Tech Accessories · Power & Charging

Best Portable Chargers & Power Banks in 2025

From slim daily carries to airline-compliant laptop chargers, these are the power banks that survived our stress tests and kept sensitive devices safe.

Key takeaways

  • 27,000 mAh is the new sweet spot for airline approval. Anything larger needs pre-approval before boarding.
  • Look for USB-C PD 3.1 with 140W or 240W support if you charge modern laptops. Dual USB-C ports let you power-share with colleagues.
  • Smart displays and apps can be helpful, but prioritize safety: UL certification and over-temperature protection matter more.

Our favorite power banks

Model Capacity / Output Why we love it
Anker Prime 27,650 mAh (250W) 27,650 mAh · 140W USB-C + 2x 65W USB-C Charges a 16-inch laptop and phone simultaneously, includes a smart desktop dock, and lets you set charge limits via app to prolong battery health.
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 10,000 mAh · 30W USB-C Ultralight carbon fiber shell weighs 150g—ideal for hikers and daily commuters who only need phone + earbud top-ups.
Zendure SuperMini GO 10,000 mAh · 45W USB-C + 20W USB-A Airplane-friendly, supports MagSafe-compatible wireless charging, and includes a vibrant OLED status display.
Illustration of the Anker Prime 27,650 mAh power bank and charging dock
Anker’s Prime 250W bundle ships with a desktop dock so you can top off the 27,650 mAh pack and your laptop from the same station.
Illustration of the Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 carbon fiber power bank
The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 keeps weight to 150 grams with a rigid carbon fiber chassis that shrugs off backpack scuffs.
Illustration of the Zendure SuperMini GO power bank showing its OLED display
Zendure’s SuperMini GO combines wireless charging with a bright OLED status display in a carry-on-friendly shell.

Safety checklist

Inspect power banks quarterly for swelling, discoloration, or warm spots. If you see issues, recycle through manufacturer programs. Store packs at 40–60% charge when not in use to reduce cell degradation. Avoid stacking power banks in backpacks—dedicated sleeves keep the vents exposed.

Build your charging kit

Pair your power bank with braided 240W USB-C cables, a short USB-C to Lightning cable for legacy devices, and a multi-port GaN wall adapter. Keeping everything in a small pouch means you can recharge from hotel lamps, airplanes, or co-working desks without scrambling for outlets.

For longer trips, add a folding laptop stand and our webcam picks so your hybrid work setup stays consistent everywhere.