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Review: Anker 521 Magnetic Battery

The Anker 521 magnetic battery was one of the first power banks to support the new MagSafe feature of the iPhone. It enables you to magnetically attach the power bank to the back of your MagSafe compatible iPhone and charge it wirelessly on the go without cables.

Fittingly, Anker originally called this power bank a snap and go power bank but changed the naming convention. It’s now called a MagGo power bank.

Though the iPhone 13 Pro Max has a powerful battery, I rarely make it through an entire day on a single charge. Probably, because I do a lot of photo editing on my iPhone.

So when Apple announced MagSafe, I hoped that either Apple or someone else would release a power bank that I could attach magnetically and without cables to my iPhone. A few months later, Anker was one of the first to release such a magnetic and wireless power bank.

In this Anker 521 magnetic battery review, I’ll share my real-world experience using it.

Models of the Anker Magnetic Battery

Since Anker released the original PowerCore Magnetic 5K in 2021, they released three more models and changed their products’ naming convention.

• The original model I used for this review was called Anker PowerCore Magnetic 5K. It’s now called Anker 521 Magnetic Battery.
• In Mid 2022, Anker released the successor of the Anker 521 MagGo: The Anker 621 magnetic battery. It’s slightly thinner than the original Anker 521 and offers the same capacity as the Anker 521.
• Another MagGo model is the Anker 622 Magnetic Battery. It also has a capacity of 5.000 mAh but comes with a stand attached to the power bank.
• Anker also released a 10.000 mAh version called Anker 633 Magnetic Battery. This version is slightly larger (and thicker) than the 5.000 mAh models.

To help you decide which Anker MagGo Magnetic battery model is suitable for you, here’s a capacity, size and weight comparison of the Anker magnetic batteries 521 vs 621 vs 622 vs 633. Measurements are in inches and pounds.

If you’re looking for a lightweight and small magnetic power bank with a capacity of 5.000 mAh, then go for the Anker (621) magnetic battery (the successor of the Anker 521). If you’re looking for more charges at the price of weight and size, then go for the Anker 633 magnetic power bank.

Please mind that this review is about the Anker 521 magnetic battery that was originally called Anker PowerCore Magnetic 5K. I’ve added info about the other models for completeness.

Why I bought the Anker 521 magnetic battery

As mentioned above, I rarely make it through the day with a single charge on my iPhone.

As I’m a Minimalist, I always strive to get rid of things, especially things, that I need to carry and that would prevent me from traveling light.

Eliminating the cables for everyday charging was the reason I originally switched from my Anker 10.000 mAh slim power bank to the Apple Smart Battery Case for an everyday use power bank.

And that was also the reason why I bought the Anker 521 magnetic battery: To be able to charge my iPhone on the go without using cables. like this:

Features of the Anker 521 magnetic battery

Compatibility of the Anker magnetic batteries

As mentioned, I’ve used the Anker 521 magnetic battery with an iPhone 12 Pro Max, an iPhone 13 Pro Max and now use it with my new iPhone 14 Pro. Anker mentions in their specs, that their magnetic batteries works with all MagSafe compatible iPhones except for the iPhone Mini. From a photo I found on the Internet it looks like that the camera of the iPhone Mini is a little too big for the the Anker magnetic battery.

MagSafe compatible

The Anker 521 magnetic power bank is MagSafe compatible and thus allows you to charge your iPhone wirelessly while it’s magnetically attached to the back of your iPhone. I used and use it with various iPhone Models in a MagSafe compatible iPhone case from moment.

I wondered how strong the magnets were and tried to shake the power bank off the iPhone’s back a few times. I failed. The magnets are pretty strong.

But as with all attachable MagSafe accessories, if you try to put the iPhone with the power bank attached into a tight. it may come off.

Capacity of 5000 mAh

The Anker 521, Anker 621 and Anker 622 magnetic power banks have a capacity of 5.000 mAh. Anker claims it would charge an iPhone 12 Pro Max from zero to roughly 75%.

So I did a real-world test for this review and wirelessly charged my iPhone 12 Pro Max for precisely one hour. I didn’t put the iPhone to flight mode or disabled any services I’d use during a typical day.

The iPhone’s 12 Pro Max battery went from 30% to 50% during the hour, and after an additional hour, the battery was at 70%.

After two hours of charging the iPhone’s battery by 40%, the power bank’s LEDs indicated that it still had around 25% of its charge.

So I guess you can charge an iPhone 12 Pro Max by around 60% in a real-world scenario if you charge it wirelessly.

If you use another iPhone model, you may get more than the estimated 50%-60% because the batteries of these models have a different capacities than the battery of the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Out of curiosity, I also tried to charge an iPad Pro 11 2018. The Anker 521 magnetic power bank could charge it from 30% to 67% before it was empty.

Please note that the three different models I mentioned before supply different wireless charging power:

You may be able to squeeze a bit more out of the power bank if you attach a USBC to lightning cable to the power bank and charge your iPhone with a cable.

But that’s not what I was looking for, so I didn’t test it.

Two Way USB-C Charging

If you need to charge a non-MagSafe compatible device, you can attach it to the USB-C port of the Anker magnetic batteries that you use to charge the power bank itself. This way, the power bank will charge other devices as well.

According to my tests, using the magnetic charger and the cable on the Anke 521 magnetic battery, you can’t charge two devices at once. As soon as you attach a cable, the device on the cable takes precedence

Speaking of charging the power bank: To charge the Anker 521 and Anker 622 power banks, Anker recommends using a 12W power adapter, while for the Anker 633, you should use an 18W power adapter.

Anker 521 LED Indicators and their functions

All the Anker magnetic batteries have four LED status lights that indicate how much charge the power bank has left. One status light approximately equals a charge of 25%.

As I’ve outlined in the chapter about the power bank’s capacity, one of the status lights was still lit after charging my iPhone 12 Pro Max wirelessly by 40%.

Further, the power bank has a blue power light. It’ll start blinking if you charge the power bank itself. Once you turn on the power bank and charge your iPhone, it’s continuously lit.

On/Off Switch

One feature I liked is the on/off switch. To start charging the iPhone wirelessly, you need to press the button once to turn it on until the blue LED light turns on. That will prevent accidentally charging your iPhone.

Charge your Airpods wirelessly

Though this Anker wireless battery pack won’t magnetically stick to your AirPod case (or the other way round), you can charge your Apple Airpods wirelessly. Just place the power bank on a flat surface and put the AirPod case in the middle of the charging area.

The light of the AirPod case will briefly turn on to indicate that the case is now charging.

What’s in the box?

The package content of the Anker 521 magnetic battery corresponds to that of many other power banks. It contains:

The Anker magnetic batteries do not come with a power adapter. Personally, I don’t mind. I have an Anker 4 port desk charger with two USB-C ports that I can use to charge the power bank at home. To charge it on the go, I use a small Anker Nano Charger.

The Apple magsafe power bank vs. the Anker PowerCore Magnetic 5k

I added this chapter because Apple also released a MagSafe compliant power bank for the iPhone. When the Apple power bank details became public, people quickly pointed out that Apple’s battery pack only had 30% of the capacity compared to the Anker magnetic power banks.

Yes, the Apple battery pack has a capacity of 1560 mAh. But that’s just half of the story.

To compare the Anker magnetic power banks with the Apple power bank, you have to consider the current that’s used to store the power. If you multiply the mAh with the current and divide it by 1000, you get the watt-hours (Wh). And this is the only metric you should use to compare power banks.

The Anker wireless power bank uses a current of 3.7V, while Apple uses a current of 7.62V. So, this yields 18.5 Wh of the Anker MagSafe battery pack compared to 11.13 Wh of the Apple power bank. These two numbers are even in the fine print on the two power banks.

So the Apple MagSafe battery pack‘s capacity is 60% compared to the Anker battery pack.

I don’t have the Apple battery pack, but if I ever get it, I’ll happily compare it to the Anker PowerCore Magnetic 5K.

The Verdict

The Anker 521 magnetic battery is what I wanted. A portable and lightweight power bank for everyday use that allows me to charge my iPhone wirelessly on the go. I’d buy it again.

I won’t upgrade the Anker 521 model to one of the newer models because for traveling, I rely on the 26.800 mAh power bank from Anker, and you’ll find a Anker PowereCore 26.800 review in the blog.

Our favourite portable chargers and power banks rated and reviewed, plus an in-depth buyer’s guide

by Matt Jones

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In recent years, the rise of portable battery chargers or power banks has meant that heading into the great outdoors no longer means going off-grid. And being able to keep your devices charged even when you’re miles from the mains has some undeniable benefits. After all, a functioning phone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. We’ve tested ten of the best portable power banks and solar chargers for backpacking in a range of sizes and capacities. So whether you’re after a small, lightweight pal or a rugged, heavy-duty Hero, there should be something for you. This group test also includes three solar-powered chargers. These offer an alternative solution to the perennial power problem for adventurers planning to spend multiple days in the wilderness.

What Makes The Best Portable Power Pack?

Firstly, think about how much power you’re likely to need and how long you might be away from a power source. This will dictate what size power bank you need in terms of battery capacity, which is usually measured in milliamp hours (mAh).

To help you out, note that it typically takes 2,500 to 3,500mAh to charge a modern smartphone (though many factors can affect power consumption). Charging a GPS unit or digital camera is likely to consume a similar amount of power, while charging a head torch, smartwatch or GoPro will consume much less. High-powered devices like tablets and laptops are the biggest drain on battery capacity.

Put simply, the larger the rated capacity (in mAh), the more juice the power bank can store – though the trade-off is increased size and weight. So if you’re only carrying a smartphone on a day walk and just want a back-up power source, look for a.sized battery charger. On the other hand, if you’re planning to spend multiple days in the wilderness carrying a number of different devices (like a GPS, phone, GoPro and digital camera), then you’re going to need one of the bigger power banks around (probably 20,000mAh).

To power multiple devices effectively you’ll also need a power bank that supports simultaneous charging, i.e. one that has at least two or more outlet ports. Many of the latest models also offer features such as quick charging through high-speed USB or USB-C connectivity, as well as in-built technologies to prevent over-charging and optimise charging efficiency.

Durable Power Banks

Also consider your environment. In damp, humid conditions or on expeditions you might need a waterproof and rugged power bank, which can cope with moisture or even complete immersion as well as bumps and knocks. If so, look for a product with a certified IP (International Protection) rating, which is usually expressed as two letters or numerals, e.g. IPX6 or IP67. This standard classifies the degree of protection provided against intrusion, dust, accidental contact and water.

“It typically takes 2,500 to 3,500mAh to charge a modern smartphone”

As well as being impact and water-resistant, power banks specifically designed for the great outdoors often have LED lights, so they can be used as torches. This can be a useful additional feature, as can power banks with integrated charging cables – so you don’t have to remember to bring separate cables with you.

Other devices have integrated or add-on solar panels, which offer the ability to top up the power using energy from the sun. Solar panels are becoming more efficient all the time, meaning that this is now a viable option for those planning to spend days or even weeks off-grid. Most solar panels trickle-charge a power bank over a period of several hours, but others can also be plugged directly into your device.

Guide To Power Banks

GP Batteries Charge AnyWay

Price: £29.99 Weight: 224g Capacity: 10,400mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 81 x 64 x 25 mm

One of the most innovative bits of outdoor kit we’ve seen recently, The Charge AnyWay from GP Batteries is a 2-in-1 battery charger and power bank. It comes with 4 x nifty RecyKo rechargeable AA batteries. These batteries can all be used separately from the power bank. That means that with the power bank and these batteries, you’ve got the versatility to charge your smartphone or battery-powered devices like a headtorch. It’s easy to use too, thanks to a dual color LED indicator that displays charging status. In-built safety protection offers security against overheating, overloading or short circuits.

Pros: Lightweight, versatile, easy to use and eco-friendly, since it uses rechargeable batteries rather than a lithium ion cell, and reduces your reliance on single-use AA batteries. Cons: Not the speediest. It takes about 6 hours to fully charge the supplied 4 x AA RecyKo AA batteries. It’s also not as quick as other portable chargers when used as a power bank due to the 1A USB output.

Biolite Charge 20

Price: £40 Weight: 166g Capacity: 5,200mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 108 x 44 x 20mm

The smallest power bank on test, the Biolite Charge 20 weighs under 200g and slides easily into a It has a 5,200mAh capacity – enough for about two smartphone charges. It is easy to operate. There’s just a single button that lights up a four-LED indicator telling you how much juice is left. There’s one micro-USB input and one 2.1A USB output, offering fairly swift charging. The stainless steel housing is sleek and durable, while a flip-top lid helps to protect the ports from dirt and moisture. The Charge 20 has an IPX6 rating, offering resistance to rain and spills. It is supplied with its own charging cable.

Pros: Lightweight, compact and durable. Just slip it into a and head out into the hills for peace of mind, knowing you can keep your phone alive throughout the day. Cons: Single outlet port and limited battery capacity means this little guy reaches his limits when it comes to charging bigger devices.

Goalzero Venture 70

Price: £136.95 Weight: 485g Capacity: 17,700mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 170 x 103 x 29mm

The Goal Zero Venture 70 is a seriously rugged, waterproof power bank with an IP67 rating. It has a fairly generous 17,700mAh capacity – enough to charge a smartphone five times (though the manufacturer quotes up to six charges). The two high-speed 2.4A USB outputs can charge two devices simultaneously.

The Venture 70 also has a Smart charge feature that can identify different devices. It then applies the fastest charging profile possible, without risk of overheating or overcharging. It also allows pass-through charging. That means you can safely charge devices from the power bank even when it’s plugged into the mains. We also liked the built-in 65-lumen LED torch, which has two brightness settings and three strobe modes, including SOS.

Pros: Packed with useful features and some sophisticated internal tech. The extremely rugged, waterproof housing with integrated cables makes the Venture 70 a very practical option for the great outdoors. Cons: It’s the heaviest power bank in this round-up, and also the most expensive. If you really want to get the best out of the product you’ll need to read the instruction manual. That explains how to initiate the Smart charge sequence whenever you plug in a device for the first time.

Zendure A6PB

Price: £80 Weight: 392g Capacity: 20,100mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 168 x 85 x 28mm

Zendure’s A6PB cutting-edge power bank is equipped with USB-C and 3.0A USB outlet ports for Rapid charging of two devices simultaneously. It has a generous 20,100mAh capacity, enough to fully charge an iPhone X 5½ times. We found that real-world performance matched the manufacturer’s claims. It also offers pass-through charging. Auto-detection means that devices start to charge as soon as they are plugged in. Adaptive charging automatically adjusts the output to charge your device at optimum speed. The A6PD also has in-built protection against short circuits, power surges, overheating and overcharging. It comes with a protective cloth pouch and USB cable.

Pros: With the quickest charge times of any power bank in this round-up, the A6PD is ideal for those with the latest devices who need their juice fast. Cons: Although housed in an extremely rugged composite case, this power bank does not carry an IP rating and is not waterproof.

GP Batteries M-Series MP15MA

Price: £34.99 Weight: 347g Capacity: 15,000mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 140 x 75 x 24mm

With USB-C and twin 2.4A USB outputs, the GP Batteries M-series power bank supports the latest devices and offers speedy charging. You can charge up to three devices simultaneously. The 15,000mAh capacity gives a real-world performance of about four to five smartphone charges (though the manufacturer quotes six). It’s very simple and easy to use – a single button with four LED indicator lights and device auto-detection means you can just plug in and go. It is supplied with a 2-in-1 micro-USB and USB-C cable.

Pros: Striking a good balance between capacity, weight and size, this is a versatile all-rounder at a competitive price. For us, it’s the best value option in this test. The triple outlet ports are very useful, while USB-C input/output supports the latest devices and permits Rapid mains charging. Cons: Though the case features anti-slip rubber coated edges that may help to absorb minor impacts, the power bank does not carry an IP rating. Nor is it supplied with a protective pouch.

Outdoor Tech Kodiak Plus 2.0

Price: £59.99 Weight: 290g Capacity: 10,000mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 123 x 88 x 28mm

Thanks to its IPX7 rating, this power bank by Outdoor Tech can be submerged in 3ft of water for up to 30 minutes. That makes it well-suited to the most demanding conditions. It also has a built-in 100-lumen torch with three light settings – another useful feature for the great outdoors. The design is compact and relatively lightweight, while the 10,000mAh capacity gives you real-world performance of a little over three full smartphone charges. However, although there are two USB outlet ports, only one of these supports high-speed charging. The Kodiak Plus 2.0 does not have charge-through capability either.

Pros: Very rugged construction and simple operation. We also like the bright LED flashlight for use around camp. Cons: While the 2.4A USB output is speedy, the slower 1.0A port is sluggish compared to the multiple high-speed charging options of other power banks here.

Anker Powercore 20100

Price: £34.99 Weight: 353g Capacity: 20,100mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 173 x 67 x 26mm

This slim-line power bank has two 2.4A USB outputs for high-speed charging, augmented by Anker’s PowerIQ Smart charge and voltage boost technology. This identifies your device and adjusts voltage output accordingly, while also compensating for cable resistance. It’s all intended to deliver the fastest possible charging speed, even when charging two devices simultaneously.

Real world performance was very good. The large 20,100mAh capacity gives five to seven smartphone charges, depending on the model. The Powercore 20100 also has built-in protection from power surges and short circuits. It comes with a micro USB cable and a travel pouch.

Pros: Slim design, simple to use and good performance. High battery capacity and competitively priced too. Cons: We wish it had a USB-C port. The only other real drawback is that the plastic case is not IP-rated against impact or moisture, meaning it’s not as tough as some other power banks we tested. Basically, don’t drop it or let it get wet!

Ravpower Xtreme RP-PB41

Price: £36.99 Weight: 459g Capacity: 26,800mAh Dimensions (L x W x D): 178 x 85 x 27mm

This Ravpower Xtreme power bank boasts triple 2.4A USB ports so you can charge three devices simultaneously at high speed. An impressive array of built-in technology protects against overheating, overcharging, short circuits and power surges. It also automatically adjusts charge output and voltage for optimum charging speeds. It’s incredibly simple to use, with a single button that displays a four-LED power indicator to let you know how much juice you have left. Not that you’re likely to run out, given the whopping 26,800mAh battery capacity. That gives you nine full charges for the iPhone X, which is impressive. It is supplied with a micro-USB cable and a travel pouch.

Pros: Huge battery capacity, multiple outlets, high-speed charging, easy to use and very well-priced. Cons: Inevitably, this power bank is fairly heavy. We also wish it had a USB-C port – though the latest 26800mAh Ravpower model (the PB058) has added this feature. Our only other negative is that this power bank isn’t IP-rated, so it isn’t as tough as some.

WakaWaka Power With Solar Panel And Link

Price: Power £49.99, Solar panel and link £79.99 Weight: Power 165g, Solar panel and link 751g Capacity: Power 3,000mAh, Solar panel and link max 10W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Power 125 x 83 x 21mm, Solar panel (folded) 170 x 170 x 28mm

A compact and lightweight power bank with an integrated solar panel that can fully recharge its 3,000mAh internal battery in 12-18 hours of sunlight. The WakaWaka Power has a single 2.1A USB output and a micro-USB input (so you can charge it from the mains too). In addition, the Power has a 70-lumen LED torch with four brightness settings and SOS mode. The 3,000mAh capacity gives you about 200 hours of light or one full smartphone charge, and charging speed is fairly swift. The power bank has a swivelling base that enables you to place it at almost any angle. This is ideal for positioning it as a camp lantern or adjusting the solar panel to ensure it is in direct sunlight.

To boost the capability, you can also add a separate folding solar panel with a max 10W output. It connects to the Power via a link box. This also has a second USB port so you can charge another device simultaneously. Setup is simpler than it sounds, and the Power’s LED indicators tell you how much juice it has left as well as how effectively it is charging from the sun.

Pros: It has a useful LED light and enough juice to give your smartphone a full charge. When coupled with the separate solar panel and link, its capabilities are drastically increased for off-grid trips. The 10W panel has a bigger output than any other solar charger we tested. Cons: The Power is obviously limited by its small 3,000mAh capacity, though WakaWaka also sell 5,000 and 10,000mAh power banks that are compatible with the solar panel and link. However, the key drawbacks of the system are cost and weight. Though it has a big 10W output, the solar panel is heavy, while the total cost of the Power, solar panel and link is nearly £130. And like all solar-powered systems, you’re obviously reliant on several hours of sunshine to get optimum results. The panel itself delivers solid performance though.

Freeloader Sixer Plus Supercharger Solar Panel

Price: Sixer £69.99, Supercharger £49.99 (or buy together as the Off Grid Adventurer bundle for £110) Weight: Sixer 250g, Supercharger 311g Capacity: Sixer 6,000mAh, Supercharger max 5W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Sixer 134 x 83 x 30mm, Supercharger 275 x 180 x 15mm

Another compact and relatively lightweight power bank with an integrated solar panel that can fully recharge its 6,000mAh internal battery in 28 hours of sunlight. However, with the Supercharger solar panel attached, charge time is reduced to around 8 hours, or 6 hours if all the solar panels are in direct sunlight. The Freeloader Sixer has a 2.1A USB output as well as integrated micro-USB and lightning cables, enabling up to three devices to be charged simultaneously.

Pros: Easy to use thanks to the LCD screen’s clear icons that indicate remaining battery life and charging source. We liked the integrated charging cables too. The 5W Supercharger solar panel is impressively thin and light. It also comes with Velcro straps to attach it to a rucksack. The solar cells are efficient enough to charge even in overcast conditions. That makes the system a good option for off-grid adventurers – provided you’ll see some sun. Cons: The integrated support stand used to position the Sixer is flimsy and snapped on test. Though marketed as impact- and water-resistant, it does not carry an IP-rating. It does have a rubberised cover to help protect against damage, but this needs to be removed to use the integrated charging cables.

Powertraveller Extreme Solar – Best In Test

Price: £115 Weight: Extreme 280g, Solar panel 284g Capacity: Extreme 12,000mAh, Solar panel max 5W output Dimensions (L x W x D): Extreme 140 x 78 x 28mm, Solar panel (folded) 275 x 180 x 15mm

This combination battery and solar charger kit consists of two components. There’s a 12,000mAh capacity power bank and a separate folding solar panel of clamshell design that delivers a max output of 5W. The power bank has a 2.0A USB output as well as a USB-C port and, uniquely among the power banks in this test, a 12V DC outlet. This makes the Powertraveller a versatile option for charging multiple devices quickly, from SLR cameras and GPS devices to the latest smartphones. It’s housed in a tough, rugged, waterproof case with an IP65 rating, meaning it is dust-proof and waterproof (though not immersible). The power bank also supports pass-through charging and is supplied with an array of cables to fit various devices.

The solar panel is compact and lightweight. It unfolds to 210 degrees and will charge in low light conditions. A flashing LED light shows green for optimum charging, red for lower-quality conditions. Handily it also comes with a Velcro strap that enables you to attach the panel to a rucksack.

Pros: Very versatile thanks to multiple outlets, including USB-C and a 12V DC output. Decent battery capacity gives up to five full smartphone charges. This is also the toughest solar charger on test, making it our preferred option for multi-day wilderness trips. Cons: Few drawbacks other than the standard proviso that applies to all solar-powered products – you’re obviously reliant on several hours of decent sunshine to get good performance. However, even when used as a standard power bank the Powertraveller performs extremely well.

Best Anker power banks: top 5 picks in 2022

Having a good portable power bank could make the difference between getting the call for that dream job and not; between binge-watching your favorite Netflix series during a long flight and staring at the seat in front of you; between conveniently navigating your way through a foreign country and having to gasp ask people for directions.

In other words, having a phone with a dead battery is not fun. Thankfully, we have power banks – an essential accessory for anyone who spends lots of time out and about… or just likes to use their phone snuggled in bed even while it’s charging. And Anker is the company making some of the best power banks on the market.

But what is the best power bank for you? How do you pick one and how do you make sense of all the technical specifications attached to every different model? Worry not as we’re here to help!

• Anker 737 Power Bank – best overall
• Anker 733 Power Bank – 2-in-1 wall charger and power bank
• Anker 525 Power Bank – a more compact solution
• Anker 633 Magnetic Battery – wireless, for iPhones with MagSafe
• Anker 511 Power Bank – compact and lightweight

With all that being said, we’ve compiled here a list of the best Anker power banks to help you choose which one to get for yourself.

Anker 737 Power Bank

The Anker 737 Power Bank is the first one on our list for a reason: it has a huge 24,000mAh battery capacity and on top of that, it allows you to charge three devices simultaneously. The generous 24,000 mAh battery can charge an iPhone 13 completely almost 5 times, a Galaxy S22 – 4 times and a half, or can even charge 1.3 times a MacBook Air with M1 from 2020! That’s an epic amount of battery life you can carry around in a relatively compact form.

But that’s not all this power bank has going for it. It features a Smart Display which shows you important metrics like how much battery it has left, how much time it has until it’s charged, as well as other useful metrics such as Battery Health and battery cycles. If you need ultra-fast charging, you’ll be delighted to learn that the Anker 737 supports 140W fast charging (your device should support that, keep in mind), which can charge a MacBook Pro 16-inch to 50% in just 40 minutes.

Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)

Featuring a 24,000mAh battery capacity: charge up iPhone 13 almost 5 times or a 2021 iPad Pro 12.9 1.3 times.

Anker 733 Power Bank

Another great power bank from the Series 7 power banks by Anker is the 733. It has a 2-in-1 design and can be used as a fast charger when connected to a wall outlet, or as a 10,000mAh battery bank when you’re on the go. And, on top of that, you don’t need a separate power brick to charge the power bank itself! Additionally, it is widely compatible with iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, Pixels, and other devices, and can charge 3 devices simultaneously.

And, on top of all of this, the Anker 733 Power Bank features Active Shield 2.0, which ensures there won’t be any issues with temperature: it monitors temperature daily 3,000,000 times! An epic power bank, we might add!

Anker 733 Power Bank: get 15% off now until November 15

65W power bank that can also be used as a wall charger. You can charge 3 devices simultaneously. Right now, until November 15, you can get 15% off using code ANKER1111 (apply it in the cart).

Anker 525 Power Bank

If you need a more compact solution, the Anker 525 is a great option. It still has a 20,000mAh battery, so it’s quite capable of delivering enough battery for your phone despite being a more compact option than the ones we listed above.

It may be an older model, but its reliability and compact design are why it is listed as a part of the best Anker power banks that you can get right now. It has a 20W USB-C port which can fast-charge your iPhone, and it also features an 18W USB port for when you need to charge a second device.

Anker 525 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K): save 18

A more compact solution with 20,000mAh. 20W USB-C port to fast-charge your iPhone, and an 18W USB port for a second device. Right now, Anker has a great deal on it and you can save 18 with code WS7DQUI047.

Anker 633 Magnetic Battery

If you’re looking for something different than your standard power bank, the Anker 633 Magnetic Battery is one option to look into. However, keep in mind that you can take advantage of its magnetic capabilities only with an iPhone, which supports MagSafe, such as an iPhone 12 and above. It has a 10,000mAh battery and uses magnets to attach to your iPhone – and charges it wirelessly.

On top of that, it has a built-in kickstand so you can charge your phone and place it in a way that’s easy-to-view – on a table, for example. And, last but not least, it sports a compact and trendy design with multiple color options to choose from.

Anker 511 Power Bank

For an ultra-compact and lightweight solution, we have the 5,000mAh Anker 511 Power Bank. It is relatively smaller, and despite having a bit less in terms of battery capacity, it entices with its compactness. For a little (but much-needed) battery life, the Anker 511 Power Bank is more than enough. And, it is a cheaper solution in case you’re on a budget.

But that’s not all this power bank has going for it. It also has built-in prongs that you can use to plug it into a wall outlet and use it as a charger.

How to choose the best Anker power bank for you

Choosing the best Anker power bank for you is a process that requires you to take into account several aspects:

• How often do you plan to carry it?
• How much mAh do you really need?
• Do you need the power bank to be able to charge simultaneously more than one device?

Let’s address why those (and similar questions to ask yourself) are important. First off, some Anker power banks can be quite heavy (bigger battery capacity, or mAh, means heavier power bank), so if you’re the type of person to carry around a lot of stuff, you should take into consideration the added bulk and weight.

Additionally, you should think do you really need to charge simultaneously three devices, or do you need it only for your phone? Basically, if a power bank can charge more devices at the same time, it will have more ports – and this can make it more expensive. Think about how many ports you need exactly and, if you need it just for your phone, you can go for a solution that has only one port.

On the other hand, the mAh is important to be able to figure out how many charges you will be carrying with the power bank. Each power bank has its battery capacity listed in the specs. The higher the number, the more juice it can store. For example, a more unassuming option (like the 5,000mAh Anker 511) will be able to charge your phone completely just once or one and a half times, depending on your phone’s battery capacity, while big solutions (like 24,000mAh ones) will offer several charges, needed for people with a more busy schedule and more time outside (and heavier phone use when out!).

How we pick the best Anker power bank

The power banks that we listed here are picked across a wide Anker portfolio in order to answer most people’s needs. We’ve selected all-out Anker power banks for busy people and people who need to charge more devices, like phones and smartwatches, simultaneously on the go. But that’s not all – we’ve also thought about people who use their phone less often and would like to just have a piece of mind when out and about so that they won’t run out of battery.

That’s why we’ve picked the best power banks for both use cases. We’ve also taken into account the bulkiness, the extras, the price (for what you get) and even the looks.

We’ve focused our attention on selecting Anker products from the latest series the company has. We want to help you get the most up-to-date experience and the best Anker can offer in terms of design, mAh, fast charging, and added functionality.

Do Anker power banks work with both Android and iPhone devices?

Anker power banks are famous for offering wide compatibility with different devices. All the power banks here (except the MagSafe wireless one) are compatible with Android phones and iPhones. Of course, you need to have a cable with the respective connector to charge your iPhone or Android phone. Most of the power banks listed here come without a cable for your phone, so do check that in the What you get section on Anker’s website for the power bank you have in mind.

On top of that, many of the solutions Anker offers can also charge tablets and, some of them, even laptops.

Are Anker power banks safe for my phones?

Yes. Anker takes safety seriously and virtually all its charging products are equipped with a technology called MultiProtect, which monitors voltages to ensure your devices and you are protected and safe. Additionally, the more expensive power banks we’ve selected include the ActiveShield 2 technology, which also monitors the temperature to prevent overheating when charging. You can read more about Anker‘s MultiProtect here.

If you have this popular Anker battery pack, stop using it immediately

Mobile charger and power bank maker Anker has issued a recall on select battery packs for fear of overheating and possible fire. Following a housefire likely caused by an overheating battery pack, Anker is recalling its 535 Power Banks with specific model numbers to ensure safety while the company gets to the bottom of the hardware issue. According to Anker, a “small number” of its battery packs “pose a fire safety risk,” so it’s asking for 535 Power Bank owners to safely dispose of their affected units as soon as possible.

If you own an Anker 535 Power Bank, stop using it immediately and consult the information below to see if your unit is affected and, if it is, how to contact Anker for a refund.

How to tell if your Anker battery pack is affected

The most important thing to know with this recall is if your device is affected. Luckily, it’s not all Anker 535 Power Banks that have the issue. Instead, just the ones that are model number A1366. To learn your Power Bank’s model number, look at its rear side and examine the fine-print text on the bottom. On the second line of text, you’ll see the word “model” followed by two Chinese characters. After the characters, you’ll be able to see your model number.

If your model number is A1366, you have one of the recalled models. Stop using the battery pack immediately and take a picture of its rear side with the fine-print text plainly in view. With that done, dispose of it at a facility that takes Lithium batteries. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t simply throw it in the garbage with the rest of your trash as it poses a high risk for fire.

How to return your Anker battery for a refund

As mentioned above, you don’t have to send your affected Power Bank back to Anker to get a refund. As long as you have a photo of the battery pack, you shouldn’t have any issues and are able to get a refund.

To do so, complete Anker’s recall form. Fill out the information correctly and upload the photo of the battery pack you took or an image of your receipt at the end of the form. After submitting the information, Anker will review it and send you your refund.

Editors’ Recommendations

A podcast host and journalist, Peter covers mobile news with Digital Trends and gaming news, reviews, and guides for sites…

Regardless of whether you are simply whiling away the hours on a long journey with your Nintendo Switch or are left unable to work because your iPhone X or MacBook is out of juice, running out of battery charge on the go is pretty darn annoying. That’s where a new new graphene-based fast charging USB-C battery pack, currently sweeping Kickstarter, wants to help. Describing itself as the world’s first portable USB-C power bank which works using graphene-based composite packs, it is smaller than many power packs available on the market, and promises to be able to recharge in just 20 minutes.

It supports charging up to 60W, which means that a battery with a capacity of 6,000mAh can be charged in as little as 20 minutes. You can also quickly charge gadgets with 40W, allowing the iPhone X and iPhone 8 promising to reach a full charge in just 90 minutes, as opposed to the usual three hours. The USB-C connection means that it’s compatible with the power adapters for Nintendo Switch, the MacBook, or Lenovo, Dell, and HP laptops. You can alternatively use a special adapter to get it to work with old laptop chargers or MagSafe adapters.

What a power bank lacks in style and aesthetics, it makes up for in the amount of power it holds. While portable chargers aren’t horrible looking, there aren’t a ton of customization options.

GoGoToro is here to change that with its latest Gamer Series Power Banks. Available in three different game-inspired designs, you can customize them however you’d like with the sticker packs provided. The rubber coating gives it a nice, sleek feel and it’s also small enough to fit into your without feeling too heavy.

Let’s face it, as we’ve added more and more mobile devices to our lives over the past few years, the need for portable power has dramatically increased, too. There are a lot of options available for keeping our favorite gadgets up and running while away from a power outlet, but most of those options force us to make compromises along the way. But a new portable charger called the Saber promises to make it easier than ever to keep our smartphones, tablets, and even laptops running while on the road.

The Saber comes our way courtesy of Romeo Power, a company that is best been known for creating power solutions for electric vehicles and energy storage for small businesses. Founded by engineers from Apple, SpaceX, Tesla, and other top tech companies. the team at Romeo set out to create a portable battery pack that could provide the same speed and convenience of charging as we would get when plugged into an outlet at home. The result is the Saber, an innovative power source that fits in the palm of your hand.

Upgrade your lifestyleDigital Trends helps readers keep tabs on the fast-paced world of tech with all the latest news, fun product reviews, insightful editorials, and one-of-a-kind sneak peeks.

Which MagSafe battery pack is best? 6 Expert Picks

ZDNET tested the best MagSage battery packs on the market to see which can best power your iPhone. Compare leading models from Apple, Anker, and more.

Jason Cipriani is based out of beautiful Colorado and has been covering technology news and reviewing the latest gadgets as a freelance journalist for the past 13 years. His work can be found all across the Internet and in print.

Lena Muhtadi Borrelli has several years of experience in writing for insurance domains such as Bankrate, allconnect, Healthline, Reviews.com, HomeInsurance.com, My Slumber Yard and MYMOVE. She is a financial expert who previously worked for Morgan St.

Sean Jackson is a creative copywriter living in Florida. He’s had work published with CNET, Realtor.com, theScore, ESPN, and the San Francisco Chronicle.

Jason Cipriani is based out of beautiful Colorado and has been covering technology news and reviewing the latest gadgets as a freelance journalist for the past 13 years. His work can be found all across the Internet and in print.

Lena Muhtadi Borrelli has several years of experience in writing for insurance domains such as Bankrate, allconnect, Healthline, Reviews.com, HomeInsurance.com, My Slumber Yard and MYMOVE. She is a financial expert who previously worked for Morgan St.

Sean Jackson is a creative copywriter living in Florida. He’s had work published with CNET, Realtor.com, theScore, ESPN, and the San Francisco Chronicle.

No matter how much Apple touts the longevity of the latest iPhone’s battery, users know it never seems to last all day.

Wireless battery packs that employ Apple’s MagSage technology offer an even more compact solution to the ever-helpful portable power banks, so you can ditch the wires entirely to power your iPhone 12-14 generation model on the go.- including the mini and Pro Max.

ZDNET went hands-on with the best and latest MagSafe battery packs on the market, testing them for efficient charge rate, portability, and charging pass-through capabilities to help you confidently decide which is the most practical and powerful option for your phone. Our first pick, the myCharge MagLock Magnetic Powerbank is budget friendly, has a built-in speaker that signals charge level and connection, and has a unique design that keeps the pack from overheating. Read on to see how other models compare and which is right for you.

myCharge MagLock Magnetic Powerbank

Best MagSafe battery pack overall

• Comprehensive functionality
• USB-C port
• Built-in speaker signals charge level and connection
• Budget-friendly

Features: Capacity: 3,000mAh, 6,000mAh, 9,000mAh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes

The latest company to offer a MagSafe compatible battery pack is myCharge with its MagLock lineup. The MagLock lineup has three different options, ranging in capacity and price. A 3,000mAh option is 50, 6,000mAh is 60 and the 9,000mAh pack is 70.

The MagLock has a unique raised design where the pack connects to the phone. According to myCharge, the gap between the phone and the battery pack allows both devices to remain cooler than the competition, which leads to better efficiency and faster charging rates. When you connect the pack to your phone, it plays a short sound to let you know the pack is in use. Another sound plays when you remove the pack from your iPhone.

There’s also a power button, but I haven’t had to use it. I just attach the pack to my phone, let it charge, and then remove it. The MagLock is charged via a USB-C connection, and functions as a wireless charging pad if you place your phone on the pack while it’s plugged in.

Apple MagSafe battery pack

Best MagSafe battery pack for native integration

• Deep integration with iOS takes full advantage of the battery pack
• Smart charging ensures proper iPhone and battery pack charging
• Your iPhone uses reverse wireless charging to charge the pack
• Compact size

Features: Capacity: 1,460mAh/ 11.13Wh | Charging Port: Lightning | Power button: No

Apple’s MagSafe battery pack is the second smallest battery pack I tested, even though pictures can make it look big. Inside are two battery cells with 11.13 Wh of capacity. Don’t expect the battery pack to charge your iPhone from 0 to 100. Wireless charging is highly inefficient due to several factors (heat being one of them). You’re more likely to get around a 60% charge on the iPhone 12 Pro, and for most, that’s more than good enough to get through a long day at work or when traveling.

At 100, the MagSafe battery pack is the most expensive pack of the lot. Its tight integration can arguably justify Apple tax with iOS 14.7 and above; when you place the pack on a compatible iPhone, you’ll see an animation on your screen letting you know how much of a charge the pack has. It will automatically begin charging your phone. The first time you attach one to your phone, you’ll also see an alert letting you know it will keep your phone at 90% to protect your battery. The battery widget built into iOS will show the pack’s current charge level, right alongside your iPhone and other accessories.

Charging the battery pack is done via a Lightning connector on the bottom of the pack. If you use a 20W adapter, you can charge both the pack and the iPhone at the same time by plugging the connector into your iPhone. Your iPhone will then use reverse wireless charging to top off the battery pack.- the first time we’ve seen such a feature in use from any iPhone model.