Running out of battery power is one of the most frustrating things about cell phones, especially if you have to keep pace with a hectic schedule and workload. But before plunging headlong into an uninformed power bank purchase, consider the three P’s – portability, power and price.
Armed with our information and the guidance of the three P’s, we’ll help you make an informed buying decision, whether it’s a pocket charger or a multi-device charger. However, it’s always a good idea to compare your options to find the right product for your requirements.
How we made our top choices
We compared 10 leading brands and 22 different products, each with 50 reviews and more to help you choose the best power bank to keep your phone and other electronic devices on-the-go 24/7.
Learn more about our methodology.
Multi-device chargers
Charge several devices simultaneously:
ROMOSS 20000mAh Power Bank – Best for Compatibility
Pros
- This pocket charger is compatible with Android, Apple and other devices such as Nintendo.
- Holds enough charge for three days.
- Charges two devices simultaneously.
- Three USB inputs and two USB outputs.
Cons
- Charging cable is not included.
- Device is a bit bulky.
Price (RRP): $34.99
This portable charger is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Samsung, Galaxy and more. It fits into a pocket or purse. It charges two devices simultaneously at a maximum speed of 2.1 amps. It is sold with a 12-month warranty.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V
- Size: 15.1 x 6.9 x 2.9 centimetres
- Battery Type: Lithium Polymer
- Charge time: Fast Charge 3-Output up to 80% in just 35 minutes
Customer Reviews
Many customers highly praise the ROMOSS 20000mAh as one of the best power banks in today’s market. Other favourable comments include its quick-charge abilities and that it can hold enough charge to last a three-day trip.
Anker PowerCore 13000 – Advanced Technology
Pros
- Can charge iPhones 4xtimes.
- 30% lighter than other chargers.
- Compact and light.
- Super-high 13000mAh capacity and two high-speed USB ports.
- PowerIQ ensures that batteries are provided with enough juice for up to 8 days.
Cons
- Batteries are not included.
- Lightning cable for iPhone / iPad is sold separately.
- The original Apple charging cable, which is not included, must be used to charge Apple products.
- The AC adapter is also not included.
Price (RRP): $59.00
The Anker PowerCore 13000 portable charger is compatible with Apple and Android phones and tablets, as well as cameras, headphones, and more. It weighs only 255g. No larger than a wallet, it offers simultaneous dual-port charging with two high-speed USB ports. It charges an iPhone 8 almost 5 times, an iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S8 3 times, or an iPad Air 2 once. This device is sold with an 18-month warranty.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 9.7 x 7.9 x 2.3 centimetres.
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion.
- Charge time: PowerIQ and VoltageBoost are combined to deliver the fastest possible charge up to 2.4 amps per port or 3 amps overall.
Customer Reviews
Customers have expressed disappointment that the battery does not support pass-through charging – you cannot recharge the battery and charge a device from the battery simultaneously. Meanwhile, other complaints are that it takes more than 10 hours to recharge the battery. Despite the battery charge time, users point out that it keeps their gadgets going for a long time – over a 24-hour travel period, an S8 phone, smartwatch and wireless headphones were fully charged. During that time, the customer watched two movies and listened to music almost non-stop.
Anker 20000Mah – Great when Travelling
Pros
- Charges the iPhone 7 almost seven times, the Galaxy S6 five times and the iPad mini 4 twice.
- Lighter than a can of soup, weighing 354g.
- It fits easily into backpacks, purses and computer bags.
- Designed for use with almost any UBS port charged device.
Cons
- Lightning cable for iPhone / iPad is sold separately.
- Recharging the portable charger to its full capacity can take up to 10 hours and recharging with a 1 amp charger can take up to 20 hours.
- Too heavy to carry comfortably in your pocket.
Price (RRP): $88.00
PowerIQ and VoltageBoost combine in this device to deliver a high-speed charge to a wide range of devices including Apple and Android smartphones, tablets and other USB-charged devices with some exceptions.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 16.9 x 5.8 x 2.2 centimetres.
- Battery type: Lithium Ion.
- Charge time: 6 hours.
Customer Reviews
The convenient size enabled them to slip the charger into the side pocket of a backpack or overcoat pocket without a problem. Users also find that the protective fabric sleeve with draw-string closer is great for storing the charging cables and for keeping the cable in place when plugged in.
Charmast PD 18W – Ultra-Slim and Portable
Pros
- QC 3.0 protocol charges compatible devices at optimal speed.
- The iSmart port recognises devices and adjusts to optimal charging settings, cutting charging time in half.
- Ultra slim (only 1.4cm thick) and portable, the solid rubber oil surface cover protects against scratches and falls.
- Universal compatibility allows it to charge devices like iPhone Xs/XR/X/8, Google Pixel, Sony, as well as USB-C cell phones.
- Intelligent safety protection protects against excessive current flow, overheating and overcharging, further enhanced by a 12-month warranty.
Cons
- USB-C to lightning cable is not included.
- It does not support pass-through charging.
- Larger and heavier than regular battery packs, weighing 430g.
Price (RRP): $69.99
With a capacity of 26800mAh, it’s a little larger and heavier than other battery packs on the market, bit its slim design makes it comparable to similar capacity power banks. It is widely compatible and is universal for iPhone / iPad / Nintendo Switch / Samsung / Huawei / Xiaomi etc.
Specs
- Voltage: 12V.
- Size: 19.7x 96 x 1.43 centimetres
- Battery type: Lithium Polymer.
- Charge time: Between 7 and 16 hours.
Customer Reviews
According to one disappointed user, this is a 21,000mAh power bank and not a 26,800mAh as claimed. Further disgruntlement is that the Charmast customer services had not replied to the complaint after two weeks. But, on the bright side, another happy customer says this is one of the slimmest chargers he has ever seen! Its 3 input and 4 output USB ports also allowed good speed charging of two Apple devices simultaneously.
Solar Charger Solar Power Bank 20000mAh – Waterproof and Eco-Friendly
Pros
- Being waterproof makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
- Built-in compass which must be placed flat on the floor as tilting will affect its direction.
- Can be used as a flashlight.
- Made of eco-friendly silicone rubber.
- Compatible with MP3 Players, Smartphones, PC, Tablets and Cameras.
Cons
- Energy transformation from solar to electricity is slow.
- Solar charging speed is subject to sunlight intensity and panel conversion rate.
- For daily activity, the manufacturer recommends charging via a wall outlet.
Price (RRP): $22.99
This solar-powered charger can be fully charged by leaving it in direct sunlight for a couple of hours. This makes this charger the ideal companion on a wamping trip when you don’t have access to the main power grid. Charge several devices at once and make use of the built-in flashlight and compass.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 18x3x 3.5 centimetres.
- Battery Type: Lithium Polymer.
- Charge time: Unspecified as it relies on direct sunlight.
Customer Reviews
Customers disliked the fact that the product does not charge beyond half of its advertised capacity. Further concerns are that 30% battery power drains out within 10-15 minutes. Other complaints centred around its longevity, with users claiming that the charger “died” within 1-4 weeks from date of purchase. The device works well when plugged into the mains and charged from an electrical network – just as the manufacturer recommends. While some users are happy with the product, the overall consensus is that it is not sufficiently robust and a waste of money.
Belkin 15000mAh – Powerful and Fantastic Warranty
Pros
- $2,500 equipment warranty.
- Forty-three hours of call time and 34 hours of web browsing.
- Sensors detect and guard against excess heat and voltage fluctuation.
- Charges iPhone 7 (running iOS10) up to 5 times on a single charge.
- Can provide a charge of up to 15,000mAh for approximately 105 hours of video playback.
- Dual USB ports allow two devices to be charged at the same time.
Cons
- Heavyweight.
- Difficult to find any other negative reviews about this product.
The Belkin 15000mAh power pack offers the ultimate in freedom and portability. Combined with its generous $2500 equipment warranty, you will be hard-pressed to find a better elsewhere. It is that compatible with Smartphones, smartwatches, fitness bands, headphones, speakers, action cameras, Bluetooth-enabled devices and small drones.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 14.6304×7.4168×1.5748 centimetres
- Battery type: Lithium Polymer.
- Charge time: 2 hours.
Customer Reviews
Described as “blazing fast”, the recharge capacity of the Belkin 15000mAh is further complimented as phenomenal. A good investment with a generous warranty on the equipment, another client enthused that the Belkin operated for 11 hours at the Pokemon GO Fest, as well as casual phone usage, without hiccups. This equated to fully recharging a phone 4 to 5 times!
Belkin 10000mAh – Ultimate Safety
Pros
- Sensors detect and guard against excess heat and voltage fluctuation.
- 25 hours of call time and 21 hours of web page browsing.
- Provides enough power for an additional 70 hours of video playback.
- Compatible with Smartphones, smartwatches, fitness bands, headphones, speakers, action cameras, Bluetooth-enabled devices and small drones
Cons
- Does not include a phone charger cord.
- The charger is bulky and somewhat heavy.
Belkin batteries include sensors that monitor heat, voltage and circuitry so that the power bank will not overheat. Excess heat, voltage fluctuation or circuit abnormalities activate an override that shuts the battery down immediately for ultimate safety. This product is also backed by Belkin’s Connected Equipment Warranty. If your device is damaged by a surge, spike, or lightning strike while properly connected to the portable charger, Belkin will repair or replace it.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 12.34×6.32×1.29
- Battery type: Lithium Polymer
- Charge time: 2 hours
Customer Reviews
Described as a solidly made product with a beautifully simple design, customers praise its dual charging capabilities which keep devices fully juiced all day long. They are also over the moon with the power pack’s lightning fast action which can charge a device up to 98% in under 90 minutes.
Orico 10000mAh Triple Output – Supports Most Popular Protocols
Pros
- Provides about 2.5 days of battery life for the latest model mobile devices.
- Triple power output ports allow for simultaneous quick charging of up to 3 devices.
- Supports most popular fast charge devices such as Apple, Huawei and Samsung.
Cons
- Charging the device via a computer can take 2 to 3 days.
The charger has two input and three output ports and is said to deliver four days of battery life on a single charge. It weighs 211g, making it lightweight and transportable. Its charging capacities are 3.5 for iPhone 8, 2.5 for iPhone 7 Plus and once for the mini iPad. It has universal compatibility and carries a 12-month warranty.
Specs
- Voltage: 5V.
- Size: 1.38×6.6×1.6 centimetres.
- Battery type: Lithium Polymer.
- Charge time: Unspecified, described only as quick.
Customer Reviews
Orico is a less-known brand and customer reviews are somewhat lacking. However, one user points out that the charging speed of 5V/2.4A is lower than the standards of most other USB-C ports.
Kogan 26800mAh Pro – Powerhouse of Safe and Fast Speed Charging
Pros
- Intelligently identifies devices ideal power output.
- 3 Ports to charge and use devices simultaneously.
- Protects devices against potentially damaging power failure, loss and spikes with the uninterruptible power supply UPS function.
- It can charge MacBooks, laptops or Nintendo Switch up to 87W.
Cons
- Only a 12-month warranty for an expensive item but does offer a 14-day Change of Mind guarantee.
- Very heavy, weighing in at 600g but to be expected from such a powerhouse.
The Kogan 26800mAh Power Bank Pro can charge up to 4xfaster than standard power banks. Its colossal 26800mAh capacity is combined with multi-device charging up to 102W, providing safe, high-speed charging.
Specs
- Voltage: 20V.
- Size: 1.88 x 8.74 x 2.34 centimetres.
- Battery Type: Lithium Polymer.
- Charge time: 80% capacity within 30 minutes.
Customer Reviews
The Kogan 26800mAh can be described as a freedom fighter. As one user says, “it untethers me from a power plug during the day.” This Kogan is a powerhouse, simultaneously juicing a Dell Latitude 7390 laptop from zero to full and a Smartphone with loads of capacity to spare. Large, bulky and heavy doesn’t make this a good travelling companion, however.
What features to consider before buying
- Warranty: Power packs are not inexpensive, so a decent warranty period should be provided. This is an important factor, not to be overlooked, especially when buying more obscure brands.
- Quality: Where possible, examine the product carefully for tell-tale signs of poor quality and inferior quality. A poorly assembled unit made from low-cost materials will not give you longevity of use.
- Price: While the price is always important, you will only get what you pay for. A low price tag can never compete in quality and service compared to reputable brands.
- Functionality: Make sure that the charger you buy offers sufficient in-and-output ports to satisfy your needs.
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion batteries have a greater energy capacity than Lithium Polymer batteries. Lithium Polymer is the better choice where size is essential.
- Charging Time: Charging times vary, depending on the power pack selected. Chargers are super quick, so check the specifications on the packaging if that is what you want.
Comparing our 9 Power Pack Picks
| Name | Price (RRP) | Features/Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| ROMOSS 20000mAh | $34.99 |
|
| Anker PowerCore 13000 | $59.95 |
|
| Anker 20000mAh | $88.00 |
|
| Charmast PD 18W | $69.00 |
|
| Solar Power Bank 20000mAh | $22.99 |
|
| Belkin 15000mAh | $54.00 |
|
| Belkin 10000mAh | $54.95 |
|
| Orico 10000mAh Triple Output | $45.00 |
|
| Kogan 26800mAh Pro | $209.99 |
|
Source: Amazon, Harvey Norman, mWave, Dick Smith, JB HI-FI, January 2021
Our methodology
We considered the following power bank brands:
- Xiaomi
- ALDI
- Anker
- Cygnett
- Kogan
- Orica
- Belkit
- Charmast
- Romoss
- Global Shop Direct
We eliminated products from these brands that had less than 50 ratings and reviews, resulting in a comparison of 22 products.
We completed an in-depth analysis of each product, its features and ratings. We also examined customer reviews from Amazon, ProductReview.com.au and several other large retailers (January 2021). After eliminating all products that did not meet our exacting criteria, we were left with our top 9 power banks in 2021.
Conclusion
Most of you spend a significant portion of your day charging our Smartphones and other electronic devices. This also means searching for a power socket when on the move. This problem is effectively solved thanks to the array of portable power banks now available on the market.
The Belkin 10000mAh is an excellent option if you’re looking for a fast charger. However, if you’re interested in charging several phones at once, you may prefer the Kogan 26800 mAh Pro. Before making a purchase, remember that it’s always a good idea to compare your options to find the right model for your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Are power banks bad for your phone?
Power banks can damage a phone battery. That is why it is essential to buy high-quality power banks with a built-in safety system to protect devices from overcharging and overheating.Can power banks charge laptops?
Not all power banks can charge laptops because they need to have a higher voltage output. The voltage output must range from 16V to 20V. While the charger can also be used to juice other devices, laptops devour loads of energy so you will probably only be able to replenish the laptop battery once or twice before recharging the device.Do power banks come charged?
Most power banks are pre-charged but won’t have enough power to charge your phone entirely. They are usually charged up to about 75%. Most power banks have LED lights that indicate charge level.Do power banks work with all phones?
Check the specifications of your existing charger before buying a power bank. As a rule-of-thumb, an iPhone and most Android smartphones need at least one amp (five watts),Which power banks support fast charging?
Several different brands offer fast charging support in today’s highly competitive market. Our fast-charging picks are the ROMOSS 20000mAh, Anker 13000mAh and 2000mAh, the Belkin 10000mAh and 15000mAh and, finally, the Kogan 26800mAh.
