**What Features Should I Look for in Power Banks?**
When shopping for a portable charger, consider:
– **Capacity**: Measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). The power output depends on the cable, the device being charged, and the charging method. You won’t get the full capacity listed.
– **Charging Rate**: Measured in watts (W), determined by multiplying voltage (V) and amperage (A). The maximum rate depends on the device, supported standards, and cable used. Many smartphones, including iPhones, support power delivery, while some Samsung Galaxy phones support PPS up to 45 watts.
– **Pass-Through Support**: Required if you want to charge the power bank and another device simultaneously. Some brands support this, while Anker and Monoprice have limitations. Be cautious as it may cause heat buildup.
**Can I Take a Power Bank on a Plane?**
Yes, but follow these rules:
– Keep the power bank in your carry-on luggage.
– It must not exceed 100 watt-hours (WH). For capacities larger than 27,000 mAh, check with your airline.
– Some airlines have stricter rules, such as not allowing usage during the flight or restricting the number of power banks on board.
**Why You Should Avoid Cheap Power Banks**
Incidents like the Galaxy Note 7 battery fires highlight the risks of lithium-ion batteries. Follow these rules for safety:
1. Avoid cheap cords, chargers, and adapters.
2. Protect batteries from excessive heat (over 110°F).
3. Inspect batteries for damage regularly.
Cheap products often lack essential safety features. Buy from reputable brands.
**How We Test Power Banks**
Power banks are tested for at least two weeks. We evaluate:
– Number of full charges it provides (using an iPhone 16, Pixel 9, Galaxy S24+).
– Charging speeds for larger devices like an iPad Mini or MacBook Air.
– Recharging time from empty.
We also use them in daily life to test usability, durability, and performance over time.
**How Does WIRED Select Power Banks to be Reviewed?**
We focus on:
– Scanning latest releases and responding to pitches.
– Testing products without guarantee of coverage, ensuring editorial integrity.
– Prioritizing reputable brands, but considering new ones for unique features.
– Post-testing, top picks are retained for comparison, others donated to charity.
**Other Portable Chargers We’ve Tested**
Here are some portable chargers that didn’t make the top list but are worth considering.
1. **Iniu Portable Charger for $21**: Compact 10,000-mAh capacity, with fast charging but limited to 20 watts for recharging.
2. **Voltme HyperCore 20 for $30**: High-capacity 20,000 mAh, value-priced but slower charging rates.
3. **OnePlus Slim Magnetic Power Bank for $70**: Sleek, lightweight, 5,000-mAh capacity, limited charging rates.
4. **Denvix PowerX Power Bank for $180**: Large 25,000-mAh capacity, charges laptops and multiple devices, heavy with a smooth finish.
5. **Sharge Flow Mini for $13**: Similar to Anker’s Nano Power Bank, with interchangeable connectors.
6. **Cuktech 10 Power Bank for $32**: Fast charging, solid build, but lower efficiency than claimed 10,000-mAh capacity.
7. **Baseus Blade 2 for $80**: Thin design, 12,000-mAh capacity, ideal for laptops and phones.
8. **FansDreams MChaos for $46**: Wearable, 5,000-mAh capacity, slow recharging.
9. **Iniu Power Bank BaI-B64 for $80**: 27,000-mAh, charges multiple devices, slightly less capacity than claimed.
10. **Anker Prime Power Bank for $130**: 20,000-mAh capacity, charges multiple devices, optional Power Base.
11. **Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000 for $30**: Compact, 10,000-mAh capacity, quick charging.
12. **Mophie Powerstation, Powerstation XL, and Powerstation Pro AC for $36+**: Bulky, versatile, good for travel.
13. **iWalk Portable Charger for $27**: Compact, 4,800-mAh capacity, LED indicator for power level.