The Best Power Banks
You never know when you might need a power bank, and that alone is a great reason to have one. These handy devices ensure you can give your phone a healthy charge even when you're nowhere near a power outlet. But not all of these devices are up to the same standard, which is why we've made this list of the best power banks you can find today.
What to Look For
There were a few criteria a power bank had to meet to get us truly charged up: Does it provide a fast and long-lasting charge? Does it work with a multitude of devices? And is it easy to set up and take with you anywhere? A number of power banks blew us away with their quality and cost value. The Miady 2-pack earned our top spot thanks to its hefty charge and convenient design. But we also had to give a special mention to Anker’s Power Core, which puts the power of a mini generator into an ingenious, palm-sized device. There’s a charger you’ll be able to bank on somewhere on our list, so read on to find the perfect power bank for you.
Miady Dual USB Portable Charger, 2 Pack
Double the charge
This power bank won our hearts above all the rest thanks to its usability, strong charge, and high value. With two USB ports, a safe and powerful Li-polymer cell battery, and an easy-to-handle grip design, this bank is an easy and reliable choice whether you’re traveling with it or using it around the home. And since it comes in a two-pack, you’ll always have a backup (or an easy gift for a friend). This power bank is a great choice no matter what phone you have, or what you use it for.
Pros
- This power bank set comes in both a suave monochrome duo and a vibrant yellow and purple.
- It’s very cost-effective. Not only does it come with a pair of power banks, but each one offers the same wattage and output as more expensive options.
- We love the longevity of these banks — they can be used for well over a year without weakening their provided charge.
Cons
- Larger devices like iPads may not charge as quickly as phones.
Anker Portable USB Charger
Charge with style
We fell in love with this sleek, durable, and incredibly strong power bank, and we think you will too. Intelligent device-detection technology lets you charge a wide range of devices without a hassle, and the robust safety features let you put your mind at ease. It’s durable as well, being able to absorb drops from a meter or more without any damage to functionality. This power bank is a serious piece of tech and a great choice for those who seek quality.
Pros
- Its slim, thin design combined with its strong casing makes it excellent for both indoor and outdoor usage.
- This power bank can give your phone a powerful charge without becoming hot to the touch (or doing the same to your phone).
- It runs surprisingly quietly for such a powerful device.
Cons
- It doesn’t begin charging automatically, requiring you to press a button before it starts powering your phone.
Riapow Solar Power Bank
Solar supply
This mighty power bank proves you can really have it all when it comes to a fast, strong charge. Its ability to deliver a charge that holds well to four devices at once makes this a must for large groups or families. Plus, the built-in solar panel and flashlight make it the perfect resource to have for venturing into the great outdoors. This sturdy power bank gets our full recommendation for those who refuse to compromise on speed, energy, or versatility.
Pros
- This bank doesn’t overheat even when charging for long periods.
- We think the solar panel is an ingenious addition for ensuring you can charge even in remote areas, and it can charge both the connected device and the power bank.
- Its durability and outdoor focus make it useful for natural disasters that affect homes, such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
Cons
- It is quite a bit bulkier than many other power banks and won’t easily fit into a pocket.
Anker PowerCore 10000mAh Power Bank
Almost every power bank will claim to be portable, but this unit really takes it to another level. Weighing under 6.5 ounces, this bank provides an incredibly strong charge that fully powers up your phone at lightning speeds. And since it works with multiple USB types as well as lightning connectors, you won’t have to worry about most devices being incompatible. This is one power bank that proves that mighty things can come in extremely small packages.
Pros
- We’re fond of the multiple color options this power bank comes in. Most power banks come in a dull grey, but these are available in several chic colors.
- This charger doesn’t need to be consistently used for it to retain its strong charge.
- A small light lets you know how much power is left in your charger.
Cons
- It can only charge one device at a time.
Ayeway 5V Battery Pack
Seeing is believing
For those looking for a power bank with an LCD screen, this makes the ideal choice. A large, bright LCD clearly shows how much power is left in your bank, ensuring you’re never left high and dry. It also carries an impressive voltage at 26,800mAh, is compatible with a huge range of devices, and can charge multiple phones at once. This is one power bank you can count on to deliver a great charge and let you know exactly how much is left to boot.
Pros
- This charger can power your phone to its maximum level multiple times before you need to recharge it.
- It’s strong enough to power battery-operated lights, which is a great feature for outdoor users.
- The durable build feels weighty and robust in the hand.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with its own charging cables for your devices, though you likely already have one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a power bank even if I don’t travel or spend much time in the outdoors?
Power banks aren’t just handy for people who find themselves removed from central energy sources. They’re also ideal for those who frequently forget to charge their phone before leaving for work or school. You never know when you’ll have to make a call, and a power bank ensures you’ll always be safe rather than sorry.
Why don’t more power banks run on solar energy?
Portable solar energy is still a relatively young technology, meaning solar chargers can sometimes be expensive. They can also take a long time to charge, even in direct sunlight. That being said, the technology is developing quickly, so there are still plenty of solar banks worth your time and money.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.