The best power banks and battery packs for reliable charging on the go, tested
It's disempowering when your smartphone, laptop or other important gadget runs out of battery. With the flash of a graphic or a plaintive bleep, we lose a way to entertain ourselves, get things done, stay in touch or even get home safely. There's a time and a place for a digital detox – but what is the time, and where am I?
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Carrying a power bank is your ticket out of electronic oblivion. These pocket-sized cuboids plug into compatible devices and charge them, often via assorted connections, including USB-C and USB-A. Most power banks are made for charging smartphones and smaller gadgets, such as fitness trackers and earbuds, but some models can also charge power-hungrier laptops and large portable speakers.
More capable still (and pocketable only in the realms of fairytale), portable power stations can charge various high-voltage appliances – perfect for camping, garden parties and power cuts.
To find you the best power bank for your electrical exigencies, I put 10 top models through their paces, including options from Belkin, Anker, Cuktech, Bluetti, Acer, EcoFlow and Juice.
Bear in mind that any particular power bank will only be suitable for charging compatible devices, based on its power output and connectivity. Before you buy one, check the specs against your smartphone or other devices.
Best power bank overall:
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-port 20k£79.99 at Argos
Best power bank for portability:
Anker Nano£29.99 at Anker
Best budget power bank:
Belkin BoostCharge 10k with integrated cable£24.99 at Belkin
Best power bank for speed and power:
Cuktech 15 Ultra£89.99 at Amazon
Best high-storage power bank:
Anker 165W£89.99 at Anker
I've been reviewing tech products since the mid-2010s. When I'm not actually trying out gadgets, I'm often writing about them using my laptop, or discussing them with editors and PR contacts on my smartphone. As a result, I spend a lot of my time using portable, battery-powered electronic devices.
You might say I'm just the sort of person who needs a good power bank. I used all of the models featured in this article – even the power hat – while working on the go at libraries, cafes and on public transport. Not once did my laptop or smartphone run out of battery!
I tested these power banks by using them to charge various devices with different requirements, including:
Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (battery: 6,600mAh)
Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (battery: 5,270mAh)
Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (65W three-cell li-ion battery)
I timed how long it took for each power bank to charge these devices by 30%. I only charged the laptop with suitably powerful power banks.
Thanks to Honor and Acer for loaning us the smartphones and laptop for testing. The huge batteries on these devices meant there was a lot of waiting around between test charges. These days, flagship smartphones have a battery capacity of about 3,000-5,000mAh. If you have an older or less flashy model, you may find its battery has a capacity as low as 2,500mAh.
Some of the power banks had additional features, such as digital displays, integrated cables and control buttons. I tested these extras where present and also considered the portability and aesthetics of each model.
Some brands didn't want their power banks back after testing. Those models will be donated for fundraising to Cat Action Trust 1977, a small national charity dedicated to the welfare of feral cats.
£79.99 at Argos£79.99 at Belkin
If you need a highly capable power bank that can recharge your laptop as well as your smartphone, this model would be a fine choice. Across three charging ports (one USB-A and two USB-C), there's a combined power output of up to 65W – more than sufficient to charge two smartphones at once.
Why we love itDuring my testing, the BoostCharge Pro topped up an Acer laptop at the sort of speeds I'd normally expect from a mains-powered charger. And it was no slouch when it came to charging smartphones. I was impressed to note that charging didn't slow down much when I plugged in two devices at once.
The power bank is a stout, minimalistic device that will make a subtle addition to your tabletop. Considering that it can store up to 20,000mAh of charge, it's impressively lightweight – a suitable choice for a purse or bumbag.
The bank's digital display activates at the press of a button to give you a read on its storage level and outputs. The metrics are slightly less detailed than what you'd see with certain competing laptop power banks, but the information is presented clearly and includes a useful timer that indicates how soon the power bank will run out of power.
It's a shame that … the on-screen metrics are slightly less detailed than what you'd see with certain competing laptop power banks. However, the information is presented clearly and includes a useful timer that indicates how soon the power bank will run out of power.
Weight: 378gConnections: USB-C (x 2); USB-AOutput wattage: up to 65W (total)Capacity: 20,000mAh (5.15 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25)
Time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 45minsTime to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 31mins 30secsTime to charge Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (30%): 25mins 30secs
£29.99 at Anker£29.84 at Amazon
Quick, convenient and small enough to carry in a trouser pocket, the Nano is ideal for lightly recharging a smartphone or earbuds. For me, no other power bank strikes the same balance between impressive charging speed and portability. It's the perfect fallback for the person whose phone never quite manages to stay powered through the day.
Why we love itThe Nano is minimalistic, but the features it offers are well realised. I'm a big fan of its fold-out USB-C connector, which you can use to plug the power bank directly into your phone. Not only is this a neat charging solution but also it rules out the risk of charging being impaired by a faulty or below-spec cable (each one has a maximum current and voltage). That said, if you're attached (pun intended) to your cable, there's also a regular USB-C port on the side of the power bank.
There are a few limitations that come with using a teeny-tiny power bank like the Nano. Its 5,000mAh storage capacity is sufficient for giving most smartphones a good top-up, but it might not be enough to fully charge the device.
It's a shame that … you'd need something more powerful to charge your laptop.
Weight: 102gConnections: foldable USB-C connector; USB-C portOutput wattage: up to 22.5WCapacity: 5,000mAh (1.29 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25)Time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 24minsTime to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 23mins 15secs
£24.99 at Belkin£24.99 at Amazon
It's hard to believe this is a cheap option. The BoostCharge Power Bank 10k has a premium-feel soft finish and speedily charges smartphones, earbuds and other lower-powered devices via its USB-C outlets.
Why we love itNeatly proportioned and impressively light by comparison with some of its rivals, this is one of those rare power banks that you could blithely carry in a jacket pocket, without much fear of stretching the material. Thanks to the integrated USB-C connector, you don't even need to remember a cable.
It's a shame that … charging two devices at once reduces the maximum total output from 20W to 15W, so single-device charging is considerably quicker.
Weight: 218gConnections: integrated USB-C cable; USB-C portOutput wattage: up to 20WCapacity: 10,000mAh (2.57 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25)Time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 42mins 45secsTime to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 36mins 45secs
£89.99 Amazon
This power bank was difficult to test – it charged devices so exceptionally quickly that I struggled to get to my stopwatch in time.
Why we love it
The Cuketch 15 Ultra is light years ahead of the competition in terms of charging speeds, and with three ports (two USB-C, one USB-A) delivering up to 210W, there's incredible potential to charge multiple high-energy devices. Its 20,000mAh capacity is enough to charge the average smartphone at least thrice – or give your laptop battery a significant top-up.
With great power comes somewhat lower portability. This is undeniably a weighty power bank – the heaviest of its calibre that I tested. For users who prefer to pack light, that may be a deal-breaker. Still, the 15 Ultra is a well-made, smart-looking device. The TFT display gives you lots of detail on the power bank's battery level and charging status, and you can use it with the control button to configure each port to act as a power input, output or both. You get nice accessories, too: a 3.2ft charging cable, plus a soft carry case to keep the power bank safe.
It's a shame that … the characters on the TFT display are small, which won't be ideal for users with impaired vision.
Weight: 595gConnections: USB-C (x 2); USB-AOutput wattage: up to 210WCapacity: 20,000mAh (5.15 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25)Time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 10mins 30secsTime to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 15minsTime to charge Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (30%): 26mins 15secs
£89.99 at Anker£89.99 at Amazon
A power bank for true tech lovers, the Anker 165W is capable of keeping your smartphone, laptop and other gadgets going through the day, thanks in no small part to its incredible 25,000mAh storage capacity. It's a pleasing piece of tech in itself, with a nicely styled integrated display that tells you how much power is being drawn from each of its ports, and how much charge is still in the bank.
Why we love itThis model has superb connectivity, with three USB-C inputs/outputs (two of them are connectors, one is a port) and another outlet for USB-A charging. With a 165W total output to play with, you can charge several devices rapidly at the same time.
In terms of features, it goes above and beyond. Pressing the power button twice initiates trickle charging, which keeps a charged device at a stable battery level. The digital display indicates the power bank's temperature and condition, as well as its charge level.
It's a shame that … this bulky model may be too cumbersome for some. However, a bit of heft is to be expected in a 25,000mAh power bank. A premium-looking, soft-edged enclosure and cleverly integrated loop handle make the device feel less imposing than it might.
Weight: 593gConnections: USB-C connector (x 2); USB-C port; USB-AOutput wattage: up to 165WCapacity: 25,000mAh (6.44 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25)Time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 31mins 30secsTime to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 24minsTime to charge Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (30%): 45mins 45secs
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£319 at B&Q£319 at Decathlon
Best for: high-power portable charging
This portable power station has more ports than you can shake a USB stick at. Two USB-C outputs and a USB-A output cater for your lower-powered devices, and there are DC and AC power outlets, too; the latter accepting a regular three-pronged UK power plug. With a total maximum power output of 700W (rising to 1,000W when using the AC50B's power lifting mode, which is useful, briefly, for power-intensive applications, such as boiling a kettle) and a 448Wh storage capacity, there's plenty of provision to power garden parties, camping trips or even renovation work in an off-grid home.
I was thoroughly impressed with the AC50B during testing. It charges devices rapidly; the interface is simple with just three buttons to master; and the 'cut-out' moulded handle makes it easy to carry the 6.7kg power station to its destination.
It didn't make the final cut because … most buyers won't need something so powerful or feature-rich.
Weight: 6.7kg; connections: 700W AC outlet, USB-C port (x 2), USB-A port, 120W 'cigarette lighter' port; output wattage: up to 1,000W (lifting) or 700W (continuous); capacity: 448Wh (equivalent to 89,600mAh when charging one device at 5V; 23.07 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25; time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 24mins 45secs; time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 24mins; time to charge Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (30%): 30mins
£499.99 at B&Q£499.99 at Mountain Warehouse
Best for: powering devices in the garden
Simple, user-friendly and equipped with enough storage and connectivity to run or recharge numerous energy-intensive devices, the Acer 600W is a great pick to power your picnics and camping trips. Relative to other products of its type, this model is reasonably light, and the fold-down carry handle distributes its weight nicely.
The integrated strip LED at the top of the front panel is a nice touch – perfect for outdoor entertaining after dark, or for visibility during a power cut (the sort of moment where you'll appreciate having a power station charged up). Two DC5521 sockets are provided so you can charge the power station via solar panel.
It didn't make the final cut because … its price is too high for a lot of users.
Weight: 7.35kg; connections: AC outlet (x2); USB-A (x 2); USB-C (x 2); 'cigarette lighter' port; DC5521 DC socket (x 2); output wattage: up to 600WCapacity: 512Wh (equivalent to 102,400 mAh when charging one device at 5V; 26.36 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25); time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 45mins 45secs; time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 47mins 15secs; time to charge Acer Aspire Vero 16 laptop (30%): 30mins
£99 at EcoFlow£99 at Amazon
Best for: charging devices at a festival
Stop charging your smartphone with mains electricity, and start topping it up with your headwear instead. The delightfully eccentric Power Hat from EcoFlow conceals an array of solar panels within its brim, and these power a USB-C and USB-A charger underneath. When the sun is shining, you can plug in your smartphone and give it a top-up.
I waited for a mild spring day to test the hat's charging capabilities. Compared with a conventional power bank, charging was slow – but when you're relaxing outdoors, that may not matter much. Using solar means you'll save money on electricity, and the hat's UPF 50+ sun and UV protective material will help keep you safe while you're at it.
It didn't make the final cut because … its charging performance is highly weather-dependent – and this is a UK publication.
Weight: 370g; connections: USB-C; USB-A; output wattage: STC12W (+/-1W); capacity: no storage; time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 2hrs 51mins; time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 1hr 47mins 45secs
£14.99 at Argos£19.99 at Amazon
Best for: simple, low-cost charging capability
This is a simple, reliable and inexpensive power bank that you can sling into your bag and forget about until you need to charge your phone or headphones.
There are no bells and whistles here, but the Juice 3 does everything that counts. It can charge up to three devices at once using its single USB-C and two USB-A ports, and a tiny USB-A to USB-C cable is included to help you out in a pinch. This power bank's 10,000mAh storage is great for the price you pay.
It didn't make the final cut because … though affordable it's understandably not the quickest at charging devices – especially not when you're using the USB-A ports.
Weight: 193g; connections: USB-A (x2); USB-C; output wattage: up to 15W; capacity: 10,000mAh (2.57 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25); time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone: (30%): 25mins 30secs; time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone: (30%): 21mins
£89.99 at EcoFlow£89.99 at Currys
Best for: eye-catching design
This chic new power bank from EcoFlow is the perfect partner for a much-loved phone, with a USB-C output and magnetic charging via the speedy Qi2 protocol. It charged smartphones quickly during my testing, and it also proved capable of giving a laptop an emergency top-up (which soon drained its battery).
Power banks are generally practical items rather than pleasing objects – but the Rapid is both. I enjoyed its mirror-finish display, which pairs in retro-futuristic fashion with pixellated read-outs on the power bank's charge status, input and output. There's also a fold-out 'kickstand' that keeps your phone upright during charging, which could come in handy for watching films on the train.
It didn't make the final cut because … it's not as versatile as some similar-spec models.
Weight: 258g; connections: Qi2 magnetic; USB-C connector; output wattage: up to 30W; capacity: 10,000mAh (2.57 charges of a Samsung Galaxy S25); time to charge Honor Magic7 Lite smartphone (30%): 25mins 30secs; time to charge Honor Magic7 Pro smartphone (30%): 21mins
There are a few crucial specs to look into when you're choosing a power bank. The wattage tells you the power bank's power output. Laptops, smartphones and other gadgets all require a certain wattage, so you need to get a power bank with a port that's powerful enough to charge the device. The same goes for voltage. If a power bank has multiple ports for charging devices simultaneously, then maximum power outputs will be given for the ports, individually and in total. High-wattage power banks are usually heavier, bulkier and more expensive than lower-powered models, as they require more storage and cooling capability.
A power bank's inputs and outputs are also crucial. Most power banks feature ports that connect to devices (or to a mains outlet to receive charge) via USB-C or USB-A. Some models can also charge compatible devices – especially smartphones – wirelessly. And for Apple device users, certain power banks feature a Lightning cable and port.
Capacity (mAh) tells you how much electrical charge the power bank can hold in its onboard lithium-ion battery. If a smartphone has a 6,000mAh battery and your power bank holds 20,000mAh, then you should be able to charge the phone fully at least three times without running out of power.
As with all devices that rely on a lithium-ion battery, power banks gradually become less effective until they can no longer be used. When a battery is fully charged and then fully discharged, this is called a cycle. The number of charging cycles a power bank can supply varies greatly between models, but you'll get somewhere in the range of 300 to 1,000 in most cases. Depending on how much you use your power bank, that could keep you charged up for a year, or perhaps several years. It's instructive that power bank warranties typically top out at about two years.
Good usage habits can preserve the condition of your power bank's lithium-ion battery, therefore extending the lifespan of the power bank itself. Very-low or very-high charge levels put the most stress on these batteries, so try to keep your power bank moderately charged most of the time. It's also best to avoid storing your power bank in very hot, cold or humid places.
Pete Wise is a freelance journalist with more than a decade's experience covering everything from global development and social causes to technology and music. He has written extensively on portable tech, including laptops, smart speakers and drones – one of which he misplaced in the skies over a West Yorkshire village. Reviewing power banks was a natural fit for Pete's days out of the house as a remote worker, as he charged from bus to train, to library, to coffee shop
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The Nebula X1 by Anker redefines the standards of home and outdoor entertainment, offering a cinema-grade experience through its advanced technology and versatile design. Combining stunning visuals, immersive audio, and intuitive usability, this projector is engineered to meet the demands of diverse entertainment scenarios. Whether you're hosting a movie night, engaging in a gaming marathon, or enjoying a karaoke session, the Nebula X1 delivers exceptional performance tailored to your preferences. The video below from Andrew Ethan Zeng gives us a detailed look at the Nebula X1. Watch this video on YouTube. Exceptional Visual Performance The Nebula X1 stands out with its ability to project a massive 300-inch screen while maintaining remarkable clarity and detail. Powered by triple laser technology, it achieves an impressive 3,500 lumens of brightness, making sure vibrant and sharp visuals even in brightly lit environments. Its AI spatial adaptation feature automatically adjusts the image to fit any surface, eliminating the need for manual calibration and making setup effortless. Additionally, the motorized optical zoom allows for precise screen size adjustments without compromising image quality. With real-time HDR tone mapping and Dolby Vision support, the projector delivers lifelike colors and deep contrasts. A 5,000:1 contrast ratio and precise color accuracy ensure that every frame is rendered with cinematic detail. Whether you're watching a blockbuster movie or playing a 4K video game, the Nebula X1 guarantees an immersive visual experience that rivals professional cinema setups. Innovative Design and Practical Features The Nebula X1 combines elegance and functionality in its design. Its sleek matte black finish, accented with subtle red details, exudes sophistication. Compact and portable, it features a retractable handle for easy transportation, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Connectivity is seamless, with support for HDMI 2.1, eARC, USB-A/C, and optical audio ports, making sure compatibility with a wide range of devices, including gaming consoles, streaming platforms, and external speakers. To enhance performance and portability, the projector is equipped with a liquid cooling system that minimizes noise levels to just 26 decibels. This innovative cooling mechanism not only ensures quiet operation but also contributes to the device's lightweight design, making it a versatile choice for various entertainment settings. Immersive Audio for Every Occasion The Nebula X1's audio system is designed to complement its stunning visuals. Featuring a 4.1.2 surround sound system powered by Dolby Audio, it delivers a robust 200W output that fills any space with rich, immersive sound. Wireless satellite speakers further enhance the audio experience, creating a dynamic soundstage that brings every scene to life. From subtle whispers to explosive action sequences, the sound quality ensures that every detail is heard with clarity. For outdoor entertainment, the projector includes a built-in 8-hour battery, providing uninterrupted playback even in locations without access to power. This makes it an excellent choice for backyard movie nights, camping trips, or any outdoor gathering where high-quality audio and visuals are essential. Streamlined Usability and Advanced Features Ease of use is a defining feature of the Nebula X1. With Google TV integration, users can access popular streaming apps and control the projector using voice commands, simplifying navigation and enhancing convenience. The AI spatial adaptation and auto gimbal features ensure that setup is quick and hassle-free, allowing you to start your entertainment experience in just minutes. Safety is also a priority with the Nebula X1. The projector includes an eye guard feature that dims the projection when someone approaches the beam, protecting viewers from potential harm. Additionally, the inclusion of wireless microphones with reverb modes adds an interactive element to karaoke sessions, making them more engaging and enjoyable for everyone involved. Versatility and Performance Across Applications The Nebula X1 is designed to excel in a variety of entertainment scenarios. Its 4K 60Hz support and 19ms response time make it suitable for casual gaming, making sure smooth and responsive gameplay. The projector's high brightness and color accuracy enable it to perform exceptionally well in both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether you're enjoying a movie under the stars or competing in a fast-paced game, the Nebula X1 adapts seamlessly to your needs, delivering consistent and high-quality performance. Investment in Premium Entertainment Priced at approximately $3,000, the Nebula X1 reflects its premium features and innovative technology. For those seeking a comprehensive entertainment solution, an accessory bundle is available for an additional $999, which includes wireless speakers, microphones, and a carry case. While the cost may seem significant, the value offered by the Nebula X1 makes it a worthwhile investment for individuals who prioritize high-quality entertainment experiences. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on Cinema-grade projector. Source & Image Credit: Andrew Ethan Zeng Filed Under: Displays News, Reviews, Technology News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Scotsman
a day ago
- Scotsman
Anker Solix C200 power bank now £109 in lowest ever Amazon deal
The Solix C200 is surprisingly compact, but it packs in a 60,000mAh battery | Anker This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Anker's rugged 60,000mAh Solix C200 is down to £109 on Amazon – the lowest price it's ever been, and ideal for off-grid summer adventures. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... It wasn't long ago that, to buy a quality power bank with more than 20,000mAh of battery capacity, you'd be looking at over £100. But just look at what £100 gets you now. The 60,000mAh Anker Solix C200 DC Power Bank has just dropped to £109, its lowest ever price - just in time for the camping season. And it's the perfect gadget to take with you. Granted, it's not as small as the pocket-sized handheld power banks, and it has to have a strap fixed to it to make it easy to carry around, but if you're going away for a week or two and you've got a lot of gadgets to keep topped up, this could be a fabulous investment. It connects to an app, so you can control and monitor it remotely | Anker It has three USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and a connector for a solar panel (which is also a bargain at the moment). This version doesn't have any AC sockets, but it does have a 192Wh battery, and it's capable of pumping out 200 watts. That means you can charge your laptop, tablet, smartphone, and a pair of earbuds all at the same time. And you can do that for hours. Charging it up takes no time at all, thanks to its 140w input | Anker To recharge the power bank, you can just plug it into a USB supply, or you can add a solar panel. If you can catch the limited-time deal on Amazon, you'll get the power bank and a 60w solar panel for £199.99, which is a terrific deal. One of the best things about the Solix C200 is its LCD display. It shows you how much capacity it's got, how long it thinks you can run it for and it lets you monitor input and output rates. All of these features combined makes it one of the best options for off-grid 12v power, and it's small enough to take in a rucksack, so it's an ideal travel companion for any scenario. 🔥 Free Samsung tablet? Don't miss this Sky Mobile Galaxy S25 deal (aff) Snap up the brand-new Samsung Galaxy S25 5G and Sky Mobile will throw in a Galaxy Tab A9+ worth £259 – absolutely free! This offer - which we wrote about in detail here - runs until 26 June 2025, but once it's gone, it's gone. You'll get Samsung's most powerful phone yet – built for gaming, streaming and multitasking – from just £30 a month with zero upfront cost.
