It packs in the same 10,000 mAh capacity and same charging speeds from its USB-A and USB-C ports, but does so in a form factor that measures just 10.7cm (4.2”) x 5.2cm (2”) x 2.5cm (0.98”) and weighs just 195g (6.8oz). This little thing is effectively a smaller version of the PowerCore Slim 10000 PD. If used with a wall plug that can output at 18W, the power bank can be fully recharged in 4.5 hours. It offers an impressive capacity in a thin form factor with a Quick Charge USB-A port (12W) and a USB-C Power Delivery port capable of charging devices at up to 18W. This is one of the best-selling power banks out there and it’s clear why. While it only offers a USB-C output port, it charges at 18W and has a built-in Qi charger for wirelessly charging compatible mobile devices.ġ0,000 mAh Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 PD (model 523) - $40 It offers solid products at reasonable prices and this little 5,000 mAh charger is no different. Anker PowerCore 5K (model 521) - $55Īnker is a name you’ll see across every category in this article, and with good reason. It weighs just 115g (4oz) and features a carbon fiber design with honeycomb vents for keeping the device cool when charging electronics. It features both a USB-A and USB-C port, capable of 18W each, with the USB-C also serving as the input port for charging it up. Nitecore is known for making fast and convenient third-party battery chargers for various camera models, but the company also has a line of power banks that includes this 5,000 mAh model. It might not sound like much, but as far as battery packs are concerned, it’s one of the few marketed with environmental-friendliness in mind. What sets this model apart from the others is that it’s made of a 72.5% post-consumer recycled plastic, which Nimble says reduces its total footprint by 7.43lbs of CO2 compared to similarly-sized chargers. This ultra-compact charger manages to pack a 5,200 mAh battery inside, as well as both a USB-A and USB-C ports capable of charging devices at up to 15W. No (but it does have a DC port with adapters)ĥ,000 mAh Nimble Champ Lite Portable Charger - $25 While standard USB-C chargers top out at only 15W, USB-C PD can deliver power as high as 100W with the latest PD 3.0 standard. For the larger battery packs, we tried to focus on models with USB-C Power Delivery (PD). You can read more about the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) rules on its lithium battery FAQ page.Įvery power bank in this list, with the exception of two 5,000 mAh models and one 50,000 mAh model, has options for both USB-A and USB-C charging, for backwards and forwards compatibility.

No lithium batteries are allowed in checked baggage.

Do note though that most airlines only allow lithium batteries with less than 100 watt hours or less to be in your carry on luggage. Specifically, we’re going to look at power banks at or around these milliamp hour (mAh) levels: 5,000 mAh, 10,000 mAh, 20,000 mAh, 50,000 mAh. Cheaper batteries may be poorly made and could cause safety concerns, so take time to read reviews carefully before buying.īattery safety: The portable phone charger battery should be UL- or CE-certified with protection circuits that prevent overcharging, overheating, and short-circuiting.For this roundup, we’ve chosen a few power banks across various capacity levels, as each range tends to increase in both size and price in a fairly linear fashion. In addition to the considerations above, here are a few helpful tips for shopping for lithium-ion portable phone battery chargers.Īvoid cheap stuff: While there are cost-effective portable phone charger options, don’t automatically choose the cheapest one. Tips for Shopping for Lithium-Ion Batteries So if you need yours for air travel, ensure it is safe, approved, and not restricted. Travel restrictions: Not all phone chargers are created equal. What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Portable Phone Chargersīefore choosing your new portable phone charger, here are a few things you should consider.Ĭharge capacity: Do you need a portable phone charger to fully recharge your phone every time you use it? You’ll need a charger that can handle multiple charges.Ĭharge speed: How fast do you need your phone charged? Most top-rated portable phone chargers can charge your phone 50-80% in about 30 minutes.ĭevice usage: Will you need to use your phone while it charges? Make sure your portable charger can accommodate that.

Nimble champ charger