recommend

ESR Kickstand Wireless Power (HaloLock)

The best wireless power bank.

This power bank is MagSafe-compatible, can charge most phones up to three times, and includes a sturdy kickstand. It’s less powerful than many wired chargers but can still charge most phones at top speed.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Anker 633 Magnetic Battery

A wireless power bank with two usb charging ports.

This model can charge most phones up to three times, and its MagSafe wireless charging pad, USB-C PD port, and USB-A port have a combined output of 18 W. Its kickstand is a bit flimsy but still handy.

Upgrade pick

Satechi Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand

A wireless power bank with two qi charging pads.

This power bank has a combined output of 20 W and can charge most phones up to three times. It’s hefty and lacks MagSafe, but it can wirelessly charge multiple devices and its stand is super sturdy.

The ESR HaloLock Kickstand MagSafe Battery Pack (2G505) is the best choice for charging an iPhone 15 or other compatible device wirelessly when you’re in transit—whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just need a portable boost of power. It works with any Qi and/or MagSafe device, offering up to 10 W wireless charging speeds.

The sturdy metal kickstand works in landscape or portrait orientation, making it useful as a desktop dock or as a source of backup power while you’re watching movies on your handset. It weighs just 7.8 ounces and has a compact, streamlined shape that makes it easy to slip into a pocket or small purse.

Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port supports up to 20 W charging, allowing you to charge most phones (or the power bank itself) at top speed, and its pass-through charging capabilities allow you to recharge the power bank while simultaneously charging a phone or other device. Its combined maximum output of up to 20 W is as high as any model we tested, and with a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh it can fully charge most phones up to three times.

If the ESR HaloLock is unavailable, or you’d prefer a USB-A port to charge a third device, get the Anker 633 Magnetic Battery (A1641) . It’s about as compact and lightweight as our top pick, has just as much battery life, and (though not quite as sturdy as the ESR’s stand) includes a similar built-in kickstand.

Its MagSafe wireless charging pad can pass up to 7.5 W to compatible devices, its USB-C PD port supports up to 20 W charging speeds, and it adds a USB-A port, which can be handy for charging an additional device at up to 18 W charging speeds. Like our top pick, it has pass-through charging capabilities, though its combined maximum output (18 W) is slightly lower.

If you want the option to wirelessly charge multiple devices—say, an iPhone and a set of AirPods—the Satechi Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand is your best bet.

Like our top pick, it has pass-through charging, enough capacity to charge most phones up to three times, and a total maximum output of up to 20 W. Its USB-C PD port has up to 18 W of charging (output) or recharging (input) power. Its main wireless charging pad supports up to 10 W charging, and the entire top surface pops up to become a phone stand that’s more stable than the built-in kickstands of most models we tested.

Its second wireless charging pad is smaller and supports up to 5 W charging—making it well-suited for a smaller accessory, such as an Apple Watch. And while the Qi wireless charging pads lack the magnetic alignment of MagSafe, so they can’t easily be used in transit, both have a sufficiently grippy texture to keep devices in place during stationary charging.

The only notable drawback is its size—at 10.3 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than our other picks.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: esr halolock kickstand magsafe battery pack (2g505), also great: anker 633 magnetic battery (a1641), upgrade pick: satechi duo wireless charger power stand, other good wireless power banks, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ve been a science writer for nearly a decade, covering a wide variety of topics from particle physics to satellite remote sensing. Since joining Wirecutter in 2017, I’ve reported on electric vehicle chargers , rechargeable AA and AAA batteries , surge protectors , and more.

This guide builds upon the reporting of Nick Guy, a writer who has reviewed mobile accessories since 2011.

A portable charger allows you to carry a backup source of power with you at all times, rather than having to track down a wall outlet when you’re running out of juice. And if you have an iPhone, AirPods, an Apple Watch, or another device with Qi or MagSafe charging capabilities, a wireless power bank saves you the hassle of packing separate charging cables.

Perhaps the most practical way to use one is to keep it plugged in with your phone resting on top of it when you’re stationary (at home or in the office, say) and then take both devices with you when you’re ready to leave.

MagSafe power banks support wireless charging speeds up to 15 watts, which is the fastest wireless charging speed that iPhones and other compatible devices can achieve, while Qi and some non-certified MagSafe wireless charging accessories are limited to 7.5 W output. Our testing shows that MagSafe is faster than the fastest Qi charging, though not twice as fast. Neither is capable of attaining the 20 W needed to fast-charge most phones.

Qi2, a new standard supporting wireless charging speeds up to 15 W for both Apple and Android mobile devices, was announced in January 2023, but no Qi2-certified devices are available as of this writing.

To find the best wireless power bank, we combined the criteria we’ve previously used for Qi wireless chargers and portable power banks , including the following:

• Design: We considered how well the power bank was built, how it looked, how portable it was, and how effectively its surface or magnets held a phone in place. The thin coils inside the charger and phone transmit and receive power, respectively, when you place them next to each other, and if they’re misaligned, the connection may break and prevent your phone from charging.
• Capacity: More power is always better, and we especially looked for power banks offering the most battery life (measured in milliamp-hours, or mAh) for the weight and price.
• Charging ports: We considered each power bank’s number of ports as well as their capabilities. For models with at least one USB-A output port, we valued those with faster charging speeds (including 12 W and Quick Charge 3.0 ) more highly than those limited to 5 W or 10 W charging. We also preferred power banks with USB-C Power Delivery (PD) ports supporting at least 20 W power input and output.
• Wireless charging speed: Our tests have shown that a charger’s output level has little impact on how quickly most phones charge—that is, you don’t get a much faster charge from a higher-wattage charger. So although we tested for charging speed, the difference in results wasn’t particularly important. We just wanted to make sure none of the models performed far below average speeds.
• Safety-standard compliance: A charger certified by the Wireless Power Consortium has been tested in an authorized lab and found to be both safe and in compliance with the Qi standard. If a wireless charger isn’t certified, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s unsafe or noncompliant, but (all other things being equal) we preferred it.
• Maker reputation: We considered models only from companies that we knew from past experience had a good reputation for warranty coverage and customer support. Even if a charger is WPC-certified, there’s no guarantee it will never have a problem, and help should be available if you need it.
• MagSafe: We gave preference to MagSafe-compatible battery packs, since they offer faster charging speeds and a more stable connection between the power bank and phone. Although only Apple products currently have built-in MagSafe compatibility, some protective cases can add MagSafe capabilities to Android phones as well.

We then tested both the wireless and wired charging capabilities of each model that met our criteria.

• Wireless charging: We tested wireless charging output from each power bank by completely draining the battery of an iPhone in airplane mode, placing it on the charging pad, and then measuring the charge level after 30 minutes and one hour.
• USB-A ports: We tested the maximum power draw from each port by plugging in an ammeter and a variable power load, and gradually increasing the power draw until the device overloaded and shut off.
• USB-C ports: We used the Total Phase USB Power Delivery Analyzer and its Data Center Software to verify the advertised charging speeds of each USB-C port.

The ESR HaloLock Kickstand MagSafe Battery Pack (2G505) is the best power bank to wirelessly charge an iPhone 15 or other compatible device while traveling between home, school, work, and more. It has as much battery capacity as any model we tested, a MagSafe wireless charging pad, a fast-charging USB-C PD port, and a handy built-in kickstand—and it’s small enough to tuck in a pocket or small purse, too.

It wirelessly charges any Qi and/or MagSafe device. This power bank is capable of passing up to 10 W wirelessly. If you have a phone or other device that supports Qi charging, you can place it atop the wireless charging pad to top off the battery. If your device supports MagSafe charging, it’ll adhere firmly to the surface of the charging pad, so you can charge it wirelessly while on the go (it’s also less likely to get disconnected if bumped or jostled during stationary charging).

It has a sturdy built-in kickstand. This model’s metal kickstand blends in seamlessly with the back of the unit, and it can be easily flipped open to prop up your phone for video chatting or streaming (at either a landscape or portrait orientation). Unlike some kickstands we’ve used, this one feels robust and firmly fastened to the body of the unit.

It’s compact and lightweight. Weighing just 7.8 ounces, or less than half a pound, it won’t add much bulk to a purse or backpack. And its sleek, slim shape makes it easy to slip into a pocket.

It has great battery life. With a capacity rating of 10,000 mAh, it has the potential to fully charge a phone thrice over. That’s more than enough battery life to keep most phones going throughout the day, even with moderate to heavy use.

It has a fast-charging USB-C PD port. Not only does this power bank support pass-through charging, but its 20 W USB-C PD port is capable of fast-charging most phones (or recharging the power bank itself) at top speed. When the port and wireless charging pad are both in use, their individual charging speeds will drop slightly, offering a maximum total output of 20 W.

It’s made by a reputable brand. We’ve had generally good experiences with ESR’s products and customer support in the past, and the company backs this model with a one-year warranty.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• With a maximum output of 10 W from its wireless charging pad, it’s not quite as powerful as some models we tested. But it’s still on the higher end of wireless charging speeds, and since MagSafe allows you to charge while in transit, you won’t have to loiter next to a wall outlet while waiting for your phone to top up.
• It isn’t WPC-certified, but none of our picks are (and we didn’t notice any safety or performance issues in our testing).

The Anker 633 Magnetic Battery (A1641) is a similarly great option if our top pick is unavailable, or if you want more USB charging ports. In addition to a MagSafe wireless charging pad and USB-C PD port, it gives you a USB-A port to charge a third device. And its power, capacity, and overall design are on par with that of our favorite model.

It works with Qi and/or MagSafe devices. Like our top pick, you can use this power bank to wirelessly charge any phone or other device with Qi and/or MagSafe capabilities. If your device supports the latter, it’ll attach firmly to the main surface of the power bank, so you can toss both in a bag to charge while you’re out and about.

Its kickstand is flimsier than our top pick’s, but still handy. Though not quite as robust as that of our top pick (it seems a bit more likely to snap off unexpectedly), the metal kickstand on this power bank will keep your phone propped up during a Netflix binge or video call.

It’s small and light. About the size of a standard deck of playing cards, this power bank fits easily in most pockets and even the mini-est of mini bags . It’s a hair lighter than our top pick (7.6 ounces) and has an equally slim, sleek shape.

It has plenty of power. This model’s MagSafe wireless charging pad can pass up to 7.5 W to compatible devices, which (though slower than our top pick, and somewhat sluggish compared with others we tested) is within our preferred range of wireless charging speeds. Plus, it offers even more power over USB (up to 20 W in or out of the USB-C PD port, and up to 18 W out of the USB-A port).

It can charge up to three devices at once. Since it supports pass-through charging, you can charge up to two devices (on the wireless charging pad and/or from the USB-A port) while recharging the power bank itself via USB-C. When charging three devices simultaneously, the available power is split between them, resulting in a combined maximum output of up to 18 W.

It’ll keep your phone charged throughout the day. Like our top pick, this model has a capacity rating of 10,000 mAh, which is enough to fully charge most phones up to three times. Of course, if you use your phone a lot, or if you’re charging multiple devices simultaneously, the power bank will need to be recharged more frequently.

It’s made by a brand we trust. We’ve recommended numerous Anker products over the years and have found the customer support to be fast and reliable. Plus, the company backs this model with a two-year warranty, giving you plenty of time to use it and ensure you don’t have a dud.

If you regularly carry more than one device with wireless charging capabilities, get the Satechi Duo Wireless Charger Power Stand . It combines most of the features we prize in our other picks with the added versatility of our favorite multi-device wireless charging stands . It also has one of the most topple-proof phone stands of the power banks we tested, and it’s one of just a few with two wireless charging pads. But on the downside, it’s a few ounces heavier than most competitors and lacks MagSafe.

Its pop-up phone stand is the sturdiest we’ve tested. The entire top surface of the power bank, which contains the main wireless charging pad, can be folded upright into a phone stand, revealing a second wireless charging pad beneath it. The rest of the power bank forms a stable base for the propped-up phone, and four rubber dots on the bottom keep it from skidding across the tabletop.

It works with all Qi-compatible devices. Since it’s not MagSafe compatible, this power bank can’t be used for charging while on the go. However, once you get to your destination, it’s easy to set a device on top of the main Qi wireless charging pad. Three rubber dots help keep a phone or other device in place while it’s charging wirelessly, and when it’s propped up, a rubber ledge offers even more support.

The secondary charging pad, located in the base, has a grippy texture and shallow grooves around the edges to keep a small accessory—such as an Apple Watch or set of AirPods—from sliding out of place.

It’s on the heavier side but still highly portable. Weighing 10.3 ounces, this model is slightly bulkier than our other picks, but its rounded edges and slim shape still make it relatively easy to stow in a bag.

It’s powerful and can charge up to three devices simultaneously. The Satechi Duo has two wireless charging pads (the main one supports up to 10 W charging speeds, and the other up to 5 W) as well as a USB-C PD port that can charge a third device or the power bank itself at up to 18 W. It has pass-through charging capabilities and a total maximum output of 20 W.

It has enough juice for several commutes or a weekend trip. Like our top pick, this model has a capacity rating of 10,000 mAh, which is enough to fully charge most phones up to three times. Of course, if you use your phone a lot, or if you’re charging multiple devices simultaneously, the power bank will need to be recharged more frequently.

It’s made by a brand we trust. Satechi is a reputable brand that has been around since 2005. This particular model is backed by a one-year warranty, and we’ve generally found the company’s customer support to be fast and reliable.

If our top pick is unavailable and you don’t mind a slightly pricier model with a flimsier kickstand: Get the Baseus PPCXZ10 . Like our top pick, it has a MagSafe wireless charging pad and USB-C PD in/out port with pass-through charging capabilities. Also like that model, it weighs less than half a pound (7.5 ounces) and has enough capacity (rated for 10,000 mAh) to charge most phones up to three times. Plus, its warranty is twice as long (two years).

However, the Baseus model’s combined maximum output (up to 15 W) falls short of what we saw with our top pick. It also costs more ($50 at this writing), and the kickstand (the size and shape of which are not unlike a toothpick) seems like it could easily snap off.

If you want something lighter and cheaper than our top pick that doubles as a wallet, and don’t mind that it has half the capacity and no kickstand: Get the Mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini Wallet . Like the ESR HaloLock, this power bank has a MagSafe wireless charging pad and USB-C PD in/out port with pass-through charging capabilities. It’s one of the lightest models we tested (4.9 ounces) and costs just $18 at this writing. It also has a fabric exterior that’s extra comfortable to hold and a small slot in the back to hold a few credit cards (its stretchy material keeps cards snugly in place, but I still wouldn’t trust it to hold cash or anything irreplaceable).

On the downside, it has half the capacity of our picks (rated for just 5,000 mAh), and it’s less powerful (it maxed out at 12 W in our testing). Plus, it lacks a kickstand.

If you prefer a power bank with a fabric exterior and tripod mount, and you don’t mind that it’s heavier and pricier than our top pick: Get the Mophie Snap+ Powerstation Stand . Much like our top pick, it has a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh, a combined max output of 20 W, a MagSafe wireless charging pad, a USB-C PD in/out port, pass-through charging capabilities, and a built-in kickstand. Plus, it adds a tripod connector and a comfy fabric exterior. However, it weighs more than the ESR model (9.3 ounces) and costs more ($60) at this writing.

If you want something lighter than our top pick with a super-sturdy kickstand, and don’t mind that it has half the capacity and costs a bit more : Get the Mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini Stand . Weighing just 6.5 ounces, it has a MagSafe wireless charging pad with a maximum output of 15 W, and a USB-C port with up to 12 W output and up to 20 W input. Its aluminum kickstand is as tall and wide as the unit itself so it’s especially sturdy, and it has a small rubber lip on the bottom to make it even more skidproof. However, it costs a few bucks more than our top pick ($60 at this writing) and has a lower capacity (5,000 mAh, or enough to fully charge most smartphones at least once).

If you want a MagSafe power bank with more power than our upgrade pick , and you don’t mind that it’s heavier and pricier: Get the OtterBox 77-89452 . Like the Satechi Duo, this power bank has a rated capacity of 10,000 mAh, two wireless charging pads, a USB-C PD in/out port, pass-through charging capabilities, and a built-in kickstand. It’s also twice as powerful, with a combined maximum output of 40 W, and it adds the benefit of MagSafe on its wireless charging pads. Still, it’s one of the bulkiest and most expensive models we tested, weighing 12.2 ounces and costing $150 at this writing.

A slew of new products with Qi2 charging capabilities were announced in late 2023 and at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2024. Qi2 uses rings of magnets to ensure easy alignment between phone and charger, but unlike MagSafe it’s not exclusively compatible with Apple products. It also allows any compatible device to charge at up to 15 W, which is twice as fast as the original Qi specifications.

We plan to test the following models against our current picks this spring, along with other Qi2-compatible power banks that are likely to launch later in the year:

• Anker MagGo Power Bank (6.6K) and Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K)
• Belkin BoostCharge Pro Magnetic PowerBank
• Hyper HyperJuice 10,000mAh Qi2 Power Bank
• InfinaCore P3 Pro
• Mophie Snap+ Powerstation Mini Stand

This is not a comprehensive list of models we’ve tested. We have removed discontinued models and those that no longer meet our criteria.

Qi chargers

The Anker PowerCore 10K Wireless costs about the same as our top pick and performed similarly in our testing, but it doesn’t have a kickstand, MagSafe compatibility, or any other noteworthy features.

The Einova Power Bar has more wireless charging pads, safety and performance certifications, and included accessories than any of our picks. But it also offers less capacity for the size and price compared with those models, it lacks MagSafe compatibility, and it doesn’t have a kickstand.

The Lenovo GO Wireless Power Bank lacks MagSafe compatibility, and it has a flawed built-in cable design that makes it nearly unbearable to use.

The OtterBox 78-52163 offers less power for the size and/or price compared with otherwise similar models, and it’s not MagSafe compatible.

The RapidX MyPort comes with a desktop dock, but it’s not as convenient or reliable as the built-in kickstands of most models we tested, and it’s not MagSafe compatible.

The STM PowerKick performed fine in our testing, but it lacks MagSafe compatibility, and its most noteworthy feature (a suction-cup attachment system) only works reliably with bare phones or some case materials.

The following models offer ample capacity for the size and price, but they’re not MagSafe compatible, and they lack a kickstand:

• Mophie Powerstation Wireless XL with PD (fabric)
• OtterBox 78-80642
• OtterBox 78-80690

MagSafe chargers

The Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (A1610) , Anker 622 Magnetic Battery (A1611) , and Anker 622 Magnetic Battery (A1614) , are lighter and cheaper than our picks, but they have half the capacity and no additional features.

The Baseus PPCXW06 is lighter and cheaper than our picks, but it has a lower rated capacity and no additional features.

The Baseus PPCXM10T has a handy built-in cable, but it’s relatively short, and otherwise comparable models offer more power for the size and/or price.

The ESR HaloLock Power Bank with Wallet (2G513) offers less power for the size and/or price compared with similar models. Also, the kickstand seems more likely to snap off than others we tested (and if it does, you also lose the attached card holder).

The OtterBox Multi-Mount Power Bank with MagSafe (15W) 77-89445 comes with a desk stand, car vent mount, and wall charger. However, the power bank itself isn't exceptional, and we think most people would be better off buying each of these devices individually if they need them.

The Scosche GoBat MS 5K (PBQ5MS-SP) is lighter and cheaper than our picks, but it has half the capacity and no additional features.

The Zens Magnetic Dual Powerbank supports wireless charging to a second device, but it has a smaller battery capacity and is more expensive than otherwise comparable models.

The following models offer less battery life for the size and/or price compared with otherwise comparable models, and they lack any other standout traits or features:

• Apple MagSafe Battery Pack
• Belkin BPD001
• Belkin BPD002
• Belkin BPD004
• Hyper HyperJuice Magnetic Wireless Battery Pack
• Mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini
• Mophie Powerstation 10K Stand with MagSafe
• OtterBox 78-81175

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guide

Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a senior staff writer who reports on powering and charging technology for Wirecutter. She previously worked as a writer, editor, and fact checker for several science magazines. Though she researches and tests chargers for a living, her phone battery is usually low.

Further reading

The Best Power Banks for Laptops With USB-C

by Sarah Witman

The Anker 747 PowerCore 26K is our favorite power bank for charging modern laptops as fast as possible while you’re on the go—no need to hunt for a power outlet.

The Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for Phones and Tablets

Our power bank picks allow you to pack hours of extra battery life in a pocket or purse to charge a phone, tablet, or other small electronic device.

The Best Portable Laptop Charger

When wall outlets are scarce, a portable laptop charger provides a handy backup for travelers or remote workers. Mophie’s Powerstation Pro AC is our favorite.

The Best Portable Solar Battery Charger

The Allpowers SP012 Solar Panel 100W is the best choice for charging a phone and other essential devices in the great outdoors.

The best laptop power bank in 2024: stay charged wherever you work

Stay charged when working from home with our pick of the best portable laptop battery chargers and power banks around

• Best overall
• Best affordable
• Best compatibility
• Best for travel
• Best high-powered
• Best for Macs
• Best feature-rich
• Best for Mac professionals
• Best versatility
• Best solar-optimized

1. Best overall 2. Best affordable 3. Best compatibility 4. Best for travel 5. Best high-powered 6. Best for Macs 7. Best feature-rich 8. Best for Mac professionals 9. Best versatility 10. Best solar-optimized

Securing the best laptop power bank is a smart move for anyone who finds themselves frequently on the move or looking to maximize productivity during their commute. 

In today's fast-paced world, being prepared with a reliable power bank for your laptop is almost as essential as the laptop itself. Despite advancements in even the best laptop battery life, the duration your device can operate without a charge still largely depends on the intensity of its use. Furthermore, the opportunity to charge up in public spaces, such as cafes, is becoming increasingly scarce.

So choosing the right laptop power bank is important and involves several considerations. It's important to verify compatibility with your laptop, particularly for models that require proprietary chargers. Assessing the power output is crucial as well, especially for demanding laptops like the best mobile workstations or the best gaming laptops , to ensure the power bank can adequately support your laptop's energy needs. Additionally, the capacity of the power bank's internal battery will determine how many charges you can get for your device, and its size impacts its portability.

While finding the perfect laptop power bank might seem daunting, the effort is well justified by the convenience and freedom it provides. To streamline your search, we've compiled a list of the best portable laptop chargers available right now, designed to save you time and simplify your decision-making process. Explore our top recommendations to find the power bank that best suits your mobile work and lifestyle needs.

The best laptop power bank in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

 Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best laptop power bank options in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted. 

The best laptop power bank overall

1. baseus blade, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Baseus Blade is an impressive portable charger that is merely 0.7 inches thick and around 1.08lb. It has a smart digital display that gives important readout information, including the power percentage left on the battery, voltage, and current display. This portable battery has two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports. The USB-C ports can be used to either charge the portable battery or output to another device.

This portable charger is fantastic. It's slim, lightweight, and powerful enough to charge multiple devices with its 20,000mAh battery. Not only that, but it charges these devices quickly. The Baseus Blade is fantastic for work trips to the coffee shop, a plane, or anywhere you may need to charge your beloved electronics but are unsure if you'll be able to find an outlet or don't want to risk an outlet.

The best affordable laptop power bank overall

2. einova ultra fast powerbank.

The Einova Ultra Fast Powerbank keeps things simple, compact, and reliable, which is all you want from a laptop power bank you want to travel with. At 6.75 x 4 x 0.63 inches and 0.498kg, it's thin and relatively lightweight. Combine that with its 74Wh power, and you've got a device that keeps things portable for jet-setting creatives and remote working professionals and is TSA-approved. It even has an easy-to-read LCD display to show just how much juice it has left.

More importantly, unlike other so-called laptop chargers that sometimes fail to work, this one's incredibly reliable and capable of charging your laptop every time. And that's while charging your other portables with its 3-port selection. It may only have the standard 20,000mAh capacity, but that's a full laptop charge and a half, definitely more than enough to last you while you're in between outlets. Best yet, it's under $100, cheaper than most of the offerings on this list.

The best laptop power bank for compatibility

3. maxoak k2 portable charger 50,000mah.

Laptop power banks are a tricky thing. Most are only compatible with specific portables, depending on the available output port and the energy transfer rate. Luckily, you’ve got the MaxOak K2 Portable Charger. With a maximum power of 130W and two DC outputs – not to mention a variety of DC adapters included – this power bank is compatible with many laptops. That makes it useful for households with multiple types of laptops and devices. Unfortunately, this isn’t TSA-approved, due to its 185Wh, over the 100Wh TSA standard. However, it’s great for road trips, camping, and train rides.

The best laptop power bank for travel

4. omnicharge 20+ 20000mah.

With just 70wh, the OmniCharge 20+ 20000mah is TSA-approved, making it an excellent companion for work trips abroad and if you have long layovers. It’s compatible with 60W USB-C laptops like the MacBook Pro 13-inch and Dell XPS 2-in-1, but its 100W AC outlet is great for other laptops and other tech gadgets like DSLRs . Finally, it features passthrough charging, so you can charge it while simultaneously powering devices via the AC or USB-A ports. It is a bit more expensive than the MaxOak Laptop Power Bank. However, its versatility does make it worth the higher price tag.

The best overpowered laptop power bank

5. halo bolt 58830.

The HALO Bolt 58830 isn’t just a portable laptop charger, but it is effective thanks to its AC outlet. This portable charger is also designed to jumpstart a car and is great for laptops that draw up to 60W of power. 

It has its own jump start port and comes with its own jumper cables. And, unlike other portable laptop chargers, which only come in one or two colors, this one comes in seven different colors/design patterns, making it ideal for folks who don’t care for the minimalist approach. 

Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a USB-C port, and the AC outlet should take care of most of your laptop charging needs.

The best laptop power bank for Macs

6. zmi usb pd backup battery & hub.

For MacBook Pro and MacBook Air users that only require up to 30W of power and utilize USB-C charging, the ZMI USB PD Backup Battery & Hub is a terrific option. It doesn’t have an AC outlet, but its USB-C port lets you charge your older MacBook units. ZMI also promises HP Spectre x360 13-inch and Samsung Chromebook Pro compatibility. Thanks to its two USB-A ports, you can also charge your other devices. More importantly for travelers and digital nomads, it boasts a svelte and lightweight design – at 405 g, it’s a lot lighter than the iPad Air.

The best feature-rich laptop power bank

7. poweradd pilot pro 32000mah power bank.

The POWERADD Pilot Pro might be as versatile as laptop chargers come. It comes equipped with an LCD display showing important information like battery level and voltage. It also has two USB outputs and a DC output to accommodate various devices, from smartphones and tablets to power-hungry laptops. The charger also comes with 10 different connectors making it compatible with most laptops. It also has fast charging and built-in safety features like over-charge, over-temp, and short-circuit protection.

The best laptop power bank for professional Mac users

8. maxoak k3 36000mah power bank.

For anyone who’s bought into the Apple ecosystem or has multiple Apple devices, the MAXOAK K3 36000mAh Power Bank is the perfect portable solution. Via its DC port and Magsafe 1 and 2 cables, this laptop charger can power up any Apple laptop from 2006 to 2018. And its PD 2.0 Type C port covers any of the newer USB-C-only MacBooks and can charge any laptop equipped with a USB-C port. The type-C port can also be used to charge the power bank if you happen to misplace the MAXOAK charger. If that’s not enough, it fits aesthetically with its silver aluminum shell and rounded edges.

The best 'everything' laptop power bank

9. krisdonia 50000mah laptop power bank.

This incredibly high-capacity laptop power bank might have too much power to take on a flight. However, it’s ideal for long road trips. It’s also incredibly versatile, with 28 different laptop connectors and a Magsafe 2 adapter to accommodate just about any laptop under the sun. 

The laptop charger also has a passthrough function that can be easily turned on and off and a LED display that shows the voltage and current battery level. Unfortunately, even though it is the highest capacity charger on this list at 50,000mAh, it can fully charge in 6-8 hours – charging overnight is obligatory.

The best solar-optimized laptop power bank

10. voltaic systems v88 portable laptop power bank.

The Voltaic Systems V88 Portable Laptop Power Bank has all the necessary features that any great laptop power bank should have, including four outputs, passthrough functionality, and an easy-to-read LCD display for monitoring the battery level and voltage. 

It’s fairly versatile, including 10 laptop adapters that should cover most users’ needs. At 88Wh, it’s also airplane-friendly. The Voltaic power bank is unique, though, because it’s solar-optimized. This means it works with solar chargers and solar panels when traditional power sources are unavailable. 

While those have to be purchased separately, this feature makes the Voltaic Systems V88 particularly useful for those going off-grid.

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John (He/Him) is the Components Editor here at TechRadar and he is also a programmer, gamer, activist, and Brooklyn College alum currently living in Brooklyn, NY. 

Named by the CTA as a CES 2020 Media Trailblazer for his science and technology reporting, John specializes in all areas of computer science, including industry news, hardware reviews, PC gaming, as well as general science writing and the social impact of the tech industry.

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Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks to Buy for Android in 2024

Keep your Android devices charged and ready to go with one of the best portable Android power banks around.

Our Experts

• Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

What to consider

Before anything else, you'll want to figure out how much you're willing to spend on a portable charger or power bank.

Power Capacity vs. Weight

Chargers with a high charging capacity provide more power but they weigh more. That's of particular note if you plan on traveling with the charger in a purse, backpack or pocket. 

Wireless or corded charging?

Android's standard for wireless charging is called Qi, and power banks that are fully Qi compatible offer faster charging speeds for Android devices than charging cables. Consider your daily needs and which charging mode is best for your lifestyle.

What is the best portable charger for Android overall?

Most of us spend entirely too much time on our phones these days on social media, news, productivity, connecting with loved ones and the seemingly unavoidable doomscrolling . All this activity can lead to a quickly dwindling battery. While many Android devices have better battery life than iPhones, they still need a little help on occasion. That's where portable chargers come in.

If you rely on a  battery case  to keep your phone running, you're not alone. Battery cases are convenient, but they have some drawbacks: Some are bulky and heavy, and they can negatively affect wireless reception at times. That's why nothing beats a dedicated portable charger or power bank that you can store easily and take out only when you need it. With both wired and wireless models, there's a slew of options when it comes to keeping your Android device going.

To that end, I've rounded up top picks for the best portable charger for Android devices . Although they cost more, I like batteries that have an integrated USB-C output built into them so I don't have to worry about carrying around a charging cable for enough power for my devices. (The models with built-in USB-C cables should also work for iPad Pro devices.) I've also included some budget picks for those who don't want to shell out as much for portable power and their charging needs. While we have a separate power bank roundup for iPhones , anything here without an integrated USB-C cable will work perfectly well with an iPhone (and non-Pro iPad models), so long as you provide the Lightning cable.

Read more:  Best Wireless Car Chargers and Mounts for 2024

Best portable chargers and power banks for Android of 2024

• Includes integrated USB-C cable
• Also compatible with iPhones
• Slim, compact design
• A little pricey
• Doesn't offer multiple full charges

Best power bank with built-in USB-C cable

Infinitylab instago 5000.

Infinity Lab is Samsung-owned Harman Kardon's new accessories subsidiary and I like its InstantGo 5000 and InstantGo 10000 power banks, which come with an integrated USB-C cable for easy charging for iPhones. The larger 10,000-mAh model costs a bit more and is heavier and bulkier, but it can charge most Android smartphones twice. Although the white model is currently unavailable, the black one is in stock.

• Compatible with both Apple and Android
• Integrated lightning and USB-C cables
• Several sizes available
• Slightly bulky

Best dual iPhone and Android portable charger

Mycharge hub 4400 (no longer available new).

MyCharge's Hub portable chargers come in a few different sizes and not only have an integrated foldable wall plug but integrated Lightning and USB-C cables, so you can charge both Apple and Android devices. It's a little bulky, but with a 4,400-mAh battery, it should be able to almost fully charge your smartphone, depending on its size.

• Fast charging
• Offers several full charges
• No wireless charging

Slim high-capacity battery with USB-C fast charging

Anker 523 powercore slim 10k pd.

The Anker 523 PowerCore Slim 10K PD is impressively slim for a 10,000-mAh portable phone charger and has a fast 20-watt USB-C out charging port (it's also a USB-C input to charge its battery), plus a 12-watt USB-A out port. While the Anker 313 PowerCore Slim 10K is cheaper, the fast USB-C out charging makes spending the extra dough worth it if you have a USB-C to Lightning cable.

• Wireless charging available
• Fast USB-C charging
• Slim design
• No magnet for wireless charging

Most versatile portable battery

Anker powercore iii 10k portable charger.

The Anker PowerCore III 10K portable charger has fast USB-C out charging (18 watts) as well as a USB-A port and up to 10-watt wireless charging. It's not magnetic, so your phone won't stick to it but it will wirelessly charge any Qi-enabled devices.

• Compact design
• First-time buyer discount
• Several color options
• Fast charging available
• No color options available

Compact powerbank with fast charging

6. mophie power station mini (2022).

If you're looking for a compact external battery pack for your iPhone (or any smartphone), Mophie's pocketable Power Station Mini (2022) features a 5,000-mAh internal battery and 20-watt USB-C PD fast charging. (You'll need a USB-C to Lightning cable to take advantage of that fast charging if you're an iPhone owner.) That battery will allow you to fully charge your iPhone.

For $20 more, you can pick up the 10,000-mAh version with dual USB-C ports -- both come in black or blue colors. Also, note that Zagg, Mophie's parent company, offers a 20% discount off your first purchase, so that model (it's simply called the Power Station) is actually $50.

• Excellent power capacity to weight
• Energy-efficient
• Charges three devices at once

Best power bank that's also a 65W charger

Anker 733 power bank.

Thanks to  Gallium Nitride (GaN)  technology, chargers have been getting more powerful while shrinking at the same time. The latest example of that trend is Anker's new line of  GaNPrime chargers  with next-generation GaN 3 technology that the company says is even more energy-efficient. The Anker Power Bank 733, combines a 65W charger with a 10K mAh portable battery, is part of the new GaNPrime line . It's pretty compact for what it is and offers two fast-charging USB-C ports and one fast-charging USB-A port. You can charge up to three devices at once, but note that to get a full 65W charge for a laptop, you'll have to plug in just the laptop. 

• Wall and portable charging enabled
• Integrated charging light
• Charges two devices at once

Best value wall charger with built-in battery

Anker powercore fusion portable charger.

This Anker model is effectively an oversized wall charger with a built-in 5,000-mAh battery. It's got two standard USB charging ports for simultaneously juicing up your phone and a secondary gadget (or two phones). A little LED indicator on the side lets you check the charge level at the press of a button.

• Magnetic flap converts into kickstand
• Strong magnet
• Multiple color options
• No fast wireless charging (only 7.5 watts)

Best magnetic power bank with integrated stand

Anker 622 maggo magnetic battery.

What's cool about Anker's 622 magnetic battery is that it's a wireless battery that has an integrated magnetic flap that converts into a stand. You won't get fast wireless charging from this 5,000-mAh battery (it charges at up to 7.5 watts) but it's slim and easy to carry around.

It charges via USB-C and if you use a USB-C to USB-C to charge your Android device (or iPhone), it will charge at a faster rate of 12 watts. That's not as fast as a 20-watt USB-C power adapter, but it's faster than the usual 7.5 watts.

• Wireless charging adapter included
• Fast cable charging

Mophie Snap Plus Juice Pack Mini

Mophie's magnetic power bank is similar to Anker's but is slightly slimmer and doesn't have an integrated flap that converts into a stand. Like the Anker, this isn't an official Apple MagSafe accessory, but it magnetically adheres to the back of your MagSafe-enabled iPhone or MagSafe case -- yes, it sticks nicely -- and is svelte for 5,000-mAh battery. It can also be used with other phones that support wireless charging as it comes with a stick-on magnet. 

Wireless charging speeds are limited to 7.5 watts for iPhones, but if you need a faster charge, you can connect a USB-C to Lightning cable to bump the speed up to 12 watts. This has enough juice to fully charge an iPhone 13 or 13 Pro once, but it'll fall a little short of a full charge with an iPhone 13 Pro Max. 

• Built in kickstand
• Wireless charging compatible
• USB-A and -C ports
• Bulkier than other options

Power bank that converts into wireless charging stand

Otterbox folding wireless power bank (update: discontinued).

Otterbox gears its Folding Wireless Power Bank toward those who like to watch movies on their phones or play games with a controller. It has a built-in stand that folds down when you take it on the go. It also has USB-C and USB-A ports that are capable of fast-charging your phone at up to 18 watts. The wireless charging is up to 7.5 watts with the iPhone and 10 watts for Android devices.

Factors to consider when buying a portable charger or power bank for Android

Before anything else, you'll want to figure out how much you're willing to spend on a portable charger or power bank. Value-priced chargers continue to improve, so you can find a decent wireless charger for less than $40. But if you're looking for a more premium model, you'll likely have to pay more than $50 and even more for Qi-enabled chargers.

Power capacity vs. weight

Most baseline power banks now start at a 5,000-mAh capacity, which should give you at least one full charge for an Android phone. Chargers with 10,000-mAh or more are available, but they weigh more. That's of particular note if you plan on traveling with the charger in a purse, backpack or pocket. 

Most Android phones since the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge models introduced in 2015 offer inductive wireless charging. Android's standard for these phones is called Qi, and power banks that are fully Qi compatible offer faster charging speeds for Android devices with speeds capped at around 7.5 watts for iPhones. In all cases, you'll need to make sure your phone case is thin enough to allow inductive charging through the back of the phone.

How we test power banks and portable chargers for Android

At the current time, we do anecdotal testing on these models. Each is fully charged and used on a recent Android model for at least a week in real-world conditions. We verify that charging speeds and recharge times are within expected parameters and -- for models with integrated stands or cables -- confirm that the connections and build quality are sturdy and free of any notable annoyances or caveats. 

Other Android power banks we've tested

Anker MagGo Power Bank 6.6K: The Anker MagGo Power Bank 6.6K has a 6,600-mAh battery that can fully charge most iPhones one time. It's Qi2-certified, which means it offers 15-watt fast charging capabilities and is fully MagSafe compatible, offering twice the speed of standard 7.5-watt wireless chargers for MagSafe-enabled iPhone 13, 14 and 15 models and Android smartphones that support 15-watt wireless charging.

Anker Nano Power Bank (USB-C): This 5,000mAh power bank weighs in at 3.5 ounces, or 100 grams. It features 22.5 watts of fast charging power with the option to charge two devices at the same time if you plug a cable into the power bank's USB-C in/out charging port. (Charging two devices simultaneously divides the charging power in half, delivering 11.25 watts to each device.) 

myCharge Hub 6700: MyCharge's Hub portable chargers come in a few different sizes and not only have an integrated foldable wall plug but integrated Lightning and USB-C cables, so you can charge both Apple and Android devices. It's a little bulky, but with a 6,700-mAh battery, it should be able to almost fully charge your smartphone, depending on its size. The step-up 10,050-mAh model is about $25 more.

Nimble Champ: Nimble's updated Champ portable charger uses recycled plastic in its construction. You have to pay a bit more for going green, but it's a nice, compact 10,000-mAh charger that features 20-watt PD fast-charging with dual USB-C ports (one on either side of the power bank) that allow you to charge two devices at the same time. If you are charging two devices, your charging speeds will be limited to 10 watts per device.

Android portable charger and power bank FAQ

Can these android power banks charge other devices too.

Yes, these power banks should charge any device that's USB-powered, such as phones, headphones, ebook readers and Bluetooth speakers. Some may also charge larger devices such as tablets and the Nintendo Switch, albeit at slower speeds. You'll stand a better chance of charging the larger devices if you get a charger with USB-C PD (Power Delivery) support. Don't expect to charge laptops or Chromebooks without getting larger, higher-capacity power banks that are specifically designed for that purpose (with 65 watts of power output or more).

What's the difference between USB-C and USB-A?

Power banks for Android invariably have USB inputs and outputs for charging themselves and other devices, respectively. (Some power banks have single ports that double for both.) The USB-A port is the "classic" rectangular USB port that's been on computers since as early as the late 1990s. The newer, smaller USB-C port is reversible (there is no "top" or "bottom" to the plugs) and has the capacity to charge at higher speeds. Some power banks have integrated cables that terminate with Lightning (iPhone-specific) or USB-C cables. 

What's the difference between MagSafe and Qi?

MagSafe for iPhone -- not to be confused with the identically named magnetic power connector for MacBooks -- is an Apple standard that allows for inductive charging with magnetically attached batteries. Qi wireless chargers don't necessarily have the magnetic component but also allow for inductive charging. Devices that are Qi-2 certified offer twice the speed of standard 7.5-watt wireless chargers for MagSafe-enabled iPhone 13, 14 and 15 models and Android smartphones that support 15-watt wireless charging.

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'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

This ultra-thin power bank I tested is a must-have travel gadget (and it's surprisingly cheap)

ZDNET's key takeaways

• The Auskang 5,000 mAh power bank is available on Amazon for $21.
• It's small and thin, yet robust, and delivers on all its promises.
• I wish it could be recharged using the built-in USB-C port.

I've got a thing for chunky power banks: there's something about bigger devices that feels reassuring with all the power they can hold. That said, I'm acutely aware that the bigger the power bank, the more likely it is to be left behind, leaving my devices without those sweet electrons.

Also:  The best power banks you can buy: Expert tested

I've tested portable chargers of all sizes, but recently I had the chance to get my hands on the Auskang 5,000 mAh power bank , an ultra-thin device that's about the same thickness as a stack of coins, and it didn't disappoint. 

Auskang 5,000mAh power bank tech specs

• Capacity : 5,000mAh
• Outputs:  Built-in USB-C cable : 5V⎓2.1A max USB-C port : 5V⎓2.1A max
• Input:  USB-C port : 5V⎓1.5A max
• Recharge time : 3.5 hours at 5V⎓1.5A
• Protections : Overcharge, overdischarge, overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits
• Battery type : Li-polymer
• Shell : 304 stainless steel
• Size : 124 x 66 x 6.8 mm
• Weight : 130g
• Finishes : Beige, Black, Blue, Pink 

The first thing that's utterly striking about this power bank is how thin it is. It's really thin, much thinner than my iPhone, and about the thickness of a few credit cards or a few coins.

When I first saw it, I thought it might be plastic and worried that the battery could bend and catch fire in my pocket. Fortunately, everything is encased in a stainless steel shell that has so far resisted everything I've thrown at it.

It's thin!

Sure, I'm certain I could bend it in half if I tried, but the same goes for my phone or tablet. What matters is that it's strong enough to handle day-to-day life.

Also:  This powerful power bank is perfect if you charge a lot of devices

The power bank has all the basics you'd expect -- there's a power button, four LEDs showing current charge levels, and a USB-C port that can both charge devices and recharge the power bank itself.

Charge indicator lights

It also features a built-in USB-C connector on a short pigtail cable for charging any device with a USB-C port. This brilliant twist adds versatility, meaning you don't need to carry an extra cable or rely on wireless charging. Prefer a Lightning connector instead of USB-C? No problem! There's a version available with just that . 

The two outputs allow the power bank to either charge two devices simultaneously or be charged while it's charging another device. This makes it incredibly handy for those on-the-go moments when you need reliable power without the bulk.

Testing power input and output of the Auskang 5,000 mAh power bank.

I put this power bank through the wringer, and it passed all my tests with flying colors. The power outputs and input match up to the spec sheet, and the power bank can operate at full capacity for extended periods without overheating.

Also: How we test portable power stations at ZDNET in 2024

Perhaps most importantly, the success of this power bank has cured me of the need to always carry the biggest one I can find. It offers 5,000mAh of capacity, which isn't a huge amount, but it's enough to charge a modern smartphone about once over. If you need more than that, you'll need bigger pockets for a bigger power bank or access to AC power. 

ZDNET's buying advice

The Auskang 5,000mAh power bank is perfect for on-the-go use with your smartphone. It's small, light, and packs a punch. The only criticism I have is that it can't be charged using the built-in USB-C cable; you'll need a separate cable for that. Yet another item to carry makes it harder to travel light. Think of this power bank as more of a one-and-done use case.

Overall, for around $20, the Auskang offers a lot of bang for your buck. If you're looking for something small, thin, and robust enough to survive in a pocket or bag, it's a great buy.

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These Highly Rated Portable Power Stations Are Lifesavers During A Blackout

Staff Writer

In the middle of a heat wave, the last thing you want is to lose power . But when your electricity does go out, having a personal portable power station can help you keep your phone charged and portable fans running. To help you stay connected and prepared in an emergency or routine power loss, we rounded up some of the highest-rated portable power stations that reviewers have used in winter.

Whether you’re just looking to charge your iPad or hope to keep a fan running, these options have a variety of sizes and power levels to work for you and your home this summer. All of them are also great options for camping or spending time in the outdoors as well.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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• Best for customer satisfaction
• Best for older adults
• Best for long-term care
• Best for high returns
• Best for agent support
• Best for term life
• Why you should trust us

Best Life Insurance Companies of June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Life insurance is as complicated as the policyholders and beneficiaries who use it. That means there's no single "best" life insurance company. Instead, you can find the best option based on what you want or what you prioritize.

Best Life Insurance of 2024 Summary

• Best for customer satisfaction: State Farm Life Insurance
• Best for older adults: Prudential Life Insurance
• Best for agent support: New York Life Insurance
• Best for long-term care: Columbus Life
• Best for high returns: Allianz Life
• Best for term life: North American Company

Top Life Insurance Companies of 2024

While there is no such thing as the objective best life insurance policy, you will be able to find the best insurance policy for your specific needs. Here are our picks for the best life insurance companies, whether you want to use your life insurance policy to build wealth through cash value or you're just looking for a term life insurance policy .

Best Life Insurance for Customer Satisfaction

State farm life insurance.

State Farm Life Insurance gets the best life insurance ranking in J.D Power's Individual Life Insurance Study, with a score of 843/1,000. The company is also ranked A++ with AM Best for its financial stability with term, universal, and whole life insurance options. 

All State Farm policies have to be purchased through a State Farm agent. Your agent can help you bundle and save or buy one policy. State Farm is also among the companies offering "survivorship universal life insurance ," which means the policy covers two people, and it kicks in after the second person dies. Couples looking to maximize their death benefit for beneficiaries with one premium payment each month may enjoy lower overall costs.

State Farm agents can run quotes and compare options to find the right plans for each applicant. The range of options, discounts, and familiar name all contribute to the popularity of State Farm's life insurance.

Read our State Farm Life Insurance review .

Best Life Insurance for Older Adults

Prudential life insurance.

Prudential Life Insurance is available in all states except New York. New York residents can buy the Pruco Life of New Jersey VUL Protector plan. This plan allows buyers to pull money out of their plan to pay for nursing home expenses. Cash value policy premiums are fixed, so you won't have to worry about extra costs later on. Internal costs are low, which minimizes risk. Due to age, many older adults want a safe investment option for their money. Prudential VUL Protector invests to avoid loss. That also means you're not as likely to see big increases in your available funds outside of what you deposit.

Read our Prudential Life Insurance review .

Best Life Insurance for Long-Term Care

Columbus life.

Columbus Life offers a wide range of riders to customize your policy with affordable premiums. The company also allows you to convert term policies to whole life insurance policies until the end of your term (generally around age 70). For this and many other reasons, customer satisfaction is high.

When using living health benefits (otherwise known as accelerated death benefits), buyers are allowed to pull money from policies early to pay for medical bills, living costs, etc. under certain circumstances. Most companies use a discounted death benefit, which reduces your final payout using two models. Columbus uses the lien method, which makes it easier to calculate the financial impact of pulling money out early.

Best Life Insurance for High Returns on Income

Allianz life.

Allianz Life plans are geared towards high-income adults looking for more tax-free income. Allianz offers a 40% multiplier bonus with a 1% annual assets charge. In short, the professionals managing your investments take 10%. Overall, your investments would pull in an extra 14%-1% asset charge. This means you end up with 3% more than what you deposit every year your life policy is active. This plan offers strong returns when using a life policy to supplement your retirement savings. Allianz also offers specialized plans to grow your income by as much as 20% according to some estimates.

Of note: Allianz also offers plans for foreign nationals, including those with H-1B visas.

Best Life Insurance for Agent Support

New york life insurance.

New York Life Insurance agents go through extensive training before they ever hit the sales floor. What does this get you? Policies vary widely, and New York Life offers both large and small payouts. Some policies have significant penalties for early withdrawal, but taking a loan offers more options. Whatever your questions, New York Life agents are trained to offer comprehensive support giving you accurate information about its policies every time. The company comes in at position eight in J.D. Power's latest life insurance customer satisfaction study.

Read our New York Life Insurance review here.

Best Life Insurance for Term Life

North american company.

North American Company offers term policies alongside accelerated death benefits for critical, chronic, and terminal illnesses and more. The company allows one conversion on a 20-year policy at 15 years or 70 years old (whichever is earlier). The conversion cannot happen later than the five-year marker regardless of which policy you choose or the length. North American Company also offers a term policy with a lower premium renewable up to the age of 95 for qualifying insureds.

Types of Life Insurance

While there's many different types of life insurance policies , broadly speaking, there are two types of life insurance: temporary and permanent. Let's go over each in detail.

Temporary life insurance

Temporary life insurance is often called term life insurance. This type of policy covers you for a set amount of time before expiring, usually between 10-30 years. If you pass away after your policy expires, your family won't receive any benefits. Additionally, your policy won't accrue cash value like a permanent policy. That said, some term life insurance policies offer a conversion from term to whole life insurance, so you can extend your coverage. 

Because its benefits aren't guaranteed, term life policies are generally cheaper than permanent life insurance. That said, the vast majority of term life insurance policies never pay out. on

Permanent life insurance

Permanent life insurance is an umbrella term for a variety of life insurance policies that will insure you indefinitely and guarantee a payout as long as you maintain your policy. Policy types that fall under permanent life insurance includes:

• Whole life insurance
• Universal life insurance
• Variable life insurance
• Variable universal life insurance
• Simplified life insurance
• Guaranteed issue life insurance

These policies vary widely in purpose and intended buyers, but all guarantee death benefits to your loved ones. Some permanent life insurance policies, like whole, universal, and variable have a cash value component , which you can use as a savings tool or to leave your heirs a larger death benefit.

How to Pick the Best Life Insurance Policy for You

Finding the right fit in life insurance starts with finding a trusted insurance agent. Because there are so many state regulations, shopping for homeowners or auto insurance can be easily done online. Life insurance is not required. So it's a voluntary purchase. Many buyers don't know what they need or when they need it. Before making your selection, consider a few things:

Some companies will sell you a policy for your child as soon as they're born. While this may seem morbid, early sign-up means lower rates for a policy your child could enjoy in the future. Regardless, early sign-up equates to more policy for lower premiums and a higher likelihood of acceptance. At 20, you may be healthier and be able to pay into the policy for a longer period compared to when you're 50 with more age-related conditions.

As a general rule, never agree to more than you can afford. For the average life insurance agent, their job is to sell you a large policy with a large commission. Consider not only how much you make now, but how likely your current income is to continue. If you work on a project basis and your project is scheduled to end in 12 months, you may want to reconsider a policy premium outside your monthly savings.

How much are you prepared to buy? Some people only want a small policy to cover funerals and other end-of-life expenses. Others build a life policy into their retirement plan. Whatever direction you're going, involving a financial planner could help you make the right decisions. Depending on the carrier, customers can also compare set limits with index universal life policies, which set no limit. These policies never expire, and the value builds over the entirety of your life.

Living Benefits

Life happens unexpectedly. You could be healthy one day and in the hospital the next. Many life policies offer living benefits. These allow you to draw a limited amount out of your policy to cover medical and other bills you cannot pay while sick.

Much like a 401(k), many life insurance policies have penalties for early withdrawal. No matter what policy you want, this question is critical to an informed decision. It's a question of how early you can withdraw and how much you'll lose from the total to have the money in 10 years instead of 30 or after death.

Some policies require insured parties to pay premiums for at least one year before any significant payout would be available. Suicide exclusions are common. Even with no medical exam policies, the company may still do a check for known conditions. An insurance company has to mitigate its risk.

Flexibility

Once you've been denied a life insurance policy, a mark goes on your record. No matter the reasons, other insurance companies may deny you coverage based on the first denial. So consider your whole situation and choose your policy carefully before you submit any applications. Some policies have greater flexibility if you lose your job or otherwise can't make payments. Others will lapse if you miss even one payment.

Payment Type

Even within whole life or term life insurance policies, customers have the option to choose guaranteed fixed or variable rates. Some have guaranteed payouts, but you'll need to ask your agent for details.

What is your intended use? Why are you shopping for a life insurance policy in the first place, and what are your goals? Many successful financial planners also have a background in life insurance. So while they may not be able to find you a specific life insurance policy, financial planners can help you set out a blueprint for your purchase.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed the Best Life Insurance Companies

In life insurance, it's easy to get "sold a bill of goods." Many life insurance agents pass a state test to be thrown into the deep end. Agents sell the company product, but not all know the products. In this vein, we look at the products each company offers. We also look at agent training.

A good life insurance agent may not volunteer all facts upfront. But a company's agents should answer questions about its products accurately and in a way the average consumer can digest. Agents should be able to inform you about the long-term benefits and limitations. This will help customers find the right policy for their long-term plan.

We consider affordability, policy sizes available, and performance for a comprehensive assessment in our life insurance rating methodology . If you can, we recommend also working with a financial advisor to make a plan for your future with life insurance.

Our Expert Panel for The Best Life Insurance Companies

To inform our choices for the best life insurance companies, we spoke with the following experts:

• Paul LaPiana , head of product at MassMutual
• Barbara Pietrangelo , CFP, CLU, and chair of the nonprofit Life Happens
• Wykeeta Peel , Corporate Vice President and Market Manager, African American Market Unit at New York Life

The Experts' Advice on Choosing The Best Life Insurance for You

How much life insurance coverage do you believe the average buyer should have.

Paul LaPiana, Head of Product at MassMutual

"There are different approaches to determining how much life insurance you need. One is the 'human life' approach, which estimates the current value of your future earning potential. Another is securing specific coverage to pay off debts such as a mortgage or provide for the education of children. A comprehensive protection plan should provide the right amount of coverage over the course of your working life and into retirement."

Barbara A. Pietrangelo, Chair of Life Happens

"There is no one-size-fits-all life insurance policy because everyone is different. One way to get a rough estimate is to multiply your income by 10 to 15; another is adding $100,00 to that amount, should you have a child and anticipate college education expenses.

Your best bet is to talk to a financial professional or use the Life Insurance Needs Calculator on LifeHappens.org to analyze what's right for you."

Wykeeta Peel, Corporate Vice President & Market Manager African American Market Unit at New York Life

"As you consider what policy best meets your needs, it can help to answer four key questions: First, how much death benefit do you need? Second, how long will you need that coverage? Third, what is your budget (or how much monthly premium can you afford to pay?), and finally, what is your investment risk tolerance?

To determine how much death benefit makes sense, it's helpful to think beyond using life insurance to cover funeral expenses and consider whether anyone is relying on the policy owner's income to maintain a lifestyle, pay rent or a mortgage, or fund a child's education and for how long.

There are various rules of thumb regarding the right amount of Life insurance coverage. Some tips can be found online, but they only provide an estimate and don't necessarily factor in an individual's specific needs. In my opinion, human guidance, powered by technology, is required. Basically, it comes down to how much money your loved ones would need to remain on firm financial ground if your earnings were no longer in the picture and that is different for everyone."

What is the biggest opportunity you see for improvement in the life insurance industry?

"Increased accessibility through digital and other channels as well as through underwriting enhancements. Increased tailoring of products and features. And an increased emphasis on health and wellness programs."

"Having enough qualified insurance professionals to walk potential buyers through the multiple benefits of life insurance will be pivotal to the growth of the industry. Education is a key factor here, as professional agents also need to be able to explain life insurance and its benefits in an easy, digestible way, especially when there are so many misconceptions about life insurance."

"The need for life insurance is greater than ever. In fact, a recent New York Life Wealth Watch survey found that 37% of adults have been thinking about life insurance more often these days – and half of adults report that financial products that provide protection (50%) and reliability (50%) are more important now compared to last year. This may be especially true for middle-market and Cultural Market families.

Our organizational structure of having Cultural Market agents embedded in the communities where we live and work allows us to understand the needs of diverse communities and develop solutions that resonate with them."

What advice would you give to buyers who are debating whether or not to buy life insurance?

"It is difficult to say with any certainty how healthy you will be years from now. That's why securing life insurance, and insuring your insurability, today, when you are the youngest you'll ever be again, and perhaps your healthiest is a wise decision."

"Do you love someone? If the answer is yes, then life insurance is certainly something you should consider. Many buy gifts and experiences to express their love, but haven't considered that life insurance is just another way to say I love you. Nothing says support like ensuring your family's financial security and peace of mind."

"If you have someone depending on your income, you should consider purchasing life insurance. A death benefit from a life insurance policy can replace income from the loss of a breadwinner, ensure a family can stay in their home, fund educational or retirement expenses, address debt and so much more.

A life insurance policy can also help you grow your family's wealth over time. Once the risk of an unexpected loss has been managed, you can begin to think more broadly about your family's financial future. Life insurance can enable your mindset to shift from death to growth."

What's the most important thing buyers should look for when choosing a life insurance agent/company to buy from?

"With life insurance, you are securing a future commitment that may be decades away. Research the company behind the policy to ensure it has high financial strength ratings, longevity, and an excellent track record of paying claims."

"When looking for an insurance agent or company, be sure to do your research. When comparing companies, be sure to remember that the policy features that fit you and your loved ones best is the most important factor. Don't automatically assume you should buy from the higher-rated company.

If the policy from the other company has more of what you're looking for, it might be the better choice. If you're unsure where to start, try the Life Happens Agent Locator to find an insurance professional in your area."

• "The insurers' track record: At its core, life insurance is protection - a hedge against the unexpected - and you are paying premiums in exchange for the promise that the insurer will be there when you need them, so the financial strength and track record of the company backing your policy is critical.
• Customer service: Are service professionals available by phone and digital channels? Is there is an online dashboard where you can manage your policy? Beyond ensuring assistance is available after you purchase a policy, it's also critical to ensure you have access to trusted advice and guidance before you buy.
• Flexibility in conversion: How easy is it to change? Life can be unpredictable and while term insurance can cover your loved ones through a critical period of time, you may decide that access to cash value is an important piece of your strategy.
• Accelerated online applications : Online applications are convenient but don't replace human guidance. Keep in mind that accelerated online applications may have a maximum coverage amount, meaning that you may not be able to get all the coverage you may need exclusively through an online process.
• A range of payment options: It's important to understand how often you're required to make premium payments and whether and how often you can change the frequency of payments."

Best Life Insurance FAQs

According to JD Power's 2023 life insurance study, State Farm is the highest-rated life insurance company when it comes to overall customer satisfaction. However, you still may want to shop around for quotes from various insurers if you're looking to purchase a new policy.

There isn't one best life insurance company, because the best option for you will depend on the type of policy you're looking for. It's best to work with a qualified insurance agent to help you find the best coverage. If you're deciding between multiple similar options, it's also worth consulting J.D. Power's life insurance customer satisfaction study . The latest study ranks State Farm as the top pick for individual life insurance, outpacing Nationwide by three points.

The best type of life insurance policy for you will differ from someone else's, as your policy should be tailored to your needs. The best policy for you will be affordable and will offer the benefits best suited to your situation. For example, some policies are only meant to cover end-of-life expenses such as burial and funeral arrangements, whereas others include living benefits like a cash value insurance plan , which you can borrow against during your lifetime.

Some life insurance policies are advertised as "no medical exam." This doesn't mean the insurer won't ask you about known conditions or look at medical records. Policies with no medical exam also tend to offer lower benefits with higher premiums. Most companies have a network of medical examiners, some of whom can come to your home. You can find our guide on the best no exam life insurance here.

Each situation is different and requires a knowledgeable life insurance agent to assess your best options. Bring all your questions and the coverage you're looking for to an insurance agent near you to explore your options.

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