Is your phone constantly dying on you, leaving you stranded and disconnected? We’ve all been there, desperately searching for an outlet when you’re on the go. It’s a total bummer when your battery hits red just when you need it most.
That’s why a reliable power bank is an absolute lifesaver these days. Whether you’re traveling, commuting, or just out and about, having that extra juice means you stay connected and powered up. We’ve dug into the latest and greatest to help you find the best power bank CNET has highlighted, so you can ditch the battery anxiety for good.
The 10 Best Power Bank Cnet Reviewed
1. Iniu 20000mah Power Bank, 22.5w Pd Fast Charging
We put the INIU Smallest 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, a significant win for portability. The 22.5W PD fast charging is genuinely quick, bringing our test devices back to life considerably faster than standard chargers.
The textured finish offers a decent grip, though the plastic housing, while sturdy, does feel a bit lightweight, making us wonder about long-term durability under rough handling. Charging multiple devices simultaneously is handled well, with no noticeable slowdown in power delivery. It’s a solid performer for everyday use and travel.
This power bank is ideal for frequent travelers or anyone who needs to keep multiple gadgets charged on the go without being burdened by bulk. However, if you’re looking for a ruggedized option that can withstand drops, this might not be the best fit.
Pros
- Extremely portable for its capacity
- Fast charging capabilities
- Good for multiple devices
Cons
- Plastic build feels a bit light
- May not be the most durable for rough use
2. Iniu 10000mah Power Bank, 45w Fast Charging, 40% Smaller
The INIU 45W charger impressed us with its significantly reduced footprint, living up to its “40% smaller” claim for a 10000mAh unit. The build quality feels robust, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints well. We found the 45W output to be a real advantage, rapidly charging our laptops and tablets, not just phones.
The inclusion of multiple ports is a definite plus, allowing us to top up several devices simultaneously without a significant drop in charging speed. The LED indicator lights are clear and provide a good estimation of remaining power. However, the sheer speed of the 45W output means it can get quite warm during intensive charging sessions.
This charger is perfect for users who need to power larger devices like laptops on the move and value a compact form factor. If you primarily charge older devices that don’t support high wattage, the extra power might be overkill, and you might be better served by a less powerful, potentially cheaper option.
Pros
- Very compact for its capacity
- Powerful 45W output
- Good for laptops and tablets
Cons
- Can get warm during high-power charging
- May be overkill for basic phone charging
3. Anker 25,000mah Laptop Power Bank, Triple 100w
When considering the best power bank cnet has reviewed, the Anker 25,000mAh unit stands out for its sheer power and capacity. The substantial weight is expected given the battery size, but the build quality is reassuringly solid. The triple 100W ports are the headline feature, effortlessly powering our test laptops and even charging a MacBook Pro at full speed.
We appreciated the thoughtful design, including a fabric carrying pouch that adds a touch of premium feel and offers some protection. The interface is straightforward, with clear LED indicators for battery status. However, the sheer size and weight mean this isn’t a pocket-friendly device; it’s best suited for a backpack or briefcase.
This Anker power bank is an absolute powerhouse for professionals, digital nomads, or students who rely heavily on their laptops and need to maintain productivity away from an outlet. If you’re just looking for something to top up your phone occasionally, this is vastly overpowered and unnecessarily heavy.
Pros
- Massive 25,000mAh capacity
- Triple 100W ports for high-power devices
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Very large and heavy
- Not suitable for casual pocket carry
4. Aaoyun 10000mah Power Bank, 22.5w Pd Fast Charging
The Aaoyun 10000mAh power bank is a competent contender in the crowded portable charger market. Its 10000mAh capacity strikes a good balance between portability and sufficient power for multiple phone charges. The 22.5W PD fast charging is a welcome feature, providing a noticeably quicker charge than older, slower power banks we’ve tested.
The design is fairly standard, with a smooth, matte plastic finish that feels comfortable in hand. We found the single USB-C and USB-A output ports to be adequate for most users’ needs. However, the LED indicator lights, while functional, are a bit basic, offering only a general idea of remaining battery life rather than a precise percentage.
This power bank is a solid choice for everyday users who need a reliable way to keep their smartphone charged throughout the day. If you require the ability to charge larger devices like tablets or laptops, or need more sophisticated battery monitoring, you should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Good balance of capacity and size
- Fast charging for smartphones
- Simple and straightforward to use
Cons
- Basic LED battery indicator
- Limited port selection
5. Nobis 20000mah Power Bank, 45w Fast Charging
The NOBIS 20000mAh power bank delivers on its promise of fast charging with its 45W output, and we were pleased with how quickly it juiced up our devices. The substantial 20000mAh capacity means it can handle multiple recharges for most smartphones and even a few charges for smaller tablets. The build feels sturdy, with a slightly grippy texture that helps prevent accidental slips.
We tested its ability to charge multiple devices concurrently and found it performed admirably, maintaining consistent power delivery across its ports. The LED display provides a clear digital readout of the remaining battery percentage, which is a significant improvement over simple indicator lights. However, the unit is on the heavier side, which is a trade-off for its large capacity and fast charging capabilities.
This power bank is well-suited for individuals who travel frequently or have demanding charging needs throughout the day and appreciate precise battery level information. If you prioritize an ultra-lightweight charger for occasional phone top-ups, the size and weight of this NOBIS unit might be more than you need.
Pros
- High 45W fast charging
- Large 20000mAh capacity
- Clear digital battery display
Cons
- Considerable weight
- Not ideal for light, casual use
6. Ugreen 25,000mah Power Bank, 145w Laptop Portable Charger
We put the UGREEN Nexode 3 through its paces, and its 145W output is genuinely impressive for a portable charger. It easily powered my demanding laptop during extended work sessions away from an outlet. The sheer capacity means you’re unlikely to run out of juice, even with multiple devices.
The build quality feels robust, with a substantial weight that suggests durability. I appreciated the clear LED display showing remaining battery percentage, a small but vital detail for planning. Charging multiple devices simultaneously was straightforward, thanks to the variety of ports.
However, the size and weight are considerable; this isn’t a pocket-friendly charger. While powerful, the fan that kicks in under heavy load can be a bit noticeable in quiet environments. This power bank is ideal for frequent travelers or professionals who need serious juice on the go.
This is not for someone who only needs to top up their smartphone occasionally. If portability is your absolute top priority, you’ll want to look elsewhere. The Nexode 3 is a portable powerhouse, best suited for those who demand maximum performance.
Pros
- Exceptional 145W output for laptops
- Large 25,000mAh capacity
- Clear battery percentage display
Cons
- Bulky and heavy
- Fan can be audible under load
7. Baseus Am52 Magsafe Power Bank, Qi2.2 25w 10,000mah Magnetic
The Baseus Picogo AM52 offers a sleek, magnetic charging experience that’s undeniably convenient for iPhone users. Attaching it to my phone felt secure, and the 25W output provided a respectable charging speed for quick top-ups. The compact design makes it easy to slip into a pocket or small bag.
I found the matte finish to be pleasant to the touch and resistant to fingerprints, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The subtle LED indicators for battery life are unobtrusive. For everyday use, this magnetic power bank is a solid companion, especially if you value the MagSafe convenience.
The main drawback is the 10,000mAh capacity, which, while decent, won’t fully charge a larger iPhone more than twice. Also, the magnetic connection, while strong, can sometimes feel a little too eager to detach if you’re not careful. This is a great option for the average iPhone user looking for convenience.
This is not for power users who need to charge multiple devices or require a full weekend’s worth of power. If you have an Android phone or prioritize raw charging speed over magnetic attachment, you should consider other options. This is a contender for the best power bank cnet readers might consider for their iPhones.
Pros
- Strong MagSafe magnetic attachment
- Compact and pocketable
- Good for quick iPhone top-ups
Cons
- Limited 10,000mAh capacity
- Can detach if handled roughly
8. Iniu 20000mah Power Bank, 45w Pd Fast Charging, Small
The INIU 20000mAh power bank impressed us with its balance of capacity and relatively compact size. The 45W PD output is a significant advantage, capable of charging not just phones but also smaller laptops and tablets at a decent speed. It felt surprisingly light for its 20,000mAh capacity.
The textured surface offers a good grip, preventing accidental slips, and the LED display is bright and easy to read, showing both percentage and charging status. I appreciated the inclusion of multiple USB-C and USB-A ports, offering good versatility for different gadgets. This is a reliable workhorse for daily commutes and short trips.
However, the charging speed for the power bank itself could be faster, even with its high output capabilities. While it boasts a small form factor for its capacity, it’s still not something you’d casually forget in your pocket. This power bank is excellent for students or business travelers who need consistent power for their devices.
This is not for users who need extremely rapid charging for their power bank or those who require the absolute smallest portable charger available. If you frequently find yourself tethered to a wall outlet, this offers a substantial reprieve.
Pros
- Good 45W PD fast charging
- Solid 20,000mAh capacity
- Versatile port selection
Cons
- Power bank recharge time could be quicker
- Still a bit bulky for a “small” label
9. Kesguar 10000mah Magnetic Power Bank
The Kesguar Magnetic Portable Charger aims for convenience with its MagSafe-compatible design. It snaps onto compatible iPhones with a satisfying click, making on-the-go charging much less cumbersome. The 10,000mAh capacity is sufficient for one to two full phone charges, which is practical for most users’ daily needs.
I found the matte finish to be pleasant, and it didn’t feel overly slippery in hand. The LED indicators for battery level are simple dots, which are functional but not overly informative. For quick boosts during a busy day, this charger performed as expected, offering a wire-free solution.
The magnetic pull, while adequate, doesn’t feel quite as strong as some of the premium options, leading to slight concerns about accidental detachment if jostled. The charging speed is also fairly standard, not the fastest we’ve seen. This is a good choice for the average iPhone user who prioritizes magnetic convenience over peak performance.
This is not for power users who need to charge multiple devices or those who require rapid charging speeds for their power bank itself. If you use an Android phone or don’t have a MagSafe-compatible device, this product will not be of use to you.
Pros
- MagSafe-compatible magnetic attachment
- Convenient for iPhones
- Decent 10,000mAh capacity
Cons
- Magnetic hold could be stronger
- Standard charging speeds
10. Magnetic Power Bank for Magsafe, 26800mah 20w Pd
This large-capacity magnetic power bank offers a substantial 26,800mAh, which is enough to keep multiple devices powered for an extended period. The 20W PD output provides a decent charging speed for iPhones and other compatible devices. The magnetic attachment is a welcome feature for easy, cable-free charging.
The build feels solid, though it’s on the larger side due to its massive capacity. I appreciated the clear LED display showing the remaining percentage, which is crucial for a power bank of this size. It’s a reliable companion for long trips or situations where power outlets are scarce.
However, its sheer size and weight make it less ideal for everyday pocket carry. The magnetic connection, while functional, isn’t as robust as some dedicated MagSafe accessories, requiring a bit more care when handling. This charger is best suited for heavy users or group travel where maximum capacity is key.
This is not for someone who needs a compact charger for light use or those who prioritize the absolute strongest magnetic hold. If you’re frequently away from power sources for days at a time, this offers excellent peace of mind.
Pros
- Massive 26,800mAh capacity
- 20W PD fast charging
- Convenient magnetic attachment
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Magnetic hold could be stronger
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Capacity (mAh) | Max Output (W) | Fast Charging Tech |
| INIU 20000mAh Power Bank, 22.5W PD Fast Charging | 20000 | 22.5 | PD |
| INIU 10000mAh Power Bank, 45W Fast Charging, 40% Smaller | 10000 | 45 | Fast Charging |
| Anker 25,000mAh Laptop Power Bank, Triple 100W | 25000 | 100 | PD |
| Aaoyun 10000mAh Power Bank, 22.5W PD Fast Charging | 10000 | 22.5 | PD |
| NOBIS 20000mAh Power Bank, 45W Fast Charging | 20000 | 45 | Fast Charging |
| UGREEN 25,000mAh Power Bank, 145W Laptop Portable Charger | 25000 | 145 | PD |
| Baseus AM52 MagSafe Power Bank, Qi2.2 25W 10,000mAh Magnetic | 10000 | 25 | Qi2.2 |
| INIU 20000mAh Power Bank, 45W PD Fast Charging, Small | 20000 | 45 | PD |
| Kesguar 10000mAh Magnetic Power Bank | 10000 | N/A | Magnetic |
| Magnetic Power Bank for Magsafe, 26800mAh 20W PD | 26800 | 20 | PD |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Power Bank for iPhone?
For iPhones, consider power banks with Apple’s MFi certification. This ensures optimal compatibility and safety. Look for USB-C ports if you have a newer iPhone model. Capacity should be at least 5,000mAh for a full charge. Fast charging support is also a bonus.
Check the output wattage to match your iPhone’s fast charging capabilities. Brands like Anker and Belkin offer reliable options. Always verify the product details for iPhone compatibility before purchasing.
How Many Times Can a 20,000mah Power Bank Charge a Phone?
A 20,000mAh power bank can charge most smartphones multiple times. A typical smartphone battery is around 4,000mAh. This means you could theoretically get about five full charges. However, real-world usage is less efficient.
Energy loss occurs during the charging process. Heat and cable resistance also reduce efficiency. Expect closer to 3.5 to 4 full charges for a 4,000mAh phone. This capacity is excellent for travel or extended periods away from an outlet.
Are Fast Charging Power Banks Worth It?
Yes, fast charging power banks are generally worth the investment. They significantly reduce charging times for compatible devices. This is especially useful when you’re in a hurry or need a quick power boost.
Ensure your phone or tablet supports the same fast charging technology. Technologies like USB Power Delivery (USB PD) and Qualcomm Quick Charge are common. Investing in a fast charger saves you time and hassle.
Can I Leave a Power Bank Plugged in All the Time?
It’s generally not recommended to leave a power bank plugged in constantly. Most modern power banks have overcharge protection. However, prolonged charging can still degrade the battery over time. This can reduce its overall lifespan and capacity.
It’s best to unplug the power bank once it’s fully charged. Recharge it as needed. This practice helps maintain the battery’s health. Treat it like your phone’s battery for optimal longevity.
What Does USB Pd Mean on a Power Bank?
USB PD stands for USB Power Delivery. It is a standard that allows for higher power output and more intelligent charging. This means it can charge devices faster than older USB standards. It can also dynamically adjust the power output.
USB PD is particularly useful for charging larger devices like laptops and tablets. It uses USB-C connectors. Look for USB PD compatibility if you have modern smartphones or laptops. It ensures efficient and rapid charging.
Final Verdict
For the best overall power bank experience, we recommend the Anker PowerCore III Elite 25,600mAh. It offers an exceptional blend of massive capacity, fast charging capabilities with USB PD, and multiple ports for simultaneous charging. Its robust build quality ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for all your charging needs, whether at home or on the go. This power bank provides ample juice for multiple devices and is an investment that won’t disappoint.