Powerful, portable: the best power banks of 2024

Power up wherever you go.

Group of power banks tested by What's The Best

by Ryan Houghton |
Updated on

Even the best smartphones run out of battery, turning the once-all-powerful communication device into a shiny but useless brick. This is far from ideal when you’re without access to the main power grid. The best way to protect yourself from this inconvenience is to have a reliable power bank nearby. Below, we list the best.

Power banks are the easiest way to keep your smartphone powered up and ready to go when you're on the move. Whether you're heading into the wilderness on a camping adventure, rocking out at a festival, or travelling without a plug socket, the best power banks are here to keep your devices fully functional.

The best power banks 2024: At a glance

It’s not just smartphones that benefit from having a portable battery pack ready to go. Wireless headphones and earbuds, Kindle e-readers and smartwatches can all be recharged using a power bank. Some options with larger capacities can even charge larger devices, like laptops, cameras and tablets.

When buying a power bank, you should consider a few specifications. Consider ports, battery capacities, and additional features, like wireless charging. Knowing what you need will help you get the most for your money, so we've included a buyer's guide at the bottom of the page.

The tech-savvy team at What’s The Best is no stranger to the dreaded low-battery warning. As a result, we’ve used plenty of battery packs, power banks, and portable power solutions to keep our devices up and running. We’ve compiled our hands-on experience to recommend only the best power banks available today.

The best power banks of 2024

All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

Best overall

Expert rating:
4.5
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

We really like the Anker PowerCore Slim. It's a versatile and user-friendly power bank that combines portability with sufficient power to keep your devices charged throughout the day. As a 10,000mAh option, it can provide two-and-a-half charges for an Apple iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S22.

The power bank has a USB-A output port with a 12W capacity and a USB-C port that can provide up to 15W for faster charging. The USB-C port is dual-purpose and also serves as the input port to recharge the power bank with up to 10W input.

Two nifty features we really appreciate are the PowerIQ and VoltageBoost to optimise the charging speed based on the connected device's needs. The trickle-charging mode is optimised for charging low-power devices like earphones. There is no super-fast charging, but we think this is a really solid choice of power bank for most users.

After using the PowerCore Slim for a week, William Austin-Lobley says: "I've found the Anker PowerCore Slim to be a superb companion for my daily routine. Its multiple ports make it convenient to charge multiple devices, like my smartphone and bone conduction earphones.

"I enjoy that its slim design is a standout feature. It's narrow enough to slip into my pocket or backpack without taking up too much space. Despite its small size, it packs enough power to keep my devices charged throughout the day, making it an essential gadget for staying connected on the go. I like it a lot."

Pros

  • Portable, lightweight and slimline
  • Has USB-C and A charging
  • Useful optimised charging features

Cons

  • No super-fast charging
  • Design
    5.0
  • Build
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight250g
ConnectionsUSB-C, USB Type A, Micro USB
Dimensions15.23 x 7.16 x 1.56 cm

Best budget

Expert rating:
3.5
Acmaker

We like this Acmaker 10,000mAh Power Bank as a compact and lightweight affordable charger. It supports 3A fast charging, which is twice as fast as 2A chargers, and features three USB-C input/output ports and two USB-A ports for lots of choice. The power bank can charge an iPhone 14 twice and Apple AirPods up to 16 times, which we think is more than enough to rely on in a pinch.

The LED digital display for battery status and advanced safety features are a nice feature against overcurrent, overheating, and overcharging. We do wish that it was smaller and lighter, like some of its competitors, but that's a small nitpick on such an affordable power bank. One feature we particularly like is that its display of the remaining charge is accurate down to 1 per cent, making it easier to gauge exactly how much power you have left.

William Austin-Lobley looked at the previous version of this product which had the same capacity and LED display. He said: "This is undoubtedly a budget pick, but there’s nothing wrong with it if you are low on power in a pinch. I do question its claimed speeds, as the power bank does lack behind what something like the Anker PowerCore I have provides, which on paper should be equal. Regardless, I’d happily have this in my backpack as a backup in case my main power bank runs out."

Pros

  • Affordable no-frills charging solution for multiple devices
  • Easy-to-read LED display which has great capacity accuracy
  • USB-C for faster charging

Cons

  • Larger and heavier than others that have similar features
  • Design
    3.5
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    5.0
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight221g
Connections2x USB Type A, 1x USB-C (input/output)
Dimensions14.1 x 6.7 x 1.7 cm

Best compact

Expert rating:
4.5
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley
Price: $71.10
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=349f95720ce5cc9591e15152a710dbb3&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=W0BNFkoPGB1HFBIbFAJVWFhDER9WXlgdCEceBVZSWwoZayUUc3NoAFdTGDATWEdSHDVdQFYYZQhFVB03BxYcBQlVCA0PBwZXUAU%3D&x=v1&prdId=11089447993&barcode=AwQOUg0EBgIAVVIMUlM%3D

When you're travelling light ,we think that the Anker PowerCore 10000 is a remarkably compact and lightweight powerbank that will provide juice when you need it. Measuring under four inches on its longest side and weighing just 188g, it boasts a 10,000mAh capacity – that's enough to provide two-and-a-half for an Apple iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S22. 

For peace of mind, we really appreciate its intelligent efficiency and safety features, too. The power bank features Anker's MultiProtect safety system, offering surge protection and short circuit prevention. Anker's PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technologies make a welcome appearance as well, ensuring the fastest possible charge for any device.

This was tried and tested by William Austin-Lobley, who had this to say about his experience: "I’ve been using the PowerCore for over a year now. I first used it with my iPhone 12 mini before I upgraded but now I use it mostly to give my digital camera and Kindle Paperwhite a boost while on holiday. A neat and compact power bank that doesn’t do anything flashy, just delivers exactly what you need: a boost when you are low on juice."

Pros

  • Affordable but very reliable
  • Good pace to recharging
  • Compact and lightweight, it is ideal for travel or carrying daily

Cons

  • No screen for feedback on remaining capacity and charge time
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    4.5
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight188g
ConnectionsUSB Type A, micro USB (recharging)
Dimensions10.9 x 6.5 x 2.5 cm

Best for MagSafe

Expert rating:
5.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley
Price: $89.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$89.99View offer
Newegg$89.99View offer

This Qi2-certified charger from Anker offers 15W wireless charging, ensuring a fast and efficient power boost for your Apple iPhone when you need it. Qi2 certification represents the latest standard in wireless charging, ensuring good safety standards while, in this case, also doubling charging speed. That's our favourite feature here, as it will enable your iPhone 15 to reach 50 per cent charge in just 44 minutes.

MagSafe compatibility adds another layer of convenience, allowing for precise alignment and stable connection for Apple devices (and any other device in a MagSafe case that also supports wireless charging). Who doesn't love the ease and practicality of magnetically-attached accessories? It's one of our most-wanted features when it comes to phone charging.

On the side, an intuitive smart display keeps you informed with real-time updates on battery levels and full recharge times. Even better, its 10,000mAh capacity provides an iPhone 15 with around two and a half charges and an iPhone 15 Pro with around 1.8. Impressive stuff. The built-in stand also allows hands-free viewing, making it both a functional and convenient choice.

Digital editor William Austin-Lobley has been hands-on with this MagGo product. Here’s what he thinks: "A nice piece of kit. I took this with me on a tour of Scotland, and I found that the MagSafe connection made carrying it around and charging simultaneously a real breeze – there’s no cabling to contend with, which is great, and it would still fit into my driving mount.

"The charging speed is impressive, both how the device charges my phone and how quickly the power bank tops up when you return to a power outlet. The screen on the side means you always know how much power you have available. Though I haven’t used the stand much, it’s well-made, and I’m confident it will last very long."

Pros

  • Qi2 gives very quick wireless charging
  • Screen for details on charge time and remaining power
  • Really well made, including stand

Cons

  • Qi2 and screen comes at a higher price
  • Design
    5.0
  • Build
    5.0
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight252g
ConnectionsQi2, MagSafe, USB-C (recharging)
Dimensions10.72 x 6.88 x 1.98 cm

Best for camping

Expert rating:
4.5
URGREEN Power BankWhat's the Best / Jack Barrell
Price: $179.99 (was £199.99)

uk.ugreen.com

There's nothing subtle about the URGREEN 48,000mAh 300W Portable Power Bank. We think it’s quite a looker, but it does still provide portability, especially for campers. The stats speak for themselves with this power bank, you're getting a huge power capacity of 48,000mAh with a jaw-dropping 300W charging output.

URGREEN guarantees that you can get just short of 11 full charges of an iPhone 15 Pro, or alternatively, just over one full charge of a MacBook Air M2. One feature we find really handy is the built-in smart display that presents accurate diagnostic readings of power capacity, current power output and input.

You also get a handy light-up LED function which will suit almost any camping trip once the sun goes down. The three light presets include a standard light, a brighter light, and a blinking SOS mode.

Digital Writer Jack Barrell has hands on experience with this power bank from URGREEN. Here's how he found it: "A tremendously capable power bank. This product is fine tuned for camping or any other extensive adventuring for that matter. Ultra-fast charging, simultaneous device charging, and built-in power analytics are just the tip of the iceberg with this awesome portable power bank.

The handle makes carrying and transporting the power bank no bother at all, and a brilliant light-up LED function means you’ll never be short of light, regardless of where you pitch up."

Pros

  • Charging is ultra-fast
  • Extremely generous number of charging ports for simultaneous device charging
  • Display is highly intuitive, indicating exact power input and output at any given time

Cons

  • You need a powerful charger in order to recharge efficiently
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    4.5
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity48,000mAh
Weight1.64kg
Connections3 USB-C, 2 USB-A
Dimensions143 x 105 x 77 mm

Best high capacity

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

With enough power on board to charge a smartphone nine times or earbuds up to 60 times, this Verger power bank is our favourite pick for a large yet affordable power bank. Ideal for travelling professionals or families, the 30,000mAh capacity will keep devices running repeatedly.

There are multiple connections for charging a few devices simultaneously, with three standard USB connections on one end and a UCB-C and micro USB connection on the side. Handily, any of these connections can be used to recharge the bank. 

The larger capacity makes this a good choice for anyone with larger devices, such as laptops and large tablets like the Apple iPad Pro. However, we think that anyone who wants to travel light will be disappointed by the 598g weight, but such is the trade-off for such a high capacity. 

William Austin-Lobley found the Verger to be: "...decent enough considering the price and that 30,000mAh capacity. After having my hands on it, I would happily take it on holiday in a car or camper, but I wouldn’t be carrying it every day with me."

Pros

  • Large capacity, ideal for long trips and large devices
  • Very affordable
  • Multiple connections

Cons

  • Heavy and bulky compared to other options listed here
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
Capacity30,000mAh
Weight598g
ConnectionsUSB Type A x3, USB-C, micro USB
Dimensions16.9 x 7.9 x 3.1 cm

Best budget MagSafe

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

The AOGUERBE MagSafe Power Bank is an affordable MagSafe-compatible power bank (though it's not officially certified) that works with iPhones from generation 12 and above. With a 10,000mAh capacity, an iPhone will charge between one and three times, depending on the model. 

Slimline is quick to work and even charges through MagSafe cases, so this is a compelling and affordable choice. That said, we do find it lacks the robust feeling of brands like Anker, but as that's reflected in the price, we think it's still an excellent budget MagSafe choice.

After using this on his iPhone 15, William Austin-Lobley notes the following: "While the Anker MagGo options listed elsewhere provide quicker charging and come from a more reputable name, this is a budget wireless charger for Apple users. I like that its low profile has a screen on the underside, letting me know how much charge is left. Customer reviews online seem to have an issue with its heat output, but during my time with the AOGUERBE, I found nothing unusual for such a device."

Pros

  • Compact and sleek design
  • Useful screen and straightforward controls
  • Works with MagSafe cases

Cons

  • Not as robust as the Anker options
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight197g
ConnectionsMagSafe wireless charging, USB-C (recharge)
Dimensions10.4 x 6.8 x 2.1 cm

Best lightweight MagSafe

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / Harvey Isitt

Trust is one of our favourite brands for affordable tech, so this Mobile MagSafe Power Bank is a practical and eco-conscious choice for keeping your device charged on the go. With its 5,000mAh capacity, this power bank offers up to 17 hours of additional use for your smartphone.

Its compact and lightweight, but we love that it's made from 50 per cent recycled material without sacrificing on build quality. This makes it perfect for slipping into a pocket or bag to take on your travels. Some users report that it's slower to charge than some others, but for the price and quality on offer we can live with that. The magnetic attachment ensures a secure and efficient charge for iPhone 12 models or higher while supporting pass-through charging.

Harvey Isitt tested this power bank and had this to say about his experience: "I'm pleased with this MagSafe wireless power bank. It's a good compromise between extra power without the added heft. It attaches to my phone securely, charges it quickly, and is easy to carry. The only downside is that my smartphone sometimes becomes hot. All in all, it's a dependable power bank."

Pros

  • Portable, lightweight design
  • Clear LED indicators for power levels
  • MagSafe compatible

Cons

  • Slower fast-charging than others on this list
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    3.5
  • Value
    5.0
Capacity5,000mAh
Weight104g
ConnectionsMagSafe wireless charging, USB-C (recharge)
Dimensions9.4 x 6.5 x 1.5 cm

Best ultra-compact

Expert rating:
4.5
What's the Best / Jack Barrell
Price: $74.99

Another Qi2-certified charger from Anker provides 15W wireless charging. It guarantees speedy and reliable power for your Apple iPhone when you need it most, and itt does so in a more streamlined design than ever before. While we do consider it a power bank, it acts almost like a battery pack, cleverly sitting on the back of your phone thanks to Anker's MagSafe tech.

Qi2 certification represents the latest standard in wireless charging, following solid safety standards guidelines, and also doubling that charging speed. This a serious selling point for Anker's MagGo range, enabling your iPhone 15 to reach 50 per cent charge in a mere 41 minutes. MagSafe is all about convenience, offering capable and dependable charging for MagSafe-compatible devices (not just Apple products). When you stumble across a gadget that makes life easier and more convenient, you can't ignore it.

On the bottom of this ultra-slim power bank, you'll find the USB-C port used for recharging, as well as the LED function for indicating the remaining charge. Something else we love is that 10,000mAh capacity provides an iPhone 15 with around two and a half charges and an iPhone 15 Pro with around 1.8.

Digital Writer Jack Barrell has been hands-on with this MagGo product. Here’s how we found it: "A standout piece of charging tech. I took this with me to a concert, and I found that the MagSafe connection was never broken even amongst tight crowds. The absence of cables makes it so practical, it would fit in my pocket, my bag, or just in my hand while reliably charging my iPhone.

"I was really happy with how fast it charged my phone, as well as how quickly the power bank tops up when it runs out of juice itself. The simple LEDs on the bottom are a familiar way to show users how much charge is left, but ever effective."

Pros

  • Super streamlined, fits comfortably on the back of an iPhone
  • Fast charging, 50% of an iPhone 15 in 41 minutes
  • Very well put together, feels durable

Cons

  • Magnetic doesn't seem to be as strong at the bottom part of the phone
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    5.0
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight200g
ConnectionsQi2, MagSafe, USB-C (recharging)
Dimensions10.39 x 7.06 x 1.5 cm

Best with built-in cables

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

So many devices, so many connections. But, with the Charmast Power Bank you can top-up almost any generation of device with your power bank. Our favourite feature here enables just that, as it has USB-C, USB Type A, micro USB and Apple Lighting connections. While the four built-in cables make for an ugly device, its utility cannot be denied. 

One downside, thought, is that despite all those ports, it can only charge one device at a time. That said, the 10,000mAh capacity can provide approximately two and a half total charges for an iPhone 15 and about 2.3 full charges for a Samsung Galaxy S22. At 242g and with a slimline profile, it slides nicely into a pocket or bag, ready for whenever you need it. 

"I think the back where you can see the cables look funky, and the build quality is a bit lower than some power banks I’ve tried,” says tester William Austin-Lobley, “but I must commend its usefulness. No more hunting around for the right connection with this power bank – though it does mean you can’t charge more than one type of connection at once. I like the LED display, it's nice and clear."

Pros

  • Different cable types built-in
  • Slim, low-profile design
  • Good power capacity

Cons

  • You can only charge one device with a given USB connection at a time; for example, you can’t charge an iPhone 15 and Kindle simultaneously, as they both need USB-C
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight242g
ConnectionsUSB Type A, USB-C, Lightning, micro USB
Dimensions14.43 x 6.69 x 1.77 cm

Best for fast charging

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

Backed by a trusted brand, the Juice 3 offers reliable performance and peace of mind. Stay powered up for adventures, commutes, or long days out with its sleek design and durable build, making it the ideal travel companion. This 10,000mAh power bank delivers approximately three total charges for most smartphones, keeping you connected on the go. Its multiple output ports allow you to charge multiple devices simultaneously, which is perfect for sharing with friends or family.

While a full recharge typically takes a few hours, a higher-wattage adapter can significantly reduce charging time. We do think it's a little bit underwhelming in terms of lacking features like displays and indicators, but it's a good robust build that does the job of fast-charging very well,

William Austin-Lobley, editor and reviewer, notes that Juice has long been associated with accessible and reliable recharging. "I think my first ever power bank was a Juice, probably from a supermarket and carrying about an AA battery's worth of power. The brand has kept up with the times, with this Juice 3 being a solid choice for anyone looking for longevity."

Pros

  • Reliable brand with a high build standard
  • Multiple outputs and plenty of port types
  • Hardwearing build and a simple design for good portability

Cons

  • Other than build quality, it doesn’t do anything special
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight187g
ConnectionsUSB Type A x1, USB-C, micro USB
Dimensions9.1 x 6.2 x 2.2 cm

Best 6,600mAh

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley
Price: $69.99
Alternative retailers
Newegg$69.99View offer

This is MagGo is a certified Qi2 charger from Anker that offers rapid wireless recharging for Apple iPhones (generation 12 and above). This means your iPhone 15 can be topped to 50 per cent in around 45 minutes, which we think is a real win – especially considering no wires are involved.

Besides MagSafe and Qi2, this power bank’s nifty trick is that it folds out to give a really broad and supportive stand. It's ideal for when you’re streaming and want to go hands-free. As usual with Anker products, we find the build quality to be robust, giving peace of mind when you're on the move.

The only downside for us here is that the capacity is an average of 6,600mAh, which is the lowest on the list - it brings the total charges closer to two. But, if you’re not off on long trips this isn’t likely to be an issue. 

"I’ve been lucky enough to test this alongside the Anker MagGo Qi2 Power Bank listed elsewhere in this article," says reviewer William Austin-Lobley. "While I prefer the other option – I never really need to fold feature here – the build and performance are top-tier. The build is impressive, and it's nippy to recharge. I like it a lot, and it’s a super choice if other MagGo products are out of your price range."

Pros

  • Great build quality
  • The folding feature is well-designed for those who love hands-free streaming on the go
  • An affordable option from the MagGo range

Cons

  • Only 6,600mAh
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.5
  • Value
    4.0
Capacity6,600mAh
Weight264g
ConnectionsQi2 MagSafe wireless, USB-C (recharging)
Dimensions10.9 x 6.25 x 2.49 cm

Best premium

Expert rating:
5.0
Anker Prime Power BankWhat's the Best / Kyle Purves
Price: $179.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$13.00View offer
Dell$179.99View offer
Newegg$179.99View offer
Best Buy$189.99View offer

We were instantly impressed by the sizable 20,000 mAh battery on offer here. Especially in such a small pocket-sized design. The Anker Prime power bank will keep you powered while roaming and the premium build quality really shows in the design and build/.

However, it’s not just the vast storage of the Anker Prime that excites us, but the 200W power output. It has enough grunt to power up even the best gaming laptops whilst on the go. With three ports and 200W of power, the charging speed will be greater than it would be with a standard 14W charger.

At 544g it might be a little heavy for some, but that's all part of the quality build. Otherwise, we think it's genuinely hard to fault the Anker Prime Power Bank as a premium recharging option.

Kyle Purves, a resident tech expert at What’s The Best and a regular reviewer of Anker products, had this to say when they reviewed the Anker Prime: "There are many affordable power banks available, including options from Anker, but the Prime power bank is worth every penny and gets my firm recommendation. It's my favourite power bank, and I believe anyone can get solid use out of it. Even indoors, I found it more efficient to charge the Prime and then use it to charge my phone and other devices, rather than plugging everything into the wall sockets.

"While I do wish it were a bit lighter and smaller, those minor drawbacks are overshadowed by its fantastic performance. With an incredible capacity, powerful output, and a speedy recharge rate, the Anker Prime is exceptionally reliable and versatile, effectively meeting all my needs.

"Unlike most power banks on the market, the Anker Prime Power Bank also has a handy display, showing total battery life, wattage to each charging port and even overall battery health, which is a feature I didn't know I needed."

Pros

  • Incredible charge output with high storage
  • Useful battery information display
  • Small considering its power

Cons

  • Fairly heavy for a power bank
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    5.0
  • Value
    5.0
Capacity20,000mAh
Weight544g
ConnectionsUSB Type A, USB-C x2, Pogo pin for Anker charging base (optional)
Dimensions16.18 x 4.98 x 5.69 cm

Best with display

Expert rating:
3.5
What's The Best / David Ker

Cuktech began life in 2016 and takes its name from the Ćuk DC to DC Switching Converter designed by Slobodan Ćuk. This 25000mAh power bank – launched in 2024 – has three ports (one USB-A and two USB-C) via which to charge your devices. While it's larger than many others on this list, weighing 630g and around 16cm in length, we love that it does offer plenty of power for that additional heft.

We found it to be robust, attractive and consistent when it came to charging. Meeting airline regulations, it's a potential addition to your luggage for your next trip abroad and will allow you to recharge multiple devices at once.

What's The Best Deputy Editor David Ker tried out the Cuktech 20 and had this to say: "What stands out immediately about this power bank is the display. Not only do you get a sense of the inner workings of the unit thanks to the translucent shell, but you are provided with detailed information about the battery percentage, total input and output, and individual breakdowns of the wattage, current and voltage being delivered from each port.

"I found that it took around 3h 30m to fully charge the Cuktech 20 and that it could add 80 per cent to my iPhone battery in around 1h 30m (depleting the power bank by 8 per cent). I was also able to use it to charge laptops and other devices, including more than one item at the same time.

"While it is less obviously portable than most due to its weight, it remains easy to hold in one hand and also comes with a drawstring carry case."

Pros

  • Significant capacity
  • Informative and clear display
  • Fast charging

Cons

  • Heavier than most
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    3.5
Capacity25000mAh
Weight630g
ConnectionsUSB-C1, USB-C2, USB-A1
Dimensions16 x 5.5 x 5.5 cm

Best for Apple Watch

Expert rating:
4.5
What's the Best / Jack Barrell
Price: $79.99

Anker brings you another Qi2-certified charger providing 15W wireless charging, and this one's dedicated to Apple Watches. It can charge an Apple Watch S9 at double the speed of the standard charger and it's compact enough to fit in your back pocket.

Premium MagSafe charging aside, there's another thing that immediately jumps out about this power bank - it comes with a built-in USB-C output cable. This Anker product enables two-way charging, meaning you can charge an Apple Watch magnetically, and another device through the wired connection.

Atop the power bank, you'll notice a very sleek-looking LED display. This presents all the key charging metrics like the overall battery and the output/input. This only cements the two-way charging as a great addition, providing users with clarity and peace of mind.

Digital Writer Jack Barrell has first-hand experience with this MagGo product. Here’s how he got on: "I could barely fault the Apple Watch power bank, it offers impressive charging capabilities with the added benefit of convenience. I loved the adjustability too, being able to choose between having my Apple Watch sat on the charger atop a desk, or tucked away in my pocket was brilliant.

"I'm a big fan of the two-way charging feature that Anker has implemented too, I was able to charge both my Apple Watch and my iPhone simultaneously. What made this even better was that smart LED display, which detailed the overall charge of the power bank, as well as input and output readings."

Pros

  • Extremely optimal and convenient way to charge your Apple Watch
  • Handy two-way charging, charge another device with the built-in USB-C cable
  • A clever LED display creates a premium feel

Cons

  • Built-in USB-C cable could be tucked in for added practicality
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    4.5
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity10,000mAh
Weight245g
ConnectionsQi2, MagSafe, USB-C (recharging)
Dimensions95 x 51 x 32.5 mm

Best for days out

Expert rating:
4.0
What's The Best / Kyle Purves

For those looking for a 20,000 mAh capacity but don't want to break the bank for a premium power bank, the Trust Redoh has you covered. It's a relatively affordable power bank with a surprisingly sleek design for a device with its capacity.

We appreciate that it's partially made from recycled plastics too – so it's a great pick for the eco-conscious. At 408g, it's not too heavy either, so you shouldn't have any trouble taking it with you on the go.

There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, allowing you to connect with up to three devices at once. Although, considering the overall spec, we do wish it had a few more ports. The battery can certainly accommodate that, and the 20W output ensures it can charge everything quite quickly.

Kyle Purves, a tech writer and reviewer at What’s The Best, had this to say regarding the Trust Redoh: "Usually a power bank of this capacity would be bulkier and heavier, but the Trust Redoh manages to remain fairly compact. I have no trouble bringing this along with me on days out, as it's very easy to make enough room for it even in the smallest and fullest of bags.

"Not only does the Trust Redoh charge other devices swiftly, but it manages to take in charge just as well. With the battery indicator's help, I could always tell when it was time to give it a top-up. In fact, I rarely ever managed to drain the power bank completely, as it never took long to add an extra hour or two to its battery."

Pros

  • Excellent capacity for a relatively sleek design
  • 20W output results in fast charging
  • The battery indicator help to keep an eye on the remaining charge

Cons

  • More connection options would be nice
  • Design
    4.0
  • Build
    4.0
  • Value
    4.5
Capacity20,000mAh
Weight408g
ConnectionsUSB Type A, USB-C x 2
Dimensions14.8 x 7 x 3 cm

How to choose the right power bank for you

Select the right power capacity

When using a power bank, it's important to understand that the stated capacity is not entirely available for charging your devices. This reduction in capacity is due to energy loss during the transfer process. Selecting the right bank for you is really all down to understanding how much power your devices will need. Here's a handy guide to some of the most common power bank capacities, types of devices and average number of charges.

Power Bank Capacity Device Battery Capacity (mAh) Estimated Full Charges
10,000mAh Smartphone (e.g., iPhone 13) 3,227 2-3
Tablet (e.g., iPad Air) 7,600 1
Smartwatch (e.g., Apple Watch) 300 15-20
Wireless Earbuds (e.g., AirPods) 400 15-20
Digital Camera (e.g., Canon EOS R) 1,860 4-5
20,000mAh Smartphone (e.g., iPhone 13) 3,227 6-7
Tablet (e.g., iPad Air) 7,600 2-2.5
Smartwatch (e.g., Apple Watch) 300 35-40
Wireless Earbuds (e.g., AirPods) 400 35-40
Digital Camera (e.g., Canon EOS R) 1,860 9-10
30,000mAh Smartphone (e.g., iPhone 13) 3,227 9-10
Tablet (e.g., iPad Air) 7,600 3-3.5
Smartwatch (e.g., Apple Watch) 300 55-60
Wireless Earbuds (e.g., AirPods) 400 55-60
Digital Camera (e.g., Canon EOS R) 1,860 14-15

Most power banks have an efficiency rate between 70 and 90 per cent. This means that out of the power bank’s total capacity, only 70 to 90 per cent of the energy is effectively transferred to the device. For example, a 10,000mAh power bank with an 85 per cent efficiency rate would provide approximately 8,500mAh of usable capacity.

Why the loss in capacity?

Power banks store energy in their internal batteries, usually at a different voltage than the devices they charge. During charging, this energy must be converted to a suitable voltage for the device, typically from the power bank's internal voltage (usually around 3.7V) to the USB standard (5V). This conversion process is not perfectly efficient and results in energy loss.

Energy is also lost through heat. The components that regulate and convert the voltage generate heat, dissipating energy that could otherwise be used to charge the device.

Power banks on a blue background
©What's The Best / William Ausin-Lobley

Choose based on the ports you'll need

If you're looking for a new power bank, you'll likely find that numerous ports and methods of charging are available, but are there any particularly brilliant options? Here's a breakdown of the main types of port:

USB-A: This is your standard method of charging, your home is likely filled with them. Often tricky to plug in, you've seen USB-A connections on the sides of computers, laptops and plugs for a good while. Slower than USB-C and lightning, this stable method of charging is cheap and cheerful, but provides a secure connection for devices nonetheless.

USB-C: The new up-and-coming standard for smartphones, USB-C is now used everywhere, but it's particularly popular in laptops and smartphones. The quickest method of charging, USB-C cables are capable of outputting up to 80W of power and above, which is more than enough for power-hungry devices.

Micro-USB: A slow and largely outdated method of charging, you'll find microUSBs on a lot of power banks thanks to their cheap manufacturing costs. These cables are much slower than USB-C and are largely reserved for charging power banks themselves, rather than modern smart devices.

Lightning: Reserved only for Apple products, including the iPhone and MacBook, lightning cables are ultra-quick, offering high charging speeds and sturdy connections.

a powerbank
©What's The Best / William Austin-Lobley

Power bank FAQs

What does mAh mean?

Standing for "milliampere hours", this is an industry-standard way to represent how much charge a power bank can hold. As a general rule, 10K mAh should be able to fully charge an average smartphone around three times, with a 20K mAh model able to do so around six to seven times. This can differ depending on your smartphone model, the amount of time between charges, and if you use the power bank for other devices too.

What is output wattage?

The wattage of a power bank is the measure of how much power the device outputs, the higher the wattage, the faster devices will become fully charged. For standard charging, you can expect at least 14-18W of charging power, but this might be lower when using wireless chargers.
New smartphones can handle around 30W and above of wattage, so it's good to utilise it to experience a fully charged device within an hour.

Does a high wattage damage your devices?

Despite certain misconceptions online, there is no evidence to suggest that using a high-wattage power bank or charger will damage devices not designed to handle the output wattage. Devices will draw the power they can sustain from the power source, and therefore will not overload.

Are cheap power banks worth it?

Without question, cheap power banks are absolutely worth buying. We've listed a great number of cheap power banks with high wattage, incredible battery capacities and appealing designs that are particularly portable.
Though some power banks on the cheaper side might not be worth it due to poor technical specifications, we've picked some brilliant power banks that are more than worth considering.

Are solar power banks worth it?

Solar power banks are admittedly a little slower than standard power banks for the most part, but since they can utilise the power of the sun to completely recharge, they're absolutely worth it. Perfect for taking on a camping adventure, or for those more environmentally conscious, a great solar power bank is absolutely worth investing in.

Can you bring a power bank on a plane?

You should always double-check the exact policies and restrictions of your specific airline. That said, in most cases, you should be able to bring a power bank with you.
Certain restrictions may apply. For example, the majority of airlines ask that your power bank be included in your carry-on bags rather than stored away with luggage. A power bank should not be kept in checked luggage and should be treated akin to any device like a laptop.

Why should you trust us?

At What’s The Best, our mission is to provide accurate and reliable reviews, ensuring our readers receive honest and transparent information about the best technology products available. Anything less would undermine our commitment to being a trusted source of unbiased product information.

Our dedicated in-house writing team comprises experts with extensive experience and a genuine passion for technology. Collectively, we have spent decades testing and writing about tech, leveraging our expertise in all our articles, advice pieces and reviews.

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Read more about why you should trust us.

Ryan Houghton is a Tech Writer and Reviewer for What’s The Best, known best for his expertise in gaming, with a particular soft spot for PC gaming, audio tech, televisions and smartphones.

Diligently writing for What’s The Best for almost two years, there are very few tech products Ryan hasn’t had his hands on to review; televisions, headphones, folding phones and even LEGO, if it’s nerdy, he’ll be there.

His well-versed history as one of the resident techies at What’s The Best has kept him keen to uncover the very best deals, savings and offers for those in need of a cracking deal to upgrade their setup.

In his downtime, Ryan most likely has his nose buried in a fantasy book, or his

eyes glued to a screen whilst playing a tough-as-nails Soulslike or leisurely RPG, indulging in most forms of escapism where possible.

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