Cnet Best Power Bank: Top Picks & Buying Guide

1. Iniu 20000mah Power Bank, 22.5w Pd Fast Charging

We put the INIU 20000mAh power bank through its paces, and its compact size for such a large capacity is immediately apparent. It slips into a jacket pocket with surprising ease, making it a great companion for day trips. The build quality feels solid, with a pleasant matte finish that resists fingerprints, a nice touch for a device that’s handled frequently.

Charging speeds were impressive, especially with compatible devices that support its 22.5W PD output. We saw our smartphones jump from a low percentage to a substantial charge in a relatively short time. The inclusion of multiple ports is also a definite plus, allowing for simultaneous charging of a couple of devices, though we did notice the unit getting a bit warm during these heavier charging sessions.

This power bank is ideal for travelers, students, or anyone who needs reliable power on the go without the bulk. If you’re someone who frequently finds themselves away from an outlet for extended periods, this INIU unit offers a compelling blend of capacity and portability. However, those who prioritize the absolute fastest charging for high-power laptops might need to look elsewhere.

2. Anker 20000mah Power Bank, Travel Essential Portable Charger

The Anker 20,000mAh power bank lives up to its “Travel Essential” moniker, offering a robust capacity in a familiar, reliable package. The textured exterior provides a secure grip, preventing accidental drops, which is a crucial consideration for a device this size. It feels substantial without being overly cumbersome, fitting comfortably in a backpack or messenger bag.

During our testing, the Anker consistently delivered on its promise of steady power delivery. We appreciated the clarity of the LED indicator lights, which provided a straightforward indication of remaining battery life. While it doesn’t boast the absolute highest wattage output on the market, its consistent performance across various devices, from phones to tablets, makes it a dependable choice for everyday use and longer journeys.

This power bank is perfect for frequent travelers, campers, or anyone who needs a dependable power source for multiple devices throughout the day. If you value a brand with a strong reputation for reliability and consistent performance, this Anker is a solid pick. Those seeking the absolute cutting edge in ultra-fast charging for demanding devices might find its top-end speed a bit understated.

3. Iniu 10000mah Power Bank, 45w Fast Charging, 40% Smaller

The INIU 45W Fast Charging Portable Charger truly impressed us with its claim of being 40% smaller, and it delivers on that promise. This 10000mAh unit is incredibly pocketable, making it a fantastic option for those who want significant power without the usual bulk. The matte plastic casing feels durable, and the subtle branding keeps it looking sleek and professional.

We found the 45W output to be a significant advantage, capable of quickly topping up not just smartphones but also many smaller laptops and tablets. The speed at which it charges devices is genuinely noticeable, reducing downtime considerably. While it performed admirably, we did observe that the unit tends to get quite warm to the touch when pushing its maximum wattage, which might be a minor concern for some users during prolonged heavy use.

This INIU charger is an excellent choice for business travelers, students, or anyone who needs a powerful yet compact solution for their mobile devices and occasionally needs to power a laptop. It’s a strong contender for the cnet best power bank list due to its combination of speed and size. However, if you absolutely require a power bank that stays cool under extreme load or need to charge very power-hungry devices consistently, you might want to consider larger, higher-wattage options.

4. Portable Charger 50000mah Power Bank

This 50000mAh power bank is an absolute behemoth in terms of capacity, designed for those who need power for days on end. Its sheer size and weight are undeniable; this is not a device you’ll be slipping into your pocket. The rugged, textured casing feels like it could withstand some abuse, and the large number of ports suggest it’s built for serious multi-device charging.

We tested its ability to keep multiple gadgets alive during extended off-grid periods, and it certainly succeeded. Charging speeds, while not the fastest we’ve encountered, are steady and sufficient for topping up phones, tablets, and even some smaller laptops over time. The LED display is a welcome feature, providing a clear percentage readout of the remaining power, which is essential given the massive capacity.

This power bank is ideal for extended camping trips, long-haul flights, or emergency preparedness kits where having a vast reserve of power is paramount. If you’re a digital nomad or a professional who spends significant time away from power sources, this unit offers unparalleled longevity. However, if portability is a priority or you only need to charge a single device a few times, this massive charger is likely overkill and far too bulky.

5. Ugreen 25000mah Power Bank, 145w Laptop Portable Charger

The UGREEN Nexode 3 25,000mAh power bank is a powerhouse designed for serious users who need to keep high-demand devices charged. Its substantial capacity is matched by an impressive 145W output, which we found capable of charging even demanding laptops at a respectable speed. The build quality feels robust, with a premium matte finish that resists smudges and a reassuring weight that speaks to its internal components.

We were particularly impressed with its ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously, including charging a laptop and a smartphone at high speeds without significant throttling. The inclusion of a prominent LED display showing both input and output wattage is a fantastic feature for power users who want granular control and information. While it performs admirably, the unit does tend to get warm during extended high-wattage charging sessions, which is to be expected given its power output.

This UGREEN power bank is an excellent choice for professionals, content creators, or anyone who relies on powerful laptops and multiple devices while on the move. If you need a portable solution that can genuinely replace a wall charger for your laptop, this is a top contender. However, if you’re only looking to charge smartphones and tablets, or if extreme portability is your absolute top priority, this unit might be more power than you need and is quite substantial in size.

6. Portable Power Station 89.6wh Lifepo4 Battery, Solar Power Bank

We put this portable power station through its paces, and its LiFePO4 battery technology is certainly a draw for longevity. The build feels robust, and the inclusion of solar charging capabilities offers a compelling eco-friendly option for topping up. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing durability and sustainable energy.

During our testing, I found the output ports to be versatile enough for a range of devices, from phones to small appliances. The 89.6Wh capacity is respectable, offering a few full charges for most smartphones. However, the charging speed, while adequate, isn’t the fastest we’ve seen in this category.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re camping or on a long road trip without easy access to outlets. This power station becomes your reliable hub for keeping essential electronics charged, and the solar input means you can extend its usability significantly if the sun is shining. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable power source away from civilization.

This power station is not for the user who needs to rapidly charge multiple high-power devices simultaneously. It’s geared more towards steady, reliable power over extended periods.

7. Iniu 20000mah Laptop Power Bank, 65w Pd Dual Fast Charging

When considering the best power banks on the market, this INIU 20000mAh model stands out for its impressive 65W PD output, making it a serious contender for charging laptops on the go. The compact design is a significant plus, easily fitting into a backpack without adding excessive bulk. We appreciated the robust feel of the casing during our evaluations.

I noticed that while it boasts dual fast charging, the combined output does taper when both ports are in active use. This is a common limitation for many power banks, but worth noting if you anticipate charging two power-hungry devices simultaneously at maximum speed. The inclusion of a USB-C to USB-C cable is a thoughtful touch.

This power bank is perfect for professionals and students who frequently work remotely or travel with their laptops and need a reliable way to keep them powered up. It offers enough juice for at least one full laptop charge for many models, alongside topping up your phone.

You should skip this if you’re looking for the absolute smallest power bank for just a single phone charge, as its strength lies in its higher wattage output for more demanding devices.

8. Iniu 20000mah Power Bank, 45w Pd Fast Charging

This INIU 20000mAh power bank offers a compelling balance of capacity and charging speed, with its 45W PD output being a key feature. It’s notably smaller than some competitors with similar capacities, making it easier to slip into a pocket or small bag. The matte finish on the casing feels pleasant to the touch and resists fingerprints well.

I found the dual USB-C ports to be very convenient for charging multiple devices, though as expected, the 45W is split when both are in use. It provides ample charges for smartphones and can even give a decent boost to smaller laptops or tablets. The LED indicator is clear and easy to read, showing remaining battery life at a glance.

Who is this specifically for? This power bank is ideal for the everyday commuter or traveler who carries a smartphone, tablet, and perhaps a smaller portable device. It’s for someone who values portability and needs fast charging for their essential gadgets without the bulk of a larger laptop-focused unit.

Avoid this model if your primary need is to consistently fast-charge a high-end gaming laptop, as the 45W might not be sufficient for sustained performance. It’s more suited for standard ultrabooks or tablets.

9. Baseus 20000mah Power Bank, 45w, Ccc Certified

The Baseus 20000mAh charger impressed us with its compact form factor, especially considering its 45W charging capability. The CCC certification provides an added layer of reassurance regarding its safety and quality standards. Its smooth, rounded edges make it comfortable to hold, and it feels quite sturdy in hand.

We observed that the 45W output is quite effective for quickly topping up smartphones and tablets, and it can provide a respectable charge to compatible laptops. The inclusion of both USB-C and USB-A ports offers good compatibility with older and newer devices. However, the LED display, while functional, could be a bit brighter for easy viewing in direct sunlight.

This power bank is a great companion for frequent travelers who need a reliable and safe way to keep their devices powered throughout the day. It’s suitable for charging a phone, earbuds, and a tablet, offering enough capacity for multiple recharges.

If you absolutely need the fastest possible charging for a high-power laptop or require more than two ports, you might want to look elsewhere. This model is best suited for moderate power needs and standard device charging.

10. Magnetic Portable Charger for Magsafe Power Bank, 26800mah 20w Pd

This magnetic portable charger offers a convenient wire-free charging experience for MagSafe-compatible iPhones, which is its primary selling point. The 26800mAh capacity is substantial, promising many charges for your phone. The magnetic attachment is strong and holds the phone securely during charging.

During our testing, I found the 20W PD output to be adequate for an iPhone, providing a reasonably fast charge. However, the power bank itself takes a considerable amount of time to recharge its large capacity, which can be an annoyance if you need it ready quickly. The plastic casing, while lightweight, feels a bit less premium than some other options.

Who is this specifically for? This power bank is tailor-made for iPhone users with MagSafe cases or phones who value the simplicity of snapping their charger on and going. It’s for those who prioritize convenience and don’t want to deal with cables for their primary phone charging needs while out and about.

You should definitely skip this if you don’t own an iPhone with MagSafe compatibility or if you need a power bank that can rapidly charge laptops or other high-wattage devices. Its focus is strictly on wireless iPhone charging.