The 7 Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks in 2024
In today’s increasingly connected world, keeping your devices charged has become more critical than ever. Whether you’re a business professional who needs to keep your laptop running during long workdays, a traveler requiring reliable power for your smartphone, or someone who wants to ensure their devices never run out of juice, finding the right portable charger is essential. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the wide variety of power banks available and choose the perfect one for your needs.
What is a Portable Charger?
A portable charger, also known as a power bank, is a compact battery pack that stores electrical energy to charge your devices on the go. These versatile backup batteries come in various sizes and capacities, from small lipstick-sized chargers perfect for emergency phone charging to large power stations capable of powering laptops and tablets. Understanding the different types and their capabilities is crucial for making an informed purchase decision.
The technology behind portable chargers has evolved significantly in recent years, with newer models incorporating fast-charging capabilities, multiple charging protocols, and advanced safety features. Modern power banks can charge everything from smartphones and tablets to laptops and gaming devices, making them indispensable accessories in our digital age.
How to Choose the Best Portable Charger
Selecting the right portable charger requires careful consideration of several key factors. Each element plays a crucial role in determining how well the power bank will meet your specific needs:
Capacity: Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), this indicates how much charge the power bank can hold. Higher capacity means more charges for your devices. Consider:
- Small (5,000-10,000mAh): Good for 1-2 phone charges
- Medium (10,000-20,000mAh): Suitable for multiple devices or extended use
- Large (20,000mAh+): Ideal for power-hungry devices or long trips
Output ports: Look for multiple ports if you need to charge several devices simultaneously. Common port types include:
- USB-A: Traditional USB ports compatible with most devices
- USB-C: Modern ports supporting faster charging speeds
- Lightning: Specific to Apple devices
- Wireless charging pads: For compatible devices
Charging speed: Fast-charging technologies can significantly reduce charging times:
- Power Delivery (PD): Up to 100W for laptops and fast phone charging
- Quick Charge: Qualcomm’s technology for rapid Android device charging
- Wireless charging: Typically 5-15W for compatible devices
Size and weight: Consider portability based on your usage:
- Ultra-portable: Under 8 ounces for daily carry
- Mid-size: 8-16 ounces for regular travel
- High-capacity: Over 1 pound for maximum power
Brand reputation: Stick to reputable brands for safety and reliability:
- Look for established manufacturers
- Check warranty terms and customer support
- Read professional reviews and user feedback
Additional features: Modern power banks offer various convenient features:
- Built-in cables: Eliminate the need for separate charging cords
- LED displays: Show remaining battery life and charging status
- Pass-through charging: Charge devices while the power bank recharges
- Solar charging: Alternative power source for outdoor use
- Wireless charging: Convenient charging for compatible devices
Understanding Charging Technologies
Before diving into specific product recommendations, it’s important to understand the various charging technologies available in modern power banks:
USB Power Delivery (USB-PD)
- Latest fast-charging standard
- Can deliver up to 100W of power
- Compatible with many modern devices
- Bi-directional charging capability
Quick Charge Technology
- Qualcomm’s proprietary fast-charging standard
- Multiple versions available (3.0, 4.0, 4+)
- Widely supported by Android devices
- Backward compatible with older versions
Wireless Charging
- Qi standard most commonly used
- Typically provides 5-15W charging
- MagSafe offers up to 15W for iPhones
- Convenient but less efficient than wired charging
Solar Charging
- Supplementary charging method
- Varies in efficiency
- Weather-dependent
- Good for emergency situations
Detailed Reviews of the Best Portable Chargers
Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)
The Anker 737 Power Bank stands as our top pick for its impressive combination of capacity, charging speed, and versatility. This power bank represents the pinnacle of portable charging technology, offering enough power to handle everything from smartphones to laptops.
Highlights
- 140W maximum output for fast charging
- Charges laptops and smartphones simultaneously
- Digital display shows real-time power information
- Compact design despite high capacity
- Compatible with multiple fast-charging protocols
Specifications
- Capacity: 24,000mAh
- Max Output: 140W
- Ports: 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A
- Weight: 1.4 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
The Anker 737 excels in every category that matters for a portable charger. Its 140W output ensures fast charging for even power-hungry laptops, while the digital display provides precise information about power levels and charging status. The power bank supports various fast-charging protocols, including USB-PD 3.1, Quick Charge 4+, and PPS.
Real-World Performance
In testing, this power bank consistently delivers on its promises:
- Charges a MacBook Pro from 0% to 50% in about 30 minutes
- Provides up to 5 full charges for an iPhone 14
- Maintains stable output when charging multiple devices
- Recharges itself in about 2 hours with a 100W charger
Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) (Qi2)
For iPhone users seeking a seamless charging experience, the Anker MagGo offers MagSafe compatibility combined with versatile charging options.
Highlights
- MagSafe compatible for iPhone 12 and newer
- Qi2 certified for fast wireless charging
- Built-in kickstand for convenient viewing
- USB-C port for additional charging options
- Compact and portable design
Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Wireless Output: 15W (7.5W for iPhones)
- Wired Output: 27W (USB-C)
- Weight: 8.3 ounces
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
The MagGo’s standout feature is its perfect integration with the iPhone ecosystem. The magnetic attachment ensures optimal charging alignment, while the built-in kickstand adds functionality beyond just charging. Its Qi2 certification guarantees safe and efficient wireless charging.
Real-World Performance
This power bank delivers reliable performance for iPhone users:
- Magnetically attaches securely to compatible iPhones
- Provides up to 2 full charges for an iPhone 14
- Charges through most MagSafe-compatible cases
- Works as a standard Qi wireless charger for other devices
INIU Portable Charger
The INIU Portable Charger represents exceptional value without compromising on essential features or reliability.
Highlights
- Affordable price point
- Slim and lightweight design
- Built-in LED flashlight
- USB-C input and output
- Trickle charging mode for small devices
Specifications
- Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Max Output: 22.5W (shared)
- Ports: 1x USB-C, 2x USB-A
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
INIU has focused on creating a power bank that delivers the most commonly needed features at an accessible price point. The inclusion of trickle charging mode for low-power devices like wireless earbuds shows attention to user needs beyond basic charging capability.
Real-World Performance
Despite its budget-friendly price, this power bank delivers solid performance:
- Charges most smartphones twice from empty
- Powers small devices safely with trickle charging
- Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry
- LED flashlight proves useful in emergencies
UGreen 145W Power Bank
The UGreen 145W Power Bank caters to users who need serious charging capability for laptops and other high-powered devices.
Highlights
- 145W maximum output
- Charges laptops at full speed
- Digital display for power information
- Supports various fast-charging protocols
- Compact design for its capacity
Specifications
- Capacity: 25,000mAh
- Max Output: 145W
- Ports: 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
The UGreen 145W stands out for its ability to deliver laptop-class power in a relatively compact form factor. Its sophisticated power management system ensures safe and efficient charging across a wide range of devices.
Real-World Performance
This power bank excels at high-power applications:
- Charges laptops at their maximum supported rates
- Powers multiple devices simultaneously
- Maintains stable output under heavy loads
- Efficient thermal management during fast charging
Anker 521 Power Bank
The Anker 521 Power Bank offers ultimate portability without sacrificing essential features.
Highlights
- Ultra-compact design
- Built-in USB-C cable
- Foldable AC plug
- PowerIQ technology for fast charging
- Perfect for everyday carry
Specifications
- Capacity: 5,000mAh
- Max Output: 20W
- Ports: 1x USB-C (built-in cable), 1x USB-A
- Weight: 6.1 ounces
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
The Anker 521’s clever design eliminates the need for separate charging cables while maintaining a compact form factor. The built-in AC plug makes recharging convenient without sacrificing portability.
Real-World Performance
This compact power bank delivers reliable performance:
- Adds about 50% charge to most smartphones
- Recharges quickly through built-in AC plug
- Fits easily in pockets and small bags
- Built-in cable eliminates cable clutter
Anker 747 Power Bank
The Anker 747 Power Bank is designed for users who need maximum capacity and versatility.
Highlights
- Huge 26,000mAh capacity
- 87W maximum output
- Charges up to 4 devices simultaneously
- Informative LED display
- Advanced power management system
Specifications
- Capacity: 26,000mAh
- Max Output: 87W
- Ports: 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
What Sets It Apart
The Anker 747 combines high capacity with intelligent power management, making it ideal for users who need to charge multiple devices over extended periods. Its informative display provides detailed charging information.
Real-World Performance
This power bank delivers impressive results:
- Powers laptops and phones for multiple days
- Handles simultaneous charging efficiently
- Maintains stable output across all ports
- Recharges relatively quickly for its capacity
Power-Bank-Solar-Charger 42800mAh
The Power-Bank-Solar-Charger offers unique capabilities for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preparedness.
Highlights
- Solar charging capability
- Massive 42,800mAh capacity
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Rugged, waterproof design
- Multiple charging options
Specifications
- Capacity: 42,800mAh
- Max Output: 30W (shared)
- Ports: 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x Micro USB
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
What Sets It Apart
The combination of high capacity and solar charging makes this power bank uniquely suited for outdoor adventures and emergency situations. Its rugged construction ensures reliability in challenging conditions.
Real-World Performance
This versatile power bank performs well in outdoor scenarios:
- Solar charging provides backup power source
- Powers devices for extended periods
- Withstands outdoor conditions effectively
- Useful emergency features including flashlight
Comprehensive Portable Charger Guide
Understanding Power Bank Capacity
Power bank capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), but the actual usable capacity is typically about 60-70% of the rated capacity due to:
- Conversion losses
- Temperature effects
- Charging circuit efficiency
- Battery age and condition
Charging Speed Factors
Several factors affect charging speed:
- Power bank output capability
- Device input limitations
- Cable quality and specifications
- Environmental conditions
- Simultaneous charging load
Safety Features to Look For
Modern power banks should include:
- Over-charge protection
- Short-circuit protection
- Temperature control
- Over-discharge protection
- Surge protection
- Output current control
Frequently Asked Questions
General Usage Questions
Q: Can you bring a portable charger on a plane?
A: Yes, most portable chargers are allowed in carry-on luggage. They must be under 100Wh (approximately 26,800mAh) to comply with TSA regulations. Larger capacity chargers may require airline approval.
Q: How do you charge a portable charger?
A: Most portable chargers charge via USB cable connected to:
- Wall adapters
- Computer USB ports
- Car chargers
- High-capacity models may require specific chargers for optimal charging speed.
Q: Can I use my phone while it’s connected to a portable charger?
A: Yes, you can use your phone while it’s charging from a power bank. However, this may:
- Slow down the charging process
- Generate more heat
- Reduce charging efficiency
Technical Questions
Q: How do I know if my portable charger is compatible with my device?
A: Check these factors:
- Port types (USB-A, USB-C, Lightning)
- Charging protocols supported
- Power output ratings
- Manufacturer compatibility lists
Q: What’s the difference between various charging protocols?
A: Common protocols include:
- USB Power Delivery (PD): Up to 100W, universal standard
- Quick Charge: Qualcomm’s standard for Android devices
- MagSafe: Apple’s magnetic charging system
- Qi: Universal wireless charging standard
Maintenance Questions
Q: How long do portable chargers last?
A: Typical lifespan factors:
- 2-3 years of regular use
- 300-500 charge cycles
- Proper storage and handling
- Quality of manufacturing
Q: How should I maintain my portable charger?
A: Best practices include:
- Keep between 25-85% charged when storing
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Use certified cables
- Clean ports regularly
- Store in a cool, dry place
Conclusion
The best portable charger depends on your specific needs and devices. Our top overall pick, the Anker 737 Power Bank, offers an excellent balance of capacity, charging speed, and versatility. For iPhone users, the Anker MagGo Power Bank provides a seamless charging experience with MagSafe compatibility. Budget-conscious consumers will appreciate the value offered by the INIU Portable Charger.
Consider your typical usage patterns, devices, and portability needs when selecting a power bank. With the right portable charger in your arsenal, you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery power again.
