Best Portable Charger: Top Picks for On-the-Go Power 2023
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected is more critical than ever. Whether for keeping in touch with loved ones, navigating an unfamiliar city, or managing business on the go, our electronic devices are indispensable. However, these devices are bound by their battery life, which is where portable chargers come into play. These compact powerhouses provide a lifeline to our smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered gadgets when wall outlets are out of reach.
Within the realm of portable chargers, there is a dizzying array of options to consider, but some stand out for their reliability, capacity, and speed. The best portable charger not only offers the convenience of charging on the move but also features an optimal balance of power and portability to suit your needs. It’s a travel essential for tourists, a daily companion for commuters, and a safety net for anyone who relies on their tech throughout the day.
When looking to purchase the best portable charger, it is crucial to examine the power capacity, which is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), to ensure it suits your device’s needs. Additionally, the output power, portability, durability, and the number of ports are significant factors. The size and weight of the charger should complement your lifestyle, whether you’re an adventurer needing ruggedness or a professional requiring sleek efficiency.
Through thorough research and testing, we’ve pinpointed the portable chargers that deliver top-notch performance. Our findings are grounded in practical real-world usage, covering a variety of situations you might find yourself in when that critical low battery warning flashes.
Top Portable Chargers
Our handpicked lineup of the best portable chargers ensures you’re never tethered to a power outlet. Whether you need a compact model to slip into your pocket or a high-capacity power bank that can charge multiple devices simultaneously, we’ve considered durability, charging speed, and price to help you stay powered on the go.
Nitecore NB10000 Ultra-Slim Power Bank
For those in search of an ultra-portable charging solution, the Nitecore NB10000 ticks all the right boxes with its lightweight design and efficient charging capability.
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight and portable
- Rapidly charges multiple devices with dual outputs
- Sturdy build with water resistance
Cons
- Battery level indicated by LEDs instead of a precise percentage
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- The fourth LED may not indicate proper full charge according to some users
Our experiences with the Nitecore NB10000 have been favorable, illustrating its status as a top-tier travel companion. Its slim profile and featherlike weight barely add any bulk, making it seem almost invisible in a backpack or pocket. The dual charging ports provided the convenience of powering two devices simultaneously on the go, which was a lifesaver during a recent hiking trip we took.
We’ve found it’s ideal for minimalists who covet high performance without the heft. This power bank served us well during city commutes and outdoor adventures alike, due to its durable design, which includes a water-resistant exterior. It’s reassuring to know that our devices are quickly charging while we’re on the move.
Though it’s a bit more of an investment, the efficiency and convenience of the Nitecore NB10000 justified the cost for us. The LED indicators for battery life took a little getting used to; we did miss the exact percentage readout. Nonetheless, this has become a go-to piece of gear in our tech arsenal, especially when every ounce and inch counts on our journeys.
Anker Slim Power Bank
In our latest escapade, we found the Anker Slim Power Bank to be the trusty sidekick that kept our devices charged and ready to capture every moment.
Pros
- Resilient build that withstands rigorous use
- Slim and lightweight design for easy carrying
- Advanced charging technology for efficient power delivery
Cons
- No USB-C output for direct charging of newer devices
- Limited color options may not appeal to all
- Included cable is Micro-USB, not the more common USB-C
We recently took this charger on a hiking trip and appreciated its tough exterior. It easily endured the occasional scrape against rocks and didn’t so much as flinch when it tumbled out of a backpack pocket.
Its sleek form didn’t add any bulge to our gear. We slid it into our jacket pocket, and it was like it wasn’t even there, save for the reassuring presence of those LED indicators glowing softly as it charged our smartphone.
We noticed how quickly it juiced up our phones compared to some of the other chargers we’ve used. It doesn’t have a USB-C port for output, which would’ve been useful as more of our devices support that standard. Despite this, we had our phones back to full power in no time, ensuring that we were always ready to navigate our trail or snap photos.
INIU Slim Power Bank
We found the INIU Portable Charger to be a reliable companion for keeping our devices powered up throughout the day.
Pros
- Feels light and barely noticeable in a pocket
- Charges devices rapidly, sparing us long waits
- The integrated USB-C port simplifies charging
Cons
- Battery depletes quicker with multiple devices
- Limited to 10000mAh, not ideal for heavy users
- Flashlight feature, while handy, isn’t very powerful
Our recent experience with the INIU power bank was quite positive. We were on the go, and the charger easily fit into our bag without adding any noticeable bulk. During our travels, we particularly appreciated the slim design, which made it effortless to carry, a significant improvement over bulkier models we’ve used before.
The rapid charging capability of
Miady Dual Pack Portable Chargers
We’ve discovered that these chargers strike an impressive balance between portability and power, making them a go-to for everyday use and travel.
Pros
- Seamlessly charges USB-C devices, enhancing compatibility
- Slim, lightweight form factor ensures hassle-free transport
- Dual output ports for charging multiple devices at once
Cons
- Excludes the Lightning cord for Apple device connectivity
- Lacks an attached cord, requiring you to carry your own
- Five-hour recharge time may be slow for some users
Cradling the sleek Miady charger in hand, its lightweight body is immediately noticeable. We easily slipped it into a backpack, and even the side pocket of jeans, a testament to its true portability. On outings, the grippy texture meant the charger neither slipped from our grasp, nor did it skitter across our car’s dashboard during a quick stop.
Equipping both chargers for a weekend getaway, we observed the convenience of being able to charge two devices at once with the dual USB output ports. Juggling between a USB-C smartphone and Bluetooth headphones, the process was hitch-free. We missed not having an integrated cable, which would’ve cut down the number of wires to carry, yet the added USB-C output is a welcome nod to modern device trends.
At home, the chargers proved reliable backups during a power outage, offering a secure feeling knowing our devices wouldn’t die on us. While the charge time is on the slower end, we planned ahead and it wasn’t a nuisance. Overall, we were quite content with the performance, with the caveat to remember bringing additional cables for devices requiring a Lightning port.
iWALK Mini Portable Charger
After extensive use, we think this iWALK Mini Portable Charger is ideal for iPhone users seeking a handy power boost with minimal bulk.
Pros
- Attaches directly to the iPhone for cable-free charging
- Extremely lightweight and portable design, akin to carrying a lipstick
- Offers pass-through charging, allowing phone and battery to charge simultaneously
Cons
- Limited battery capacity provides less than a full charge for newer iPhone models
- Can take a while to fully recharge itself
- Battery life may be insufficient for users with high power consumption needs
We’ve had the opportunity to test the iWALK Mini Portable Charger, and we were immediately impressed by its convenience. The built-in connector makes it a breeze to charge our iPhones without the need for carrying extra cables, which is a huge plus when we’re on the move. Despite its petite size, it feels robust and has become a go-to for those moments when we just need a bit more juice to get through the day.
One thing we’ve noticed is the charger’s size means it can’t fully recharge some of the latest iPhone models. However, for quick outings or as a backup plan, its energy reserve is ample. We particularly appreciate the pass-through feature which allows us to charge both the power bank and our iPhones at the same time, ensuring we’re always prepared.
In day-to-day use, the iWALK charger holds up well. We’ve slipped it into our pockets, clutches, and backpacks, and barely notice it’s there. Our only gripe is that recharging it requires a bit of foresight—it’s not the fastest to refuel. Nevertheless, considering the portability and convenience it brings to the table, this is a trade-off that we can live with.
Buying Guide
Capacity and Power
We need to assess the battery capacity, typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). A higher mAh rating indicates a larger energy reserve. For day-to-day use, a charger with around 10,000 mAh should suffice, while heavy users might consider options closer to 20,000 mAh or more.
Output and Input Ports
Our selection should include enough output ports to charge multiple devices concurrently, with at least one high-speed USB-C or USB-A port. For recharging the charger itself, a charger with fast input capabilities saves time.
| Port Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
| USB-A | Wide compatibility |
| USB-C | Fast charging, modern devices |
| Micro-USB | Older devices |
| Lightning | Apple devices |
Portability and Size
We seek a balance between capacity and physical size. While larger batteries offer more charges, they can be cumbersome. Our choice would ideally fit comfortably in our bags or pockets.
Durability
For us, a robust and durable design is essential, especially if the charger will be used outdoors or during travel. A sturdy case and resistance to elements like dust and water are advantages.
Safety Features
Prioritizing safety, we look for built-in protections against overcharging, short-circuits, and excessive current. These features guard our devices and ensure longevity.
Ease of Use
We favor intuitive indicators like LED lights or screen displays to easily check remaining power. Simplicity is key for a user-friendly experience.
By considering these factors, we can make a well-informed decision when choosing the best portable charger for our needs.
