Portable Power Banks for 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Staying Charged As someone who has tested over 55 portable battery packs, I can confirm these devices are essential lifelines for anyone who travels or frequently finds their phone running low. The market is filled with options, from compact wireless slabs to powerful bricks capable of reviving a laptop. After extensive testing, here are the best power banks you can buy right now. What to Look for in a Power Bank Battery Type and Flying Nearly all power banks use lithium-ion batteries due to their excellent energy density. However, their potential to overheat means there are strict rules for air travel. You can only bring power banks in your carry-on luggage, not in checked bags. All recommended banks here are under the 100Wh limit. Some airlines, like Southwest, now require power banks to be in clear view when in use. Capacity Capacity is listed in milliamp hours, or mAh. A smaller 5,000mAh bank can give a phone a solid boost, while larger banks exceeding 25,000mAh can recharge laptops or provide multiple phone charges. Remember, you never get the full rated capacity due to energy loss; a 10,000mAh bank typically delivers around 5,800mAh of actual charge to your device. Wireless Charging and Ports Wireless charging is convenient, though less efficient than a wired connection. The Qi2 standard has significantly improved performance, offering up to 15W speeds and magnetic attachment for iPhones and, with Pixelsnap, Google Pixel 10 phones. Newer Qi2 25W banks are also emerging for even faster wireless charging. For ports, USB-C generally delivers faster charging than USB-A. Pay attention to the wattage listed next to each port, as this determines charging speed. A phone will charge fine on a 100W port, but a laptop needs a higher-wattage connection. Some of the best banks include a built-in cable, ensuring you always have the right cord. Design has also evolved. Banks now come in various colors and shapes, with some featuring handy extras like built-in kickstands or digital percentage displays for remaining battery. The Best Power Banks We Tested For MagSafe and iPhones: Anker MagGo Power Bank 10K This Qi2-certified bank is a top choice for iPhone users. It magnetically attaches to your phone for wireless charging and features a sturdy kickstand, perfect for using your phone in StandBy mode while it powers up. With a 10,000mAh capacity, it provides over a full charge for most phones and includes a digital display to see the exact remaining power. Most Compact: Anker Nano Power Bank Incredibly small and light, this 5,000mAh bank is ideal for slipping into a pocket or small bag for a quick phone top-up. Its unique folding USB-C connector means you never need to carry a separate cable, making it the ultimate in pocketable convenience. Best with Built-In Cable: Belkin BoostCharge 20K This 20,000mAh bank eliminates the need to remember a cable. It features a built-in, retractable USB-C cable, plus an additional USB-C port for charging a second device simultaneously. It reliably delivered over 11,000mAh of charge in testing, making it a dependable and tidy option. Best for Laptops: Mophie Powerstation Pro AC When you need serious power, this 27,000mAh bank can charge a MacBook Pro and still have juice left for your phone. It stands out with its variety of ports, including a USB-C port capable of 100W output, two USB-A ports, and even an AC outlet for devices like small fans or printers. Best for Outdoor Adventures: Nimble Champ Pro Built to be tough, this 20,000mAh power bank is both water and shock-resistant. It charged efficiently in tests and is made with recycled materials and plastic-free packaging, appealing to the eco-conscious consumer. Best Premium Power Bank: Lion Energy Eclipse Mag This sleek, metal-bodied bank offers a massive 27,000mAh capacity. It features two USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad on top, delivering strong performance for both wired and wireless devices. Its premium build quality and clear digital display make it a standout, though it commands a higher price. Best Budget Power Bank: Anker 313 Power Bank For those on a budget, this 10,000mAh bank is a reliable workhorse. It provides nearly two full phone charges, has two output ports, and comes from Anker, a trusted brand known for quality and reliability, all at a very accessible price. Best for Travel: Elecom Nestout Portable Charger With a robust, waterproof, and shockproof design, this 15,000mAh bank is built for travel and outdoor use. It includes a handy carabiner for easy attachment to a backpack and performed well in durability and charging tests. Best with Retractable Cables: Anker 25K Power Bank This 25,000mAh bank is perfect for charging multiple devices on the go. It features three built-in, retractable cables for USB-C, Lightning, and USB-C Micro devices, reducing cable clutter. It also has two additional USB-C ports, making it a versatile hub for all your gadgets. Final Thoughts The right power bank depends on your specific needs. Prioritize portability for everyday carry, high capacity and specific ports for laptops, and durable, feature-rich designs for travel. With the options listed here, you can find the perfect portable power solution to keep all your devices energized.
