After testing 15 of the best portable power banks, the Anker Laptop Power Bank 165W emerges as the top overall choice, offering 165W total output and 25,000mAh capacity for charging multiple devices simultaneously. For budget-conscious users, the Anker Nano 5K at $26.99 provides a compact solution, while the Anker Prime Power Bank delivers 300W for professionals needing to charge laptops at full speed. The Ugreen Nexode Pro is ideal for international travel with its CCC certification for China, and the Baseus Picogo AM52 offers a slim magnetic design for wireless charging.
How We Tested
To identify the best portable power banks, I evaluated 15 models using a custom testing setup with a fan as a dummy load to measure charging speed and efficiency. Real-world tests involved charging an iPhone 17 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra to confirm lab findings. Each power bank was assessed on capacity, output, portability, and durability.
Best Overall: Anker Laptop Power Bank 165W
The Anker Laptop Power Bank 165W, now $104.99 (originally $179.99) at Walmart, is the top pick for versatility. With 165W total output and a 25,000mAh capacity, it can charge two phones, a Nintendo Switch 2, and a laptop simultaneously. It features two integrated USB-C cables (14in and 27in), an additional USB-C port, and a USB-A port. Weighing 1.31lbs, it is airline-friendly and has proven durable, retaining 91% peak performance after heavy use over years.
Best Budget: Anker Nano 5K
At $26.99, the Anker Nano 5K is a compact 5,000mAh power bank roughly the size of a lipstick case. It features a swiveling USB-C connector for direct phone charging and a side USB-C port. Its 22.5W peak output is sufficient for most users, charging an iPhone 17 Pro to 90% and a Galaxy S26 Ultra to 78% from zero. However, it is incompatible with phone cases thicker than 0.19in.
Best for Laptops: Anker Prime Power Bank
The Anker Prime Power Bank, now $179.99 (originally $349) at Walmart, offers 26,250mAh capacity and 300W total output, capable of powering two MacBook Pros at max speed. It recharges to 50% in 15 minutes and 80% in 40 minutes with dual USB-C input. An optional $100 charging base adds convenience. It lacks CCC certification for China travel.
Best for Travel: Ugreen Nexode Pro
The Ugreen Nexode Pro, $99.99 at Amazon, is a 25,000mAh power bank with 200W total output and three USB-C ports (two integrated cables). It is the only tested model with CCC markings, making it suitable for travel to China. Weighing 0.79lbs, it is lighter than competitors but has a sluggish TFT display and less efficient multi-device charging than the Anker Laptop Power Bank.
Best Slim: Baseus Picogo AM52
The Baseus Picogo AM52, $59.99 at Baseus, is a slim 10,000mAh power bank with MagSafe Qi2.2 25W wireless charging and a 45W USB-C port. It provides about 1.5 charges for an iPhone 17 Pro. It runs hot during wireless charging, a common issue with slim designs.
Best for Apple Watch and AirPods: Statik SmartCharge Pro
The Statik SmartCharge Pro, $99.99 at Statik, includes a built-in Apple Watch magnetic charger, wireless AirPods charging, a USB-C cable, USB-A port, and USB-C port. It comes with UK, EU, and AU adapters. However, maximum wattage drops significantly when multiple devices are connected.
What to Look For in a Power Bank
Consider port output: 20W is enough for most smartphones, but premium laptops may need up to 140W. Capacity is measured in mAh; an iPhone 17 has 3,692mAh, while a Galaxy S26 Ultra has 5,000mAh. Safety certifications like UL, CE, CCC, and FCC are important. A good power bank lasts 300-500 cycles before capacity diminishes to 60-80%. Integrated cables are convenient but may not deliver maximum speed.
Flying with Power Banks
The TSA prohibits power banks over 100Wh (about 27,000mAh) in carry-on luggage. All models listed are under this limit. China requires CCC certification; without it, power banks may be confiscated at security. Check airline-specific restrictions.
