Smartphones are becoming larger and more powerful, and their batteries have also increased in capacity, with some of the best models now exceeding 6,000mAh. Most users can get through a full day of use on a single charge, although intensive use may shorten that time. If you're having a particularly busy day, you might find yourself needing to recharge your phone, either by plugging it in or placing it on a wireless charging pad.
However, finding a charging outlet isn’t always feasible, especially if you're on the go or far from any power source. This is where a portable charger, battery pack, or power bank becomes invaluable. By connecting your phone to a portable charger, you can recharge your device without being tied to one location. Whether you prefer a large, robust charger that can power your phone for days or a slim power bank that easily fits in your bag for a quick charge, there’s a suitable option for you. Here are some of the best portable chargers we've discovered.
The best portable charger
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000
- Good price
- Optimized charge
- Two types of ports
- Heavier than many
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 10,000mAh |
| Ports | USB-C and USB-A ports |
| Weight | 243.8 grams |
The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is a compact portable charger that features a 10,000mAh battery capacity. Its slim design measures approximately 5.99 × 2.81 × 0.61 inches and weighs about 8.6 ounces, making it convenient to carry in your pocket while you're on the go.
This power bank is equipped with Anker's PowerIQ technology, which delivers an optimized charge to your devices. It offers a fast charging rate of up to 2.4A, making it suitable for smartphones and other portable devices. Some versions of this model, such as the PD version, include both USB-C and USB-A ports for dual charging options. The USB-C port also supports Power Delivery, allowing for faster charging of compatible devices.
The runner-up
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3
- Light-weight
- Two USB-C ports
- Quick charge
- Does have adapter to convert USB-C to USB-A
- Pricier than some
- No USB-A
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 10,000mAh |
| Ports | USB-C |
| Weight | 150 grams |
The Nitecore Gen 3 power bank is a lightweight device with a 10,000mAh capacity and fast charging of up to 22.5W. Weighing just 150g (5.29 oz), it features dual USB-C ports.
Constructed from durable carbon fiber, it has rubber corners and an IPX5 water resistance rating, protecting it from rain and splashes. The Gen 3 model offers two USB-C ports for both input and output, an upgrade from the previous generation’s single USB-A and USB-C ports, both capable of 22.5W.
These dual ports allow for simultaneous device charging or pass-through charging. An adapter to convert USB-C to USB-A is included for compatibility with older devices.
The best premium design portable charger
mophie Powerstation 10,000mAh Power Bank
- USB-A and USB-C ports
- Nice design
- Well-known series
- Somewhat pricey
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 10,000mAh |
| Ports | USB-C |
| Weight | 280.7 grams |
The mophie Powerstation is a portable power bank with a capacity of 10,000mAh, designed to fully charge most smartphones up to two times, depending on the device's battery capacity.
This power bank features both USB-A and USB-C ports, allowing it to charge a variety of devices. The USB-C port supports Power Delivery (PD) technology and provides up to 18W of output, enabling compatible phones to reach 50% charge in approximately 30 minutes. Some versions of the Powerstation 10K come equipped with three ports total—one USB-C port and two USB-A ports—allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
The mophie Powerstation measures approximately 5.9 inches by 2.75 inches by 0.65 inches and weighs about 0.6 pounds. While it may not be the slimmest power bank, its size is appropriate given its capacity and the number of ports available.
The best waterproof power portable charger
imuto Waterproof Power Bank
- Unique design
- 20,000mAh
- Good price
- Design might not be for everyone
- Heavier than many
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 20,000mAh |
| Ports | USB-C |
| Weight | 450.8 grams |
The Imuto Waterproof Power Bank boasts a capacity of 20,000mAh and features 65W fast charging capability with USB-C PD 3.0 technology. Designed as a rugged, heavy-duty battery pack, it is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, travel, and camping.
This power bank allows for up to 65W of power distribution across two devices, with one device able to receive the full 65W output. This means it can rapidly charge phones, able to bring an iPhone to 50% in under 30 minutes. When using a 65W charger, the power bank itself can be fully recharged in about 1.5 hours. Additionally, it supports pass-through charging, enabling you to charge your devices while the power bank is being charged.
With its 20,000mAh capacity, the power bank can charge an iPhone 15 up to 4.2 times, providing enough power to keep devices charged for 1 to 3 days during extended trips.
The fastest portable charger
UGREEN Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh
- Terrific design
- Faster charging
- Good for laptop cahrging too
- Pricey
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 20000mAh |
| Ports | USB-C |
| Weight | 419.6 grams |
The UGREEN Nexode Power Bank boasts a substantial capacity of 20,000mAh (72Wh), allowing it to fully charge an iPhone 15 approximately four times. It is also airline-approved for travel. With 130W Power Delivery (PD) fast charging through multiple USB-C ports, it can charge several devices simultaneously at a high power output.
Designed for portability, the power bank measures 5.1 × 2.1 × 2 inches and weighs around 420g. Its compact column structure enhances space efficiency. Equipped with automotive-grade battery cells, it offers higher energy density, allowing for greater capacity in a smaller package, and extends its lifespan to up to 1,000 cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its capacity.
Additionally, this power bank features a TFT smart display that clearly indicates the charging status and remaining power level. It incorporates a Thermal Guard™ System for efficient heat management, featuring NTC temperature control detectors that measure temperature 200 times per second, ensuring safe charging with high-speed heat dissipation.
The best compact designed portable charger
Anker Power Bank, 10,000mAh Portable Charger
- Includes lanyard for easy carrying
- Relatively lightweight
- USB-A and USB-C
- Somewhat dated
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 10,000mAh |
| Ports | USB-A and USB-C |
| Weight | 201.28 grams |
This portable charger has a capacity of 10,000mAh and includes a built-in USB-C cable and a lanyard for easy carrying. It offers a maximum output of 22.5W through its USB-C and USB-A ports, making it compatible with a variety of devices.
The unique built-in cable functions as both a charging cord and a convenient lanyard strap. The package includes the power bank itself, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a lanyard clip, and a user guide. Additionally, it comes with Anker's 12-month warranty.
The charger features a digital display that shows the battery percentage, allowing you to easily monitor the power levels.
Most durable portable charger
Goal Zero Venture 75 Portable Charger Power
- Multi-functional
- USB-A and USB-C
- Waterproof
- Heavy
| Specification: | |
| Battery size | 19200mAh |
| Ports | USB-A and USB-C |
| Weight | 580.6 grams |
The Goal Zero Venture 75 is a robust and reliable portable charger with a 19200mAh capacity, designed to keep your essential devices powered during any adventure or emergency. One of its standout features is an IP67 rating, which makes it dustproof and waterproof, capable of withstanding submersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. This ruggedness is complemented by a protective rubber sleeve and a waterproof plug that shield the ports from the elements.
The Venture 75 also boasts a versatile 60W USB-C Power Delivery port, enabling rapid charging both into and out of the power bank. It can be fully recharged in as little as 1.5 hours using a compatible source. Additionally, it features two 15W USB-A ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Beyond its charging capabilities, the Venture 75 includes a practical 50-lumen integrated flashlight. It has enough power to recharge a smartphone approximately five times, a tablet twice, or even provide a boost to a USB-C laptop. This makes it a dependable companion for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone in need of a reliable off-grid power source. Furthermore, it can be recharged using compatible Goal Zero solar panels, offering a sustainable power solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
The answer generally depends on how often you travel. If you're a frequent traveler (or heavy commuter) and tend to go for relatively long spells between visits to a normal charger, portable chargers definitely are worth it. While some of the heftier chargers can be fairly pricey, they're still a good purchase if you really need to be on your phone while away from a wall socket. At the same time, many portable chargers with smaller capacities are available for reasonable prices, so even infrequent voyagers may find they're worthwhile.
The answer to this question depends on how many devices you intend to power while you're away from a wall charger. If you're using a phone and a tablet, then a portable charger with 10,000mAh or more may be worthwhile. Some people need portable chargers that offer at least 100% of their smartphone's battery, while others need even more or less. It's best to find out the battery size of your device and choose accordingly. For some people, even a smaller portable charger that offers 2,000mAh (around 50% of the average flagship smartphone) is enough, while some people who travel extensively will need at least 5,000mAh, 10,000mAh, or even more.
Most good portable chargers should last for at least a few hundred charges before beginning to deteriorate. Longevity varies among devices, so it's best to do your research and check with a charger's manufacturer (or seller) before making a purchase.
You can bring your portable charger onto an airplane. However, remember that any portable chargers must be taken as carry-on luggage, and should not be checked in with your larger suitcases and stored in the hold of the plane. This holds for the vast majority of airlines operating today. If in doubt, call your airline's customer service number to confirm their policies beforehand.
You can buy portable chargers from pretty much the same outlets as smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Apple and Samsung's official websites stock a number of portable chargers, while you can also find plenty from online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.
