Portable Chargers
Best Portable Chargers for Phones and Laptops
4 picks compared
8 min read
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?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best Overall
The Anker 737 is a high-capacity power bank that can fast charge laptops as well as phones. It delivers up to 140W of output across USB-C, and a smart display shows remaining charge and power flow. It is the pick for travelers who need to keep several devices topped up.
Capacity 24000mAhMax output Up to 140WPorts Two USB-C and one USB-ADisplay Digital readout
- High 140W output can fast charge many laptops
- Large capacity keeps several devices going
- Smart display shows charge level and power flow
- Heavy and bulky for a pocket
- More power than phone-only users need
INIU Portable Charger 10000mAh
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best Value
The INIU 10000mAh bank offers dependable phone charging at a friendly level. It stays slim enough to carry daily and includes multiple ports so you can charge more than one device. It is a practical everyday backup for phones and small accessories.
Capacity 10000mAhOutput USB-C power deliveryPorts USB-C and dual USB-ADesign Slim and lightweight
- Affordable everyday capacity
- Slim enough for a bag or large pocket
- Multiple ports charge more than one device
- Charging speed trails premium banks
- No display for remaining charge
Anker PowerCore 10000
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best Compact
The PowerCore 10000 is a proven compact bank that slips into a pocket. It holds enough charge for roughly a full phone top-up or more, and it is light enough to carry every day without thinking about it. It is the simple, reliable choice for phone users.
Capacity 10000mAhPorts USB-C and USB-ASize Compact and pocketableCharging tech PowerIQ
- Genuinely pocketable and lightweight
- Reliable capacity for a phone top-up or two
- Simple, no-fuss everyday carry
- Not powerful enough for fast laptop charging
- Focused on one device at a time
Anker 622 MagGo Magnetic Battery
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best Magnetic
The MagGo 622 snaps magnetically onto compatible iPhones for cable-free charging. It adds a foldable kickstand so you can prop the phone up while it charges, and USB-C is there for faster wired top-ups. It is the neat choice for MagSafe iPhone owners.
Capacity 5000mAhCharging Magnetic wireless for iPhoneExtra Foldable kickstandPort USB-C
- Snaps onto MagSafe iPhones for cable-free charging
- Built-in foldable kickstand
- USB-C port for faster wired charging
- Smaller capacity than standard power banks
- Magnetic wireless charging is slower than a cable
What to look for in a portable charger
Balance capacity against weight, since a bigger battery holds more charge but is heavier to carry. Then check the output wattage, because that decides how fast it can charge and whether it can handle a laptop. Finally, count the ports so it matches how many devices you carry.
Capacity and real-world charges
Capacity is measured in mAh, and roughly speaking 10000mAh gives about one phone charge. Some energy is lost in conversion, so you get a little less than the number suggests. For weekends away or laptop use, choose 20000mAh or higher.
Output, ports and charging speed
Look at the output wattage and port types. USB-C power delivery is the standard for fast charging phones and many laptops, while extra USB-A ports help with older accessories. If speed matters, confirm the bank supports fast charging for your specific device.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not buy the largest bank you can find if you only charge a phone, because you will carry extra weight for no reason. Avoid low-output banks if you want to charge a laptop, and check that the right cable is included. Also confirm the bank itself recharges reasonably fast.
Who each type is for
Frequent travelers and laptop users want a high-capacity, high-output bank. Everyday phone users are well served by a compact 10000mAh model, and MagSafe iPhone owners who value convenience should look at a magnetic battery with a kickstand.
How we picked
We compared current, US-available models on the specifications that matter, alongside verified owner feedback. This is a research-based comparison; we did not physically test every product. Confirm the exact model and its current recall status on cpsc.gov before buying.
Questions people ask
How much capacity do I need in a portable charger?
A 10000mAh bank covers roughly a full phone charge or a bit more, which suits most daily needs. If you travel, carry a tablet, or want to charge a laptop, step up to 20000mAh or more. Higher capacity means more weight, so match it to how you carry it.
Can a portable charger charge a laptop?
Some can, but only if they offer enough wattage over USB-C power delivery. A high-output bank like the Anker 737 can fast charge many laptops, while small phone banks cannot. Check that the bank's output meets your laptop's charging needs.
Are magnetic power banks worth it for iPhones?
They are convenient because they snap on without a cable and let you keep using the phone. The trade-off is that magnetic wireless charging is slower than plugging in and capacities tend to be smaller. If cable-free convenience matters most, they are a good fit.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The Anker 737 is our best overall pick because it can fast charge laptops and phones with plenty of capacity to spare. Choose the INIU 10000mAh for value, the Anker PowerCore 10000 for a pocketable everyday backup, or the Anker MagGo 622 if you want cable-free charging for a MagSafe iPhone.
